Fortunate Nthabiseng Mosheqane was voted the new chairperson of the Katlehong Athletics Club, becoming the first woman to hold the position.

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She started running in 1996 as she was on a mission to lose weight, but she eventually fell in love with running.

Today, she has competed in eight Comrades Marathons and two Two Oceans.

“Running my first Comrades Marathon was special. I ran the marathon with my sister, clocking the same time,” said Mosheqane.

“The training was intense and preparations towards the Comrades take mental and physical strength. Even though you have prepared for months, it becomes unpredictable how your body will respond to the course,” said Mosheqane.

“I remember when I started the race I did not have the energy to partake, but as the race progressed, I started to pick up my pace. The last 8km was tough, but my sister and I pushed through the pain and we made it to the finishing line. We crossed the line at 11 hours and 54 minutes. The feeling could not be described.

“It took me a few days to fully comprehend the achievement.”

She was previously part of Daveyton Hearts and Kinetics athletics clubs. She also served as secretary of Kinetics and later became their chairperson.

“When I got married, I moved to Katlehong and joined Katlehong Athletics Club, serving as their secretary. I am now a mum of three children.

“I was involved in the club’s activities for years, helping them to secure sponsorships, keeping finances in check and more,” said Mosheqane.

“I was not expecting to be the chairperson of the club, let alone becoming the first female chair. The members are trusting my capabilities regardless of my gender.

“I hope to inspire a generation of young girls. I plan to take the club to greater heights and encourage females of all ages to partake in sports. We have realised many girls start sports at an early age but later give it up.

“We need to investigate the reasons behind that and empower them to continue.”