PINETOWN SAPS staff gathered in high spirits to offer their well wishes to one of their own who will run the Comrades Marathon.

Detective Constable Siyabonga Sithole, who will be running his first Comrades, said it has always been his dream to run the ultimate human race.

“I was touched when I saw people living with disability starting and finishing the Comrades race, so I felt I owe it to myself to do it too.”

Sithole said he started his running journey when he joined the police force in 2018. “That’s where I fell in love with sport, more especially running. Then I started with small races of 10km which I still run.”

Asked how he balances his demanding job as a policeman and training for the gruelling marathon, Sithole said he trains in the afternoons after work.

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“It does become challenging as I am a determined person. I also get training sometimes during the day as my job requires me to run after criminals,” he said with a smile, adding that he has prepared himself mentally to run the race.

Qualifying for the Comrades is a big highlight of Sithole’s life as it has changed his lifestyle positively.

“Work-wise, it helps me a lot because I keep fit, which is what my work requires. The support that I get from my colleagues is amazing, and I am growing as a person and as a police officer.”

He encourages every South African to try this race at least once in a lifetime.

“This race is called ‘isiko mpilo’, which means ‘a way of life’. I wish to further encourage youth to exercise as it helps prevent diseases.”

Pinetown SAPS acting station commander, Colonel Ronnie Heeralall, said Sithole’s commitment, dedication, and perseverance have paid off, thereby qualifying him to run an internationally recognised race. “We, as SAPS Pinetown, are very proud of him and wish him all the best.”