TZANEEN – Prudence Sekgodiso, international middle-distance runner from Kgapane, was hosted by Greater Letaba Municipality (GLM) Mayor Dagma Mamanyoha during a special breakfast on Saturday, July 11.

A gathering of Greater Letaba’s finest

The event brought together athletes who have represented the municipality on provincial, national, and international stages, including Comrades Marathon runners, netball players who competed at the Telkom National Netball Championships in Pretoria, athlete Palesa Maenetje, municipal sports officials and traditional leaders.

Mamanyoha described the occasion as a proud moment for the municipality, saying Sekgodiso’s achievements have placed Greater Letaba on the global sporting map.

“I have been looking forward to this meeting with our golden girl for quite some time. I am delighted that she reached out and expressed her desire to meet with me. As the Greater Letaba community, we could not be prouder of her achievements and for placing our municipality on the international stage,” he said.

From Meidingen to the world stage

Born in Meidingen village near Kgapane, Sekgodiso has become one of South Africa’s most celebrated athletes.

She captured the World Athletics Indoor Championships 800m title and is currently ranked among the world’s top middle-distance runners, inspiring young athletes from Limpopo and beyond.

Addressing those in attendance, Sekgodiso thanked the municipality and the community for standing behind her throughout her athletics career.

“I want to thank the mayor, Greater Letaba Municipality and everyone back home for always believing in me. Your support has carried me through difficult moments and continues to motivate me to work even harder every time I step onto the track,” she said.

She reaffirmed her commitment to representing both GLM and South Africa with pride wherever she competes.

Eyes on the Commonwealth

Looking ahead, Sekgodiso said her next competition will be in the United Kingdom as part of the Commonwealth programme, where she hopes to continue producing strong performances.

A message to the next generation

She also encouraged aspiring athletes never to lose sight of their dreams.

“Someone may see your potential, support you, and give you opportunities to compete on bigger stages, just as I have been blessed to do,” she said.

Reflecting on her international career, Sekgodiso said China remains one of the countries closest to her heart because of the special memories she made while competing there.

A dream still unfulfilled

She shared that one of her greatest wishes is to have her mother watch her compete in person.

“My family has always supported me, and I know they are proud of me. But one of my biggest dreams is for my mother to be there to watch me race live. That would mean everything to me,” she said.