LIMPOPO – PMC Athletics Club’s Hitekani Shikwambana (29), a passionate long-distance runner originally from Tzaneen and now residing in Namakgale, proudly flew the Limpopo flag high at this year’s renowned Two Oceans Marathon, completing the 56km ultramarathon in an impressive 03:51:44.

The Two Oceans Marathon, held over the weekend of April 5 and 6 in Cape Town, is one of South Africa’s most prestigious running events, attracting thousands of athletes from across the country and around the world.

The ultramarathon was held on Saturday, April 5, followed by the 21.1km half marathon on Sunday, April 6.

Shikwambana stated that the marathon was more than just a race but the realisation of a dream. “It had been my long-held dream to represent Limpopo, as there are many talented athletes,” he said.

“I feel extremely good because when you are running, you know that there are people back home who believe in you, and you have to push so hard to make them proud,” he added.

Shikwambana tackled the Two Oceans with courage and determination, despite it being his first time participating. He admitted that the weather conditions took him by surprise.

“The wind was a huge challenge to me since I was not prepared for that kind of weather. Fortunately, the sun came to my advantage,” he explained.

The 29-year-old shared his journey on how he joined the race.

“I once posted on my WhatsApp status that I wished to take part in the race, and a good Samaritan stepped in to help me enter back in November. From there, my partner, that same Samaritan, several social runners from Gauteng and a few from Tzaneen came together to support me and cover all the costs.”

He also mentioned that he ran his first official marathon at the Mall of the North Marathon in 2014 and that long-distance running has become a personal mission.

“When I entered the Two Oceans Marathon, I needed something to challenge myself beyond. Long distance gives me hope as I face different terrains for long hours that test me mentally and physically,” he said.

“This was my first, and I wish to come back next year,” he concluded.

• Several other local athletes proudly represented their community at this year’s annual race, delivering strong performances across the board. Among the local finishers were Vutomi Munyai (06:01:00), Vincent Munyai (04:41:08), Masilo Moremi (05:08:58), Oupa Mongwe (05:46:47), Mpho Maloma (04:34:23), Rethabile Gumede (07:07:01), Charlize Engelbrecht (06:56:54), and Elvis Mkhabela (06:32:40).

Jacob, also among the participants, completed the race in 06:17:51.

Representing the Phalaborwa Road Runners, Karen Paulse was the sole club member to take on the 21.1 km race, finishing in a commendable time of 02:24:35.

The ultramarathon portion of the event showcased elite talent, with Comrades Marathon champion Gerda Steyn claiming the women’s title in a remarkable 03:29:10. In the men’s division,

Lesotho’s Khoarahlane Seutloali emerged victorious, crossing the finish line in 03:10:46.