Breakthru runner takes on New York marathon
MIDRAND - A Midrand resident compete in the ING New York City Marathon.
Breakthru Striders member, Rodney Mushanganyisi, ran his heart out on 3 November.
The race started at Staten Island, and finished at Central Park.
The 37-year-old nurse from Kyalami, who is currently in New York said, “I am so proud of myself. I have managed to complete all six World Marathon Majors in less than 26 months.”
Mushanganyisi has also taken part in the Berlin marathon 2011, London marathon 2012, Chicago marathon 2012, Tokyo marathon 2013, Boston marathon 2013 and now the New York Marathon 2013.
He said on the day of the Marathon the weather was windy and he was very emotional during the race. “Running is a sport that requires a lot of practise and discipline. After preparing for marathons there is nothing as emotional as reaching the finishing line.” Mushanganyisi added that he was ecstatic to run past the famous Verrazano-Narrows bridge because, “the spectators were incredible, they cheered us along the way”.
Chairperson for Breakthru Midrand runners club, Tim Walwyn said, “It is great that a representative of Breakthru Midrand took part in a race overseas. Even though he is currently in New York, Mushanganyisi is an active member of the club and stays in touch. It has been great for us to know that he has run all over the world and keeps Midrand alive.” Walwyn added that Midrand Breakthru Striders is proud of the times that Mushanganyisi has taken to run top world marathons.
At the ING New York Marathon Mushanganyisi took position 1 050 overall and finished the 42,16km route in 3:04:24 in the field 50 000 runners.
Another South African, Lusapho April came third at a time of 2:09:45.
Rodney Mashanganyisi will be back in South Africa in a few weeks time.
