Kaalfontein runner conquers fifth Comrades with silver victory
For this dedicated runner completing the Comrades Marathon is more than just crossing a finish line; it is a test of resilience, faith, and purpose.
Midrand Striders member and long-distance runner Emmanuel Mutikani, from Kaalfontein, completed his fifth Comrades Marathon on June 14, finishing in a time of 07:12:00.
He was filled with pride to finish another edition of the intense 90km ultra-marathon, saying that he enjoyed this year’s race more than the other ones he participated in. This was because he felt like he was calmer, felt no pressure, and had less fear compared to the ones before.
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According to Mutikani, one of the toughest moments of the race came at Polly Shortts, where the physical demands of the route truly tested him. “When I got to the top of Polly Shortts, it was very tough for me. I had to run and walk until I finished the hill.” Despite the challenge, giving up was never an option.
He explained that limited training, due to work commitments, affected his preparation this year. “This year was tight with work, so I wasn’t able to train well, but my goal is to do a sub-six, and next year I’m going to achieve that goal.”
Mutikani spoke of how beautifully the Midrand Striders, and some of his community members, supported him. “My club mates are like my family. They are always there for me. Along the route, plenty of them were there just for me. Their support goes way beyond. They also took me for a massage just before the marathon, so that I didn’t suffer severe injuries after the marathon.”
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He jokingly refers to himself as the Legend of Norfolk Hills, a title he says comes from his Strava records. He believes the Comrades Marathon teaches life lessons far beyond sport. “Comrades is a human-kind race that teaches you not to give up. If you can run 90km, what problem in life can defeat you? Nothing.”
His dream is not just to finish races, but one day to become a winner. The athlete also runs with a purpose beyond personal achievement, dedicating his efforts to causes he believes in and to the club members who continue to believe in him. “Being a part of the Midrand Striders has helped me grow tremendously because I am with people who are mature and who want more from life than just running.
We help young kids who like running by buying them running shoes.”
After finishing a race, he takes time to pray, hydrate, and celebrate with supporters by taking photos. However, for him recovery does not last long. After taking about a week to rest, he returns to training and begins preparing for his next challenge.
He is already looking ahead to another major ultra-marathon: The City to City.
For the Midrand Strider member, every race is another step toward greatness.
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