Age is just a number for these senior citizens who regularly take on local races in and around Mbombela. Well known as Bo Gogo and Mkhulu, the elderly of Asihlanganeni Old Age in Matsafeni have decided that sitting down and missing out on fun activities is simply not for them. Some of them are over 78 years old, yet they are faster than many runners who are much younger.

Lindiwe Dephney Masiye of Lindiwe Masiye Sports Development, a foundation that has supported Bo Gogo and Mkhulu for the past few years, said it is a great privilege to be part of this life-changing initiative.

According to Masiye, she met them through a woman who used to assist the elderly people from Matsafeni with aerobics. However, the woman later passed away.

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“After she passed, I realised how important it was for the elderly to stay active and involved in various activities. I introduced them to running, and it has made a great impact on their lives. I have seen some of them change physically, some have reduced the amount of medication they take daily, and others are now participating in activities within their communities.” Masiye said she registered the organisation in 2021.

Mandla Thompson Ndlovu (78) said he exercises every day so that he can stay fit. “If you do not stay active the body starts aching and you struggle to walk. It is important that I keep moving, because if I don’t I will be forced to start using a walking stick and I don’t want that. I don’t want to add a third leg for support. We also keep moving because we don’t want to rely on others,” he explained.

Evelina Nkomo (71) said she started running more than five years ago. She describes her journey as a life-changing one that has improved her health. “I don’t rely on medication and it is all thanks to staying active.”

Masiye said watching Bo Gogo and Mkhulu become part of the active community is a reward although it is not always easy for them to get to some events.

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She said she depends on donations from various stakeholders and community members to help with the registration fees for races.

“We also buy uniforms and takkies for them as they cannot afford to purchase these for themselves,” she explained.
Those that would like to assist can contact Masiye on 071 631 8417.