Mandeni runner shines in Virgin Money London Marathon

Mandeni Comrades veteran Michael Ndlovu (51) returned from the 39th Virgin Money London Marathon, motivated to do well in this year’s Comrades Marathon by his outstanding performance in one of the world’s top six international marathons.

Ndlovu competed against 40 000 athletes from across the world, claiming a staggering 570th position overall and placing 14th in his 50-54 years age category (out of 2536 runners) – in an eye-popping time of 2:42.

“The race was a good one, I think I was a bit tired because it was my first time flying out of the country, so the long hours I spent on the flight did affect me,” said Ndlovu.

Ndlovu’s lifelong ambition to run an international marathon was made possible by his employers Urban Lime Properties.

The company employs him as a gardener on their Florida Road properties and teamed up with a UK charity Fields in Trust, dedicated to preserving green areas for public use, to secure a much sought after place in the marathon.

“Thank you to all the people who supported me. It was an unforgettable experience and I am very grateful. If I do get another opportunity to run the London Marathon, I will grab it with both hands and hopefully do better.”

Ndlovu runs 17km to work every morning from his accommodation in Ntuzuma.

The father of two boys said he began running in 1997 when he first started working in Durban and was quickly hooked on the sport.

Ndlovu has an impressive track record, competing in the Comrades Marathon for the last 20 years and in 2017 placed top in his age 50+ category with a personal best time of 06:49:41.

This year he aims at doing 6:45 to 6:48 and he said he is already training for the world’s largest and oldest ultramarathon race.

CEO of Urban Lime Jonny Friedman said Ndlovu did South Africa and Durban proud in the most elite marathon in the world.

“What a true champion. This entire experience has been quite challenging for him but his humble determination shines through and his result today is a true reflection of his extraordinary character.

“We are all so proud to be able to make his dream come true,” said Friedman.

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