Comrades Marathon ignites burning athletic passion in Ballito domestic worker Zandile Mthethwa
She trains six days a week, including two days for long-haul 18.7km to 20km runs from Etete to Ballito, depending on her chosen route.
Nine years ago, Zandile Mthethwa undertook a journey from Etete to Durban with one purpose – to witness the magic of the Comrades Marathon.
Little did she know that this experience would ignite a burning passion within her.
Returning from the world’s largest endurance race, she carried with her a newfound aspiration to become an athlete – at 31 years of age.
Fast forward to today, and Zandile has proudly completed four Comrades Marathons along with numerous other major races.
Now 40, the devoted mother of four is currently in training for the upcoming Cape Town Marathon scheduled for October.
“As a child, I often gazed at runners with a desire to join them, yet I lacked the confidence to rise early and take up running myself.
“But witnessing the Comrades live changed everything. I distinctly remember thinking, ‘That’s it, I’m running the next one’. Though my children and even my employers were sceptical about my decision, I remained resolute. I commenced training and joined the Dolphin Coast Striders Running Club.”
Following her debut Comrades race, Zandile’s family realised her commitment was unwavering.
Since then, their steadfast support has been a cherished step on her journey – one she deeply values.
Completing her first Comrades Marathon in 2015, she ventured abroad to run the New York City Marathon two years later.
Zandile’s dedication is remarkable considering her demanding job as a domestic worker in Ballito.
Undeterred, she trains six days a week, including two days for long-haul 18.7km to 20km runs from Etete to Ballito, depending on her chosen route.
“I was in my early thirties when I took my first steps into the world of running. Prior to that, I had never engaged in any form of sport. It all boils down to discipline and the determination to chase one’s aspirations. Your cozy bed won’t gift you your dreams; you must rise and actively pursue them.”
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