FOR Briardene resident Moseou Mosenyehi, better known as Mo, finishing his first Comrades Marathon was never really part of a detailed plan.

He simply decided he would do it, explaining to Northglen News that he thought it was something he could ‘wing’ as he was already an avid runner.

Also read: Mount Edgecombe resident raises funds at Comrades Marathon

But after barely surviving last year’s gruelling race with little specific preparation, Mosenyehi is hopeful and is finally ready to tackle the iconic ultra-marathon properly.

Originally from the Free State, Mosenyehi moved to Durban seven years ago and quickly found himself drawn to the city’s vibrant running culture.

“In the Free State I was involved in running and cross country. When I came to Durban, I saw there was a huge running community here. The scenery was beautiful and there were always different people and places.”

He started by running 21km and 42km races before eventually joining the Savages Athletic Club in 2025 after seeing members training regularly.

“I saw members of the team running and I thought, ‘how can I get involved?’”

That same year, he entered his first Comrades Marathon with little idea of what lay ahead.

“I just thought I would just do it. The club helped me with the paperwork but I did not do specific training for Comrades. I was doing 42km races and managing alright, so I thought I could do it.”

The race soon humbled him.

“From about 50km to 60km it was gruelling. I was getting tired, but I kept motivating myself along the way. I told myself I cannot end up with the bus picking me up.”

Despite the pain, Mosenyehi crossed the finish line within 11 hours and earned his medal in what he describes as the biggest achievement of his life.

“Everyone was proud of me. When I first told my family I was running Comrades they thought I was joking. So I had them track me on the app to prove it.They were so happy for me when I actually finished.”

Crossing the finish line also brought back memories for Mosenyehi.

“I wished I had trained harder. I knew the next year I would have to prepare properly.”

This time around, the preparation has been far more serious.

With the 2026 up run approaching, Mosenyehi says he is consistently clocking long weekend runs and covering between 34km and 50km weekly.

He credits his coach Willem Deyzel and energy supplement Revive for helping him through tough sessions.

“Willem is helping me along and showing me all the tricks and advice because he has the experience.”

Heading into his second Comrades, Mosenyehi has set himself an ambitious target.

“This year I am aiming for seven hours.”

He is also looking forward to sections of the up run route, particularly around Botha’s Hill and KwaXimba.

“That stretch has beautiful hills and it is not too damaging on the knees.”

For runners taking on long-distance races, Mosenyehi says preparation is everything.

“You have to prepare physically and mentally. Distance and pace management are very important.”

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