Bongani Msimango, born and bred in Vryheid, delivered an outstanding performance at this year’s Comrades Marathon. He crossed the finish line in an impressive time of 6:38.26 to earn himself 144th place. He was the first Vryheid runner representing Inkamana Running Club to cross the line.
This is Msimango’s 15th Comrades. In 2011, he was 18th and completed the race in a time of 6:03. “When I crossed the finish line this year, I felt proud and grateful. Even though it was my 15th Comrades, it is still an amazing accomplishment for me,” he said.
Msimango has become a familiar face on the streets of Vryheid, often seen clocking early-morning kilometres. “This year, the most challenging part of the race was when I reached Pinetown and I had to control my speed downhill. My whole race was going as I planned it. Although I am quite seasoned in Comrades, I still worked very hard by training long distances – I knew what was waiting for me! Most of my training I did by myself, alone on the road.”

The Comrades Marathon, a gruelling 87km ultra-marathon between Durban and Pietermaritzburg, is known as one of the toughest races in the world. For Msimango, the journey was the result of months of preparation, discipline and community support. “You need self-discipline and kilometres of training. I was planning to do it in under six hours, but unfortunately I did not achieve that. So this will now be my dream and planning for next year, to complete the Comrades in under six hours.”
“Yes, there are tough training days, but I keep myself motivated. I know there is still more to achieve – a gold medal will be the top achievement of my running career,” he explained.
Msimango credits much of his success to the people at the side of the road who showed him great support. “This gives you extra energy and kept me going. The supporters on the day are amazing and make this race so special.”
Vryheid has a lot of talent, and Msimango encourages runners to follow their dreams. “Dream Comrades and do it! You can do it if you have this dream, but it will take a lot of your time, training long distances. Run your race at your own pace, as you planned. Get advice from experienced runners,” are his words of encouragement for aspiring athletes. “The most important lesson is to stay disciplined and focused on your goal, and enjoy the running.”

Looking ahead, he has no plans of slowing down. He is already eyeing future races and hopes to use this momentum to help mentor younger athletes in the community. He himself admires Bruce Fordyce and also read his book. “I want to coach young people to run and look after their health. In the meantime, I will be running marathons to qualify for Comrades 2026. I want to achieve my goal of clocking a time of under six hours next year. I love my running!” he smiles.

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The news provided to you in this link comes to you from the editorial staff of the Vryheid Herald, a sold newspaper distributed in the Vryheid area.