Congratulations to Jo Claassen and Yusuf Cotwal for competing in this year’s Comrades Marathon.

The Newcastle Advertiser caught up with the two avid runners to find out how it went.

This is what they had to say:

Jo Claassen – 10:01:07

• How does this year’s finish compare to your previous experiences?

“Every Comrades Marathon is unique, and this year’s race brought its own challenges and rewards. Crossing the finish line never gets old, and this year felt especially meaningful because of the hard work, dedication and sacrifices that went into the journey. Although I did not achieve the time I had hoped for, I was grateful to finish the race in a good time and celebrate another Comrades completion.”

• What motivated you to take on the race again this year?

“The Comrades Marathon holds a special place in my heart. It is about more than just running – it represents personal growth, perseverance and being part of an incredible running community. The challenge of pushing myself and discovering what I am capable of continues to bring me back. I am working towards earning my Green Number and I am going for it.”

• Was there a moment during the marathon when you had to dig especially deep mentally or physically?

“Absolutely. There were moments when fatigue set in and my body wanted to slow down. During those times, I focused on my goals, the support from my family and friends, and the countless hours of training that went into preparing for race day. Taking it one step at a time helped me stay focused and keep moving forward.”

• Who has been your biggest source of support throughout your training and race journey?

“My friends and Sunday long-run group have been my biggest supporters. Their encouragement during training and on race day made a huge difference. Knowing they believed in me gave me the strength to continue when the going got tough.”

• What message would you like to share with others in the community who dream of running Comrades one day?

“Believe in yourself and trust the process. Every great achievement starts with a single step. Stay consistent, be patient with your progress, and never give up on your dream. The journey may be challenging, but the feeling of crossing the Comrades finish line makes every sacrifice worthwhile.”

Yusuf Cotwal – 11:48:57

• The Comrades Marathon is a dream for many runners. What inspired you to take on this challenge, and what made you believe you were ready to tackle your first one?

“Firstly, it was only possible because of my Creator whom I thank for allowing me to accomplish this, and then the three ‘Mo’s’ inspired and pushed me to sign up (Mo Mobla, Mo Asvat and Mo Mayat). These three guys motivated, inspired, trained and pushed me into believing I was ready. I have them to thank for this accomplishment as, right up until the start line, I was convinced I was not ready. Up until that point, they kept me calm and motivated to take on the challenge. Even during the run, I had Mo Mobla calling me from New Zealand and telling me to keep pushing! Thanks, guys – you are all legends and I’m grateful for the faith you all had in me!”

• Can you take us through the most memorable moment of your race – the point where you felt the most challenged and the moment you realised you were going to finish?

“You hear of Polly Shorts, but if you haven’t seen it before, you don’t know what to expect. 80km in, when your legs have already given up, this gruelling monster of a hill (the last of the big 5 hills) challenges you to your last bit of energy in the tank. It is here that every bit of support comes into play – thinking of your family and friends who sacrificed so much to be with you and have faith and push you. It is only those thoughts of not letting them down that get you up that monster! After seeing the ‘3km left to go’ board is the only time I felt I was possibly going to make it. The emotions that go through you are unexplainable. I truly believe this challenge takes 20% physical fitness and 80% mental fitness, and support from friends and family. You don’t realise how the support from your loved ones gets you through those tough spots!”

• Training for Comrades requires months of dedication and sacrifice. What did your preparation look like and what was the biggest adjustment you had to make along the way?

“Early nights, even on weekends! And early mornings before the sun rises – cold or hot, you’re out there putting in the mileage. Plus a lot of rest in nursing an injury (thanks to Veronica van Niekerk). It’s also a family sacrifice, as everyone gets involved in moving weekends around you and your runs. I’m very appreciative to my wife, as she’s been my rock and you could call her my ‘manager’, helping me with my nutrition and gear, etc. I just had to run and she did the rest for me. I’m truly blessed.”

• Crossing the finish line of your first Comrades must have been an emotional experience. What thoughts and feelings went through your mind in those final kilometres and when you received your medal?

“Everything leading up to this moment – the sacrifices, the love and support from so many friends and family, the fellow runners who push you through during your training runs, the advice you get from experienced runners, my kids, my wife and my friends – every step towards the end is painful, but you’re able to channel the pain away, thinking of all these amazing people and what they have done for you. You cannot let them down – you push through the pain and pass that finish line! And then you get the smallest medal which carries the biggest significance that goes over your neck – encouraging you to never back down in any situation. It was truly an emotional experience.

• Looking back on your journey, what lesson has Comrades taught you about yourself, and would you encourage other local runners to chase this incredible goal?

“It has taught me that anything is possible as long as your intention and mindset is correct – to never back down, to never give up, and to always give your best in everything you do, as there will always be reward at the end. Yes, I would encourage others to take on the challenge. You sit and think ‘Comrades’ is not possible… But it is. It starts with you and some crazy buddies pushing you to sign up! So go on, give it a shot – you will surprise yourself!”

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