Athletes overcome Comrades hurdle
In the context of the gruelling Comrades Marathon, it's easy to understand why this word was used as the theme for the 89 kilometre ultra-marathon.
NEWCASTLE – Izukuthoba is translated as “It will humble you.”
In the context of the gruelling Comrades Marathon, it’s easy to understand why this word was used as the theme for the 89 kilometre ultra-marathon.
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Despite this, 15 more athletes proclaimed they have gone the distance.
Lungelo Mkhize, representing a Newcastle team, finished a sub nine-hour run, to earn the Bill Rowan medal.
Bronze medalists were: Nathi Mzobe, Sibusiso Makhuko, Celani Myeza, Thulani Msane, Ndabenhle Ndaba, Kenneth Msimango, Zakhele Mnkonyeni and Mfanlo Ndwandwe.
These athletes ran sub 11-hour times to earn this medal.
Sifiso Mthiyane, Sibusiso Sibisi, Zandile Zwane, Bheki Mthembu, Abion Ziqubu, Siphiwe Mahlinza and Mary Khumalo earned Vic Clapham medals, for sub 12-hour runs.
“These athletes did exceptionally well. Among them were those, doing it for the first time, without knowledge of the route, which is characterised by long hills and sharp descents. Despite this, they conquered,” explained Thulani Msane, on behalf of the runners.
He described the Comrades Marathon as well-organised, with well-stocked refreshment stations every three kilometres along the route.
Mr Msane said weather on the day was ideal.
“The cheering crowds rendered unimaginable support to the runners, while valleys rich in fauna and flora made this extraordinary race not only enjoyable, but memorable.”
