Roshan to take on his ninth comrades marathon
It was during 2004 Mr Singh set his sight on one of the most trying tests in the sporting world, the Comrades. He set his goal to run his first Comrades in 2005.
The Comrades Marathon is a test of endurance, pushing runners to the maximum.
Preparing for his 9th Comrades, Roshan Singh said he had started running because he needed a bigger challenge.
It was during 2004 Mr Singh set his sight on one of the most trying tests in the sporting world, the Comrades. He set his goal to run his first Comrades in 2005.
“Towards the latter part of 2004, I began looking for a different challenge from the two sports, squash and golf, that I had been playing since my university days.
I was always interested in listening to the Comrades commentary on radio and watching it on TV,” said Mr Singh.
After extensive training, Mr Singh set off on his first Comrades.
“I will never forget the experience and feeling during that run. The sights, sounds and the atmosphere got the better or me and I forgot to check my watch on a regular basis. The result was that I missed the cut-off at Kingsmead by two minutes and 55 seconds.”
This was a mistake he has not repeated.
Mr Singh explained training for the marathon was no walk in the park and required immense dedication.
Training five times per week, averaging about 65km, with weekend runs at least 21km, he found running alone was very challenging and required a very strong mental state,
“The icy cold winter morning training run is very demanding, but at the same time is excellent preparation for the Comrades. I do not follow any special diet, but I avoid bulky foods and I am conscious not to eat and drink food containing sugar.”
Looking forward to the big day this year, June 1, Mr Singh said he found the Comrades uplifting.
With the support of the crowds, the laughter, the camaraderie and humour, Mr Singh commented it could be an emotional experience.
“It is a feeling that is difficult to to describe to someone who has not taken part.”
When running the Comrades, Mr Singh said physical fitness was not the only requirement in making it to the finishing line.
“I would say 60 per cent is mental and 40 per cent is physical. If you cannot manage the pain and cramps mentally, you will throw in the towel. You have to be focused.”
He claimed after each race, like so many others, he vowed he would never participate again, but the sense of accomplishment after the marathon made it worthwhile.
“If you can run the Comrades, there is no obstacle in life you cannot overcome.”
Mr Singh said this year he would be dedicating his 9th Comrades to his daughter, Shimara.
“My wife, Nishani, my son Sashen and daughter Shimara have been my biggest fans and inspiration over the years. My daughter is currently studying in Mauritius and it will be the first time that she won’t be attending the race, which is why I am dedicating the race to her.”
Mr Singh thanked his family, friends, as well as the pupils and colleagues at Qhubimfundo School for their support.
