Randburg resident and mechanical engineer Christopher Masoeu recently completed his first Two Oceans Marathon, and says it was the perfect preparation for the ultimate challenge ahead: The Comrades Marathon.
“I’ve always enjoyed running, but not at the level I do now,” said Masoeu. “In the past, I focused more on 3km races and sprinting. This new journey into long-distance running has been life-changing.”
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Masoeu’s decision to take on the 56km Two Oceans Marathon was fuelled by his love for Cape Town’s beautiful scenery, and his need for a solid, long-distance challenge ahead of the Comrades. Though it was his first time running the iconic race, he arrived prepared and confident.
“I put in a lot of hard work. Physically, I was in great shape. Mentally, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I did my homework. I spoke to others who had run it before and studied the route online,” he shared.
Despite nursing a groin injury from the Soweto Marathon, Masoeu tackled the race with a well-thought-out strategy. “I reserved my energy in the first half, because I didn’t know how my body would react. I was anxious, but the best part was that I ran most of the hills in the second half, without walking.”
He credits his disciplined training routine for his strong performance. This included long runs on grass, weekly speed intervals, hill repeats, strength work, and indoor cycling on a wattbike. Nutrition also played a role, with Masoeu focusing on protein, carbohydrates, and staying hydrated.
Also read: RAC prepares runners for Comrades Marathon
“Running is my way of clearing my mind. I have a stressful job, and training keeps me grounded. I’m self-motivated, and Comrades is my big goal,” he said.
Masoeu ran the Two Oceans solo, staying focused on his personal race strategy. “I stuck to my plan 95% of the time. I wasn’t chasing anyone else. I just ran my own race.”
Crossing the finish line brought a sense of satisfaction, rather than surprise. “I aimed low on purpose, so, I knew I would finish comfortably. For me, it was all about getting time on the legs.”
He says his greatest supporters are his wife and children, who have been with him every step of the way.
Reflecting on the experience, Masoeu says he learnt that he is disciplined and capable of following through on a plan. He encourages aspiring marathon runners to focus on hill training and back-to-back long runs on weekends.
As for what’s next? “Comrades, sub-10 hours. That’s the goal. Running is a lifestyle for me now,” he said.
With his determination and clear focus, it’s safe to say this is just the beginning of many finish lines for Christopher Masoeu.
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