Comrades veteran earns green number, vows to come back for more
Completing his 10th consecutive Comrades Marathon in 2025, Michael Hove earned his green number and celebrated a decade-long journey filled with dedication, family support, and endurance.
After running over 90km, many Comrades Marathon runners feel nothing but exhaustion. For Michael Hove, however, this year’s race was more than just a physical challenge; it marked a deeply personal milestone that had been ten years in the making.
Hove completed his 10th consecutive Comrades Marathon this year, earning the coveted green number, a permanent race number given to runners who finish the race ten times. “I enjoyed the journey of running my 10th Comrades. While I had set myself a target, I was very satisfied with achieving the feat and earning the revered green number.”
Having run the ultimate human race many times, Hove said this year felt different. “It was a culmination of 10 years of consistently running the Comrades Marathon, embracing all the successes and disappointments rolled into one race.”
Also read: Saints first hockey team clinches win over St John’s
Crossing the start line injury-free, Hove admitted he was full of emotion as he made his way along the route. One of the most meaningful moments came with 28km to go, when he saw his wife, Fadzai, and their 4-year-old daughter, Washe, waiting at Kloof. “Seeing them, and running alongside them, reminded me how important a support structure is. It was a celebration race, and I never felt like I had a low point.”
Hove finished the race in 08:29:33, securing his fifth Bill Rowan medal, awarded to those who complete the race in between seven and nine hours. “I’m very satisfied. I never take finishing the Comrades Marathon for granted.”
Also read: Olivedale Tennis Club turns 30 with clubhouse celebration
Hove followed a strict training programme, under the guidance of Coach Tumelo Mosia from Team Titanium. His routine included group tempo runs, fast sessions, cross-training, and Wattbike sessions. “On weekends, I alternated between long, slow, distance runs, and fast tempo runs.”
This year, he refined his fuelling plan. “I relied on Nutri8deli Complete Repair, mixed with Vo2 Vortex Hydration, Slow Mag, and 32Gi Hydrate Tabs. I also had extra bottles placed along the route. Thanks to Run Zone AC, and Mageu, from Multichoice ACs, which helped keep me fuelled.”
He also made use of 32Gi Cramp Assalt, G Shot, High Intensity sports gels, and enjoyed race snacks such as bananas, potatoes, oranges, and salt.
Even after the demanding race, Hove isn’t slowing down. “I’m practising active recovery by doing a slow parkrun daily. Since March 26, 2020, I’ve been running at least 30 minutes a day, covering about 6km. It’s part of my life now.”
Read more: Saints first XV rugby team survives late scare to edge St John’s
He already has a full race calendar lined up for the rest of the year. “I’m doing the Cape Town Marathon, 947 Ride Joburg, the Soweto Marathon, which will be my tenth, and the RAC Tough One for the 12th time.”
As for 2026, Hove is already committed. “One has to run at least once in their green number. I’ll definitely be back for my 11th Comrades, especially since it’ll be the 99th event and 49th up run. And the 100th edition in 2027 is a must!”
Despite being a seasoned runner, Hove admits Comrades never gets easier. “It’s always challenging. The change in direction and terrain each year keeps things unpredictable.”
Beyond the challenge, what brings him back is the atmosphere. “There’s no event like Comrades. The support is unmatched before, during, and after the race. It’s something you must experience at least once in your life.”
He also draws motivation from fellow legends like Louis Massyn, who completed his 50th Comrades at age 74, and Johannes Mosehla, who, at 83, broke his own record as the oldest person to finish the race.
“That’s the spirit of Comrades,” Hove said. “It’s not just about running; it’s about community, support, and human strength. I’ll keep coming back for as long as my body lets me.”
Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates and inspiration! Have a story idea? We’d love to hear from you – join our WhatsApp group and share your thoughts!
