For local runner Carol Kangwa, taking on the Comrades Marathon is more than just about crossing the finish line. It’s about finding peace and balance through a demanding and stressful life.

Running under the Panorama Running Club banner, Kangwa already has two unforgettable Comrades finishes under her belt. She is now preparing to take on the iconic ultramarathon for a third time this year.

Her first race was the 2024 Up Run, from Durban to Pietermaritzburg. The route covered 85.91km, which, according to the Comrades Marathon Association, was the shortest route distance in Comrades history, but no less demanding.

Carol finished the gruelling run in 11:28:35.

“My body was totally shattered,” she recalled. The triumphant feeling she experienced after running about 90km motivated her to return the following year, this time with greater strength and speed.

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In 2025, for the Down Run and over almost 90km, a new finish line near People’s Park in Durban waited. She finished the race in 10:20:55, cutting over an hour off her previous time.

“I live in a world that demands so much from me mentally,” she said, explaining that running for her is more than just medals and chasing finishing times. I run for my emotional and physical well-being. I run to de-stress. I run to build resilience that applies to daily life. Running makes me feel free and empowered,” she added.

Comrades is also about daring to do what seems impossible, and Kangwa remembers the unforgettable feeling of finishing a 90km race.

“Nothing compares to that moment,” she said. “It’s an emotion that can’t be explained. I remember asking myself, ‘Did I just run 90km?’”

While race day is memorable, she said the real challenge comes in the months leading up to the marathon – the early morning runs, long-distance training, and smaller races that prepare the body and mind.

“Training for Comrades teaches you to challenge yourself, to push past limits. It teaches discipline, dedication, resilience, and determination. And those lessons stay with you, off the road too.”

This year, her journey has an added purpose. She will run not only for herself but also for a charity, making every kilometre meaningful beyond her own personal achievement.

“I’m both excited and a little nervous,” she said, smiling. “But I can’t wait to cross the finish line for the third time.”