Wayne’s World: ‘If Mandela could do it, so can you’

I HAVE been a very fortunate runner and have managed to notch up around 40 marathons since 1989.

The reason I haven’t done more comes down to pure laziness and a three year lay off due to ITB (iliotibial band syndrome).

In just a few weeks the gun will be fired to start the Mandela Marathon, from Pietermaritsburg to Howick and depending on how prepared you are for the event dictates how difficult or easy your marathon is going to be.

However, the Mandela Marathon is undoubtedly the most difficult of all standard marathons I have ever run.

If you have already run this marathon you will understand what I mean, and if you are a novice the only way I can describe the race is by comparing it to Mandela’s long walk to freedom.

The race is a struggle from beginning to end with spectators cheering you on with slogans like ‘your struggle is almost over’ and ‘if Mandela could do it, so can you’.

The race has the steepest 17km stretch of uphill I’ve ever encountered, in fact even the cars battle to get up there.

Once over the mountain you are halfway but with absolutely no legs left. Just remember you are not alone, you will make it.

On completion of the race at the capture site of Mandela, in Howick, you will receive not only a massive sense of achievement but also one of the best looking medals around.

Entries for Mandela Marathon are pre-entry only and entries close this Friday, July 31, so don’t forget to enter.

South Coast Striders will host a 10km challenge this Sunday, August 2 at 7am.

It will start at the Uvongo pier in Lilliecrona Boulevard.

All are welcome and there is a fee of R20. Members are reminded to run in full club colours.

On the upside you won’t have to face any daunting hills like the Mandela Marathon.

See you Sunday and keep safe on the roads.

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