Amanzimtoti power couple to tackle Comrades together
A Doonside couple crossed their qualifier marathon together and plan to do the same for the "Ultimate Human Race".
A DOONSIDE couple, affectionately known to friends and family as the “Power couple,” have spent the last year training to compete in the iconic Comrades Marathon on June 14.
Also read: Isipingo runner ready for his first Comrades Marathon up-run
Elzaan and Jacques Kruger are both originally from Newcastle and their fairytale together began in Amanzimtoti. While Jacques is a production shift leader at Defy Appliances, Elzaan is a teacher and department head at Umbogintwini Primary School, where she also, fittingly, runs the sports department.
“We officially joined the Amanzimtoti Athletics Club in the beginning of the year, but had been running socially for some time before that. We were welcomed with open arms and feel right at home. Both Jacques and I thrive on setting goals and pushing our limits and running has always been a way we challenge ourselves,” said Elzaan.
Since they decided their next challenge, the power pair took on a hybrid-style approach to training, working on functional fitness, cardiovascular endurance and their ability to run strong even on tired legs.
“Running started as a simple way for us to stay active and healthy, but evolved into much more than that. It became a space where we could challenge ourselves, clear our minds and grow both physically and mentally. It is all the more special that we get to share the journey together, building a stronger bond and creating special moments along the way, whether an early morning run, a tough training session or crossing the finish line side-by-side,” said Elzaan.
The couple chose the Rolando Hillcrest Marathon as their Comrades qualifier. For both, it was their first marathon. Their goal was to complete the marathon in 04:45:00 and together they crossed the finish line with a time of 04:37:00. Elzaan joked that their marriage was truly tested as both had their fair share of cramps and slow-down periods, but at the end, it stands out as a memory that will stay with them both forever.
“There is a feeling of stepping into the unknown going into the Comrades. Listening to previous finishers talk about it and hearing it called the ‘Ultimate Human Race,’ gives me butterflies, but also motivates me to become a part of that coveted group of finishers,” said Jacques.
From the beginning, the couple held onto one goal, to cross the finish line together. They promised one another, however, that should one of them be unable to continue, the other must carry on and bring the Comrades medal home.
“Our main focus is to run smart, respect the distance and enjoy the incredible atmosphere of the race. We know Comrades is unpredictable and can humble even the strongest runners. We will stay patient, support each other and make sure we cross that finish line with a smile, hopefully still holding hands,” said Elzaan.
For more South Coast Sun news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok.
Subscribe to our free weekly newsletter and get news delivered straight to your inbox.
Do you have more information pertaining to this story? Feel free to let us know by commenting on our Facebook page or you can contact our newsroom on 031 903 2341 and speak to a journalist.
