In the heart of Springs, a dynamic duo is making strides in the running world. Twin sisters, Melissa and Melinda Jansen van Vuuren (30), are not only bound by blood but also by their love for the sport.

Representing Hollywood Athletics Club, the pair delivered a memorable performance at the Johannesburg City Marathon, crossing the finish line side by side and breaking the tape together in a powerful display of unity and athletic excellence.

Speaking about their Johannesburg City Marathon experience, Melinda said, although it was rainy and hilly, it was a great race to prepare for this year’s Oceans and Comrades marathons.

“It was great to run in the streets of Joburg. The spectators next to the road are the reason we always enjoy the races. The standout was that we got to run the whole route together, enjoying ourselves and then finishing together.

“The cheers at the finish line when people saw the twins finishing together will always be a goosebump moment,” Melinda said.

The pair started running back in 2017 starting with the parkrun.

“The weekly goal was just to run the 5km parkrun and for the feel-good moment afterwards. Before that, we did not do any sports. So we did not know that running would have become the biggest part of us,” she explained.

The twins realised in 2018 that running was more than just a hobby after Melinda ran her first Comrades Marathon.

“It really opened our eyes to what was possible. From that point on, it wasn’t just about finishing races, it became about improving, competing and testing our limits in ultra-distance running,” she said.

Although they’ve experienced challenges like some injuries but with the right coaching, they have been able to train wiser and smarter.

“As mothers, there are always challenges. But, to us, our children are not our limitation, but our biggest motivation,” she added.

Melissa and Melinda say running together has shown them that their bond is unbreakable.

“We are also so much stronger together. We are often seen as a pair, but each of us still has our own strengths, limits and goals. Learning to celebrate both the ‘we’ and the ‘ me’ is a powerful outcome,” Melinda said.

They are training to take part in the Two Oceans Ultra Marathon next month and the Comrades Marathon in June.

They encouraged the community to join Hollywood Athletics Club’s time trials at 568 Winterberg Avenue, Eastvale, on Thursdays at 18:00.

“We have a 5km loop, which is fast and flat. Everyone is welcome, and it is free. Please bring the family, and let’s run together,” Melinda added.

The time trials will be hosted on April 2, 23 and 30.

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