A local runner flew the South African flag high through the streets of Berlin as she recently participated in the BMW Berlin Marathon in Germany.

Charmaine Botha (43), from the Springs Striders Athletics Club, finished the run in 4:16:12.

“Going into the race, my goal wasn’t to chase a specific time but rather to soak up the experience, take plenty of photos, and make memories that would last a lifetime,” Botha said.

As an experienced distance runner, she said she has learnt that not every race has to be about a personal best, but rather about enjoying the journey, appreciating the opportunity, and being present in the moment.

“Given the challenges I faced during my preparation, I was incredibly grateful to cross that finish line,” she said.

Botha described the overall experience of running in Berlin as being incredible. The atmosphere along the route was energetic and seemingly never-ending.

“The best part was being able to experience it with my brother and sister. We turned it into a sibling trip, which made the entire experience even more special,” she said.

She also reminisced about the energetic atmosphere, including the crowd’s support.

“There was something special about being surrounded by so many people who share the same passion for running. It was truly memorable and an experience I’ll treasure for years to come,” she said.

Botha said preparing for the marathon did not go as planned due to an injury.

“I was struggling with a hip and groin injury, which meant my training was far from what I had hoped it would be. I was seeing a physiotherapist twice a week and constantly working on rehabilitation.

“Instead of following a normal marathon training programme, much of my preparation revolved around managing the injury and trying to get to the start line as ready as possible,” she said.

Despite this obstacle, she remained determined to give herself the opportunity to experience Berlin, even if it meant approaching the race differently from what she had originally imagined.

“With such a disrupted training block, I couldn’t predict how my body would hold up over the 42.2km. I had to listen to my body, take things as they came, and remind myself why I was there in the first place.

“I was there to experience one of the world’s biggest marathons. Keeping that perspective helped me push through the difficult moments and focus on the bigger picture,” Botha said.

ALSO READ: Emerging skills talent recognised at 2026 National Skills Competition

She added that the experience reminded her that running is about so much more than times, medals, and personal bests.

“This experience taught me the importance of adapting, letting go of expectations, and enjoying the journey, even when things don’t go according to plan.

“It also reminded me how fortunate I am to have such an incredible support system. My husband, children, friends, and family are a huge part of my running journey,” she said warmly.

Her advice to someone running their first marathon is to respect the distance, trust the training process, and remember why they started.

“Prepare as well as you can, but don’t become so focused on your finishing time that you forget to enjoy the experience.

“Take in the atmosphere, appreciate the people supporting you, and celebrate every kilometre. Most importantly, surround yourself with people who encourage and support you, because running might be an individual sport, but the journey is rarely one you take alone,” she concluded.

ALSO READ: October is Mental Health Awareness Month: Taking control of your money can ease financial anxiety