Something old, something new – City runners conquer 96th Comrades Marathon

THE 96th edition of the Comrades Marathon was run on Sunday, June 11th and the down run once again showcased remarkable displays of athleticism, with both old records being broken and new records being set as the participants pushed the boundaries of human endurance.

Amidst the sea of dedicated runners, a contingent of 17 athletes from the Kimberley Harriers Running Club stood tall, having prepared themselves physically and mentally for the ultimate challenge. Their unwavering commitment and rigorous training regimen prepared them well for the race.

The DFA spoke to two athletes after they returned from the Comrades; Kobus van der Walt and Thapelo Mathetsa were happy to share their unique experiences of participating in the ultra marathon.

Kobus, a familiar face in the Kimberley running community, had previously been associated with the Kimberley Harriers Running Club but now runs for the Kimberley Road Runners. With an impressive record of completing 34 Diamond Marathons in Kimberley, each 42.2 kilometres long, Kobus embarked on his 35th Comrades Marathon at the age of 71.

When asked about the significance of running his 35th Comrades Marathon, the veteran responded with humility, acknowledging that God is the source of his strength and health. He expressed his belief that the honour should not be attributed to him but rather to the grace of God, which enabled him to pursue his passion for running.

Kobus emphasised the importance of mental preparedness, stating that a calm and clear mind is crucial for success in any endurance race.

“For me, running serves as a form of medicine for the brain,” he explained. “During those long hours of training, I am internally occupied, planning my day and resolving any challenges that may arise. It clears my mind and allows me to prepare for the race ahead.”

He outlined his comprehensive training regimen, running from January to May each year, during which he sets specific goals for himself. One of his objectives is to cover no less than 1,500 kilometres, averaging 300 kilometres per month or approximately 10 kilometres per day.

Notably, Kobus does not typically run on Sundays due to personal principles, but with the Comrades Marathon falling on a Sunday, he makes an exception.

Reflecting on his future participation in the Comrades, Kobus revealed that the number of races he completes will depend solely on his health. Despite previously stating that his last Comrades Marathon had taken place, he admitted that the allure of the event compelled him to register year after year.

He expressed profound gratitude to his family, friends, and fellow runners who continuously uplift and inspire him. For Kobus, their support and companionship transformed the Comrades Marathon into a truly remarkable and humbling experience.

With a 2023 time of 10 hours, 46 minutes, and 42 seconds, Kobus concluded his 35th Comrades Marathon, standing as a testament to perseverance and unwavering dedication.

Meanwhile, Thapelo Mathetsa, a member of the Kimberley Harriers Running Club, experienced the exhilaration of crossing the Comrades Marathon finish line for the first time. Overwhelmed with a sense of achievement, Thapelo struggled to put into words the magnitude of his emotions. He spoke of an inexplicable feeling of greatness, as if he had accomplished something truly extraordinary.

Thapelo told the DFA that he diligently adhered to a structured training schedule, gradually increasing his weekly mileage to prepare for the race. His perseverance and determination propelled him forward, even when faced with those arduous hills along the course.

By employing a strategy of walking uphill and running downhill, Thapelo successfully navigated the challenging terrain, surpassing all cut-off times. Crossing the finish line with a time of 11 hours, 31 minutes, and 45 seconds, he earned a well-deserved sense of pride.

Looking toward the future, he expressed his eagerness to return to the Comrades and secure a back-to-back medal. With his sights set on yet another achievement, he intends to commence his preparation for the next edition of the race, embodying the true spirit of a Comrades runner.

The unwavering dedication of athletes like Kobus van der Walt and Thapelo Mathetsa – not forgetting the other athletes who participated – serves as a testament to the transformative power of the race. Their experiences inspire countless others to test their own limits and embark on their own extraordinary journeys of personal triumph.