After being interrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Comrades Marathon will return this year. On August 28, thousands of runners from South Africa and other countries will participate in this popular marathon which will start in Pietermaritzburg and end at Moses Mabhida Stadium, Durban, in KwaZulu-Natal.
Every year there are always new runners who go to the Comrades, this marathon seems to be at the top of every runner’s bucket list because of its rich history. Among the people who will be participating for the first time this year is Tozie Sabie Jompolo from Gatyane, Willowvale.
“This is my first time running the Comrades. I think it is important to go to it at least once to have your name there as a runner because it is a big race that includes athletes from all over the world,” said Jompolo. This athlete from Gatyane is confident after her preparations. This year Jompolo has participated in renowned races such as the Best of the best Durban, Harry Gwala Marathon in Umzimkhulu, Ultra Marathon in East London, Two Oceans Marathon, and others in preparation for the biggest race for runners. “I have no fear at all because I have been able to improve my quality in long distances. I will cross the Comrades finish line.”
“I am not someone who is intimidated because I am someone who likes to see my potential by competing with other runners. Right now, I am still exercising a lot because I want to go to the Comrades with a fit body. All the preparations have been completed, I am just waiting for my departure date,” said Jompolo, who comes from a rural area that does not produce runners.
It is not easy to be an athlete in the rural area because there are no training facilities, and it is especially difficult for women who are at risk of being violated. But Jompolo is determined to make history in athletics even though she started later because of the problems she has faced in his life. She is expected to visit KwaZulu-Natal on August 25.
IPirates idibana neentanga zayo namhlanje kwiMTN8, utsho uSage Stephens!