#ComradesMarathon: Athlete vying for green number

Rudolf Oberholzer, an Athlete of the Boksburg Athletic Club, will receive his green number if he crosses the finish line in the upcoming Comrades Marathon, on August 28.

According Rudolf, this is his 10th Comrades Marathon and he is keen and determined to receive his green number by crossing the finish line.

“My training is not where I want it to be, but I’m still determined to cross the finish line and achieve the milestone. I have not been training as hard as I should. I used to train hard for the Comrades Marathon when it was still taking place in June.

Now that it is happening in August it’s a bit difficult to come up with good training schedules because it happens after the winter season. What made my training sessions to be unconducive this time around is that I had to train under the Covid-19 restrictions. I’m participating in the Comrades Marathon to enjoy myself.

He added that the Comrades Marathon has life skills sets that are important for everyone.

“It has taught me to stay strong in life and not to give up in distressing situations. Life has painful and enjoyable experiences and the Comrades Marathon teaches you that throughout the course of the race.

“For instance, it is difficult to reach the 40km mark but once you reach it you get relieved and your upcoming challenge it’s to reach you 60km mark.

“Once you reach the 60km mark your feet and whole body will be in excruciating pain. At that time you will be thinking of giving up, but if you have that determination and spirit to continue you will complete the race and you will feel great about yourself because you overcame the impossible.

“In a nutshell, the Comrades Marathon has taught me not to give up in life. What has kept me competing in the races is the comradeship we have has athletes. The great feeling I have every time when I’m on the starting line or finishing line and even the cheering-up we get from the crowd.

“I would like to advise those who are aspiring to participate in the Comrades Marathon to train in groups in preparation for it. You are most likely to train better in groups rather than training alone.

“I would like to thank my wife Madelein Oberholzer who has been supportive and motivational to me throughout my athletic career,” said Rudolf.

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