Carnival City is proud of their man
When the gun sounded at the start of the 2015 Comrades Marathon, in Durban, the excitement could be felt all the way in Brakpan, where Carnival City’s team was rooting for their man, Xolani Bavuma.
It was the second time he was taking on the “ultimate human race”.
Finishing in the 200th position of some 22 000 runners, Bavuma took home his second silver Comrades Marathon medal, much to the delight of his colleagues at Carnival City.
“We are unbelievably proud of Bavuma for yet another spectacular finish at this year’s Comrades Marathon,” said Annemie Turk, the general manager at Carnival City.
“Preparing for Comrades requires a level of commitment and perseverance that only the most dedicated and passionate runner can contemplate.
“He trained hard and was rewarded with an extremely impressive result.
“He is an inspiration to all of us at Carnival City.”
Originally from the Eastern Cape, Bavuma joined Carnival City in 2012, as a cleaner. Shortly after joining, he ran his first Comrades Marathon, placing 50th overall and winning a silver medal.
He remembers the support he got from the team.
“Carnival City has always supported me with my running,” he said.
“For my first Comrades Marathon, they sponsored me with a running watch, shoes and tracksuits.
“They also took care of my transport and accommodation.
“I am ever grateful for their support.”
He started running seriously in 2009, when he joined Kwa-Thema Striders and trained for the Soweto Marathon.
He came eighth and won a gold medal, which served as an indication to him that he had talent.
By 2010, the “running bug” had bitten him and he set his sights on the City to City Marathon, where he finished 15th.
After that came the Two Oceans Marathon and his first Comrades.
He admits that balancing work, personal life and his training can be difficult at times – especially when he is in training for a big race like the Comrades Marathon.
Saving up enough money to purchase the right running gear and to register for races is also a challenge for him.
“I know that I should be doing more training, but it is difficult to put in enough hours while working as well,” he said.
“I do most of my training over weekends and it is not nearly enough.
“Running gear such as shoes is expensive and it is not easy for me to afford to enter races without the help and support of sponsors.
“I always appreciate it when I do receive help.”
Nevertheless, Bavuma remains a motivated runner.
“There are always people to help and guide me through tough times,” he added.
“I am grateful to them, and to my Lord, for helping to keep me strong and motivated.”
Bavuma is now resting after Comrades but is saving up to participate in the Nelson Mandela Marathon, in Pietermaritzburg-Howick, on August 30.
Also read:
Runners celebrate Comrades success
Locals conquer the mighty marathon
