Bronze birthday present for Jane

Modimolle athlete Jane Lechelele celebrated her 41st birthday in style during the recent Comrades Matharon, after she earned herself a bronze medal.

Last year Lechelele participated in the marathon, but missed the medals cut-off time, unfortunately with only a few seconds.

“It was so amazing to be taking part in this huge event, while celebrating my birthday at the same time. The bronze medal was the greatest (birthday) gift ever,” she said.

The athlete advised people to start small if they wanted to make it.

She said brisk walking on a daily basis also had the potential to offer a good start for aspirant runners, which could later be enhanced by running for short distances, such as 1km and later longer distances.

Being a mother of three and a granny of four offspring has never been an obstacle for Lechelele, who worked against all odds, to finish her Comrades Marathon and claim bronze.

“(The race day) 10 June 2018 was so amazing. Let me also acknowledge God, my coaches, all my supporters, and not forgetting my family for being understanding even when I had less time to spend with them,” she added.

— The BEAT