Local pastor tackles the Comrades

The Pastor of local Catholic Church, Holy Angels, Father Bhekithemba Thango finished his second Comrades Marathon this year.

This local pastor says that he started running in 2002 after he was informed by doctors that he was close to being diagnosed with chronic hypertension due to his weight.

“There has always been an issue of diabetes in my family as my mother was diagnosed with diabetes 14 years ago. She had her leg amputated 3 years ago and it has been a very emotional journey for the family,” he said.

According to Father Thango who has taken part in the race for five consecutive years, only finishing twice, taking part in the Comrades this year was very emotional for him as his mother had her second leg amputated three weeks before the race.

“The news were a great shock and I was very emotional at the time. Taking part in this year’s race was not only about proving something to myself as I did not complete it last year, but was also a tribute to my mother,” he said.

He said that he believes every single person should take part in the Comrades at least once in their lives, as the challenge is not just about conquering a physical obstacle but also challenging yourself mentally.

“I received a lot of support from the congregation. I remember how awe-struck the gogo’s at the church were when I told them I had returned with a bronze medal, meaning that I had finished the race in less than 11 hours,” Father Thango said with a laugh.

Being a person that has finished many other marathons, Father Thango said that he challenges other local pastors to become active and to lead by example, as there are many other pastors, who took part in the comrades, including his best friend Father Mbulelo Qumntu.

In conclusion, Father Thango said that he hoped his story would be inspirational to many, especially the local young people as the town is constantly fighting against substance abuse among young people.

“I am hoping that young people will take something from me and see that being addicted to having a healthy body and healthy mind are both very essential,” he concluded.

Also read:Seen at the Comrades.

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