POLOKWANE – Emmanuel has dedicated his life to running and shows no signs of slowing down.
Originally from Makotopong, the 22-year-old now resides in Nobody Ga-Mothapo and says he is just getting started as an athlete.
He attended primary school at Thomo Primary School and high school at Mapeloana Secondary School.
“I’m passionate about long-distance running and I had to find the time and energy to be the best I can be and to represent Limpopo and South Africa as a whole. I dropped out of school this year in Gr 11 to focus on my running career,” he told BONUS.
Emmanuel began running in 2007 when he was 11 years old, mostly participating in 5 km races.
“Athletics, for me, is a gift from God. I began running at a young age and with the talent I received from Him I have never needed coaching to be a success. I want to make a career as a long-distance athlete which is why I decided to harness all of my energy and focus to attain this goal.”
A few of the marathons Emmanuel has taken part in:
• Seeff 3-in-1: second place (10 km).
• Solomondale Cluster race: third place (10 km).
• Molepo Cluster race: third place (10 km).
• Tzaneen Tuffy: second place (10 km).
• Forever Resort Loskop Marathon: sixth place (21,1 km).
• Sekhukhune Marathon: first place (21,1 km).
• Aïda Road Race: second place (10 km).
• Giyani Marathon: first place (10 km).
• Bochum Marathon: fifth place (21,1 km).
“I was extremely proud when I won the Sekhukhune and Giyani marathons and my parents were elated and beaming with pride,” he recalled.
Aside from taking part in marathons, Emmanuel enjoys spending time with family and friends, listening to music and reading magazines.
His advice to those who want to participate in marathons is to remember it can be quite difficult.
“Long-distance running is a difficult sport. It takes a lot of commitment and it is crucial that you work hard and stay focused. Eating the correct diet plays a big role.”
He thanks his parents, Samuel and Elizabeth, and the Pietersburg Road Runners athletics club for their support.
“As I coach myself, I can blame no one but myself when I fail. This motivates me to push myself harder and test my limits.”
