Notable Comrades Marathon for Polokwane athletes
Myriads of athletes from various clubs in the city were able to win medals at this year's Comrades Marathon held at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban on August 28.
POLOKWANE – Some of the top achievers were Matome Rasekgala from Mzansi Athletics Club who completed his 10th Comrades and received his green number after finishing the race in 08:08:00. His club mate Rabelani Khakhu received a silver medal for finishing the race in 07:12:00.
David Kubjana from Polokwane Athletic Club finished in sixth position in the men’s 60 years category while Elsabe Cronje from Pietersburg Road Runners finished 10th in the 40-49 years female category.
Lutendo Mapoto came seventh in the senior category and 10th overall while the 2012 Comrades Marathon winner, Ludwick Mamabolo, came sixth in the 40-49 years category and 14th overall.
Rufus Photo settled for the 13th position in the 40-49 years category and 24th overall.
Chairperson of Polokwane Athletic Club Corrie Calitz said out of the 113 athletes that participated 98 were able to finish the race. “It is a special achievement by our athletes. They trained and prepared well. We are proud of those who participated and those who finished the race. The marathon was slower compared to previous years. The athletes were lucky because it was cloudy and windy on the day.”
Colinda Potgieter, a veteran runner from Pietersburg Road Runners who ran her last Comrades in a time of 10:14:00, said she enjoyed all her Comrades Marathon events.
“I am happy that I finished the race with a bronze medal. I had a wonderful time as a Comrades runner. Now I will focus on recruiting more runners for the club and prepare them for local and national races.”
She also has a green number which is given to the athletes who successfully finished 10 Comrades runs.
Rockey Mojela of Polokwane Athletic Club who was the official pace setter said he was happy to carry more than 200 athletes from different athletics clubs to the finish line, on time. “Comrades 2022 happened at a time when I was waiting to do what I am best at, and so passionate about. The sub 10 bus cruised from Pietermaritzburg to Durban at a very nice and easy pace and was packed with happy runners. It was a lovely day with perfect weather that allowed me as the bus driver to remain focused while enjoying the route. The bus arrived safely and on time at the finish line (09.56:00) which brought so much joy to me and the runners. Seeing the trust and belief that runners have in me is amazing. I am delighted to have managed to deliver as per the plan. I am already gearing up for next year.”
