The Comrades Marathon Association has confirmed that Samuel Tshabalala (65) has died.
The Witness reports that Tshabalala (65) reportedly collapsed at his home in Zamdela on Sunday and was pronounced dead on arrival at hospital.
The Comrades Marathon Association’s spokesperson Delaine Cools, said Tshabalala’s historic victory went on to inspire Black runners for decades to come.
“Many future winners have attributed their passion for running to Sam, especially when faced with the adversity of a horrific car accident in 1991 that left him in months of recovery, and extensive injuries. Undaunted, Sam would return to run a sub 6h30 in 1992. Throughout his Comrades career, Sam managed to attain 13 finishes, with one Gold and a staggering 12 Silver medals,” Cools said in a tribute.
CMA’s Chairperson, Mqondisi Ngcobo said, “We live in gratitude to a Comrades Winner, Hero and Legend. What Mr Tshabalala did for ultra-running and our generation of athletes is part and parcel of our road-running history and great South African heritage. He showed us how to be courageous, great and at the same time humble and real.”
“Sam was a trailblazer and pioneer. He was someone who lived out the noble attributes of The Ultimate Human Race by his determined nature, will to succeed and continuously giving of his best. He will be sadly missed by the Comrades community and everyone who knew him.”
1989 Comrades Runner-Up Willie Mtolo said, “Sam was at Comrades in 2019 and it was really good to catch up with him after many years. He was a very good person. We ran a great race in 1989 and remained very good friends since then. We had a lot to talk about every time that we met. I know that he was involved in assisting youngsters in his village with their running. That was Sam for you – helpful, encouraging, motivating and a true inspiration. I will always remember him.”
