Toti runner set for first Comrades Marathon
After completing various route-testers, this Amanzimtoti runner is confident she has got what it takes to complete her first Comrades.
AMANZIMTOTI Athletic Club’s Slindile Mngomezulu (41) is ready and looking forward to taking on her first Comrades Marathon in about two weeks time.
Building up to the world’s oldest ultra-marathon, Mngomezulu has been taking part in various route-testers, including a recent 60km one.
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“I completed it in a good time, at a good pace. I still had the energy to keep going, which gives me confidence going into my first Comrades, especially since I’ve got a feel for the route,” she said.
In the weeks leading up to the event, she has increased her mileage but taken things slower in order to prevent injuries and let her muscles recover. She also recently did a 40km around Amanzimtoti with an all-men’s training group that she is a part of.
Mngomezulu said the thought of doing the Comrades never crossed her mind until last year when she saw friends with slower running paces than her completing the race.
“Those around me knew my abilities and strengths before I did. They would approach me and either ask why I haven’t taken part or encourage me to participate. I always used to run for fun, before realising just how far I’ve come,” she said.
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In March, she came second in her age category at the 42.46km Buffs Marathon. On top of that, and despite a minor hamstring injury, she also received a top-five spot overall in the women’s division.
Mngomezulu said she does not have any expectations going into her first Comrades.
“As runners, we always want to finish well and do the best. However, this is my first time, and I don’t want to put myself under any pressure. I’m looking forward to it and am confident I’ll cross the finish line. The biggest thing you’ve got to focus on is your mindset during the race,” she said.
With passion and commitment to the sport, she is making it her goal to invest more time into the sport in hopes of obtaining sponsorship and running professionally.
The almost 90km ultra-marathon, which is in its 96th edition and 48th ‘down run’, is set to take place on June 11. The race will start at the City Hall in Pietermaritzburg and finish at the Hollywoodbets Kingsmead Stadium.
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