Athlete Mzwakhe Maseko from Dersely Park is a married father of five children. He grew up in Tsakani, where his passion for running started. He’s been an active sportsperson since he was young and participated in different sporting codes. He has completed the Comrades Marathon numerous times.
Why the interest in marathons?
It started 21 years ago when I started working full-time. I couldn’t partake in team sports effectively, as time became a serious limitation.
How long have you been doing this?
I’ve been running since my school days.
Why running?
Running became the only option for me to keep fit. It is an individual sports, so I could train on my own even during awkward hours unlike team sport where the training and performance is dependent on others.
What would be the biggest achievement for you with the sport? Have you won trophies? What do they mean to you?
The completion of my 20th Comrades Marathon. I have 15 Comrades medals and am looking forward to this year’s Comrades Marathon on August 28.
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Are you the only one in the family who partakes in sport?
Yes. My son used to play rugby but he stopped.
Who do you look up to when it comes to running?
My three training partners I train with at 04:30. They are my inspiration and are dependable. My clubmates as well. My club, Springs Striders, is incredible. I have been running for Springs Striders for about 21 years. We have amazing people who keep the club going. Those good people make the running easy and are there for us.
What are your hopes and dream?
To see more people in our town taking their health and general well-being seriously. Running has fulfilled that part in my life. I think having a hobby as a person is crucial. It helps in dealing with health and mental challenges we face in our lives.
Do you have any other special interests?
Apart from work and sport, I am a carpenter and general DIY enthusiast.
What motivates you?
I am motivated by development and growth. If I see people grow in whatever they do, not only in running but generally in life, and achieving what they set out to achieve. I get motivated because I know only self-initiated growth will change our individual and country’s situation.
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