“You Have to Do Comrades At Least Once In Your Lifetime,” Kabelo Mabalane

“You Have to Do Comrades At Least Once In Your Lifetime,” Kabelo Mabalane. The Comrades Marathon remains one of the biggest races in the country. The direction of the race alternates each year between the “up” run (87.6 km) starting from Durban (elevation: 101 metres (331 ft)) and the “down” run (89.98 km) starting from Pietermaritzburg (elevation: 921 metres (3,022 ft)).

This year, the Comrades Marathon did not disappoint as the runners showed the world what they are made of. The phenomenal Tete Dijana, came first breaking the tape in a time of 5 hours, 25 mins and 28 seconds. Dijana outran the Dutchman Piet Wiersma to clinch his third Comrades Marathon win, with Russia’s Nikolai Volkov securing third place. Another South African, Edward Mothibi took 4th place. On the women side, Gerda Steyn became a four-time Comrades Marathon winner. Steyn once again proved that she is in a league of her own, claiming her 4th title with unmatched strength, grace, and determination. In the second position was Morozova and Shelmisth Muriuki from Kenya made it third position.

One thing though about the Comrades Marathon, just taking part is a huge achievement. It’s always heartwarming to see our celebrities join the thousands of runners who are happy to take part in the event. Kabelo Mabalane is among those well known personalities loyal to the course. The award winning musician, author and pastor has been consistent with running the Comrades Marathon for the past 13 years.

After finishing the race, Kabelo urged fellow South Africans to take part in the race. He said that taking part in the Comrades Marathon can change one’s life. The benefits are not only physical, but mental as well.