By Jonk wa Mashamba
news@alexreporter.co.za
This year’s Comrades Marathon was not easy, with two runners dying in the event.
The first confirmed fatality was that of Phakamani ‘Phaks’ Tshiza of Adventist Athletics Club in Gauteng, who last clocked at 8.53am in Cato Ridge.
That followed by the death of Mzameleni ‘Mzamo’ Mthembu of Hollywood Bets Athletics Club in KZN who passed away at Westville Hospital. He was last clocked in Winston Park at 11.41.
Despite their emotion, the 22 members of Run Alex took part in the highly anticipated event on Sunday 28 August 2022.
While a member of Run Alex was unable to start due to the flu, two other members withdrew in the middle of the race due to health problems.
However, the remained team members took home several medals from the event and made Alexandra proud.
A 66-year-old woman, Onica Motsei, participated for the 11th time at the Comrades.
Motsei has earned her legendary status, not only in Comrades, but also in other races.
She’s made it a habit to reach the top three in her age category in almost every race she competes in.
She has always maintained that her group’s success will make it easy for people to come forward and for many to progress.
She was adamant that this was her last Comrades.
However, she will focus and compete in smaller distances and focus more on her role as a junior coach for Run Alex.
Pule Sithole attended the event to honour the late Mayor of Collins Chabane, Cllr Moses Maluleke who was gunned down.
Sithole said he was still in mourning for his role model’s sudden death.
“He was a role model for many of us. He was someone who always took people’s interests to heart.
“He was a leader who delivered services well during his tenure. For this year’s Comrades Marathon, I ran in his honour,” said Sithole.
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Recently Royal Bafokeng Platinum sponsored Run Alex , with gear.
Since its establishment in 2018, the club has struggled with finding sponsors.
But its rapid growth and impact on the community has produced positive results by winning Royal Bafokeng Platinum’s heart.
The club’s chairperson, Lebogang Mogotlane, said that for a long time, they had been knocking on many doors for assistance to no avail.
“But our impact in the community and growth is beginning to open doors for us.
“All 25 of our Comrades runners are dressed in beautiful Tracksuits sponsored by Royal Bafokeng Platinum.
“This is the sign that a big corporate is recognizing our work in the community,” said Mogotlane.
Prior to the Comrades, the members were wined and dined in the send-off private event held at Dandy’s Corner in Marlboro.
The event was attended by the following speakers from outside the club and well respected in the Running community: Wandisile Nongodlwana – Asics Ambassador, Cindy Nkomo – Former Boxing SA CEO, Bongani Bilankulu – Former Fat Cats Athletics Club Chairperson, Shahieda Thungo – Official Comrades Pacer and only female pacer.
The group doesn’t only focus on running, but also plays a vital role in the well-being of the elderly.
It also helps kids to stay away from drugs and alcohol. The club encourages residents to live in good health by running.
It provides items for the needy, like towels, sneakers and food parcels for the underprivileged.
The club has developed so much and has had an enormous positive impact on the lives of many people.
