#ComradesMarathon2018: So close yet so far

#ComradesMarathon2018: So close yet so far

Among the winners there were many people who worked extremely hard to qualify for the event but could not finish. We salute all those who could not make it to the end.

Comrades marathon - negatives
Twitter

Listen as Jane's friend, James breaks down during his Comrades Marathon run journey below, or read the details under the podcast. 

Sunday marked the 97th Comrades Marathon. 97 years of incredible men and women taking to the road to complete one of the world's toughest marathons. 

Read: #Comrades2018: South Africans dominate the Ultimate Human Race

I cannot help but salute and be proud of each and every one of them as this is a task that you cannot take lightly. I applaud each and every person that enters, finishers and non-finishers alike. 

Year after year I am amazed by the guts and tenacity shown. From being pushed in a wheelchair the whole way to doing the race with one leg on crutches, everyone who enters is a hero in my eyes. 

Read: Mthembu is Comrades champ again

Well done to our very own Rory who looked so strong when he passed me in Cowieshill. I adore you, Mr!

Another person we were eagerly tracking was one of our dearest friends James. James was the best man at our wedding, and this race brought him, his wife, and their beautiful children into our home for a few days. 

Listen as I chatted with James after the race:

One year ago, weighing 130kgs, James decided he was going to run the race, and his training began.

The race proved to be a grueling experience that saw him blow his knee at 20km, but he pushed until he got to 81km and couldn't go any further. I do not even know how he managed to push himself to that distance, that's dedication! Here's wishing him a speedy recovery. 

What a champ! I know wholeheartedly that he will be in that crowd next year moving towards the finish line. So proud of you!

Show's Stories