What a lesson

Mr Tsepo Nsibande flanked by his school athletics team T Tsotetsi, L Msimango, H Mathabela, and S Ndlovu, with assistant trainer coach Ms N Nhleko in front.

STANDERTON – A school teacher from Sakhile won a bronze medal in his first attempt at the Comrades Marathon this year.  Mr Tsepo Nsibande, of Thuto-Thebe Secondary School clocked the finishing line in 10.55:41 which earned him his medal.

He said that he was motivated by his running partners Mr M Mnisi and T Tsotetsi to try his luck at the Comrades as they have been there before.  He then decided to give it a go just for fun not expecting to make it to the fi­nish line, but he felt very strong and confident as the road from Durban to Pietermaritzburg progressed.  Along the way he told himself that he wants to make it to the finish line and indeed he did.  He jokingly said that from bronze he will aim for gold next time.

He said that running has been his passion, but it never crossed his mind to participate in the Comrades Marathon.  His unexpected achievement has inspired young athletes at the school to follow his example.  They too feel strong that with hard work, dedication and focus they can make it big time.  DM