25 June 2026
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Story Lunga Luthuli
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Photo Comrades
UFS staff members Molemo Mohapi, Prof Johan van Tol, Boingotlo Tshabang, Dr Neo Mathinya, Prof Henry Jordaan, and Mark Nicholls participated in the 2026 Comrades Marathon.
Several staff members from the University of the Free State (UFS) joined thousands of runners from around the world in taking on the gruelling 2026
Comrades Marathon, one of the world’s most iconic ultramarathons. Their participation tested not only their physical endurance, but also their mental resilience, determination, and commitment to achieving ambitious goals.
For Dr Mathinya, the 2026 race held special significance. Having completed her first Comrades Marathon in 2025, she returned this year determined to achieve the coveted back-to-back finish.
“My motivation was both personal and emotional,” she said. “Crossing the finish line this year meant personal growth, resilience, and gratitude for being able to return stronger.”
Dr Mathinya completed the marathon in 10 hours and 51 minutes, earning a bronze medal and improving on her previous performance. Despite encountering challenges along the route, including a fall at approximately 57 km, she remained focused on reaching the finish line.
“The support is what carries you through to the finish line when it all seems lost,” she reflected. “It reminded me that resilience is often about continuing, even when things don’t go as planned.”
The reward of dedication and preparation
For Prof van Tol, who completed his fourth Comrades Marathon, the race once again delivered unforgettable moments.
“The atmosphere at this year’s start was particularly special,” he said. “After Shosholoza, when Chariots of Fire begins to play, you really have to have a heart of stone not to get emotional.”
The finish was equally memorable, with family members waiting to celebrate his achievement.
Prof van Tol emphasised that marathon day is ultimately a celebration of months of preparation and discipline. Having covered more than 1 400 km in training since January, he drew motivation from the effort he had already invested.
“I kept reminding myself that I had not put in all that effort only to throw it away because I felt a little tired or uncomfortable,” he said.
Lessons learnt beyond the marathon
Both runners highlighted the similarities between endurance sport and academic life. According to Dr Mathinya, success in both pursuits depends on consistency, patience, structure, and strong support systems.
Prof van Tol believes the Comrades Marathon offers a valuable lesson for the broader UFS community.
“If something is not difficult, it is probably not worth pursuing,” he said. “The worthwhile things in life are rarely easy. The challenges and setbacks along the way are often what make the achievement meaningful in the end.”
The achievements of these staff members reflect the perseverance, excellence, and resilience that continue to define the UFS community, both on campus and beyond. Their participation in the 2026 Comrades Marathon serves as a reminder that determination, preparation, and commitment can turn even the most demanding challenges into remarkable accomplishments.