TRANSNET’S UNFORGETTABLE COMRADES JOURNEY
As employees tackled the gruelling Comrades Marathon, Transnet was there every step of the way, providing support, encouragement and celebrating the inspiring journeys that unfolded along South Africa’s most iconic road race.
The 99th edition of the Comrades Marathon, known globally as The Ultimate Human Race, was an unforgettable experience for the 185 Transnet employees who proudly took on the iconic ultra-marathon.
Ahead of race day, runners from across the organisation gathered in KwaZulu-Natal, united by a shared goal and a strong sense of camaraderie. On the eve of the race, members of the Transnet support committee, including Chief Executives, General Managers and EXCO representatives, met with participants to offer encouragement and ensure they were ready for the challenge.
Each runner received a care pack containing branded tracksuits, towels, bandanas and energy supplements.
Along the demanding 85km route from Durban to Pietermaritzburg, Transnet support teams manned dedicated water points from the 15km to the 75km mark, providing refreshments, motivation and encouragement throughout the race.
Of the 185 runners who started under the Transnet banner, an impressive 152 crossed the finish line and earned their medals.
Leading the Transnet field was Cebisa Somchiza from Transnet Port Terminals, who completed the race in an outstanding 06:48:07. Fellow TPT employee Unathi Mngcwengi was the first female Transnet finisher, crossing the line in 07:52:17.
Several runners also celebrated significant milestones. Mthokozisi Mkhize of Transnet National Ports Authority earned his 20th Comrades medal, while Aaron Mabena from Transnet Engineering secured his 21st. Elize Uys from Transnet Corporate Centre completed an extraordinary 29th Comrades Marathon.
Running Through Adversity: Elize’s 29/29
Approaching her 62nd birthday, Elize Uys has achieved what few runners can claim: completing all 29 Comrades Marathons she has started.
In 2018, Elize was diagnosed with breast cancer. Despite surgery and treatment, she returned to the race in 2019 with just one month of training while still experiencing the effects of chemotherapy and successfully completed the marathon.
“I am still in remission and undergo cancer tests every three months, but I have completed all 29 out of 29 races. Glory to God,” she said after crossing the finish line.
A New Lease on Life: Zamani’s Transformation
For Zamani Brian Mabhida of Transnet Freight Rail, Comrades represents far more than a race.
After relocating to Empangeni during a difficult period in his life, Zamani turned to running as a form of therapy. Starting at approximately 130kg, he embraced healthier habits and transformed his life, reducing his weight to 83kg.
This year’s race marked his fifth Comrades Marathon. Reflecting on his journey, Zamani expressed gratitude for the support he received from Transnet and pride in how far he has come.
General Manager: Safety, Health and Wellness, Dr Desmond Sekudu, thanked both the runners and organising committee for creating a memorable experience.
“Thank you for your excellence, and most importantly, for making the runners feel special. I saw laughter, tears and smiles, moments that showed just how much your presence meant,” he said.
Initiatives such as the Employee Running Programme reflect Transnet’s commitment to employee wellness and recognise that a healthy workforce is productive, engaged and future-ready.
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