Zamangoma Matlhare

I began running trying to lose weight. I walked into the gym one day and got a personal trainer … unfortunately for me he was an ultra-runner. He convinced me I could run even though I had avoided all physical activity since primary school. I bought into the dream. The rest, as they say is history. I got hooked and joined the cult.

I remember just before my first comrades my mother was in disbelief that I was about to run 90km, she had never seen me run in 35 years! She was more shocked when I came back with a medal 😊. Four comrades and 5 Oceans ultras later, I can safely say running has become part of who I am and keeps me sane.

I’m here for the guy and girl who thinks they can’t, that they’re not fast enough. There’s enough room for all of us. We start at the back, we run slow, but we move and chase the finish. Run your race, dare to dream, don’t allow your mind to give up .

I’m an ultra-runner…I don’t run fast, I run far. It has taught me so much about myself, about perseverance & resilience. It’s painful, not always fun but I wouldn’t have it any other way.