Ntsindiso Mphakathi, a young and determined athlete from Port Saint Johns in the Eastern Cape, had dreamed of winning the Soweto Marathon for as long as he could remember. As South Africa reclaimed the African Bank Soweto Marathon on Sunday, 05 November at the iconic FNB stadium, Mphakathi and Irvette van Zyl emerged victorious in the men’s and women’s categories, respectively. On a crisp and clear morning, Soweto buzzed with excitement as runners and spectators filled the streets. Mphakathi stood among a sea of athletes, ready to prove himself as the pressure was mounting for SA runners, having last won the “People’s Race” over a decade ago.
The 42.2-kilometre journey that lay ahead was both physically and mentally challenging, but he was prepared to face it head-on.
Mphakathi’s victory was a significant and uplifting moment for South Africa, marking the end of dominance by foreign nationals in the men’s category.
He triumphantly crossed the finish line with a remarkable time of 2:19.13, outpacing the defending champion, Ethiopian Daba Debele, and the formidable competitor from Zimbabwe, Tonny Skink, who claimed second and third place, respectively.
Mphakathi said that as the starting gun fired, he surged forward with determination. He had trained relentlessly, and his stride was a testament to his dedication.
“I have been trying to win this marathon, but it was just not happening. So this year, I told myself that after the Comrades Marathon, I was not going to participate in any other race in preparation for the Soweto Marathon. In 2017, I was number 3, and last year, I became number 5. It’s been a challenging journey, but today, I’m excited to have finally stopped the dominance of foreign nationals in the Soweto Marathon,” he said excitedly.
Mphakathi said he was encouraged by the crowd, which roared with encouragement as he took the lead, a moment that sent shivers down his spine.
“This victory is not just for me but for all South Africans who dream of success and are willing to work hard to achieve it,” he said at the Soweto Marathon finish line.