A Strand police officer, who showed her mettle with an exceptional sporting performance, displayed her willingness not only to go the extra mile, but to run it!
Sergeant Martha Khoza clinched gold with her commendable participation in a challenging endurance walk.
The 38-year-old, who has dedicated 16 years to the fight against crime as the proud wearer of blue at the local police station, kicked dust in the eyes of her competitors at the Gansbaai Vasbyt endurance race, hosted by the national Department of Correctional Services on Friday 22 and Saturday 23 March.
“[As domestic-violence coordinator at Strand Police Station] I work hand-in-hand with abuse victims,” she pointed out. “This compels me to participate in these walks, not only to stay fit, but to keep me mentally strong.”
This exemplary officer and fitness enthusiast finished almost two hours ahead of the pack of runners and fellow senior category participants, claiming her win emphatically.
Apart from being a dutiful officer passionate about bringing criminals to book and creating safer communities, Khoza has also fuelled her athletic passion as captain of the Western Province Running Club for the past five years.
“Toughing out all the hills along the route in Gansbaai as a ‘senior’ made the challenge extra-difficult. The first day I walked 40 kilometres, the second day 35 kilometres,” she said.
“My body was aching afterwards, but I finished the race ahead of my competitors, some of whom were representatives of the navy and national defence force.”
Khoza has successfully championed many previous challenges, which she reckons helps keep her young and sets her sights on a target. She offers this sage advice to enthusiastic aspirant runners: “Invest in the best running shoes you can afford; you will thank me afterwards.”
V The police sergeant’s next challenge is in Tshwane on Friday 10 and Saturday 11 May.
