VETERAN Komani runner, Malungisa Nomwa (64), is set to hang up his running shoes at the end of the year – bringing a career of 28 years of professional running to its finish line.
With more than 250 medals to his name, there are only four races left for him: the One City Relay and Marathon in Port Elizabeth on October 27, the Bonkolo Marathon in Komani on November 2, the 21.1km Maclear to Ugie Race on November 22, and the Eyasekasi Race in Komani on November 30.
Nomwa, who is a member of the Queenstown Harriers Club, secured a gold medal and certificate at the recent 800m race at the District Golden Games in Cradock.
Other major races he completed include the Comrades Marathon (17 times), Two Oceans Marathon (18 times), and the City to City race.
Nomwa said he had mixed emotions about his upcoming retirement. “A part of me is happy – I enjoyed every moment of every race. But, parting ways with what I love, also makes me feel sad.
“However, I must accept that my time to retire is here, and that I must give it my all at the last remaining races.”
The secret to Nomwa’s incredible drive? His simple love for the sport. “It is because of the happiness I get out of it,” he said.
Nomwa expressed his gratitude to everyone who had supported him over the years.
“They have been the driving force behind every victory – without their moral and financial support, I would not have been able to live my dream,” he said.
While he is quitting competitive events, he will not completely hang up his running shoes as he embarks on the next leg of his fast-paced career: a club for young athletes between the ages of 10 and 15.
“I want to share my knowledge and skills with aspiring runners,” says Nomwa.
