Renowed local long-distance runner, Ntombesintu Mfunzi, competed in the SA half marathon championships that took place on Saturday, June 1, in Gqeberha.
The brutal weather conditions posed a challenge for the local runner, who is on the road to recovery after undergoing a Cardiac Ablation procedure in March of this year. After giving birth to her son in August last year she was diagnosed with the heart condition, Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT).
The return to running has been both challenging and scary for the local athlete, who is a four-time Two Oceans marathon gold medallist.
This year Mfunzi aims at inspiring as many athletes as possible through her recovery journey and wants to use every race as an opportunity to spread the message of never giving up after a setback. After surviving a near-death rape ordeal in 2016, Mfunzi became a symbol of hope and strength to many. Overcoming this dark moment gave her the strength to overcome any obstacle life might throw her way.
This recent race was only her fourth of the season, and her second-longest race since the surgery. Before the race, a cheerful Mfunzi stated that this year it is all about celebrating being healthy and being able to run again and do what she loves the most.
“I would be happy with any finishing time this year,” she said.
Despite the challenging weather conditions, Mfunzi finished the race fourth in her age group and was the first female athlete home for the Eastern Cape. After the race she reflected on her challenging recovery journey.
“Now I have no doubt it is time for me to start my normal intensity training. I came here without any expectations, but to give hope and inspire athletes who are being sidelined by illnesses.”
Mfunzi looks forward to the rest of the season with a positive attitude. Her goal for the remainder of the season is to keep the Eastern Cape flag flying high and continue inspiring her fellow competitors facing their own set of challenges. Mfunzi left a message for those struggling with illnesses.
“They must not give up hope; they must just be patient with their bodies. Take it one step at a time during the recovery process and know … nothing is impossible with a positive mindset.”
