WELKOM, MATJHABENG – March has proved to be a particularly busy month for long-distance runners across the country, especially those preparing for South Africa’s two famous internationally renowned events: the Two Oceans and Comrades ultramarathons.
March and April are traditionally referred to as the High Mileage Loading Months, particularly for those targeting the ultimate human race, the Comrades Marathon, says local long-distance running stalwart, Nkhetheni Masupa.
Masupa has maintained an intensive training schedule throughout March, completing four ultramarathons in preparation for major international competition. His recent achievements include the Nelson Mandela Bay 50km in Gqeberha, the ANCO 48km in Welkom, the challenging 73.3km Kosmos 3-in-1 in Secunda, and the Om Die Dam 50km at Hartebeespoort Dam.
These gruelling events form part of Masupa’s comprehensive preparation for three significant races: the prestigious Abbott World Marathon Major Boston Marathon on 20 April in America, the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon on 24 May, and the iconic Comrades Marathon on 14 June.
“I’m incredibly excited to have been invited to compete in the Abbott World Age Championships taking place within this year’s Sanlam Cape Town Marathon,” said Masupa.
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“It’s an honour to be amongst only 200 athletes selected across different age groups to participate in this prestigious event.”
The selection represents a significant achievement for the Free State athlete, highlighting his consistent performance and dedication.
Welkom Runners will host an Easter weekend running extravaganza, featuring training sessions across Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday. The club has extended an open invitation to all interested runners, with members available to provide detailed information about the programme.
Organisers have emphasised that participants can adapt the training distances to suit their individual fitness levels and goals, rather than being restricted to prescribed distances.
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“The Easter training camp offers an excellent opportunity for runners of all abilities to benefit from structured group training whilst enjoying the camaraderie that characterises the local running community.
“For those targeting the major races later in the year, these high-mileage months represent a crucial phase in building the endurance and mental toughness required for ultramarathon success,” Masupa says.
The 110km Easter Weekend Running Madness will start on Friday 3 April with a 30km Engen-Riebeeckstad 30km (red); it will continue on Saturday with a 30km Gravel Road (blue); with on Sunday the Aldam Hills 30km (lime); and on Monday a 20km cross-country.
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