Running for a reason! SPCA legend Sarah Van Heerden and her daughter Alex are dedicating the Ultimate Human Race to pavement specials.

Kloof, South Africa (29 May 2025) — The Kloof and Highway SPCA’s Sarah Van Heerden is a champion of underdogs. While you might think all shelter pets are underdogs, there are still levels to underdogship. Some dogs get adopted quickly, while others wait for months if not years, simply because they’re pavement specials or senior animals.

But Sarah and her daughter, Alex want to change the narrative around these invisible animals while giving them a boost, and they’re using the Ultimate Human Race as a means to spread their message on behalf of the entire SPCA team.

Sarah is no stranger to pushing her body to extremes for the betterment of animals. Last year, she cycled an incredible 1,600kms over a weekn in the Western Cape to raise funds for forgotten animals and managed to fundraise over R120 000 for the SPCA and its services.

How will she fare at the Comrades? Well, this is her 14th time doing it!

Sarah and Alex will run specifically for the pavement specials in an effort to support sterilisations. Sarah hopes to make 60 sterilisations possible, which will cost around R30,000.

“Every Comrades runner matters, just as every animal in our community matters,” Sarah says.

“I am a below average, untalented jogger, I am just another runner, but if my finish counts for anything, let it be a finish making a different to JUST another brown dog.”

You can support Sarah and Alex via their fundraiser, here. 

Sources: Kloof and Highway SPCA 

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South African comedian Schalk Bezuidenhout is training for his first-ever Comrades. And, he’s learnt a lot from the utility of the word ‘tapering’ when you don’t know what else to say to the wise sages of Comrades past who seem to relish in acting as vague as a fortune cookie of fear and advice. Watch Schalk’s hilarious take on it all:

South Africa (18 May 2025) — South African comedian Schalk Bezuidenhout is among the many rookie racers preparing to take on the upcoming Comrades Marathon for the very first time. And, amid the many lessons Schalk has learned (like how far 80kms actually is and why the word ‘tapering’ is a fast ticket to sounding like you know what you’re talking about in a group of runners), he’s also interacted with the ‘Comrades Fortune Cookies’.

A Comrades ‘Fortune Cookie’ is someone who has completed the race and proceeds to give a rookie runner vague, alarming, and somewhat riddled advice, including (but not limited to) “After halfway, you find out who you truly are.”

Schalk recently made some updates on his training, with a video dedicated entirely to the ‘Comrades Fortune Cookies’ and their scary warnings.

“They will make it their mission to put the fear of God in you. They’ll go, ‘oh is it your first Comrades?’ and you go, ‘yeah no it’s my first one, I’m very excited’. And they’ll go (with an expression as if they’ve just seen a ghost), “I remember my first one… good luck, that’s all I can say. Good luck. And then they run into a bush and disappear forever,” remarks Schalk. 

The comedian even hilariously compared these sages to Dumbledore from Harry Potter, who never really let the kid know what was actually going on but made sure to give vague warnings at a whim.

Watch: People Who Have Done the Comrades Before, Please Stop Scaring Us

Sources: Schalk Bezuidenhout 

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At 75 years old, Louis Massyn is lacing up for his 50th Comrades Marathon… not for glory but for children with special needs who deserve a future filled with hope and understanding.

South Africa (18 May 2025) – At 75 years young, veteran marathoner Louis Massyn is gearing up for a remarkable milestone: running his 50th Comrades Marathon.

This living legend of athletics is turning decades of dedication into an opportunity to give back. Through this race, he plans to raise funds and awareness for BINAH and The Legacy Centre, two charities that provide vital support to children with special needs.

Massyn first tackled the Comrades Marathon in 1973 and since then he has completed it 49 times. He often says the spirit of the race and the camaraderie of his fellow runners keep him motivated.

“My motivation in running the Comrades Marathon year-after-year is actually my fellow runners… they really do keep me motivated,” he has said.

Now Louis is channelling that passion into helping others. He’s dedicating this 50th run to charity, partnering with BINAH and The Legacy Centre to support children with special needs.

“I’m thrilled to be partnering with BINAH and Legacy Center for my 50th Comrades Marathon,” says Louis. “This organisation does incredible work in supporting children with special needs, and I’m honoured to be able to contribute to their efforts.”

He has also set up a fundraising campaign on the GivenGain platform so supporters worldwide can contribute to the cause. Every step Louis takes will carry the hopes of young learners, proving that running can have a heart as big as the athlete’s stride.

Empowering Children with Special Needs

BINAH (meaning “understanding”) was founded by parents of children with autism to raise awareness and acceptance. They launched The Legacy Centre, a one-to-one tutoring programme where each child with special needs receives personalised education in a warm, family-like setting.

The Centre’s individualised programmes focus on each child’s strengths in a calm, low-stimulation environment, helping them thrive emotionally, socially and academically.

In March 2023, the organisation expanded its mission by opening Ons Plasie – a residential farm home in Oudtshoorn for young men with autism. On this smallholding, residents care for sheep, chickens and a vegetable garden, learning life skills and building confidence in a caring community. These initiatives give families hope and show how inclusion can create a brighter future for all.

“We’re excited to be a part of Louis’ 50th Comrades Marathon journey,” says Mariza van Deventer, representative of BINAH and The Legacy Centre. “His dedication to our cause is inspiring, and we’re grateful for his support.”

Virtual Comrades for Everyone

Louis is inviting runners around the world to join him through a virtual challenge. In the 50 days leading up to the race (19 April – 8 June 2025), participants have to cover the 90 km distance of the Comrades Marathon. That’s under 2 km per day on average, which can easily be done on a treadmill, road or trail. Runners will log their progress on a virtual map and share encouragement with each other. Everyone who completes the distance will earn a special commemorative medal and a certificate signed by Louis Massyn himself. In this way, friends and supporters can run alongside Louis and join the cause from anywhere in the world.

Join the Journey: How to Donate and Participate

Getting involved is easy. Louis has set up a champion fundraising page on the GivenGain platform so anyone can contribute to BINAH and The Legacy Centre. Every donation helps pay for extra tutoring, educational materials or housing costs at Ons Plasie. Even a small gift will make a real difference.

Runners and walkers can sign up for the Virtual Comrades Marathon event via the entry page and complete the daily distance at their own pace.

• To donate: Support Louis’s GivenGain campaign for BINAH and The Legacy Centre.

• To register: Join the Louis Massyn Virtual Comrades Marathon.

As Louis himself says, this is about showing love and support for families. By running and fundraising together, everyone helps create an inclusive future where every child can learn and grow.

In the end, the real celebration will be the smiles on those children’s faces, the true victory of this marathon. Louis’s journey shows that with passion, persistence and heart, anyone can bring hope and light to their community. What an uplifting milestone to cheer on and share!

Sources: Louis Massyn 

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Witnessing loved ones navigate serious health battles can profoundly shift one’s perspective. For Nadia Habig, it was this empathetic realisation that compelled her to use her passion for running to support the Hillcrest AIDS Centre Trust.

Durban, South Africa (16 May 2025) – Not everyone is fortunate enough to have someone supporting them during difficult times, especially when facing a serious disease. That is why Nadia Habig will be lacing up her running shoes in support of the Hillcrest AIDS Centre Trust this year.

We hear about people enduring unimaginable pain from illnesses almost every day, but it was after coming to terms with the heartbreaking realities of those closest to her fighting through each day that Nadia came to understand how important it is to be there for those going through their toughest battles.

“2024 marked my first Comrades, and that year was filled with personal highs and lows.

“While I was celebrating, many of my friends and family were facing serious health challenges, including cancer, bone disease, and potential kidney disease,” Nadia recalls.

It was during that time that Nadia realised how crucial it is to have a champion by your side.

And now, almost a year later, she is looking to be that champion for patients during their hour of need.

“After attending a run where a HACT spokesperson shared the incredible work they do, I realised that HACT is the real hero.

“They offer unwavering support to people during some of their darkest days. I want to do my part to support HACT in any way I can and be a champion for their cause,” Nadia shared.

By using her love for running as a beacon of solidarity, Nadia is truly embodying the spirit of being the friend and supporter so many need. With dedicated training well underway, she has already impressively reached her R10,000 goal for the cause!

“Thank you to everyone who has donated and contributed to this amazing cause and my crazy Comrades’ journey,” she thanked.

Sources: Nadia Habig | Hillcrest AIDS Centre Trust

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Underberg resident Njabulo Sosibo is gearing up to run his third Comrades Marathon, but this year, each kilometre carries an even deeper purpose – providing safe spaces for vulnerable children.

Underberg, South Africa (30 April 2025) – With rising cases of abuse and violence, the need for safe spaces is greater than ever, especially for children. This is the very reason why Njabulo Sosibo will be running the Comrades Marathon this year.

This will be the Underberg residents’ third Comrades, and this year’s race is particularly close to his heart.

By running to raise funds for the Lungisani Indlela safe house expansion programme, Njabulo will be playing a big part in providing refuge for abandoned and abused children in the community of Amaoti.

The safe house gives children not just shelter but also a chance to heal. In this transitional place of safety, children who have been abandoned, neglected or abused are given the chance to thrive under the love and care of the wonderful Safe House mom, the local church and the community.

Lungisani Indlela also offers other initiatives such as a learner support programme, academic support, the distribution of food hampers and ready-made meals, and youth events that empower young people and impact their lives in a meaningful way.

“We can’t wait to be on the side of the road with as many of our children as possible, cheering him on,” says Lungidani Indlela.

The 38-year-old runner’s passionate quest has already been well received by the public, with current funds raised totalling R800 of the R75,000 fundraising goal.

To help more children find safety and a chance to rebuild their lives, visit the Sport for Lives crowdfunding campaign to make a donation.

Sources: Sport for Lives

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Touched by the vital yet often under-resourced work of SANParks Honorary Rangers, Leona Lamont will be channelling her love for long-distance running to support all they do for rhinos, wildlife and our parks!

Durban, South Africa (25 March 2025) – Durban resident and runner Leona Lamont has marked off the 8th of June on her calendar as D-day to run from Pietermaritzburg to Durban for a cause that she couldn’t support – the SANParks Honorary Rangers!

After learning about her mission, we connected with this avid runner who is excited to feed her love for long-distance running while raising funds for volunteers who are passionate about nature and dedicated to supporting the South African National Parks.

“I first came into contact with the honorary rangers last year when I had entered an Amanzimtoti road race and they gave me their pamphlet.

“I was super intrigued when I discovered their desperate need for money to combat poaching of rhino horns. I was quite taken back at everything that they need, including tents to sleep in, backpacks to track with, binoculars and such. Then there is also the fuel required for the helicopter for their Ivory Project,” shares Leona.

After being awakened to the great needs of these heroes of the bush, Leona has felt compelled to contribute to their efforts in the best way she knows how – through a fundraiser and her running shoes!

Leona’s love for running was inherited from her father, who sadly passed away two years ago.

As a member of the Yellowwood Park Athletic Club and the Stainbank Nature Reserve, she spends most of her weekends on the road, covering anything from 20km to 30km. Closer to the Comrades date, Leona and a local group of runners do the Pietermaritzburg-Camperdown-Hillcrest route over three days.

“The friends we meet along the way, the spirit of the runners I could never not run,” Leona reflects.

Motivated for this year’s personally and uniquely impactful edition for SANParks Rangers, Leona reflects:

“Sometimes I run to challenge myself, other times I run to remember my dad. And now I run to raise money for the parks. Without people like us, supporting their work, where would they get the finance?”

To support her charity run, visit the Comrades Marathon donations page here.

Sources: Nothando Mthembu | Leona Lamont

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In the race to protect our natural heritage, runners are preparing to do their part again! Last year, nearly R1 million was raised for the SANParks Honorary Rangers and their conservation efforts through the Comrades’ charity channels. Now, the takkies on the ground are preparing to do it again.

South Africa (10 March 2025) — While events like the Comrades Marathon come and go, the race to protect our natural heritage is ongoing. Leveraging the Ultimate Human Race for long-term environmental good, hope has (and will) drum through the mightiest marathon in the form of determined runners. Their efforts—in the hours leading up to and on race day—have significantly impacted support for conservation efforts before. And they’re ready to do it again.

In 2024, close to R1 million was raised for the SANParks Honorary Rangers as one of the Comrades Marathon Association’s six official AmaBeadiBeadi charities. A volunteer organisation, the Honorary Rangers offer a vital helping hand to missions across the country. Beyond work on the ground, a big part of what they do is fundraising for SANParks.

These funds were spread to different areas of need, including the South African National Parks’ K9 anti-poaching units in the Table Mountain and Kruger National Parks, as well as for the rangers themselves through ‘Project Embrace’.

The K9 national project stands as a critical defence against a major challenge to conservation—poaching. Project Embrace, on the other hand, provides trauma counselling and support for field rangers and their families. As one can imagine, these rangers—whose nature of work is inherently dangerous—deeply benefit from help in the realm of well-being.

As Ian Catt, Treasurer KwaZulu-Natal Region of SANParks Honorary Rangers and Chairman of the SHR Comrades organising committee, explains:

“The support offered through Project Embrace supports field rangers whose demanding and often dangerous duties can lead to burnout and stress. This programme helps to promote ranger well-being and equips them to safeguard lives and wildlife effectively.”

With 2024’s success in mind, the Honorary Rangers are ready to race toward even more support in 2025.

An Even More Meaningful Marathon

If you’re tired of feeling frustrated about the plight that wildlife and many ecosystems face, this is a fantastic chance to help the helpers.

Runners passionate about conservation can choose SANParks Honorary Ranger as their preferred charity through the Race4Charity Platform and help them raise funds for conservation while participating in the marathon on 8 June.

“Our members across the country are ready to support runners who join our cause, and we look forward to encouraging all the runners as they make their way through our watering ‘hole’ on race day,” adds Ian.

When you race for a reason, you’re not only giving yourself even more motivation but also helping protect what is most precious.

Those seeking more information can get in touch with the Honorary Rangers via comrades@sanparksvolunteers.org.

Sources: Supplied

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For the first time since people began running under the Comrades’ banner, the famed race is switching things up when it comes to its start times to accommodate the Ultimate Human Race’s popularity.

South Africa (07 March 2025) — As the countdown begins to the 98th Comrades Marathon penciled in for June, big news for participants has dropped. For the first time ever, the Comrades is switching things up when it comes to its start times in a bid to make things smoother for runners!

In a statement released yesterday, the Comrades Marathon Association (CMA) shared that it will be introducing two race starts.

“For the first time in the history of The Ultimate Human Race, there will be a separate start for each of the two groups of athletes in this year’s race. However, they will both take place at the traditional Pietermaritzburg City Hall which is the start venue of the 49th Comrades Marathon Down Run,” the CMA wrote.

This means that race day will unfold by means of staggered starts. The first group will kick off at 5:45 am, while the second group will launch at 6 am.

“Various race start options have also been explored at great length by the CMA’s Race Advisory Committee with the change expected to enhance safety and allow runners to maintain their pace more comfortably,” the CMA adds.

“The two starts are designed to improve the overall runner experience by providing more space and reducing bottlenecks at the beginning of the race.”

CMA General Manager Alain Dalais said that the change aims to provide a safer, more enjoyable and more efficient race day.

All participants are encouraged to plan according to the new starting procedure, with the finalisation of the Comrades route set to be confirmed following delays due to ongoing roadwork.

The CMA adds that previous seeding is no longer relevant and more specifics regarding start times switching up will be communicated.

Those gearing up to take part in the Ultimate Human Race on 8 June to support a charity or initiative are welcome to share their plans with us at Good Things Guy. Get in touch via stories@goodthingsguy.com.

Sources: Comrades Marathon

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He is more than just a security guard – Lucky Setloboko is a beloved member of the Reddam House Durbanville school community, which wonderfully supports his love for running. Everyone around him recently rallied to help him chase his Comrades Marathon dream by hosting an epic fun run!

Durbanville, South Africa (06 March 2025) – Running isn’t just a fun pastime for Lucky Setloboko, it’s what fuels his passion and brings him boundless joy!

It is evident in his infectious smile, which lights up when he speaks about his love for road running and his journey as a Comrades Marathon runner.

He hopes to once again compete in the iconic race this year and beat his personal best time of 7 hours and 10 minutes, securing yet another silver medal.

Now, Lucky’s dream is within close reach, thanks to the support of his school community at Reddam House Durbanville, where he works as a security guard who has easily found his way into the hearts of everyone he encounters.

According to the school, Lucky is more than a security guard, he’s a true part of the school community and takes immense pride in his work and cares deeply for all children.

Every year, Reddam House seeks ways to support Lucky’s passion for running.

This year, on March 1, they hosted a Fun Run that allowed the greater community to purchase entries, with all proceeds going towards helping Lucky participate in the upcoming Comrades Marathon.

The heartwarming support reflects their compassion and gratitude for a man who dedicates so much of his time and kindness to others.

Sources: Reddam House

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