“Ska Fela Moya” is an encouraging Setswana/Sesotho phrase that translates directly to “don’t lose hope” or “don’t give up.” This was the Comrades 2026 slogan. Team PSPF was once again represented by Ms. Bakhetsile Mdluli and Charles Zwane.
This year’s marathon was an uprun, running from Durban to Pietermaritzburg. The uprun is known for its brutality and commanding proper training, hydration, and health to make it sane with emphasis on mental strength. Runners attest that if you cannot finish it in your mind, then do not attempt.
Team PSPF was both prepared, physically and psychologically. The runners’ numbers were high, and for ease of management, three starts were introduced this year based on the runners’ speed of the course. Zwane was in group one, and his race started at 5 am. He outdid himself, and he was just cruising like the prepared and well-trained athlete he is. All the hard work and dedication paid off as it was a great day in the office for him, bagging a Bill Rowan with a finish time of less than nine hours. For Ms. Mdluli it was not a good day in the office. She was in Group 3, which was the last batch. She started with the flu and, early in the race, developed a stomach bug. She fought a good fight until the end but ended being slightly behind time with just over a km to finish and her journey ended with a DFN.
Lessons from Ms. Mdluli
- A DFN is still part of the process. You may do all the preparations and have a game plan, but race day has its own agenda.
- Ska fela Moya – we try again.
- Fight until the end and do not let the result define you.
- Let failure not trigger you but humble you.
- It is very important to know your why, whatever the outcome, that keeps you moving.
- Definitely not hanging the running shoes.
Lesson from Mr. Zwane
The greatest lesson learnt by Champ Charles Zwane:
“I had one goal for this race event: to finish. It did not feel easy; I could still feel the doubt, but I managed to turn it into a personal best.”
Both athletes appreciate their Employer of Choice, PSPF, for taking care of their well-being, and everyone who supports and believes in them. The support is overwhelming and greatly appreciated. Ska Fela Moya!! We try again.
