I made plans to run Kaapsehoop as a qualifier for the BigC. I watched the video of the route, I asked around how it is… The common response was it is easy. I then took a good look at where I was mentally, physically and emotionally. None of them were 100% and I gracefully withdrew from it.

I had a Soweto 10kms entry after all, so I just needed Company for the Saturday long run. This came in a form of BDS Unlimited race in Wonderpark. My first race in the rain. My first one without music… It was the rain (for most part of the race), my feet and my thoughts. It was such a therapeutic run. Just what I needed as I am struggling with my sister’s loss still 💜. I pushed where I needed to and took it easy when the need arose. I did it in 02:33. 😎

The following day was Soweto Marathon, the people’s race. The same place that showed me flames, not once but twice. I got myself a 21.1kms entry and challenged myself to do 42 kms back to back. And the goal was achieved. 2 medals and 42,2 kms were clocked.

My mission as a runner continues, to be the best I was from my previous run. To mature as a runner and enjoy every moment of every run/race. I am in competition with no one but myself.

Yesterday at the start of the race, one particular gent paid attention to me. As we were running I discovered it was his first half marathon, whereas I was running one of the toughest race as a recovery run. As we reached 5 kms my running apps announced 30 minutes. I immediately told him I am slowing down to ensure that I complete the race alive 😂😂😂 he probably thought I was mad… But here’s what I learned from running, listen to your body and run to your own beat and complete it triumphantly.

As I continue to improve and most importantly enjoy my running journey my thoughts are with the families of those who lost their loved yesterday 🖤. Take comfort in the fact that they died doing what they loved.

This post is dedicated to my brother who ran his first half marathon at one of the toughest races. @menaiza here’s to many more half and full marathons ❤️.