Running her way to the top, Nomvula Sithole of Ngodwana Marathon Club has made a strong start to 2026. In Mbombela’s Quanis Race, Sithole finished first in the 10km category, and she also claimed first place in the 42km category at her second race of the year, the Jock of the Bushveld 4-in-1 Marathon.
In 2025, she managed to scoop 14 gold medals while participating in competitions in and outside Mpumalanga.
Her love for running started in primary school in 2010, and she has continued to run ever since. She said she initially ran simply because the school expected her to participate in athletics, but it soon became a passion when she discovered how much she enjoyed it.
During an interview with Mpumalanga News, Sithole shared how she was disqualified from the first race that she won. This experience taught her a great lesson and encouraged her to keep running. “I was first in the Selati Marathon in the junior category, however, I didn’t have a junior tag. But this didn’t stop me from doing what I love,” she explained.
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Born in Nkomazi, this runner said her inspiration is Caster Semenya, the two-time Olympic gold medallist.
“While I was at school, my teachers and schoolmates would call me Caster Semenya and from there I knew I wanted to be just like her.”
Sithole’s dream is to participate in international competitions. “I would like to see myself overseas. It would be nice to have sponsors, as we runners often struggle to secure sponsorship.”
She said professional running has shaped her life for the better. It has taught her a lot about discipline and time management.
“I always have to be on time for my training, race and make sure that I am wearing my full kit. I also have to make sure that I smile at the people that I meet.”
Her message for young people is that they should not stop dreaming. She said she didn’t stop, even when other kids called her names, and she stayed focused on her goal.
“Remember, it’s always OK to ask for help, whether from your parents or your teachers. Keep on pushing until you achieve.”
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Sithole used to be a member of the Uniwisp Running Club, but as part of her career growth, she said she moved to the Ngodwana club. “Uniwisp Running Club helped me achieve a lot in my career,” she concluded.
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Bridget Mpande
www.citizen.co.za
