Members of Bella’s Athletics Club gathered at Wilstone Solution House on July 11 to celebrate their achievements and recognise the athletes, volunteers and supporters who participated in the 2026 Comrades Marathon last month. The celebration brought together runners, families and guests in 1960s kofifi-themed attire, creating an evening filled with appreciation, music and shared memories.
ALSO READ: University of Mpumalanga launches centre for lifelong learning and skills development
Distinguished guests, including coach Peter Smit, legendary runner Estelle Bullen and Oom André of Legogote Villagers, joined the event. The programme director, Lebogang Mdluli, kept the proceedings lively. Bella’s Athletics Club entered 59 runners in the 2026 Comrades, with 42 successfully completing the ultramarathon.
ALSO READ: Â Aura Farm event brings together fun lovers in Mbombela
Top honours went to Sifiso Shange, who finished in an impressive 07:01:04, becoming the first Bella’s athlete and the first runner from Mpumalanga to cross the finish line. Virginia Segwana was recognised for earning a Billy Rowan medal after finishing in 07:42:15 as the province’s second-fastest woman.
Veteran runner, Jerry Maseko, was honoured after completing the race in 08:34:11, becoming the first runner aged 60 and above from Mpumalanga to finish this year’s event.
ALSO READ: National glory for Mpumalanga choirs
The club celebrated Zolani Nyuliwe and Sibongile Mthunywa, who received their green numbers after completing their tenth Comrades Marathon.
Themba Ngwenya was named the club’s most improved comrades athlete, while long-serving supporter Pateka Ngono and former executive committee members were recognised for their dedication to the club.
At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
intern1lowvelder
www.citizen.co.za
