Tete Dijana, who has become a household name since his back-to-back wins in 2022 and 2023, once again dominated the ultra-marathon, finishing the grueling down run from Pietermaritzburg to Durban’s People’s Park in an impressive 5:25:27.

NWU spokesperson Oscar Mosiane praised Dijana’s perseverance and determination, especially after facing injury setbacks last year. “It’s not easy to be a champ, and the next time you are number 13, it shows the character of someone who doesn’t give up. We are very proud.”

Vice Chancellor Prof. Bismark Tyobeka echoed these sentiments, hailing Dijana as a role model for both staff and students. 

“Dijana is one of our ambassadors who showed our employees and staff that if you work hard for everything you want and don’t give up even when things are tough,” Tyobeka said.

The victory also drew accolades from the North West provincial government. Acting Premier Kenetswe Mosenogi applauded Dijana and other North West athletes who placed in the top ten of the race.

She said Dijana has once again made the North West province proud by securing his third Comrades Marathon title. She highlighted the province’s dominance in the competition, with four runners making the top ten: Tete Dijana (1st), Edward Mothibi (4th), Joseph Manyedi (5th), and Gordon Lesetedi (9th).

“We congratulate Tete Dijana, Edward Mothibi, Joseph Manyedi, and Gordon Lesetedi for proudly putting the North West province on the map with their outstanding performances at this year’s Comrades Marathon,” Mosenogi added.

Plans are underway to honour Dijana and all participating athletes with a special heroes’ welcome in the coming days.

Meanwhile, admiration has also been extended to Const. Jacob Masangani of the Bojanala Platinum Sub-District 2: Crime Combating Unit, who completed his second Comrades Marathon. Masangani’s commitment is a testament to the power of discipline, said North West police spokesperson Sabata Mokgwabone.

“Masangani indicated that discipline is key to assisting one to focus. As a disciplined, committed, and goal-oriented member, he is able to juggle the constantly demanding job of being a police officer with the regular training, participation in other races as part of preparations for the world’s largest and oldest ultra-marathon race,” he said.

Mokgwabone added that Masangani illustrated the importance of physical and mental fitness in law enforcement, underscoring the demanding and high-risk nature of police work.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi mvh