The 92nd edition of the 86.73km race from Durban to Pietermaritzburg saw Kelehe run a time of 05:41:48. 

Department spokesperson, Freddy Sepeng, says this is an astounding achievement, considering that he won the title in the 2015 Comrades Marathon. Gifts’ elder brother, Andrew Kelehe, won the same marathon in 2001.

“As the department, we are really proud of people like Gift because what they are doing is encouraging our young people and learners to become future athletes themselves. So, we are really happy,” Sepeng added.

MEC Lehari issued a statement earlier today inwhich he congratulated Kelehe.

“I would like to congratulate our hero, Gift Kelehe, for once again flying our province’s flag up high. I hope our youth and learners are motivated by what a man from this province did in this regard. It truly shows that nothing is impossible if you put your mind and hard work into what you love. The department is proud of you, son of the soil. The department and province as a whole always encourage learners to take part in sporting activities as reiterated at the Sport Lekgotla that was held in March 2017. 

"We also wish to thank all other athletes from the province for taking part in this historic marathon.” 

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