Sweetwaters man pulls strong finish at Two Oceans Marathon

Quiet, unassuming and largely unknown beyond running circles, KwaGandaganda (Sweetwaters) athlete Msawenkosi Mthalane delivered a performance that turned heads at the Two Oceans Ultra Marathon in Cape Town on Saturday. Representing Nedbank Athletics Club, Mthalane powered his way into the top 10 of the gruelling 56km race, clocking an impressive 3:13:32 in a fiercely competitive field. The achievement marks a milestone for the former Mbabane Primary School and Nsikayezwe Secondary School pupil, who continues to rise steadily through South Africa’s long-distance running ranks.

Nicknamed “Msubathi”, meaning “runner”, by his grandmother Ntombilezi Mbambo, because of his natural speed, Mthalane has long shown promise. Yet, despite his growing success, he remains grounded and reserved. Speaking toThe Witnesson Monday, Mthalane described himself as naturally shy, preferring to let his performances speak for him.

I don’t like the limelight. I don’t talk too much and I’m naturally shy. Instead of socialising, I prefer to spend time alone and work hard in training.

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It is this quiet discipline that he credits for his breakthrough performance in Cape Town. According to Mthalane, success in ultra-distance racing comes down to focus, preparation and strict adherence to race strategy. “The Two Oceans Ultra Marathon is one of the toughest races in South Africa. A lot can happen from start to finish,” he explained.

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