As a lecturer in the Department of Applied Law, Lungelo Percival Zulu, have been diligently preparing for his fourth Comrades Marathon. The iconic 89km ultra-marathon which will be a down-run route from Pietermaritzburg to Durban, is set to take place on Sunday, 8 June 2025.
While work and family duties have made it challenging to fully keep up with the training programme, Zulu has been training regularly with his group, six days a week. His training regimen included long slow distance training, speed and endurance training, hill repeats, and running on various terrains.
“Preparations have been progressing smoothly. Since the end of November 2024, I have been training regularly with my training group, and I am now certain that we have done the work required to reach my target time. The emphasis has been on staying disciplined, following the schedule, and improving crucial skills like endurance and pacing. I feel like I am emotionally and physically prepared for race day,” said Zulu.
The seasoned runner expressed a profound appreciation for the Comrades Marathon, describing it as a transformative experience that not only tests physical limits but also fosters a deep sense of personal growth and accomplishment.
“Running the Comrades Marathon is a deeply emotional and physically gruelling experience. A journey unlike any other. You feel part of something historic. There is pride, fear, excitement and the question, am I really ready for this? Along the way, you feel everything from joy, to pain, to doubt, to determination, to deep connection with fellow runners and supporters, and of course that the overwhelming pride as you approach the finish. It is not just a race; it is a test of heart and resilience. Crossing that finish line is more than just completing a distance, it is a victory of the human spirit,” he explained.
Zulu has found a good balance between enjoying his food and fuelling his body for the Comrades Marathon. He prioritises a healthy diet and balanced intake of essential nutrients to optimise his performance, while still allowing himself the flexibility to enjoy his favourite foods. This approach has been working well for him, as being a ‘sociable eater’ can be beneficial for his mental well-being.
For him, the expected outcome of the Comrades Marathon is not just about finishing within a specific time; it is about showing up fully prepared, giving his best, and crossing that finish line knowing he left everything on the road. He wants to run with purpose, honour the training he has done, and embrace the highs and lows of the journey.
“The expected outcome of the Comrades Marathon is not just about finishing within a specific time, although hitting my target would be a bonus. It is about showing up fully prepared, giving my best, and crossing that finish line knowing I left everything on the road. I want to run with purpose, honour the training I have done, and embrace the highs and lows of the journey. The real victory is in the experience itself, in pushing past limits, connecting with fellow runners,” he narrated.
He then advised runners taking on the Comrades Marathon to stay hydrated, fuel consistently, and listen to their bodies.
Pictured: Lungelo Zulu
Thubelihle Dumakude
