Dr David Mohale, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of People and Operations at the Durban University of Technology (DUT), recently hosted a special appreciation dinner to honour staff members who participated in the Two Oceans Marathon. The event celebrated the runners’ dedication, discipline and commitment while also highlighting the growing culture of sport and wellness within the university community.
Welcoming attendees, Ms Thuli Hlengwa, Executive Secretary in the Office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor: People and Operations at DUT, thanked staff members for taking the time to attend the celebration and congratulated the runners on their outstanding achievement in the Two Oceans Marathon. She acknowledged the effort and sacrifice required to complete one of South Africa’s most demanding races.
During his address, Dr Mohale reflected on the growth of sport at DUT, recalling how athletics and other sporting codes were once limited within the institution. He praised individuals such as Mr Bongani Yengwa Sport Administration Manager for helping build a stronger sports culture and said he had personally witnessed the transformation of the university’s sporting portfolio over the years.
Drawing from his own experience as a marathon runner, Dr Mohale described the Two Oceans Marathon as one of the toughest races in the country, requiring both physical and mental strength. He applauded the runners for their resilience and commitment, adding that the evening was not only about celebrating athletic achievement but also recognising the importance of wellness and teamwork within the workplace.
Dr Mohale encouraged staff members to embrace healthier lifestyles and become more physically active, explaining that exercise plays an important role in reducing stress, improving mental health and increasing productivity. He said wellness should become part of everyday life, whether through marathon running, walking or other forms of exercise.
“The more we encourage people to become physically active, the healthier and happier they will be. Sport is not only about running marathons or competing in races, but about protecting your well-being, reducing stress and improving the quality of your life every day,” said Dr Mohale.
Senior Director of Human Capital Services, Mr Victor Mathobi, also commended the runners and praised the initiative of recognising employees’ achievements while they are still meaningful. He emphasised that DUT’s approach to human capital now focuses on staff members in their totality, including wellness and well-being.
“Without staff well-being, the institution itself cannot be healthy. Wellness and physical activity strengthen the entire DUT community and create a healthier working environment for everyone,” said Mathobi.
DUT Sport Administration Manager, Mr Bongani Yengwa, emphasised the importance of staff wellness, participation in sport, and building a strong sporting culture within the university. He encouraged staff members to become more involved in activities such as football, athletics, walking groups, and hiking, noting that physical activity helps reduce stress and improves overall wellbeing.
Yengwa highlighted the growth of DUT sport and shared exciting developments within the university’s programmes, particularly women’s football. He explained that DUT is building a competitive team for the Women’s Sasol League in KwaZulu-Natal, with ambitions of qualifying for the national league. He also proudly mentioned that one of the young players associated with the project has already been selected for the South African Under-17 national team.
One of the six participants in the Two Oceans Marathon, the Project Manager in Real Estate Management, Mr. Kgomotse Letebele, reflected on his experience of participating in the marathon, which he has completed four times. He proudly shared that he achieved one bronze medal and three sub-five-hour finishes, describing the race as one of the most enjoyable and challenging endurance events he has participated in.
He explained that the race requires careful planning, discipline, and mental focus from the very beginning. According to his reflection, runners can maintain control and strategy up to Chapman’s Peak, which is approximately 29 kilometres into the race. However, after reaching the 42-kilometre mark and climbing Chapman’s Peak, the true challenge begins as runners face the demanding Constantia route and the final stretch toward the finish line.
“The Two Oceans Marathon is a mix of emotions where every runner experiences both physical and mental challenges, regardless of their performance level. Despite the difficulty, it remains a rewarding experience that promotes personal growth, resilience, and determination, which is why I encourage other runners and colleagues to take part,” he explained.
Ms Colleen Latz, a lecturer in the Department of Sport Studies at DUT, spoke about the university’s vision to promote health, wellness, and active lifestyles among staff and students.
She highlighted the recent expansion of the university’s gym facility at K Block, which is now four times larger than before, and shared plans for the development of a high-performance testing centre. Latz also explained that the department is working on a structured wellness strategy aimed at encouraging healthier lifestyles across the university community.
“I was once a non-runner, and now I am preparing to participate in my fifth Comrades Marathon at the age of 56. If I can do it, then anybody can improve their fitness and wellbeing with commitment, consistency, and support,” said Latz.
Ms Thuli Hlengwa delivered the closing remarks, thanking all attendees for taking the time to attend the appreciation dinner and celebrate the achievements of the Two Oceans Marathon runners. Hlengwa also encouraged colleagues to continue supporting one another and to participate in future health and wellness activities.
Pictured: Deputy Vice-Chancellor of People and Operations, Dr David Mohale, together with Sports Administration Manager, Mr Bongani Yengwa, with six participants of the Two Oceans Marathon.
Photography: S’bonelo Dlamini
Phiwayinkosi Sibiya/Sinamile Sithole
