For Mr Naeem Sacoor, Management Accounting Manager within the Durban University of Technology’s (DUT’s) Finance Unit, participating for the first time in the 2026 Comrades Marathon on Sunday, 14 June 2026 will represent far more than a personal challenge. He will be running for charity to support the Community Chest’s Early Childhood Development initiatives.
So far Naeem (36) from Umhlanga Rocks has raised R10 000 through fundraising efforts and he plans to raise more funds going forward while testing his limits of endurance and determination.
“This is my first Comrades and I have elected to run for charity. The thought of the young kids in dire need is what keeps me going. I will complete my first Comrades for them and all my friends and colleagues who have contributed towards this cause,” he said.
His running journey began only three years ago with modest 5km park runs. At the time, strength training was his primary focus, but his growing interest in running soon led him to participate in 10km and half-marathon races.
A turning point for Naeem came when he joined the Adidas Runners community, where he cultivated friendships and started to enjoy running.
“In 2024, I ran my first marathon in Cape Town with the help and support of my running community. My goal at that point was just one marathon a year. I never really had Comrades on my mind at this point. In 2025, I went out to watch the Comrades Marathon and supported a number of friends that were running. At the back of my mind, I kept wondering if I could one day manage this race as I did meet the qualifying requirements of the race. The atmosphere on the road was exhilarating, and I think the thoughts from that day was what drove me to register for the Comrades in 2026,” shared Naeem.
Preparing for his first Comrades Marathon has required months of commitment, discipline and sacrifice for Naeem. Fortunately, he has received unwavering support from both his family and colleagues. His goal is straightforward: to cross the finish line within the official 12-hour cut-off.
As a Management Accounting Manager within DUT’s Finance Unit, he plays a critical role in overseeing the consolidation of the University’s budget, financial reporting and all cost centre-related activities. While his professional responsibilities demand precision and dedication, his passion for running has introduced him to an entirely different kind of challenge.
Since January, he has accumulated more than 900 kilometres in training. His preparation programme includes four running sessions and four strength-training sessions per week, with long-distance runs reserved for Saturdays.
He believes strength training has played a significant role in building the endurance required for an ultramarathon.
As part of his preparation, he has completed several major races, including the Bluff Marathon, Hillcrest Marathon, Chatsworth 52km Ultra Marathon and the Cape Town Marathon. He also participated in the popular Comrades route tester organised by Beloved Long Runs.
When it comes to nutrition, Naeem prefers a simple approach. “I tend to have high-carbohydrate meals a day or two before big races. I also focus on sufficient electrolytes and energy gels during long runs. On race mornings, I keep it simple with peanut butter toast, bananas and electrolytes,” he said.
As he prepares to join thousands of runners on the iconic route between Durban and Pietermaritzburg, he will carry with him not only months of preparation but also the hopes of the children whose futures he is helping to support through his fundraising efforts.
Pictured: Mr Naeem Sacoor, Management Accounting Manager at DUT who will be running Comrades Marathon for charity.
Simangele Zuma
