For many, the Comrades Marathon is regarded as the ultimate test of human endurance. However, for Mr Lungelo Zulu, a lecturer in the Department of Applied Law at the Durban University of Technology (DUT), it represents far more than the challenge of covering 85.8 kilometres between Pietermaritzburg and Durban. It is a deeply personal journey of self-discovery, resilience, discipline, and unwavering commitment.
Through every early morning training session, every kilometre logged, and every obstacle overcome, Lungelo has come to appreciate that the true essence of the Comrades Marathon lies not only in crossing the finish line, but in the character, perseverance, and determination developed along the way. As he lined up for his fifth Comrades Marathon on Sunday, 14 June 2026, he carried with him not only months of preparation, but also the lessons, friendships, and experiences that have shaped his remarkable running journey.
Having successfully completed his fifth Comrades Marathon in an impressive time of 08:13:28, the dedicated academic once again demonstrated that with determination, discipline, and perseverance, extraordinary goals can be achieved despite the many demands of professional and personal life.
As a lecturer in the Department of Applied Law, balancing academic responsibilities, family commitments and postgraduate studies is no easy task. Yet, alongside these demanding roles, he remained committed to preparing for one of the world’s most prestigious ultramarathons.
His Comrades journey for 2026 began as early as November 2025 when he started his base training with his running group, the renowned 03H40 Gang. The training programme steadily intensified over the months, progressing from marathon preparation to specialised ultramarathon conditioning.
“In January we shifted our focus to marathon training where we incorporated long runs with speed training as well as strength training. Mid-March we moved to ultra-marathon training where we did 5 or 6 hours runs in grass surface, midweek runs and hill repeats, comrades route testers and gravel training in Ndwedwe,” he explained.
Like many runners balancing multiple responsibilities, his preparation was not without challenges. Work obligations, family responsibilities and demanding PhD deadlines as a student at North-West University Business School occasionally made it difficult to fully adhere to his training schedule.
“I must say that I had challenges fully honouring my training programme as I had work commitments, family duties, and of course my PhD deadlines as I am a student at North-West University Business School. This resulted in in me having a late qualifier which was the Durban International Marathon beginning of May. However, I believe I did enough to conquer the Ultimate Human Race, thanks to my training group 03H40 gang,” he said.
Preparing for an event of this magnitude required immense dedication. Throughout the season, he and his training partners maintained a demanding schedule, training six days a week and reserving Mondays for recovery and rest. Nutrition also played an important role in sustaining the body through months of preparation and the gruelling race itself. While he does not follow a rigid meal plan due to his busy lifestyle, he focuses on ensuring that his body receives the necessary fuel for endurance performance.
Heading into this year’s race, his goal was realistic and centred around personal achievement rather than chasing a specific accolade.
“With the training I had done and the injuries I had to manage during the season, I was aiming for around eight hours and thirty minutes. My focus was to run within myself, enjoy the day and finish feeling strong,” said Lungelo.
Reflecting on his achievement, Lungelo extended his heartfelt appreciation to the DUT Sports Administration, DUT Athletics Club (DUT AC), Employee Wellness, and his colleagues in the Department of Applied Law for their continuous support throughout the years. He shared that their encouragement, especially during this year’s Comrades Marathon journey, gave him the strength and motivation to remain focused, disciplined, and determined every step of the way.
Pictured: Mr Lungelo Zulu.
Photographer: S’bonelo Dlamini.
Thubelihle Dumakude
