The Durban University of Technology (DUT) recently honoured the incredible accomplishments of its 25 staff, students and alumni who participated in the 2025 Comrades Marathon. A special luncheon, hosted by Employee Wellness in collaboration with Sport Administration, was held at the Rendezvous Restaurant on the Steve Biko campus on Tuesday, 29 July 2025.
The event not only celebrated the runners’ achievements but also highlighted DUT’s growing presence in the iconic ultra-marathon. Among the participants were two members of executive management – Interim Chief Financial Officer Mr Siboniso Shabalala and the newly appointed Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Teaching and Learning, Professor Vusi Gumede.
Ms Hlamarisa Kubayi, Programme Director and Director of Facilities and Maintenance, opened the event by commending the runners’ courage and resilience in completing “The Ultimate Human Race.”
DUT Registrar and Comrades Supporters team member, Dr Maditsane Nkonoane, shared his pride in the growing support effort which has expanded from just one station in 2022, (post COVID-19) to five refreshment stations this year, the only university in KwaZulu-Natal to occupy stations along the Comrades route.
“It was good to see our runners pass through the representative stations. We are proud of all our runners. Their participation in the Comrades Marathon went beyond their personal goals but through wearing the DUT colours, they also contributed to flying the DUT flag even higher,” he said.
The event also reinforced the importance of recognising and supporting athletes — particularly those who continue to dedicate themselves to building and growing the DUT Athletics Club. These individuals not only strive for personal excellence but also inspire a culture of wellness, discipline, and unity across the institution – visibly celebrating DUT brand on the route.
Awards aligned with DUT’s Living Values were presented by Mr Victor Mothobi (Interim Senior Director: Human Capital Services) and Mr Mxolisi Msomi (Director: Employee Relations and Wellness), recognising excellence, commitment, compassion, fairness, and respect.
Among the honourees were Mr Steven Mkhize and Ms Lauren Snell-Hillermann, who were awarded First Male and Female, respectively. Snell-Hillermann, who ran the marathon just months after becoming a mother, shared how DUT’s support helped keep her motivated throughout the race
Alumnus, Mr Katlego Molomsi reflected on his emotional debut run and credited fellow alumna Ms Yenzi Olifant for helping him finish when he was ready to give up. Mr Mkhize also shared his gratitude, highlighting how the DUT Athletics Club played a pivotal role in helping him achieve another Silver medal.
DUT Comrades Marathon Participants 2025
Executives: Mr Siboniso Shabalala, Prof Vusi Gumede
Staff: Mr Thabani Mhlongo, Mr Steven Mkhize, Mr Samuel Ntsanwisi, Mr Sandile Ngema, Ms Collen Lotz, Mr Patrick Mhlongo, Mr Sibusiso Sotsaka, Mr Lindokuhle Manyoni, Mr Lungelo Zulu, Mr Wesley Ngcobo, Ms Lauren Snell-Hillermann, Mr Mthobisi Ntuli, Mr Nkeka Tseole
Students: Ms Nqobile Mngadi, Mr Ngceba Kenisa, Ms Nonhlanhla Siyaya
Alumni: Ms Yenzi Olifant, Mr Sibusiso Mdladla, Mr Xolani Mkhize, Mr Khayelihle Ngubane, Mr Katlego Molumsi, Mr Skhumbuzo Mthembu, Mr Bandile Ndaba
Pictured: DUT Comrades Marathon runners during the Special Luncheon.
Photographer: Khulasande Tshayile.
Simangele Zuma
