𝗝𝗢𝗛𝗔𝗡𝗡𝗘𝗦 𝗠𝗢𝗦𝗘𝗛𝗟𝗔 [𝟴𝟯] 𝗕𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗞𝗦 𝗢𝗪𝗡 𝗥𝗘𝗖𝗢𝗥𝗗 𝗔𝗧 𝗖𝗢𝗠𝗥𝗔𝗗𝗘𝗦 𝗠𝗔𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗛𝗢𝗡

At 83 years old, Johannes Mosehla from Sekhukhune, Limpopo, has once again defied the odds and etched his name into the history books by becoming the oldest finisher of the Comrades Marathon — breaking his own previous record. Mosehla completed the gruelling 89.98-kilometre race from Pietermaritzburg to Durban in an impressive time of 11 hours, 47 minutes, and 27 seconds on Sunday.

The veteran runner, who first entered the Comrades Marathon at the age of 63, has now completed the iconic ultramarathon 12 times. His achievement this year has drawn admiration and celebration across South Africa and the global running community, with many calling him a living embodiment of endurance, discipline, and resilience.

In 2023, Mosehla shattered a 34-year-old record previously held by the legendary Wally Hayward, who completed the Comrades at age 80 in 1989. Proving that age is no barrier to greatness, Mosehla returned in 2024 to finish once again at 82 — and this year, he has outdone himself.Speaking after crossing the finish line, the humble athlete attributed his success to faith, consistency, and a lifetime of healthy living. “It’s all by God’s grace,” Mosehla said. “Every step is a blessing, and I run with gratitude for the strength to continue.”

Comrades Marathon Association Chairperson Mqondisi Ngcobo hailed Mosehla’s incredible performance as an inspiration to all South Africans. “He represents the spirit of the Comrades — courage, perseverance, and humanity. What Johannes has achieved reminds us that limits only exist if we believe in them,” Ngcobo said.Mosehla’s remarkable feat has sparked a wave of tributes on social media, where many have called for his story to be included in South African sports history books.

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