An endurance athlete, Nthatisi Mokhele, has defied expectations by completing the Comrades Marathon using race walking only, proving that determination and discipline can challenge long held perceptions in long-distance running.
Mokhele said her motivation was to prove to herself and to the world that it is possible to do the Comrades Marathon from start to finish by walking only no running at all and to inspire those who did not qualify this year, saying, “If Bosslady can do it while walking, why can’t you?”
Her journey gained momentum earlier in the year after completing the 42km Johnson Crane Marathon in January 2026, where she finished in a time of 4:41:59, placing first in the women’s walkers category. She described the achievement as a major boost in confidence and an improvement from her 2025 performance.
Although her initial plan was to attempt Comrades in 2027, Mokhele said her mindset changed after reflecting on her progress. “Honey, you’ve already done the Comrades qualifier you just need to focus on training,” she recalled telling herself.
Before committing fully, she consulted experienced athletes about the possibility of walking the Comrades Marathon. Most discouraged the idea, saying it could not be done. She later approached coach Nelson Kganyago of Ikhayalethu Athletics Club, a seasoned runner who has completed Comrades more than 10 times. At first, he was unconvinced, but after understanding her vision and determination, he agreed to coach her and a structured training plan was developed.
One of the biggest challenges, Mokhele said, was keeping her preparation private due to scepticism and negativity from others. “There were days I wanted to share my frustrations, but I had to stay focused because I was chasing a big dream,” she said.
She trained with Runzone Athletics on Saturdays, using their long runs as key sessions where she walked alongside runners on demanding routes that tested her endurance and mental strength.
On race day, Mokhele said nerves were high as she prepared for the iconic ultra-distance event. Together with her coach, she followed a controlled pacing strategy and maintained a steady race-walking rhythm throughout the course. On inclines, she used the Phara walk technique to maintain momentum and efficiency.
Throughout the race, she overtook several runners, many of whom were surprised to see a walker maintaining such pace. Mokhele described the atmosphere along the route as uplifting and energising, with strong support from spectators and athletics communities.
Ikhayalethu Athletics Club and Morningside Athletics also played a key role in supporting participants along the route, ensuring athletes had access to supplements and encouragement at various points. Mokhele said the experience proved that walking athletes can complete one of the world’s toughest endurance races.
Looking ahead, she is currently recovering and will soon return to training as she prepares for the Tshwane SPAR Ladies Race, scheduled for 01 August at SuperSport Park in Centurion.
She said the journey has reinforced her belief that limits are often self-imposed and can be broken through consistency, discipline, and self-belief.
