The Department of Environmental Affairs has commended Bongumsa Mthembu for defending his Comrades Marathon title and Ann Ashworth for winning the women’s race.
“We are truly delighted and certainly proud of their outstanding performance that raises the South African flag high,” the department said in a statement on Monday.
The department also congratulated all seven staff members who participated in the 93rd edition of the Comrades Marathon.
Minister Edna Molewa and Deputy Minister Barbara Thomson joined the Director-General, Nosipho Ngcaba, in congratulating the department’s team for being an inspiration and displaying resilience during the marathon.
“A special message of appreciation to Vincent Gololo, who was the first runner home. To all who missed the final cut off, it does not matter how many times we fall but how many times we stand up after falling,” the department said.
The athletes, who are members of the Department of Environmental Affairs Athletics Club are Lehlogonolo Kgaabi; Thifhelimbilu Mudau; Zintle Mapekula; Vincent Gololo; Thulasizwe Ndlovu; Makgale Moela and Obed Baloyi. – SAnews.gov.za
