Pretoria - President Jacob Zuma has congratulated all the winners of the 2014 Comrades Marathon, in particular, Bongumusa Mthembu, who won the 89km race from Pietermaritzburg to Durban, on Sunday.
Mthembu secured his maiden Comrades Marathon victory after finishing in five hours, 28 minutes-34 seconds.
"This was clearly one of the most exciting races this year and we congratulate all those who made it the success that it was,” said President Zuma.
In second place, was 2012 champion Ludwick Mamabolo at five hours-33 minutes-14 seconds.
The third place went to Gift Kelehe. The fourth place was taken by Zimbabwean Stephen Muzhingi.
North West Premier Supra Mahumapelo also applauded third runner-up Kelehe, who earned a gold medal.
“Thirty-year old Kelehe has made the country and the province proud as our ambassador in the highly competitive and ultimate human race, following in the footsteps of his legendary older brother Andrew, who won 11 Comrades Marathon gold medals and scooped the 2001 championship.
“With three gold medals to his name, Gift has stamped his authority as a force to be reckoned with on the road running and ultra marathon circuit. He is an inspiration and a role model for our youth,” Premier Mahumapelo said on Sunday.
Meanwhile, the woman’s race was won by British-born Canadian, Eleanor Greenwood, ahead of the Nurgalieva twins, Elena and Olesya. – SAnews.gov.za
