The University of Venda (UNIVEN) proudly celebrates a remarkable milestone as seven of its staff members took on one of the world’s most gruelling endurance challenges, the 2025 Comrades Marathon. Held on Sunday, 8 June 2025, the iconic race followed the demanding 85.91 km “down run” from Pietermaritzburg to Durban, testing both physical and mental limits.
.
Among the group, Ms Tshimangadzo Ndou made history as the first wom-an to represent UNIVEN at the Comrades Marathon. Finishing in an im-pressive 10 hours and 56 minutes, she earned a bronze medal and se-cured her place in the university’s growing legacy of excellence and inclusion.
“I was running under the University of Venda banner, so I was really representing UNIV-EN, putting the flag on the map,” said Ndou. She credited her performance to intensive train-ing on hilly terrain and expressed gratitude for the university’s unwavering support: “I ap-preciate the logistical and moral support provided by UNIVEN, it made a real difference.”
In photo: Tshimangadzo Ndou (right) with Dr Takalani Dzaga (left)
The 2025 Comrades Marathon carried the theme “More Than a Race – Isiko Mpilo” (“Cul-ture is Life”), highlighting its cultural and emotional significance beyond the physical chal-lenge. Participants must meet strict qualifying criteria, including completing a standard mar-athon in under 4 hours and 50 minutes, making the achievement all the more commendable.
UNIVEN’s leadership praised the runners’ accomplishments. Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Prof Bernard Nthambeleni, remarked:
“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to our seven remarkable staff members. Their ded-ication, perseverance, and spirit are truly commendable. They have made us all proud.”
Chief Operating Officer Mr Kraziya Botwe, who hosted a send-off event before the race, echoed this sentiment:
“Your participation in this iconic event reflects the values we hold dear—excellence, resil-ience, and teamwork. You have inspired your colleagues and our student community alike.”
Mr Genius Katekwe, who led the UNIVEN team with a finish time of 10:08:26, shared:
“This accomplishment reflects the discipline and hard work I invest-ed in training. I am grateful to the University for its support and en-courage more colleagues to take on this transformative challenge.”
Close behind him was Mr Tinyiko Sibiya, who finished in 10:53:08, followed by Ms. Tshimangadzo Ndou and Mr Kudakwashe Madzima, both clocking in at 10:56:25.
Mr Malebogo Legodi completed the course in 11:36:45, and Adv Rudzani Makhema finished in 11:44:22.
A standout performance came from Mr Lugisani Managa, who crossed the line in 11:51:07, just nine minutes before the final cutoff.
“Crossing that finish line was one of the most emotional moments of my life,” said Mana-ga. “Every step in those last few kilometres felt like a battle. But I kept reminding myself, ‘You didn’t come this far to stop now.’ The encouragement from the UNIVEN team kept me going.”
Dr Takalani Dzaga, Director of Marketing, Branding, and Communication, praised the team: “This is more than just a race finish. It reflects the spirit and tenacity we cultivate at UNIVEN. We en-courage more staff to join this movement toward a health-conscious, resilient community.”
The runners represented a wide range of departments and profession-al backgrounds, embodying the inclusive and community-focused ethos of the university. Their collective achievement stands as a powerful example of what can be accomplished through shared purpose and institutional support.
As UNIVEN continues to promote holistic development, academically, physically, and so-cially, the 2025 Comrades Marathon marks a defining moment. It is a testament to the university’s commitment to wellness, excellence, and living its values in every stride.
They did not just run a race. They ran for history, for health, and for the heart of a university that believes in its people.
Issued by:
Department of Marketing, Branding and Communication
University of Venda
Tel: 082 868 2218 / 082 868 1811
