Unisa Athletes Set to Compete in Africa’s Largest Running Event – the Two Oceans Marathon
The Unisa runners will join a massive field of competitors vying to conquer the challenging 56km course, which winds its way around the scenic Cape Peninsula. The race attracts top South African athletes and international participants, making it a truly global sporting event.
The Two Oceans is not just a test of athletic endurance but also a significant economic driver, contributing over R600 million to the local GDP annually. This marathon is run under the banner of World Athletics (WA), Athletics South Africa (ASA) and Western Province Athletics.
The following are some of the Unisans who will be at the prestigious sports event:
| Name | Department/College |
| Ali Makena | SMPD |
| Motsatsi Ratala | CAS |
| Nokuthula Bengu | Graduations |
| Tshepo Matseke | Finance |
| Lesedi Matsetse | ICT |
| Sibusiso Ndlangamandla | CHS |
| Noko Mojela | CSET |
| Peter Ntuli | Academic Planning |
| Morgan Moshweu | Finance |
Benevolent send-off
A send-off ceremony was held at the Muckleneuck Campus, comprised of Unisa Principal and Vice-Chancellor (VC), Prof Puleng LenkaBula and several vice-principals, who fervently extended their well wishes to the runners as they embark on their journey to compete in the international race.
Unisa Management, together with some of the Two Oceans Marathon competitors
The VC said: “When you go to the finish line, know that you are carrying our dreams and aspirations. You have the university’s blessing, and from management, we are grateful for your efforts and participation.”
Prof Puleng LenkaBula
Prof Solomon Magano, Vice-Principal of Institutional Development, stated that the tasks ahead of the runners are not a small feat by any measure and that they are hoisting the flag of the university high in an international arena. He continued: “As you embark on this competition, you have the full blessing of the university’s management.”
Acting Registrar, Prof Moloko Sepota, said he admires the participants’ spirit of endurance and courage to take on the feat against other national and international competitors.
Vice-Principal of Facilities and Operations, Matsiababa Motebele, extended warm wishes to all the runners, stating that the Two Oceans is a gruelling test of both physical and mental strength, and, he added: “Your dedication to training and competing is truly inspiring. We are incredibly proud to see you represent Unisa on the world stage, and most importantly, enjoy the experience.”
Beyond the individual competition, the Two Oceans Marathon serves as a celebration of running and a testament to the power of sport to bring people together and boost the local economy. For Unisa’s athletes, it’s a chance to showcase their dedication and compete on a world-renowned stage while contributing to the vibrant atmosphere of the iconic African race.
Views from the floor
From left: Bongani Ntuli, Kganetso Mashile and Morgan Mashweu
Bongani Ntuli, Secretary-General: Unisa Athletics Club
The Two Oceans Marathon is one of the world’s oldest and most pinnacle races – an exciting time in the calendar of marathon enthusiasts globally. I participated in and got six medals from this competition. It takes a lot of preparation and mental strain; however, we look forward to every hurdle. The crossing of the finish line means glory second to none. We are incredibly thankful to the university’s management for recognising and supporting the university’s athletics club.
Kganetso Mashile, EAD
As a supporter, I am excited to see the build-up come true. It is also a privilege to witness the university’s brand fly high on an international stage at the Two Ocean Marathon.
Morgan Mashweu, Chairperson: Unisa Athletics Club
I am so proud and happy that we got the support from the university’s management to compete at the Two Ocean Marathon 2024. All nine team runners are excited to represent the university’s colours and fly its flag high.