BY STAFF REPORTER
THE family of Gift Kabelo Kelehe (33) was in joyful mood after their son won Comrade Marathon 2015 on Sunday.

A 33-year-old policeman from Sekhing village, in Taung was crowned the winner of Comrades Marathon 2015 and his father’s sister described him as kind, caring and down-to-earth person.

“We’re so grateful for Kabelo because of his success. He followed in his brother’s footsteps, Andrew Kelehe who won the marathon back in 2001. Kabelo brought hope in the family and I was so grateful after I saw him being crowned the winner” Martha Keorapetse Kelehe who is a retired teacher said.

Teachers and pupils alike at Sekhing primary school where Kelehe attended his primary school days, were grateful and said the school is proud to produce achiever like him.

Sekhing primary school teacher, Connie Pako said “We, as the school we are very proud after seeing Gift Kelehe becoming the winner of Comrades Marathon 2015. He showed that skill at the early age. He is a great athlete and we wish learners could take a leave out of his book.”

Kabelo’s friend, Thabo Dikgetse(43) described him as a hardworker, Go-getter and always passionate about athletics.

“Kabelo and his brother, Andrew Kelehe organised a mini-tournament last year December and we really appreciate that. They are very passionate about what they are doing and also encourage the youth to work so hard to achieve their mark” Dikgetse said.

Kabelo Gift Kelehe who is also a constable at Rustenburg, said sport is the game that can prolong the lifespan of a human being. He also encourages the youth to take part in various sports.

“I would like to encourage the youth to stay away from drugs and take part in various sports because one can make a living out of sport. Through sport, one can change his/her life and I would send my gratitude to the people of North West and South Africa at large for supporting me and showing effort” Kelehe said.

North West Education and Sport Department spokesperson, Elias Malindi said they have organised a welcoming party for the reigning Comrades Marathon winner.

“We have organised a welcoming party for our comrades’ Marathon winner, Gift Kelehe and the whole crew. The standing ovation will take place on Thursday at Rustenburg” Malindi said.

Tshiamo Leteane(11) who is a pupil at Sekhing primary school also shared his gratitude to Kelehe and said he also wants to be a policeman when he grows up.

-TDN

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