Picture: The winner of the Comrades Marathon, Tete Dijana
By OBAKENG MAJE
The winner of the 2023 Comrades Marathon, Tete Dijana said he will not quit his job as a security guard. Dijana, who received a heroic welcome at his hometown, Signal Hill in Mahikeng yesterday, works as a security guard at the North West University (Mafikeng campus).
He further encouraged the youth to be tenacious in what they do. Dijana won the Comrades Marathon for the second consecutive year and set a 5:13:58 record.
“I am so grateful that I managed to win the title for the second consecutive year. There was a lot counting against me including injuries prior to the race. But, I managed to defend my title and what is much sweeter is to set a new record.
“So, my message to young people is, it is never too late to chase your dreams. They should not be discouraged, but through discipline, dedication, and determination, they will succeed. I did not win the competition on my first attempt and I also took part in other competitions and still did not win,” he added.
Dijana’s uncle, Seabelo Taole applauded Dijana for his achievements. Taole said Dijana is a hard worker, who believes in his dreams.
“I am grateful to see that Tete did not give up on chasing his dreams. He had put us as his family and the country at large on the map. We have dignitaries in our yard today, all because of him. I also want to thank his colleagues and all other stakeholders that supported him in his journey,” he said.
The Potchefstroom-based athlete, Adele Broodryk, who finished as a runner-up in the women’s category said: “I am happy to come out as a runner-up in this year’s edition. This was my second attempt and I have learned a lot from my previous participation. I had to adapt to my new training method and come up with a different approach in preparation for this year’s edition.
“What makes me happier is that, I managed to finish the race under the six hours mark. I have run and recorded the third fastest time ever, so I really think that is a big accomplishment for me,” she said.
Meanwhile, the North West MEC for Arts, Culture, Sports and Recreation, Kenetswe Mosenogi said: “It is amazing to welcome winners in our province. As the department, we will continue to support these athletes and nurture their crafts. As the department, we have club development programs including the school sports programs, where on an annual basis, we have autumn and winter games.
“This is where most of our learners participate. Those who are identified by the federations are supported throughout the academic system by our provincial academy in Potchefstroom. So, in appreciating and recognising these athletes’ sterling performances together with the soccer teams, the department contributed an amount of R2.1 million.”
Mosenogi said Dijana was rewarded with a R500 000 for winning the race back-to-back and setting a new record. She said the former winner, Edward Mothibi, who came in position 3, received R250 000.
“Gordon Lesetedi, who came fourth received R100 000, Johannes Makgetla, who occupied position six, received R50 000, Gift Kelehe who came ninth was awarded R40 000, Joseph who occupied position 10 received R30 000.
“Dijana and Mothibi’s coach, Dave Adams received R150 000, while Broodwyk received R400 000. Dan Matshailwe, who finished second in this year’s Two Ocean Marathon walked away with R150 000,” said Mosenogi.
The Guardian 