Springs Rapid Rail Police members finish strong at marathon  

Four members of the Springs Rapid Rail Police Unit participated in the Comrades Marathon on Sunday, all finishing within the 10th hour to secure medals.

Sergeant Motjatji Mattla ranked among the top 10 SAPS finishers. Last year, Matla was named the third-place runner among the South African Athletics Club participants who ran the marathon. This year, she reached yet another milestone.

“It’s humbling and fulfilling to see the hard work pay off, the feeling is incredibly exciting. Before you achieve anything, you must first visualise it, dream about it and then execute the plan. This achievement is a reflection of that journey: from a dream to reality,” she said.

The officials were coached by Sibusiso ‘Bean Bus’ Mthembu, who provided structured weekly training programmes to build endurance and strength.

“His guidance was essential in preparing us for every race leading up to the ultra-marathon and, ultimately, the Comrades,” Matla added.

She said the thought of her support system kept her going throughout the race.

“My children, family, station commander, running family, the Kwa-Thema Sunday Crew, coach Bean and colleagues. Their belief and encouragement gave me the strength to push through every challenging moment.

“I’m also grateful to the SAPG Athletic Club for allowing us time to train for the big race; it made a huge difference,” she concluded.

Station commander Lieutenant Colonel Nakedi Rapholo cheered the runners from the sidelines. She congratulated Lesiba Sema on earning the green number for completing the marathon 10 times.

The participants’ results:

• Warrant Officer Shadrack Mdaki – 10:14:05;
• Sergeant Matla – 10:37:50;
• Sergeant Sema – 10:43:07;
• Sergeant Nthabiseng Ledwaba – 10:37:51.