After announcing himself with a commanding victory at the recent Vhembe FM 21 km race, Ritshidze Makhavhu, better known as Bullet, has again shown that his rise in long-distance running is no fluke.
This past weekend, the 31-year-old athlete from Ha-Mamuhoi in Nzhelele delivered a career-defining performance at the Durban International Marathon, clocking an impressive 2:21:44 in the 42.2 km race and finishing second provincially.
For Makhavhu, who only began his running journey in 2022, the result marks a significant breakthrough. Competing in a race that doubled as an Athletics South Africa (ASA) Championship and an Olympic qualifying opportunity, he rose to the occasion with determination and grit, setting a new personal best in the process.
Describing the Durban race as his finest performance yet, Makhavhu said the result reflects the hard work, discipline and belief he has invested in his craft over the past few years.
“This race means everything to me. It showed me that I am capable of competing at a higher level,” he said.
His Durban success adds to an already impressive 2026 season. Earlier this year, he finished fifth in the Capricorn District Marathon (42.2 km) with a time of 2:26:00 and claimed third place in the Mazuwo 10 km race in 31:20. He also dominated the half-marathon scene, winning both the Vhembe Easter Half Marathon (1:09:32) and the Vhembe FM Half Marathon (1:08:27).
Currently unemployed, Makhavhu has chosen to channel his energy into building a future through athletics, proudly representing Team Limpopo in major competitions. His journey is driven not only by personal ambition but by a broader vision.
“My dream is to represent South Africa on the world stage,” he said. “I also want to build a sports development academy to help young athletes from my community realise their potential.”