Dididi-based long-distance runner Nditsheni Mathobo is set to make history as the first documented athlete to run from Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban to Thavhani Mall in Thohoyandou.
Mathobo began his journey on Monday morning and aims to complete the 1,080-kilometre run in 26 days.
Speaking to Limpopo Mirror after completing his Monday run in Nchanga, Durban, he expressed confidence in meeting his target. "I have decided to run 50 km per day, and I feel like I'm really cruising," he said.
When asked if his mission had been inspired by Pfano Ungedzani, who recently ran from Pretoria to Thavhani Mall, Mathobo said it was a long-held personal dream. "I have been participating in the Comrades Marathon here in Durban for the past 15 years. After each race, I kept thinking that if I got a sponsor, I would run home to Dididi the following day. It's not because of Pfano Ungedzani's achievements," he explained.
Mathobo said his main goal was to raise funds to establish a gym and recreational facilities in his community. These would promote exercise, health, and help prevent diseases linked to obesity and unhealthy lifestyles.
He began running long-distance races in the early 1990s when he joined the late Martin Ndivheni's Martin Ndivheni Athletics Club.
"I was one of the best long-distance runners in the club, but it was short-lived because of financial problems," he recalled.
Since then, he has continued training on his own and has competed in 15 Comrades Marathon races to date.