In an inspiring display of determination and endurance, 83-year-old Johannes Maros Mosehla has become the oldest person to complete South Africa’s prestigious Comrades ultra-marathon. Finishing the 90-kilometer race in an impressive 11 hours and 47 minutes, Mosehla broke his own record set two years ago when he completed the race at the age of 81.

Mosehla’s journey to becoming an ultra-marathon legend began in 2005 when he first attempted the Comrades race at the age of 63. Although he didn’t finish his first attempt, he persevered and went on to achieve remarkable success, completing 10 Comrades races and solidifying his record as a multiple finisher.

His achievement is all the more remarkable considering the obstacles he faced early in his running career. During the apartheid era, Black runners were barred from competing in the Comrades, but Mosehla didn’t let that deter him. His determination and hard work paid off, and he has become an inspiration to many.

Mosehla’s record-breaking feat surpasses that of legendary runner Wally Hayward, who finished the Comrades race at the age of 80 in 1989. Hayward, a five-time winner of Comrades, set a high standard for endurance runners, and Mosehla has taken that legacy to new heights.

This year’s Comrades ultra-marathon also saw impressive performances from South African athletes Gerda Steyn and Tete Dijana, who won the overall titles in their respective categories. Both Steyn and Dijana have previously secured multiple victories at Comrades, demonstrating their exceptional endurance and skill.

Mosehla’s story serves as a powerful reminder that age is no barrier to pursuing one’s dreams. With determination and hard work, anyone can achieve their goals, regardless of obstacles.