The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) participated in the official opening of the 97th edition of the Comrades Marathon and Expo at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban on 6 June 2014. The DCS choir was on hand to render a musical item and mesmerised the international audience with their “Sigijima iComrades” song.
KwaZulu-Natal Regional Commissioner, Mnikelwa Nxele graced the occasion and echoed National Commissioner, Makgothi Thobakgale’s well wishes to all DCS athletes who will be participating in the ultimate human race.
Speaking on the sidelines, Director: Employee Wellness, Sandile Mthembu said he was happy to be part of the 97th Comrades Marathon edition. “We are excited that as DCS, we are at the Comrades Marathon yet again with 271 runners. We wish to extend a special appreciation to our partners, Athletic South Africa, for their support. Through our participation as DCS, we are advancing our wellness agenda. The type of environment we work in requires us to be fit,” said Mthembu.
This year’s edition is the 49th up-run since the start of Comrades Marathon and is considered the most difficult.
President of Athletics in DCS, Motsamai Maqoawane wished DCS runners well in this year’s race. “We are grateful to be at this official opening of the Comrades Marathon. We have also realised that working hand-in-hand with Comrades is advancing our departmental cause for a fit and healthy workforce. We are also indebted to our choir from Durban Correctional Facility for being available to support us at this official opening. With this type of support, we will go far,” he said.
