Correctional official and seasoned runner Sithole Langa (56) has already landed in Cape Town from the Bethal Management Area in Standerton, representing the Limpopo, Mpumalanga and North West (LMN) region, ahead of his 15th Two Oceans Ultra Marathon, scheduled for Saturday, 11 April 2026.
What began as a simple act of supporting his sons soon became the moment that changed Langa’s life forever. In 2008, while watching his boys play rugby and participate in races, he started to develop an interest in physical activities. One step led to another, curiosity turned into commitment, and an unexpected passion was born.
That initial decision to pursue running marked the beginning of a new chapter in his life. He joined a running club without a clear understanding of where the journey would take him. Maintaining physical activity gradually developed into a lifelong commitment, one that has influenced his daily routine and sense of purpose for the past 18 years.
Reflecting on his running career, Langa identifies one performance that remains especially close to his heart. “My most memorable Two Oceans Ultra Marathon was in 2014, when I clocked an impressive time of 5:06. This year, my goal is to cross the finish line under 5:30. I have prepared very well for this edition, with training that includes daily runs of 10 to 15 kilometres, hill repeats lasting up to an hour, and long runs ranging from 20 to 30 kilometres,” said Langa.
The seasoned ultra-marathoner has also built an impressive legacy at the Comrades Marathon, where he proudly holds Green Number status. “I have competed in the Comrades Marathon on 13 occasions and earned five Bill Rowan medals for finishing between 7 hours and 9 hours,” he recalls. Despite having achieved so much, Langa’s hunger for new challenges remains strong. His eyes are now set on the international stage. “In 2027, I plan to take on an international marathon, either the London Marathon or the Boston Marathon,” he concluded