Seasoned athlete and Correctional Services official Ravithreen Naidoo, stationed at the Pietermaritzburg Management Area in KwaZulu-Natal, will line up for his 13th Comrades Marathon. His journey in The Ultimate Human Race began in 2011, and to date he has missed only one edition – the 2013 race due to health concerns – while the 2020 and 2021 races were cancelled because of COVID-19 regulations.
What started as a simple desire to stay fit has grown into a powerful personal commitment for Naidoo. “I discovered my passion for running when I realised how deeply it challenged me, both mentally and physically. Running has taught me discipline, consistency, and resilience,” he said.
The 57-year-old added that being on the road is a way of life. “It is therapy – a reminder that no matter how difficult life gets, you must keep moving forward,” he said.
Naidoo, who dedicated 37 years of public service to Correctional Services, explained that the journey towards his 13th Comrades Marathon began in September 2025, followed by a series of races. “I completed the 42.2km Goss and Balfe Sapphire Coast Marathon in October 2025 as my qualifying race, as well as the 42.2km Capital City Marathon in February 2026 and the 45km Beloved Run as part of my preparations. I typically train early in the morning, after work, and on weekends to maintain consistency,” he said.
The legendary runner, who also mentors others, described the 2026 Up Run as a special milestone as he prepares to guide a novice athlete. “This year, I will run alongside a 29-year-old taking on his first Comrades Marathon. My goal is not only to complete the race but also to support him throughout the journey, helping him pace himself and stay mentally strong during the toughest moments,” he shared.
Having successfully crossed the Comrades Marathon finish line twelve times, earning seven bronze medals and five Vic Clapham medals, Naidoo describes the 2024 edition as his most memorable race after clocking 10:28. “I suffered a hit-and-run accident while training around 06h00 in March 2024 and spent seven days in hospital. I sustained knee injuries, hip and back damage, as well as internal bleeding. My blood pressure also dropped very low,” he recalled.
Naidoo admitted that the road to recovery was far from easy. “I rested for three weeks, then went on to run the Two Oceans Ultra Marathon in April 2024, which I completed in 6:30. Unfortunately, I missed the bronze medal by 30 minutes,” he added.
Naidoo indicated that he would not let the accident stop him from doing what he loves most. The experience reminded him how precious life is and made him even more determined.
“I hope my journey inspires others never to give up on themselves, regardless of their age or circumstances. This year’s Comrades Marathon slogan, ‘Ska Fela Moya’ – meaning ‘never give up’ – speaks deeply to my journey and to everything I stand for,” Naidoo concluded.