I’ve always loved running and had been using a running coaching app before joining MCC.
It worked well for me, but when I started getting niggles and injuries, I found it increasingly difficult to know when to push, when to back off and how to adapt my training.
I also realised that I was missing something else — the accountability that comes from having someone to communicate with.
After completing the Abu Dhabi Marathon in 2025 with a calf injury, I decided I needed more support.
A big dream at the back of my mind
At the back of my mind was a big dream: Comrades.
It was particularly special to me because my mom has completed 10 Comrades and my dad 21. I wanted to take on the challenge in their honour.
But when I started with MCC, I honestly wasn’t sure whether I could run that far.
That was where the journey really began.
Building back, one step at a time
Morné assessed me where I was and gradually built me back up.
The weekly plans, regular feedback and accountability worked really well for me. Slowly, I became more consistent, stronger and more confident.
I also loved that the training could be adapted around my life.
I have three children with busy schedules, so juggling family life and training is a big part of my reality. At the same time, I needed to consider any niggles and the feedback I was getting from my physio and doctor.
For me, good training had to fit into my life — not the other way around.
Going into Comrades
Going into Comrades, I felt strong and healthy, but I still didn’t really know what I would be capable of.
Rather than setting an ambitious target just for the sake of it, we set a conservative goal based on my training and my history of injury.
Then we decided to see how the day unfolded.
The first half of the race was an incredible high. I remember thinking:
**
“Wow, I’m actually doing this.”
As the distance caught up with me, I had to fight through. But towards the end, I realised I was running faster than our predicted pace.
Suddenly, there was a possibility of finishing under 11 hours.
I did it.
10:54.
And I earned my Bronze medal.
More than a medal
For me, the biggest achievement wasn’t just the time.
It was the confidence I gained along the way.
I started this journey unsure whether my body could handle Comrades. I finished knowing that I was capable of much more than I had thought.
That has probably been the biggest change for me — not just becoming a stronger runner, but becoming more confident in what I am capable of.
The journey continues
Morné has been incredibly supportive, patient and encouraging throughout the journey.
What I value most is having someone who understands where I am, listens to the feedback from my body and helps me make the right decisions rather than simply pushing harder.
I’m now back training with Morné towards my Comrades 2027 qualifier.
I’m excited to keep building, come back stronger and see where the next year takes me.
The goal has changed from wondering whether I could do Comrades to wondering just how much more I can do.
Athlete story · 21 August 2026
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