Charne Bosman to push her limits at the ASA Marathon Championships

This race is incorporated into the Cape Peninsula Marathon.

After turning 50 on November 6, Bosman will transition into the masters' category just days after her birthday.

However, she remains eager to test herself against younger competitors in Cape Town this weekend. The 2016 Comrades Marathon champion skipped the Johnson Crane Hire Marathon—an event she previously won—to focus on preparing for the national championships.

ASA has announced a list of 143 runners set to compete in Sunday’s race, with notable absentees including men’s and women’s winners Elroy Gelant and Cian Oldknow, as well as national record holder Glenrose Xaba and former national marathon record holder Gerda Steyn.

"Yes, I’ve entered the national marathon this Sunday. I’m turning 50 this year, so it will be a challenging race against athletes 10 years younger than me. I’m moving into a new category from 6 November and will be competing as a master. I’m looking forward to the race, and this year I’m focusing on preparing myself to see what records I can break when I turn 50," said Bosman.

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Bosman shared the secret to her longevity in the sport, advising young runners to prioritize taking care of their bodies.

“The most important thing about running is that if you don’t enjoy it, you shouldn’t do it. Enjoyment is key, and I absolutely love running. If I hadn’t enjoyed it, I wouldn’t have lasted for more than 34 years. Running is a part of me—it’s in my DNA, and it’s what I’ve always wanted to do,” she added.

“I look forward to waking up for training every morning at 3:45 am, starting at 4:20 am. I love training in the morning, and that’s what keeps me going. I’ve been running since I was 15, and now it’s been 34 years.”   

Over the past two years, Bosman faced both injury setbacks and a heart attack scare during the Comrades Marathon, halfway through the race.

However, she made a full recovery after being hospitalized.

“Right now, I’m injury-free and truly enjoying what I do—that’s the key to it. It’s crucial to enjoy your passion. I plan to race in the Comrades Marathon next year, but for now, I’m focusing on seeing where I place in the national marathon,” Bosman shared.