Ludwick Mamabolo juggling coaching and running at University of Limpopo

At 47 years old, Mamabolo – renowned for his triumph in the Ultimate Human Race in a remarkable time of 5 hours, 31 minutes, and 3 seconds during the down-run in 2012, now guides 250 promising athletes in the township of Turfloop, just outside Polokwane.

Possessing an Athletics South Africa (ASA) level 1 coaching certificate, Mamabolo aims to further his education, pursuing a level 2 certificate later this year.

Despite his coaching responsibilities, Mamabolo remains an active participant in marathon and ultra-marathon competitions, undeterred by a successful knee operation following a two-year hiatus. 

He has confirmed his participation in the upcoming 50km City-to-City ultra-marathon from Tshwane to Johannesburg on March 31, as revealed to SABC Sport.

"As both a coach and athlete representing the University of Limpopo, my primary focus lies in nurturing the potential of young athletes," said Mamabolo. 

"Serving as a role model within the province, I recognised the significant need for guidance among aspiring runners. Our group comprises approximately 250 talented boys and girls, among whom stand ten promising young men. 

"Notably, Given Makgoba exemplifies this potential, recently securing a commendable fourth-place finish at the Dischem half-marathon in Johannesburg, with a remarkable time of 1 hour, 08 minutes, and 07 seconds. 

"His achievement underscores a bright future ahead, showcasing the possibility for significant accomplishments this year, while his determination was evident as he competed alongside some of South Africa’s top runners."

Yet, Mamabolo observed that the children in Limpopo still have considerable ground to cover, and require enhanced support from both their parents and the community at large.

"In Limpopo, the children don’t prioritise running, despite the available resources. While our province lacks facilities and sponsors, there’s potential for improvement if the kids exhibit more enthusiasm for the sport," he added.

"I aspire to secure sponsors and empower these children to recognize running as a viable career path, where they can earn a livelihood."

In preparation for the 87km up-run from Durban to Pietermaritzburg on 9 June, Mamabolo aims to achieve the Comrades qualifying time of 4 hours and 50 minutes by participating in the various races leading up to the event.

"I recently participated in a training run at the Makhado marathon, where I completed the race and secured a second-place finish. Fortunately, my knee no longer troubles me, and I am eager to return to competing in the Comrades marathon and other upcoming races,” he declared.

READ: Comrades Marathon Association bans cheating runners over fraudulent entries