Sikhumbuzo Seme targets a podium place finish at the City-to-City Ultra-Marathon

Seme is gearing up to utilise the highly awaited Ultra-Marathon as a test for the upcoming Comrades Marathon.

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi formally launched the event during a packed press conference in Johannesburg on Thursday.

The race will take place on 31 March, starting in Centurion and finishing in Johannesburg.

The top male and female participants in the 50km ultra-marathon stand to win R200 000 each.

Seme, who represents the Hollywood Athletics Club, was one of the leading contenders that attended the event.

READ: Gavin Hunt getting credit for enduring with SuperSport United youngsters

Under the guidance of his renowned father and coach, Michael Seme, in Tshwane, Sikhumbuzo told SABC Sport that the revival of the race was long overdue.

He emphasized its significance in elevating the runners ‘morale as they prepare for the Comrades Marathon set to take place for 9 June in Durban.

Seme joked, “I trust that the race won’t vanish again,” he told SABC Sport.

“Back in 2015, I tackled the half-marathon, but this year, I’m diving into the ultra-marathon with my sights set on clinching a top-three spot. The preparations are on track, geared towards the Comrades. Hopefully, on race day, my body won’t fail me. I’m grateful to the premier for resurrecting the race; it’s a significant opportunity for us to earn a livelihood with the substantial prize money. Welcoming its return, I plan to stick with the pack until the 42.2 mark, when the real race begins. My race plan is to conserve energy; I’m not fixated on a specific time but eyeing the podium,”

Seme is happy with the three-month gap between City-to-City and the Comrades. “I am ready, the preparations are going well. I don’t complain and have high expectations. My father and coach told me to go and enjoy myself,”

Seme mentioned that he had not altered his training routine and continues to focus on long runs until he approaches the Comrades Marathon.