Johannes Maros Mosehla, an 83-year-old from Sekhukhune, Limpopo, made history on June 8 by becoming the oldest runner ever to complete the grueling Comrades Marathon. Crossing the finish line in 11 hours, 47 minutes, and 27 seconds, Mosehla conquered the 89.98 km “down run” from Pietermaritzburg to Durban with just minutes to spare before the 12-hour cutoff.
Mosehla first attempted the race in 2005 at age 63 but did not finish. Undeterred, he went on to complete the marathon 11 times, setting records in 2023 (age 81), 2024 (age 82), and now again in 2025. His latest achievement surpasses the previous record held by five-time champion Wally Hayward, who finished at age 80 in 1989.
This year’s Comrades Marathon was one of the largest in history, with around 20,000 runners starting the race. Yet few could match Mosehla’s extraordinary endurance. His accomplishment is even more remarkable given that, decades ago, Black runners like him were barred from participating. For Mosehla, running the Comrades is not just about athleticism—it’s about perseverance and breaking barriers.
“Taking up the Comrades later in life meant running in defiance of past injustice and pursuing long-held dreams,” Mosehla once said. His story resonates beyond sports, symbolizing resilience and the power of never giving up.
Another inspiring finisher was 74-year-old Louis Massyn, who completed his 50th Comrades Marathon this year. But it was Mosehla who stole the spotlight, proving that age is no obstacle to greatness. His record is more than a personal triumph—it’s a milestone in the storied legacy of South Africa’s most iconic race.
