| 2025/06/07 |
Good Morning, Sanibonani Receive my warm greetings this morning, on the eve of the 98th edition of the Comrades Marathon. I would like to extend my special greetings today to the SAPS Comrades Runners; (todays programme is all about you).
D-day is looming and I can see that everyone in here is more than ready for the occasion. Today, we stand on the edge of something extraordinary. The Comrade’s Marathon is not just a race but a legacy. The Comrade’s marathon is more than 89km of hills, heat and heart – it is a test of the human spirit, a journey that connects us not just by the road ahead, but by the courage within. Ladies and gentlemen allow me to convey our full appreciation to Polmed, for hosting this welcoming ceremony and also for the significant role and enormous contribution to the health and wellness programmes of the SAPS and for remaining our number one medical aid. To the principal officer of Polmed, Ms Neo Khauoe; we appreciate your sterling leadership and for always prioritising the Health and Wellness agenda of this organisation. Thank you for always supporting our Comrade Marathon runners year after year. The participation of police officers in the Comrades Marathon reaffirms the SAPS commitment to Health and Wellness, as the paramount pillars of building a progressive organisation through productive and effective human capital investment. The SAPS has a strong emphasis on physical fitness, with all members required to participate in structured exercise programs. The partnership entered into with Virgin Active and Planet Fitness is reflective of the SAPS management’s commitment and priority in ensuring that police officers have access to facilities and resources with discounted monthly fees to remain physically fit and healthy. The increasing number of police runners in the Comrades Marathon year by year, is a clear indication of the deep entrenchment of the culture of fitness and wellness within our ranks. Last year 356 police officers participated in the Comrades Marathon; this year in 2025, the number increased to 437, with an additional 81 police officers taking part in the race. Ladies and gentlemen, we are all gathered here this morning in this parade to express our full confidence and unwavering support to all our 437 remarkable members of the SAPS who are participating in the Ultimate Human Race Tomorrow. We are here to say we are proud of you and we are fully behind you. Tomorrow you are not running for yourselves, every kilometre is you run is dedicated to the men and women in blue those who are alive and those who have departed in the call of duty. Keep on elevating and lifting the banner of HEALTH AND WELLNESS in the SAPS higher and higher. To all of you we say HALALA! Give yourselves a round of applause. I stand here today to extend my heartfelt support and encouragement to all you. Some of you will be running the race for the first time, filled with nerves and excitement. Others return, veterans of the stretch of the road, drawn back by something words can’t quite capture. But all of you – every single one of you – have earned your place here. Your decision to participate in this demanding 89-kilometre journey from Pietermaritzburg to Durban speaks volumes about your resilience, discipline, and unwavering determination—qualities that form the backbone of our Service and inspire those around you every day. The Comrade’s Marathon is more than a test of physical endurance; it is a celebration of unity, perseverance, and the indomitable human spirit. By embracing this challenge, you not only pursue personal achievement but also embody the SAPS’s ongoing commitment to wellness and fitness. Completing an 89-kilometre race is no small feat. It is the result of months of consistent training, early mornings, and pushing through discomfort. This journey teaches us that resilience is built day by day, through small, repeated acts of discipline. Along the way, you will face moments of fatigue, pain, or doubt. Remember, setbacks are temporary. What truly matters is your determination to rise and continue, no matter how many times you stumble. Success in this race comes from careful preparation: following your training plan, managing your nutrition, and pacing yourself wisely. Discipline in preparation translates directly to resilience during the race and in life. Planning equips you to face challenges with confidence and courage. Your mental strength is as vital as your physical strength. Your body can carry you only so far—your mind will carry you the rest of the way. Overcoming negative thoughts, focusing on your goals, and maintaining a positive attitude are all part of the resilience that will see you through. Celebrate every small victory along the way—each kilometre conquered; each hill climbed is a triumph. These milestones fuel your motivation and keep your discipline strong for the challenges ahead. As you stand at the starting line, carry with you the hopes, pride, and admiration of the entire SAPS family and our nation. The finish line awaits, and with it, the recognition of your extraordinary effort and spirit. Go forward with courage, determination, and the knowledge that you are not alone on this path. The Comrades Marathon teaches us that resilience is about persistence through adversity, and discipline is about the daily choices that prepare us for life’s toughest moments. These lessons extend far beyond the race—they empower you to face any challenge with hope and strength. We wish the runners a safe journey to the finish line.
I THANK YOU |