When the field leaves Durban early on Sunday morning for the 2026 Comrades Marathon Up Run, one of the most inspiring athletes on the start line will once again be Marosi Mosehla – the oldest runner in the field at 84 years of age.

The veteran runner from Limpopo continues to redefine what is possible in endurance sport. In 2024, at the age of 82, Mosehla was the oldest finisher in the Comrades Marathon, completing the gruelling race in an impressive 10:13:46 and placing sixth in the 70+ age category.

…the true spirit of Comrades is about perseverance, courage and the refusal to let age define your limits.

That performance followed an equally remarkable achievement in 2023 when he became the oldest Comrades finisher since the legendary Wally Hayward in 1989. On that occasion, Mosehla conquered the Down Run from Pietermaritzburg to Durban in 9:26:10, proving that age is no barrier to determination, discipline and resilience.

A former bricklayer, Mosehla’s success is built on far more than a single standout performance. He boasts an outstanding Comrades record spanning more than two decades, with 12 finishes to his name.

His fastest Comrades came in 2007 when, as a 65-year-old, he clocked 7:57:11 and finished second in his age category. A year earlier, he claimed victory in the 60+ category with a time of 8:19:43.

Perhaps even more impressive is his consistency. Since 2016, Mosehla has finished every Comrades Marathon he has started, becoming one of the race’s most admired and respected participants.

As thousands of runners prepare to tackle the 82km journey to Pietermaritzburg this Sunday, Mosehla will once again take his place among them. While many competitors will be chasing personal bests and medals, his presence serves as a powerful reminder that the true spirit of Comrades is about perseverance, courage and the refusal to let age define your limits.

For many runners on the road to Pietermaritzburg, Marosi Mosehla is not just another competitor – he is living proof that extraordinary achievements can be accomplished at any age.

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