Ludwick Mamabolo at the 2024 Comrades Marathon , where he finished with a time of 6:56: 53, earning a silver medal. He will now be part of the committee contributing ideas to empower athletes. Photo : Frans Nkhapele
By Abba Armooh – Ulpublications@ul.ac.za
Following his significant contributions to enhancing the University of Limpopo’s (UL) athletics programme, 2012 Comrades Marathon winner and UL athletics trainer, Ludwick Mamabolo, has been appointed to the Comrades Marathon Association (CMA) Athlete Sub-Committee
This committee is vital in advocating for runners, improving race conditions, and enriching the overall experience of the renowned ultramarathon. Mamabolo joins an esteemed panel that includes Chairperson William Mtolo, Vice-Chairperson Brenda Marolen, and Exco members Gift Kelehe, Kerry Koen, Lesiea Ramatema, Cuan Walker, Busi Xulu, Jared Williams, and Xoliswa Mthembu. Together, they will shape the future of the Comrades Marathon, which has been held for over a century, ensuring that athletes’ voices are central to important decision-making processes.
Reflecting on his appointment, Mamabolo expressed deep gratitude and excitement.
“All this is God’s work through me. I’m excited and don’t have the words to describe what this means to me. It’s a full-circle moment—from winning Comrades to sitting on the committee.”
Mamabolo, who is popularly known as Kolobe, has been instrumental in transforming the UL athletics club since joining as a trainer in 2023. His mentorship led to remarkable achievements, including UL’s first-ever gold in the Comrades Marathon, achieved by Annah Maponya in 2024, who made history with her victory.
With Mamabolo now part of the CMA Athlete Sub-Committee, UL’s Sport and Recreation Department is confident that his expertise will further the growth of ultramarathon running.
Acting Director of the Department, Sonica Fritz, hailed Mamabolo’s appointment as a significant milestone for UL Sport.
“Having Kolobe as part of UL has elevated our athletics programme. His appointment to the CMA Athlete Sub-Committee is a well-deserved recognition of his influence and expertise in the sport. UL congratulates Kolobe on this remarkable achievement and looks forward to his continued impact on the global stage. This milestone is a win not just for him but for the entire UL Sports community, proving once again that excellence starts here,” said Fritz.