FROM CHILDHOOD PASSION TO MARATHON SUCCESS AS MSIBI RELATES HER RUNNING JOURNEY

By Tendamudzimu Goza

• Social worker Sindisiwe Msibi learned an important lesson during Covid-19 – the importance of staying active and healthy.
• She soon found her way to the Gauteng Department of Social Development Athletics Club, where she recently reached a new milestone of completing a 73km race; good preparation for the Comrades Marathon later this year.
• Staying active helps us deliver the services we are passionate about without stress, says Msibi.

For 36-year-old Sindisiwe Msibi, a social worker specialising in foster care services at the Johannesburg office of the provincial Department of Social Development, running has always been more than just a sport, it is a lifelong passion.

When she joined the Gauteng Department of Social Development in 2018, her focus was solely on her work, with little involvement in physical activities. However, the Covid-19 pandemic served as a wake-up call, reminding her of the importance of staying active and healthy.

She initially joined a gym but felt something was missing. That is when she realised, she needed to return to her first love, running.

Determined to get back on track, Msibi joined the Gauteng Department of Social Development  Athletics Club.

“In high school, I was always among the top three runners, which motivated me to join the athletics club here. I knew I had the heart and mindset of a runner and the ability to push myself to finish races,” she said.

Msibi started with 10 km races, then quickly progressed to 15 km, 21 km, and eventually 42 km marathons. Unlike many new runners, her body and mind adapted quickly, thanks to her early exposure to the sport.

“Running is addictive because it’s great for de-stressing, and it helps you stay healthy at no cost,” she added.

Msibi recently reached a new milestone by completing a 73 km race, the longest distance she has ever run. This achievement has fuelled her ambition to take on the ultimate challenge, the Comrades Marathon later this year.

“This race has given me hope that I have what it takes to finish the mother of all marathons,” she said.

To prepare, she trains at least three times a week with fellow club members, who support and motivate each other along the way.

Msibi hopes her journey will encourage more colleagues to join the athletics club, embrace a healthy lifestyle, and ultimately enhance their well-being and work performance.

“Staying active helps us deliver the services we are passionate about without stress. I want to inspire others to experience the same benefits.”

With her determination and growing achievements, Msibi is proving that passion, discipline, and perseverance can turn childhood dreams into lifelong success.