By Fanuel Chinowaita
South Africa, June 11, 2025 – Veteran Zimbabwean long distance runner and legal expert Innocent Gonese has once again proven the power of human endurance and resilience after successfully completing the 98th edition of the Comrades Marathon, a punishing 89.98km downrun from Pietermaritzburg to Durban despite sustaining serious injuries early in the race on Sunday
In an exclusive interview with The Wasu Post, Gonese revealed the physical and emotional toll of the event, sharing how he fell hard while trying to adjust to a swollen and inflamed right knee, suffering additional injuries to his hand, elbow, and chest. However, despite the immense pain, he fought through, stopping frequently for medical assistance, and crossed the finish line to earn back-to-back Comrades medals, a distinction awarded to athletes who complete their first two races in consecutive years.
“The Comrades Marathon is called the ultimate human race for a reason,” Gonese explained. “You need nerves of steel, guts, determination and an element of madness.”
He added that this year’s race was made even more grueling by the course’s notorious hills, including Polly Shortts, Inchanga, Botha’s Hill, Field’s Hill, and Cowies Hill, all of which challenge even the most seasoned runners.
“Even though it’s called the downrun, there are still steep climbs,” Gonese said. “What motivated me is the spirit of the Comrades, which is to persevere in spite of the odds. The motivation is to conquer all obstacles, and that is what inspired me to defy the odds and soldier on. I managed to overcome the pain barrier through guts and sheer determination.”
Now in his sixties, Gonese said running the Comrades Marathon has transformed his outlook on aging and personal limits.
“It’s taught me that with strong willpower, everything is possible. Age is just a number. If you’re committed to the fitness journey, you can navigate even the most difficult circumstances. It’s definitely a mind game.”
Gonese, who has become a beacon of inspiration within the running community, encourages others to follow in his footsteps.
“I would like to encourage more people to take up this challenge. Start with short distances to build strength and endurance. But cross-training is also crucial squats, lunges, aerobics, cycling to strengthen the body to withstand the rigors of running long distances. There’s no substitute for hard work.”
This latest Comrades feat is only the latest chapter in Gonese’s 2025 running journey. He has already completed several marathons this year, including the Old Mutual Marathon (February 9), the CBZ Marathon (March 2), and the prestigious Two Oceans 56km Ultra Marathon in Cape Town, which he finished in 6 hours and 16 minutes. As part of his Comrades training, he also completed the HAC 65km training run at Old Georgians on May 4.
Gonese expressed heartfelt appreciation for the support of his family, especially his sister-in-law Theresa and her daughter Tafadzwa and her friends, who made up his support team. Theresa is also a Comrades back-to-back medalist.
Despite the pain, Gonese remains immensely proud of what he has achieved and continues to inspire others with his story of perseverance and strength.