From NJABULO BUTHELEZI in Durban
DURBAN – BANKING giant, Nedbank, hopes for another brilliant showing by its sponsored athletes at the Comrades Marathon this weekend.
Kelly Thompson, the company’s Sponsorship Manager, said the sponsorship of the Nedbank Running Club had reaped rewards over the past few years with many of theathletes displaying phenomenal consistent performances throughout this partnership.
“This is why Nedbank did not hesitate to extend its backing for a further three years as we seek to make the Nedbank Running Club one of the most admired in the country,” Thompson said.
Reigning women’s champion, Charne Bosman, is according to the sponsor showing great determination and courage to cross the finish line in first position in the 92nd Comrades on Sunday.
“We know that Charne has worked very hard this year as she looks to build on that exceptional 2016 showing,” said Thompson.
Nedbank expects to see locals Claude Moshiywa, Simpiwe Ndelela, Eric Ngubane  and Ludwick Mamabola at the front of the South African challenge in the men’s race.
‘They will be supported by fellow top National Nedbank athletes and I am sure we will see new faces up there in the top 10,” said Thompson.
Overall, Nedbank is upbeat of a successful Comrades.
“As Nedbank we have no doubt that this year’s Comrades Marathon will also live up to expectations as all the runners have been fully equipped with all they need to prosper,” said Thompson.
First run in 1921, the Comrades is an ultramarathon of approximately 89 km run annually between Durban and Pietermaritzburg in the KwaZulu-Natal Province.
– Guardian