Running against the odds at age 70
Image: Supplied
AT AGE 70, Roy Govender, of Umbilo, is preparing for his first Comrades Marathon. While he does not know what to expect, he hopes to finish his first 89km race to make his family proud.
Govender, a member of Woodview Athletics Club in Phoenix, said his daughter and son-in-law, who are members of a running club, invited him to participate in a 5km race two years ago.
'They knew I enjoyed keeping active and said I should give running a chance. They said it would be perfect for me. It is funny because I had no prior running experience. The last time I took running seriously was during school sports many years ago," he laughed.
"I was initially reluctant but I decided to do the 5km race. I ended up finishing last but that pushed me to do better. I started training for the next six months, so I could enter other races. I then joined Woodview Athletics Club. I thought to myself, 'why not push myself' and I'm glad I did."
Video Player is loading.
Play Video
Play
Unmute
Current Time
0:00
/
Duration
-:-
Loaded :
0%
Stream Type LIVE
Seek to live, currently behind live
LIVE
Remaining Time
-
0:00
This is a modal window.
Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window.
Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan
Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan
Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan
Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque
Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps
Reset
restore all settings to the default values Done
Close Modal Dialog
End of dialog window.
Advertisement
Next
Stay
Close ✕
The former transport controller competed in qualifying races for the Comrades Marathon, including a 42km Durban International Marathon event, and the 21km Two Oceans Marathon in Cape Town.
Reflecting on his journey thus far, Govender said he tried to keep his mind mentally strong and often thought about making it over the finish line.
'I am excited about my first Comrades Marathon. I don't know what to expect but I will push through to do my best and make my family proud."
He said he was in good health and trained every morning to ensure his body was ready for the run.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
IOL News
12-07-2025
- IOL News
Fashion and culture fusion at the 2025 Hollywoodbets Durban July
Naliyani Uma Govender is an ambassador for the Hollywoodbets Durban July. Image: Supplied As anticipation builds around the 2025 Hollywoodbets Durban July, local racegoers are ready to showcase their interpretations of this year's theme, 'Marvels of Mzansi'. The annual racing event will take place at the Greyville Racecourse on Saturday. - Naliyani Uma Govender, an entrepreneur, model and reality TV personality, said her outfit was inspired by South Africa's national treasures. 'Without giving too much away before the big reveal, I can say it is a piece of wearable art that pays homage to both my heritage and the natural beauty of our country.' Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading Govender, who is also an ambassador for the event, said she started planning her outfit about a month ago. 'I sat down with my team and discussed the theme. I didn't want to just dress to impress. I wanted to represent. Every detail, from the fabric to the makeup and hairstyling, ties back to the essence of South Africa and my identity as a proud South African Indian woman.' She said her dress was designed by William Harry de Beer of Willet Designs Couture. 'His vision aligned perfectly with mine. We began with mood boards, research on cultural symbols, and experimented with dyeing methods to get the exact look we envisioned. 'The silhouette of the dress is fluid and regal. We worked with custom-dyed fabrics flown in especially for this, using artisanal techniques to achieve the most natural, ethereal effect. The colours are soft yet striking, and everything from the structure to the texture has been calculated to express grace, power, and meaning.' She added that her dress cost about R100 000. 'It is a couture, bespoke piece with imported materials and intricate detail. It definitely falls into the luxury bracket. But for me, this look is more than just an outfit. It is an experience and a statement.' Govender said she looked forward to the event. 'The Hollywoodbets Durban July is more than just a race. It is a celebration of fashion, culture and creativity in the African context. I love how it brings people from all walks of life together in one iconic space. It is a place to be bold, expressive. 'I have been attending since my early twenties, and each year feels more exciting than the last. What keeps drawing me in is the electric energy, the mix of glamour, music, racing, and storytelling through fashion. It's where culture meets couture and now being one of the faces of the Hollywoodbets Durban July is a match made in heaven.' Govender added that she looked forward to seeing how others interpreted the theme. 'The theme is such a beautiful, open canvas. My advice for those who want to dress to the theme is to think proudly South African. In respect of accessories to elevate your look, I would say Ndebele and proudly South African designer jewellery. For makeup, be inspired by our African sunset.' Govender said it would not be the Durban July without placing a few fun bets. 'I have my eye on a couple of favourites, but I will keep that under wraps for now, maybe for luck.' Neevan Daniels Bullyraj. Image: Supplied - Neevan Daniels Bullyraj, a teacher and bridal stylist, said he decided to style himself this year. 'I believe that the true Mzansi spark dwells within yourself and you just need to channel it. Being proudly Indian and South African, I wanted to bring a bit of my Indian culture to the race course. I designed and styled my outfit from the material choice to the strategically placed motifs. I will be wearing tailored palazzo pants and a white formal vest. 'I decided to skip a cape and go for a five-metre shawl anchoring rich royal Indian heritage. The concept of royal Indian heritage stems from the Maharajas of India. The Maharajas were always draped in some of the most elaborate jewels curated in world history. I will also accessories with royal and regal Indian jewel pieces. 'I have always been told that my style is extremely unique and far from mediocre. I like to think that my lookbook is filled with only aesthetically unique pieces. The Durban July is the one event I can accelerate on this and have fun embracing a theme and fusing it with my personality and alter ego,' he said. Bullyraj said he looked forward to the fashion, networking with people from all over the country, and enjoying the glamorous atmosphere created by the event. He added he would take a few bets. 'I hope that I not only win with a good fit, but also with the right horse.' Jennifer Reddy. Image: Supplied - Jennifer Reddy, the CEO of a national chartered accountants firm, said her outfit was aligned to the theme, showcasing a chic and fashionable look that represented the country's cultural diversity. 'I will be wearing a two-piece outfit that includes my favourite colour, pink. It features a ruffled, high-waisted skirt paired with a fashionable designer top, adorned with unique cut-out, puffed sleeves. 'I always have a specific idea of what I want to wear, so choosing my outfit didn't take long. I usually visit my favourite shops to find pieces that match my vision. For this event, I purchased my outfit from The Space, a store known for selling unique pieces by African designers. The designer of my outfit is Confidence Designs,' she said. Reddy said she was excited about the event as it offered a chance to dress up and enjoy a day filled with entertainment. 'The Durban July is an event that many in South Africa eagerly anticipate. I have been attending for the last few years, and the combination of world-class racing, stunning fashion, and exhilarating entertainment makes it an event not to be missed. This year, I am particularly looking forward to celebrating our rich culture and heritage through fashion, as well as enjoying the great entertainment.' Reddy added she left the punting to her husband. 'I rarely win, however, I have heard that the favourites for this year are Eight on Eighteen and Madison Valley. I hope they perform well in the race.' Shiv Ramsander Image: Supplied - Shiv Ramsander, a music producer, DJ and event host, said it took him about a week to plan his outfit. 'Keeping the theme in mind, I tried to ensure that my coat was hero-like, while still keeping to our Mzansi culture. I will be wearing a black chino pants, white shirt and a formal black velvet coat with some detailing on it. I will complete the outfit with shiny black shoes.' Ramsander said he had been attending the event since 2019. 'It is definitely a calendar event for me. It is a day that allows me to express myself through fashion as I love dressing up. It is also an event where you get to experience many things in one place such as good vibes, trendy fashion, good food and, of course, the horse racing aspect. I am also excited as I will be performing in one of the tents at the event and will thereafter host an after-party at another venue.' Ramsander added that his bet was on Sparking Water, winner of the 2022 Hollywoodbets Durban July. 'I love a good success story and will definitely be rooting for Sparkling Water to take home the title for the second time.' TeKayha Anastasia Sukuram Image: Supplied - TeKayha Anastasia Sukuram, a marketing executive, dancer and model, said her dress was a depiction of South Africa's flora. 'I believe South Africa's flora is definitely one of the marvels of our country. I will be dressed in an elegant, yet bold floor-sweeping dress. It is a fitted silhouette with intricate beading throughout the entire dress. The rich, jewel-toned colours such as purple, orange and green in floral patterns on a black background create a beautiful effect. 'It also has attached cape sleeves which adds a touch of drama to the dress. To complete my look, I will use nude high heels and a few pieces of simple silver accessories,' she said. Sukuram said she spent about two weeks trying to find the perfect outfit. 'I wanted an outfit that goes with this year's theme. I originally purchased the dress from an evening wear boutique, but later had a lot of adjustments done and pieces added on by designer, Rishay Nohor of Rishay Nohor Studio.' Sukuram said she would attend the event for the first time. 'Growing up I watched my parents get ready to attend the Durban July. It was something that I looked forward to experiencing one day. I am now looking forward to experiencing the exhilarating atmosphere for the first time. 'I also can't wait to see the fashion and all the different ways that people have interpreted this year's theme. However, I am probably going to give the betting a skip and just soak in everything else that the event has to offer.' Denver Naicker Image: Supplied - Denver Naicker, a TV presenter and retail manager, said he was excited about this year's theme. 'I will be dressing to this year's theme, which really allows us to show off our African culture to the world. I started planning my outfit about a month ago. To match the theme, I will be wearing an 'Indian-meets-African' inspired coat.' Naicker said he looked forward to the fashion shows and meeting people. He added that he had yet to decide on which horses he would bet on. THE POST
IOL News
03-07-2025
- IOL News
From scoring goals to marathon roles: Ashay Sewlall's inspiring journey of grit and grace
Ashay Sewlall (24) who participated in the Diski Challenge and later took on the Comrades Marathon. Image: Supplied In the world of sports and fitness, few stories exemplify resilience and passion quite like that of Ashay Sewlall. A 24-year-old former professional football player from Richards Bay, he has transitioned from competitive leagues to conquering one of the most gruelling endurance races: the Comrades Marathon. Recently relocated to Durban, Sewlall showcases not only a commitment to fitness but also a dedication to sharing his journey through digital platforms. Having played at a professional level with Richards Bay FC in the PSL from 2020 to 2024, sports have been a defining aspect of his life. 'Fitness, or should I say football, has always been my passion,' he shares, reflecting on years devoted to the sport. Now, in a bold step that merges his love for athletics with personal growth, he overcame the formidable challenge of the Comrades Marathon, looking at it not just as a physical test but as a mental milestone - one that has re-ignited his love for football. 'Running the Comrades was a test physically, but more mentally for me to get back into my love for football,' he admits. 'If I can do this, I know I can start football again from the bottom.' Determined that the journey won't be easy, he is resolute in balancing his work in logistics with the rigorous training required for both running and football. While he doesn't label himself an influencer, he connects with people simply by being himself. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ Ashay Sewlall sits victorious after completing the Comrades Marathon. Image: Supplied His approach to social media is refreshing; 'I post content just being me, involved in various sport activities.' He joined TikTok in 2024 and has since captured the hearts of many South Africans, creating a community of loving supporters. His enthusiasm for sharing his life resonates with his growing audience, and he speaks fluent isiZulu, which helps him connect with a broader demographic. Diving into creativity, he reflects on the biggest risks he's taken throughout his life. 'Life is about taking risks,' he states, recalling his journey from school to professional athlete. Each leap of faith he took propelled him forward: 'Without taking the risk, I would have never achieved all that I have.' His message is clear, and it's one he stands by daily - a drive that fuels him to rise each morning. 'The drive and grind in me is what wakes me up,' he explains. With the support of friends and family, the motivation to continue this journey of resilience is unwavering. Yet, with every success comes misconceptions. He acknowledges that some may think his journey is easy due to his athletic background. Ashay Sewlall all suited up ready to take on his next project. Image: Supplied 'Every day is like starting again,' he confesses, emphasising the struggles beneath the surface. The discipline of adhering to training regimes and healthy eating is a choice, one he grapples with even now. 'I love being outdoors, going for runs, and hitting the gym. Durban is beautiful; it has everything in one city,' he says. A true advocate for the city, he encourages others to experience its charm. Though his focus has primarily been on training rather than leisure, he treasures his hometown of Richards Bay, ever keen on making time for visits. As he thinks ahead to future projects, he has ambitious plans for 2025. 'I want to keep sharing my talent and explore my passions, such as dancing to different music, fitness, speaking different languages, and even acting.' For those aspiring to enter the arts or entertainment industry, his wisdom shines through. 'Be yourself, be unique, and do it your way,' he advises, reminding everyone that true authenticity sets individuals apart. In the realm of sport, his mantra remains steadfast: 'Work hard, stay humble, never give up, and always smile good or bad.'
IOL News
25-06-2025
- IOL News
Wade Gouden: the South African fitness influencer who turns sweat into inspiration
Wade Gouden holds up his medal after completing the Comrades Marathon. Image: Supplied In the vibrant landscapes of South Africa, where the sun rises over the Indian Ocean and sets behind rolling hills, one man's dedication to fitness and digital influencing is making waves. Wade Gouden, an ambitious fitness influencer and athlete from Durban, has recently completed the gruelling Comrades Marathon, solidifying his place in fitness history. Gouden has been creating engaging content since 2020, diving headfirst into the world of fitness in 2021. His motivation stemmed from an inherent love for activities that inject a touch of excitement into life. "I just love doing fun things that make life a bit cooler and extraordinary," he says. This enthusiasm is vividly illustrated in his latest endeavour: the KZN athletic trinity, a unique challenge comprising the Midmar Mile, Comrades Marathon, and Amashova cycle, all taking place within six months - a remarkable first in the world of fitness. Although he faced setbacks last year when he attempted the Comrades Marathon but could not complete it, this year's event marked a triumphant return. 'It has also required a lot of hard work and dedication and has brought me so many cool experiences,' he shares with palpable pride. Starting his content creation journey was one of the biggest risks Gouden felt he had taken. Once a shy individual, he stepped out of his comfort zone to inspire others, and with remarkable success. "It's more than paid off," he reflects, underscoring his immense personal growth. Each day, Gouden finds inspiration in the opportunity to pursue his passions, treating his career as a gift. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading Wade Gouden running in a marathon. Image: Supplied "I feel that I'm blessed to be able to do what I do... not everyone is so fortunate to pursue goals of their choosing," he reflects, adding depth to his commitment. Despite his success, he faces some bizarre misconceptions. 'For some reason, people think I'm really tall,' he chuckles, pointing out the amusing disconnect between his stature and his perceived height in videos. It's just one aspect of the diverse life he lives in Durban - a city rich with culture and adventure, ideal for training and creativity. His journey has extended beyond South Africa's borders; an unforgettable trip to India with family changed his life perspectives, inspiring him to seek further adventures in life and exploration. "It's like it is made of magic and just opened my mind and soul to so much more in life," he recalls. As he sets his sights on the future, Gouden plans to tackle the Sami Stagger marathon through the Sami Pass in November, among other projects. His advice to aspiring influencers is simple yet powerful: 'Don't be afraid of rejection or negative responses ... life is too short to feel shy to let yourself experience life.' His preferred morning routine consists of a warm glass of turmeric with black pepper and honey, an antidote to his sinus issues that he claims he couldn't live without. Gouden's weekends reflect his disciplined lifestyle, often spent relaxing and preparing for races or attending temple services. And despite a rigorous training schedule, he admits to having a sweet tooth, indulging in chocolates and ice cream - a reminder that even the most committed athletes have their guilty pleasures. Through ups and downs, Gouden embodies resilience with his mantra, 'Let Krishna handle it.' This philosophy seems to have guided him through challenges, allowing him to steal the spotlight in the fitness community while inspiring countless others to chase their dreams.
