The General's decade of dedication in the Comrades Marathon
Read more: Midrand Striders celebrates 97% success rate at Comrades Marathon 2025
'I believe I was born unique with many talents, and I always wanted to do something major in my life of sports. Something that will be recognised in the world of sports, which will do justice to my God-given talents and inspire a lot of people in the process,' he stated.
The 41-year-old member of the Chillie Running Club began his Comrades journey in 2014 with the Eskom Athletic Club, where he secured a bronze medal with an impressive time of 10:27:54. His personal best in the Comrades Marathon sits at 08:40:02, earning him the esteemed Bill Rowan Medal.
As a proud KZN-born athlete, The General grew up immersed in the culture of the Comrades Marathon, a cornerstone of life's experiences in KZN. While soccer was his initial focus, and he achieved considerable success from junior through senior levels, his dream of running the Comrades Marathon was always in sight, officially realised in 2014.
'My wish was always to get to a point where I get crowned as the Legend of the Game, which eventually happened on June 8 during Comrades Marathon 2025,' he explained.
Reflecting on his decade-long journey, Malinga acknowledges it was fraught with challenges – both good and bad. Over the years, he faced injuries, career-related relocations, and the loss of loved ones, including his parents. Nevertheless, he persevered and emerged victorious.
For more inspiring insights into Victor Malinga's journey, read the Midrand Reporter.
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