Thato Kabeli, a 42-year-old security guard, made a stunning debut in the RMB Ultra Trail Drakensberg (RMB UTD) 100-miler, winning the event in an impressive 24 hours, 24 minutes, and 57 seconds. Kabeli, who works as a security guard, added a cool R20,000 to his bank balance for his efforts and could not hide his excitement at having made a winning debut at the longer distance.
Kabeli completed the 160.5km distance nearly two hours ahead of runner-up Matt Dove (26:10:15). Popular Zimbabwean runner Admire Muzopambwa completed the podium with a time of 27:21:25. The ultramarathon event was held at the Sani Pass Premier Hotel, where the enthusiastic crowd cheered on the runners.
RMB UTD 100-Miler Results
The top three finishers in the RMB UTD 100-miler were:
- Thato Kabeli (24:24:57)
- Matt Dove (26:10:15)
- Admire Muzopambwa (27:21:25)
Kabeli admitted that the race was rough, although he made it seem as though he’d had the equivalent of a Sunday stroll in the park when he sauntered to the finish – high-fiving the crowds lined up there in a guard of honour formation.
Trail Running Community
The trail running community was evident from the cheers Muzopambwa received as he made a lap of honour before taking the microphone from the announcer and thanking all those who’d supported him. For more information on trail running, visit the Trail Running South Africa website.
