AFTER having started running as a hobby three years ago, Matatiele Local Municipality councillor Wonga Bongekile Potwana now uses the sport to lead a healthier way of life, saying running has changed his life for the better.
It was Potwana’s brother who initially encouraged him to start running three years ago. This year, Potwana participated in a number of marathons, including the Nelson Mandela Marathon in Howick last Sunday.
The marathon was held in respect of the life and times of former President Nelson Mandela. Potwana completed the 21 km race in a time of 2h24mins.
“I was happy to participate in a marathon in honour of Mandela and I received a medal for finishing the race. Mandela played a big role in the country so people need to contribute in his legacy,” he said.
In February, Potwana finished 21km in 2h6mins at a marathon held in Pietermaritzburg.
“Running has changed my life. I now weigh 78 kg compared to 108 kg in 2015. My way of thinking also improved after I started running,” he said, adding that it has now become a family hobby as his other brothers and cousins have also joined in.