Nedbank Running Club manager reflects on successful year

Bester was particularly impressed by Kusche’s performance at the Soweto Marathon last week, where the versatile 27-year-old clocked 2:20:47 to secure a strong fourth-place finish in tough, rainy conditions across the 42.2km distance.

The 1991 Comrades champion believes Kusche – who competes in both middle- and long-distance events – is developing into one of the standout talents in the squad.

“It was a good year for our team, and we could have done even better. But we take pride in our achievements. Winning the Comrades and City2City are big highlights. Now watch out for George Kusche in next year’s Comrades. He is hungry, determined and ready to cause a big surprise,” warned Bester.

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He credited the team for a solid overall campaign, with Onalenna Khonkhobe winning the City2City 50km ultra in Tshwane, Tete Dijana claiming the Comrades title, and Margaret Kipchumba taking top honours in the women’s race at the Soweto Marathon.

Bester says Nedbank is determined to return even stronger in 2026 as they target more major victories and defend their hard-earned titles.

He also defended Khonkhobe, who finished second in his Soweto Marathon title defence, saying the athlete’s busy racing schedule – including multiple 10km, half-marathon, marathon and ultra events – took a toll on his legs.

“Khonkhobe will be fresh next year. He over-raced this season and was tired in Soweto. He has the habit of running too many races, but with proper management he will be okay. We are going all out to win the big titles again next year and will send our strongest teams to key races,” concluded Bester.