Comrades Marathon Librarian at the O.R. Tambo Law Library

Audrey Lenoge, information specialist in the O.R. Tambo Law Library, is an ultra-marathon runner who has run and completed the Comrades Marathon five times and plans to be awarded a green/permanent number which is given after completing ten Comrades Marathons. The Comrades Marathon green number is attached to the runner’s name for life. She ran her first Comrades Marathon in 2013 after seconding her husband to his first Comrades marathon in 2010. After her first experience in 2010 she knew that she would return one day as a runner to attempt the ultimate human race. Her decision to attempt the ultimate human race led to a journey of self-discovery, which taught her determination, loyalty, discipline, pain endurance, perseverance, the value of support, sharing and human relations.

Life lessons from the Comrades Marathon.

1. Running is a metaphor of life. As you go through the valleys of a thousand hills you realise everyday life has hills and valleys, when you are at the top of the hill it doesn’t mean you will not go down the valley. As long as you do not stop and you keep at it there is progress and it doesn’t matter how small.

2. Every year it is a different experience with a new life lesson which is enriching. It is a personal journey which has made me a better person. Every year I look forward to what I will learn out of the experience.

3. Physical fitness is as important as mental fitness.Creating a balance is imperative; attending to everything necessary will allow the realisation of the goal. You need mental determination and mental strength to convince yourself when faced with challenges that your set goal is achievable.

4. Resilience and the triumph of the human spirit.The human spirit is as strong as it can be and greater than we can comprehend, whatever you set your mind to, you can achieve. It is achievable as long as you can think it and believe it.

5. Run your race. You run against yourself, you compete against yourself. Live your life, set your goals and work towards them. Concentrate on what you are doing and do not be distracted by what does not concern you.