Two University of Pretoria (UP) staff members recently went the extra mile by running the Two Oceans Ultramarathon in Cape Town to raise money for the University’s Vice-Chancellor and Principal’s Scholarship Fund. The fund assists “missing-middle” students: those who come from households that do not qualify for government funding for tertiary studies, yet cannot afford higher education without financial assistance.

Mr Josiah Mavundla, a senior manager in UP’s Department of Institutional Advancement, and Dr Bianca Frost, a lecturer in the Department of Marketing Management, had originally aimed to raise R5 600 each – but thanks to generous donors, they were able to increase their targets. Mavundla’s target was upped to an ambitious R56 000, of which R 12 040 has been raised to date (22% of the new target), while Frost’s target was increased to R12 000, of which R12 016 has been raised (100% of the new target).

Mavundla and Frost completed the 56km ultramarathon with times of 05:11:08 and 05:30:08 respectively.

“I had an incredible experience that revolved around my passion for running and making a positive impact on someone’s life,” Mavundla said. “The Vice-Chancellor and Principal’s Scholarship Fund is essential in helping the University support academically deserving students who are in financial need. As I crossed the finish line and received my medal, I felt an incredible sense of achievement. I believe it’s similar to the feeling that a student experiences when they complete their studies, walk across the stage and receive their degree.” 

For Frost, running for the scholarship fund added profound meaning to this year’s race.

“Running the Two Oceans is a physical and mental challenge in every sense,” she said. “But this year, it was not just about crossing the finish line to receive another medal – it was about creating opportunities for others. To be able to run for a cause that empowers young people and supports education feels like a powerful way to give back. I’d love to see these funds help close the gap for students. Working closely with students – especially in a residence environment – I’m often confronted with the harsh reality of bright, hardworking individuals who are unable to register or continue their studies due to outstanding fees. These are students with potential, who are committed and eager to make a difference. I can’t help them all, but every little bit counts, and every contribution brings us closer to enabling a future where talent isn’t limited by financial constraints.”

This was Mavundla’s seventh Two Oceans – he’s won four Sainsbury medals and three bronze medals – while Frost has been a runner for 14 years.

While running ultramarathons requires endurance, mental strength and discipline, Mavundla feels that running isn’t an unachievable feat. His tips for those who want to take it up are to start slowly and build consistency over time, and to listen to your body – recovering and training are equally important. Frost adds that finding a rhythm and building a habit are good ways to take up the sport, and that one should enjoy it.

“Local park runs, running clubs and charity events are a good starting point,” she advised. “Many are beginner-friendly and listed on social media or running apps. Joining a community makes a huge difference – you gain motivation, knowledge and friendships along the way. One of the latest trends are ‘coffee runs’ – where people run together, then reward themselves with a coffee and chat afterwards.”

However, the running season is not over yet – the 98th Comrades Marathon themed "More Than A Race – Isiko Mpilo" is set to take place on 8 June 2025, and Mavundla, Frost and other UP staff members, will be participating.

If you would like to help students cross the finish line and graduate on time, please support Mavundla and Frost compete in the Comrades Marathon on 8 June 2025. Follow these links:

https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/running-to-empower-futures

https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/from-the-classroom-to-the-comrades