Smakahle Khumalo

Rise Against Hunger

Personal Message:

Running a comrades marathon is an immense decision, for the longest time this year I have struggled with both Achilles tendon muscles. Therefore, I decided I should run for an upright reason this year. This will be my 5th comrade marathon and I have never felt such pain before. However, I need to push myself to the limit. I was deeply touched to listen on the radio about a 14-year-old boy in the Eastern Cape Province. He passed on while in the hospital after allegations of an assault by his accusers (close neighbour’s) for stealing bread, a small portion of jam and instant porridge because he was hungry. He comes from a very disadvantaged struggling home. I have been inspired by the linear journey of the Comrades Marathon which began with a day-long runner who refused to succumb to human limitations of hydration, cramps and sheer exhaustion, and narrowed the distance between two geographically remote points on foot to relay news of triumph against incredible odds in Marathon. So, I became more determined to push and raise funds for charities like “Rise Against Hunger.” I strongly believe they make an impact with regard to pushing back poverty in our communities because hunger eats childhood.