Modern Athlete Magazine Issue 112, November 2018 | Page 5

ADVERTORIAL
Finally… Hello,
Soweto!
interesting people at each race, you get to run with your heroes, and see parts of
South Africa you wouldn’t be able to otherwise. It’s the reason I am really looking
forward to the Soweto Marathon and travelling to Johannesburg this month.”
Time for Some Extra Support
Lawrence plans his race and training calendar meticulously each year. During the
week, Mondays to Thursdays he does speed work on the road, on Fridays he
runs cross country, while Saturdays are rest days followed by a long run or race
on Sundays. Getting enough sleep and eating well are also high on his priorities.
“My work is very physical, so while I am sure it assists my overall physical strength
and benefits my running, it’s like doing eight hours of gym each day – so I need to
ensure I get enough rest every night.”
As a child growing up in the rural village of Embo, just
outside Durban, Lawrence Mthiyane never imagined his
legs would carry him to big cities like Johannesburg or Cape
Town. Thirty years ago, even a trip to Durban was a distant
dream, but this month, the 38-year-old runner takes on
his first Old Mutual Soweto Marathon, and his excitement
is palpable. “It’s been my dream for years to run this
marathon,” he says. “Now finally I have the means to get
there and I’m ready for it!”
T
he Durban gardener is no stranger to long distances. He’s been running
since he was at school and has four Comrades Marathons under his belt,
with his best time being an impressive 7:05. “My passion for running began
at school. I was good at it and often won school races, then represented my school
and did well at these events. That was when I recognised that not only did I have a
talent for running, but I really enjoyed it. These early achievements inspired me to
keep on running to see how far I could go.”
“I eventually realised I was stronger at long distance marathons, so I started
entering marathons like the Maritzburg Marathon. Then in 2006 I ran my first
Comrades, which is still my best Comrades to date, not only from a time
perspective, but the whole experience is imprinted on my memory – the vibe and
the crowds along the route were amazing. This cemented my love of Comrades.
The following year’s run was definitely my worst Comrades. I realised that year how
important proper attire is in an ultra-marathon. When you don’t have the proper
shoes, Comrades is a long, painful journey!”
While many runners have cupboards bursting with supplements, Lawrence has
only recently started using a supplement. “I’ve never really felt the need for
supplements, plus it’s an expensive habit,” he says with a smile, “but after all my
years of running, I realised my knees and joints probably needed some support. In
February this year, I was given THRESHHold at a race and I haven’t stopped using
it since. I’ve had fewer injuries, am a lot stronger overall and my knees and joints
are much happier.”
“Also, I take it before races because it also helps prevent cramping and pain, so my
races this year have been a lot smoother. I’ve had better times this year, especially
in the Mandela Marathon. So yes, finally I’m a convert to the benefits of taking a
good supplement! And I particularly like that THRESHHold is natural. I feel more
comfortable putting something natural in my body every day.”
Motivation to Keep Going
When asked what keeps him running year after year, Lawrence says his answer is
probably the same as many other runners: “Running is a passion because it feels
like it gives us life, but it also hones your focus and discipline, which benefits the
rest of your life. You see the rewards and improvements in your performance by
staying dedicated to your training programme, and once you see how far you have
come each year, you’re driven to keep pushing yourself to see how much better
you can be. No matter how many times you’ve run it, every race each year is a new
challenge, because you are better than the year before.”
In 2007 Lawrence also made his first of three trips to Cape Town to run the Old
Mutual Two Oceans Marathon. “Everything I’d heard about this race was true,” he
smiles. “The route and scenery is extremely beautiful, and the crowds of spectators
are so vocal and supportive all the way. It was a great experience to visit Cape
Town for the first time, too.”
Now he has the opportunity to finally tick off another travel dream as he will take
his place on the starting line of this year’s Soweto Marathon, as well as visiting
Johannesburg and Soweto for the first time. “Through running you meet new
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