ROAD RUNNING
From Crutches & Crohn ’ s to Comrades !
Debbie Ivins coming in to finish the 2024 Comrades Marathon
From battling various health conditions to conquering the Comrades Marathon , my journey has been nothing short of extraordinary . What began as a search for healing through running evolved into a profound passion that transformed my life . Despite facing severe health challenges , including Crohn ’ s disease and Osteoporosis , and the physical toll it took on my body , I never lost hope . My recent return to the Comrades Marathon , after six years of struggle , was a testament to perseverance and the power of community . This article chronicles my path from despair to triumph , and the incredible support I ’ ve received along the way . – BY DEBBIE IVINS
My love for running emerged from a place of pain , as I struggled with infertility and miscarriages that left me feeling broken . And so , with each year , I set myself new challenges as a way to climb out of the
Words to live by , says Debbie dark place I was in . After trying various activities for a few years , I decided to enter the world of sports as my next challenge . I had never been a natural athlete growing up , so this was completely out of character for me , but I decided to give it a try , and it wasn ’ t long before the running bug bit . It became more than just a hobby ; it became a journey toward better health , fulfilment , and emotional wellbeing .
My newfound love for running introduced me to a lifestyle and a community of people I never knew I needed . I have found that one of the best things about running is the incredible people it has brought into my life . Running strengthens friendships in ways I never expected , and as runners , we support each other , help one another to stay motivated , and encourage each other to share a positive outlook on life .
Ultimate Human Race
Growing up in KZN , I have fond memories of watching Comrades Marathon runners pass through our neighbourhood . I ’ d stand outside in the early hours , wearing my gown and slippers , cheering them on . But I never imagined that one day , I ’ d be a part of that group . However , after a year of running , I set myself the goal of completing the Comrades . Finishing the race would be an amazing achievement , one that I just knew I had to try !
In my debut Comrades in 2012 , I crossed the finish line with just 13 minutes to spare . It was a challenge like no other – not just on the day itself , but in the months of training and sacrifice leading up to it . Preparing physically and mentally for the 12-hour journey ahead was intense . It wasn ’ t just the distance I had to conquer ; I had to overcome my own physical and mental limits .
Images : Marathon Photos & courtesy Debbie Ivins
40 ISSUE 171 | www . modernathlete . co . za