Modern Athlete Magazine Issue 59, June 2014 | Page 50

Race Report

Shining in London
Image: Courtesy Virgin Money South Africa

In April, Virgin Money South Africa gave
three local athletes a
once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to run the
London Marathon, and for
Siya Mqambeli of Soweto it was a
chance to compete with the world’s best
in one of the world’s most high-profile
running events. – BY LAUREN VAN DER VYVER

H

aving flown in an aeroplane for the first time to get
to London, Siya clocked an impressive 2:29:27 to finish 36th
and first South African in the race. Along with compatriots
Patrick Kanyane (176th in 2:41:36) and Joshua Mathebula
(908th in 3:04:17), he secured his ticket to the UK after
being selected from running clubs around SA on the strength
of their written motivations in a competition sponsored by
Virgin Money SA. The three runners were also kitted out by
adidas.

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ISSUE 59 JUNE 2014 / www.modernathlete.co.za

Siya says he had always dreamed of running in London, but
didn’t have the resources to get there. “I started running in
2010 and knew that this was my chance to run overseas. It
was a great experience, and the crowds were amazing, lining
the route all the way. We also went sightseeing and were
taken to all the famous landmarks, and there was never any
pressure on us on race day– we were just told to have fun!”

Creating an Experience

Heidie Aitken, Brand Manager of Virgin Money SA, explains
the idea behind the initiative: “We decided to offer
opportunities to those who don’t have the resources to get
there. The Expo and city sights were an experience for the
guys – seeing 3D displays, a live interview with David Mutai,
and running alongside the world’s best. The change that can
come as a result of this is momentous.”
Back home, Siya took just three days rest after his London
run before refocusing on preparing for his fourth Comrades
Marathon. “London was just the step up, but Comrades is
another game, and I’m aiming for a sub-6. I always push for
more.”