By Becker Semela:
The South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Free State gave a warm send-off to its provincial team that will take part in the 2026 Comrades Marathon in KwaZulu-Natal on Sunday.
The ceremony was held at Mountains View Inn in Harrismith, east of Free State, on Thursday and brought together police management, runners, sponsors and members of the Free State Marathon Association (FSMA).
The event was aimed at encouraging and supporting the athletes as they prepare for one of the world’s toughest ultramarathons.
Guests were welcomed by Colonel Siphe Tyu, representing the Thabo Mofutsanyana District Commissioner.
Major-General Len Singh, Deputy Provincial Commissioner for Support Services, highlighted the importance of sport within SAPS and said activities such as marathon running help to build fitness, discipline, teamwork and resilience among members.
“The more we encourage fitness in the organisation, the better the policing,” he said.
Old Mutual representative Dawn Senkwane also shared words of encouragement, urging the runners to stay focused and determined as they prepare for the demanding race.
Free State Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant-General Thabang Lesia praised the athletes for their commitment and hard work and encouraged them to represent SAPS and the Free State with pride.
He also shared a message from former Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant-General Baile Motswenyane, who has pledged her support and plans to attend the Comrades Marathon to cheer on the Free State team.
“Today we celebrate each one of you for reaching this point and we congratulate you, and, I also want all first-time comrades runners to believe in themselves and trust the preparation they have put in over the months,” Lesia said.
He said on behalf of the police management in the Free State, he wished the 21 runners a safe, memorable and injury-free race.
“Go out there, give your best, make Free State proud and do not lose strength – ska fela matla,” said Lesia.
The Commissioner concluded that the ceremony highlighted SAPS Free State’s commitment to employee wellness and its support for members who excel in sport while serving their communities.
With the backing of SAPS management, colleagues, partners, and the wider Free State community, the provincial team now heads to the 2026 Comrades Marathon ready to take on the challenge.
As a token of support, runners received gifts to assist them with their preparations and participation in the marathon.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Colonel Julia Phiri, Deputy Chairperson of the SAPS Free State Athletics Club. She thanked SAPS management, sponsors, organisers, and all stakeholders who helped make the send-off a success – @NewsSA_Online
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