Sibusiso Kubheka, a 27-year-old athlete from Xcel Running Club, has made history as the first runner in the world to complete a 100km ultra-marathon in under six hours.
With the timing of 6:04:10, Sorokin, finished third and narrowly deafiting Charlie Lawrence from United States of America, who completed the race at 6:03:47.
Kubheka beat the previous record-holder, Aleksandr Sorokin of Lithuania (6:05:35 in 2023), with a time of 5:59:20 while competing in the Adidas Chasing 100 at Nardo Ring, Italy.
Kubheka Eyes the Comrades Marathon
Kubheka revealed his excitement for future challenges:
“Winning this race means a lot, especially as I started running internationally. Even with stomach issues that made me stop three times during the race, I pushed through, motivated by my coach’s encouragement. I am incredibly grateful to Adidas for their support, without which this achievement wouldn’t have been possible.”
Originally from Loskop, Mtshezi, and raised in Daggakraal, Mpumalanga, Kubheka is already planning for next year:
“I need to rest first and then after, my coach and I will map out my goals for 2026. I have a strong desire to run the Comrades Marathon, which I’ve never done, and we are already planning with my coach, Mabhida.”
Coach Mabhida Praises Kubheka’s Dedication
Xolani Mabhida, Kubheka’s coach, expressed pride but no surprise at the achievement:
“Sibusiso’s success was expected given his dedication and the support from Adidas. His commitment to training for long-distance races, including 21km and 10,000m events, prepared him well. This win is significant for him and for me as his coach.”
Mabhida, known for training elite South African runners like Bongumusa Mthembu, added:
“Beating athletes from Ethiopia and Kenya, countries renowned for long-distance running, highlights his talent. I believe this victory will change his life and attract more sponsorship opportunities.”
Upcoming Races
Kubheka, who has been coached by Mabhida since 2018, will next compete in a 60km ultra-marathon in India this November, as part of his preparation for the Comrades Marathon.