The Khoroni Hotel and Resort in Thohoyandou, which has been motivating a disabled long-distance runner by sponsoring him over the years, got a big surprise when he in return presented them with a big framed thank you message as a way of acknowledging their contribution.

Well-traveled and well-known disabled long-distance runner Rofhiwa Manwadu (24) presented the management of the hotel with a token of appreciation last week, during a special function which was also attended by Cllr Livhuawani Nethononda of the Thulamela Municipality. The function was held at the hotel’s premises.

“This is my special way of saying thank you to a company and people who have been there for me whenever I needed them.  These people are making my dreams come true. Without them, I would not be where I am today,” he said. Rofhiwa said since their relationship started some four years ago, he has been the one receiving all the time, without giving back or saying thank you to the management. “This is the time to say thank you,” he said.

“I have never shown any appreciation to these kindhearted people who have adopted me and have treated me like their own son,” he said. Rofhiwa said he had been thinking of surprising his sponsors for a long time, but did not know how he should do it. “This is the only way I can show my delight in what they are doing for me,” he said.

He also has high praises for his manager, a well-known sports administrator attached to the Thulamela Municipality, Mr Elvis Booi, who is like a father to him.