Well-known Vhembe long-distance runner Jane Mudau (51) won the masters category of the Two Oceans marathon in Cape Town on Saturday. She finished the 56 km in 4:16:36.

Jane, a mother of three, is a resident of Maniini village near Thohoyandou. She started to participate in long-distance running in 1997, under the leadership of the late Mr Muthivhi. “I feel very honoured to receive top honours in this race, and I am happy for the support from the people of Limpopo.” She added that she was ready to participate in this year’s Comrades Marathon.

The MEC for Sport, Arts and Culture, Ms Merriam Ramadwa, said the achievement should be inspirational to young people, especially those in rural areas. “This achievement of Mudau makes a simple statement that Limpopo has talent and our athletes can compete anywhere in the world,” she said.

“What you have achieved does not come cheaply, but through commitment. Your success is our success,” the MEC said. She said Mudau was not only a hero in Vhembe and Limpopo, but also in South Africa. “Young people of our province must emulate what Mudau has achieved,” she said.