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Kirsty Coventry
OVER the next few weeks I would like to celebrate and share with you a series focusing on some of my favourite African athletes. In some cases, I have been privileged enough to meet these persons and in others, they are fellow or former athletes whom I admire and have come to respect in their careers.

The first African athlete that I would like to feature is Cuthbert Nyasango, a 32-year-old, marathon runner from Zimbabwe.

Cuthbert came seventh at the London 2012 Olympics. This is a huge success for Zimbabwe and an immense achievement for a marathon runner.

I am not very good at running so when I found out that Cuthbert runs 240km a week, I was filled with pride.

I don’t think I even drive 240km a week.

Cuthbert trains six days a week and goes to church on Sunday (perhaps this is where he gets his strength).

Cuthbert is the first Zimbabwean to run a marathon in under 2 hrs 10 min – setting a new national record.

This is one of his greatest personal achievements and something for which he can be very proud.

I remember cheering for Cuthbert at the London Olympics, I was totally overwhelmed at his sheer determination and the perseverance by which he completed his race.

Cuthbert lives by the important things in life – church, love for his mother, and hard work.

He is an African athlete I respect and admire and I look forward to seeing him go from strength to strength in his career – well done and thank you for the inspiration Cuthbert!

Cuthbert’s next marathon will be on December 7 in Japan and I would like to wish him the best for the next couple of months in training.