Meet the Runner Awards™ Adjudication Committee
The integrity and credibility of the Runner Awards™ are upheld by a distinguished committee of road running leaders, coaches, officials, and community builders. Each member brings a wealth of experience and an unwavering passion for the sport. Together, they ensure that every nomination, shortlisting, and decision reflects fairness, transparency, and the true spirit of South African road running excellence.
Mr. Moses Gazu
Founder of Moses Gazu Legacy PTY LTD and Ulundi Striders, is a dedicated runner with five Comrades finishes (including two silver medals) and an inspiring mentor within the KZN running community.
Mr. Prodigal Khumalo
A professional ultra-distance runner, two-time Comrades Marathon gold medalist and double UTCT 100km champion, is the founder of Orcas Running Academy where he coaches and mentors young athletes.
Mr. Fano Mtezihlupha Zungu
A veteran runner since 1985 with 29 Comrades finishes and founder of Green Legends South Africa, is also president of iThemba Athletic Club and brings decades of leadership and dedication to the running community.
Mr. Mzwamandla Zondi
An award-winning ILANGA sports journalist and passionate runner since 1994, has represented KZN across multiple disciplines and completed six Comrades Marathons, combining professional excellence with deep commitment to the sport.
Dr. Nonkululeko Gcabashe
A UKZN lecturer and former chairperson of Chillie Running Club, is a healthcare professional and dedicated social runner whose leadership in race organisation and advocacy for inclusive running environments has made her a prominent figure in the KZN running community.
Mr Melusi "the Shepherd" Chitake
A specialist gait assessor at Durban Runner with 17 years’ experience and certified in biomechanics analysis, is a seasoned runner of 26 years, president of Rainbow Running Club, and a leader in the Vuka Morning Run Crew.
Mr Mthoko Khuzwayo
Founder of AmaRavens Athletic Club and the annual Best of the Best Marathon, is a dedicated runner who has completed four Comrades Marathons—earning two silver medals since starting his journey in 2018.
Dr Kevin Hendrikse
A long-standing member and former chairperson of Stella Athletic Club, is Race Director of the Stella Royal and a Comrades Green Number and Two Oceans Blue Number holder, bringing over 20 years of leadership and achievement in South African road running.
Mr. Don K Masinga
A businessman, philanthropist, and founder of the Gijima Community, with 15 Comrades and 15 Two Oceans marathons completed, and is widely respected for nurturing running talent and promoting the sport as a powerful lifestyle and social tool.
Mr. Ndukenhle Zulu (Coach Mageba)
A seasoned runner with 11 Comrades and 8 Two Oceans marathons, former chairperson of EThekwini Athletic Club, and a respected coach, race director, and advisor whose leadership has shaped clubs, races, and runners across South Africa.
Mr. Mike 'BigMike'Nzimade
A seasoned sports journalist and Vuma FM presenter, is the producer of South Africa’s biggest sports show (MSW) and founder of the SA Men’s Run, dedicated to raising awareness against gender-based violence.
Ms. Nontuthuko Mashimane
A Comrades Marathon Association Board Member, elite athlete manager, multi-sport athlete, and qualified health practitioner, brings holistic leadership and decades of experience in endurance sport, wellness, and community impact.