COMRADES winner Tete Dijana was given a hero’s welcome in his home town of Mahikeng in North West.
On Thursday, 1 September, he and other runners celebrated his achievement by ululating and singing. Tete, a security guard, secured the R260 000 prize money. He also received a R100 000 from his employer, the Mi7 National Group. The North West MEC for Arts, Culture, Recreation and Sport, Virginia Tlhapi also said the department would give him R100 000.
Magdeline Mokgele, Dijana’s neighbour from Signal Hill, said: “He is a humble soul with great dignity.” Tete’s uncle, Thabiso Dijana, said: “Tete went through hardships in his life and he was devastated after losing his mother. So, this should give him great comfort.
“Tete is always determined. Even when it was raining he went out and trained. We are not surprised to see him winning the marathon.” He said they’d continue to support him in every journey he undertakes.
This is only Tete’s second attempt at the race.
“I’m happy to be crowned the Comrades Marathon champion.” He said he’d continue with his job as a security guard at the North West University. “I thank everyone who’s supported me including my employer and fellow runners.” He said he visited his former school to show appreciation to his teachers. Lapologang High teacher Olivier Pule applauded Dijana.
