Before serving her first cup of coffee each morning, Ningy had already crushed her 20km training run in preparation for the Comrades. And when race day came, not only did she smash it, but she achieved a personal best and earned the sweetest, joy-filled celebration from her colleagues.
Durban, South Africa (29 June 2026) – Regular patrons of a Durban coffee shop, the Fat Frog Kitchen, are likely familiar with the face of humble staff member Ningy. While many know her for her welcoming smile and readiness to take their orders, few know that before sunrise, she would regularly run 20km to work – opening the shop at 6:30 am and working a full day, all in preparation for the Comrades Marathon.
Ningy was one of the thousands of athletes who ran the gruelling route from Durban to Pietermaritzburg earlier this month. Not only did she conquer it, but she also achieved a personal best, crossing the finish line at 10:56:24.
“Most people only see race day. We saw the sacrifice. The discipline. The quiet determination,” the coffee shop shared.
To celebrate the incredible achievement of one of their own, the team posted a heartwarming video showering Ningy with cake, cheers, and a whole lot of love.
View this post on Instagram
The footage captured the overjoyed staff singing and dancing as Ningy walked into the café, before she excitedly joined in on her own victory party.
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Their gesture was the sweetest, and their joy was infectious beyond the screen, with many social media users congratulating Ningy:
“Ag man. This literally made me cry!! Well done beautiful lady! What an achievement!! You are an inspiration. And what a beautiful support team,” commented Rosslyn Rich.
Grant Matkovich also wrote:
“Congratulations! Lots of sacrifices go into getting to race day, but I’m sure the support from Fat Frog and all the staff made her journey easier. Well done to her and fat frog.”
From her daily commitment of running 20km every morning before work to conquering another Comrades Marathon, Ningy’s achievement is no small feat. The team’s celebration was more than fitting, rightfully applauding her as the absolute star she is!
Sources: Fat Frog Kitchen
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