Johannes Mosehla Conquers the Comrades Again at 82-Years-Old

Runner's World Magazine South Africa

At 82 years old, Johannes Moshela conquered the Comrades yet again, defending his title as the oldest person to complete the Ultimate Human Race and inspiring South Africans everywhere!

Limpopo, South Africa (13 June 2024) — Johannes Moshela remains a South African symbol of inspiration for anyone who’s ever thought they were past the expiration date in achieving their goals. Take it from Johannes—the idea that we’re too ‘old’ to do anything is oftentimes nothing more than a myth, and sometimes it’s the myth itself that holds us back far more than our age.

82-year-old Johannes has conquered the Comrades once again as of last weekend—his 11th face-off with the ultimate human race.

Last year the seasoned runner made history by becoming the oldest racer to complete the Comrades at 81 years old, smashing the record that had remained undefeated for decades after it was set by the then-oldest racer and finisher, Wally Hayward, in the late 80s. Then, he conquered the Comrades in a time of 9 hours, 26 minutes and 10 seconds.

You’d be forgiven for thinking Johannes might’ve been ready to hang up his running shoes after making the Comrades history books when he did, but you’d also be wrong.

Johannes defended his record and completed this year’s race; earning him immense respect and praise from runners young and old, near and far.

For many, Johannes is the embodiment of what mind over matter truly means, and a huge source of inspiration for all of us to never underestimate ourselves no matter what society tells us.