Meet your 2024 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon Bus Drivers!

With the 2024 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon just around the corner, the race is about more than individual achievement – it’s about coming together as a community to support one another. 

This year’s marathon pacesetters aren’t just there to keep you on track; they’re dedicated runners who believe in lifting everyone to reach their goals. Their role goes beyond setting the pace – it’s about giving back to the running community, and creating an experience where every runner feels motivated and inspired.

Whether you’re targeting a personal best or focused on finishing strong, these pacers will be your companions on the course. Find your bus below and get to know the runners who will guide and encourage you throughout the race, offering support to all as we race toward Africa’s first Abbotts World Major! 

Your 3h00 Bus Drivers – Bongani Bilankulu, Mduduzi “Mdurango” Nhleko & Paul Thompson – BATCH B

Bongani Bilankulu is on a mission to help more South African runners break the sub-3-hour barrier. With a sharp eye for pacing, he’s seen many runners with the potential miss their mark, and he’s determined to change that. Having paced this category since 2020, Bongani finds nothing more rewarding than seeing runners not only achieve their goals but surpass them in later races. His marathon PB at Berlin in 2023 and seven finishes at the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon are testament to his own discipline. Bongani’s approach is all about preparation – from staying fueled to strategizing pacing around the route profile – and he motivates runners to dig deep when the going gets tough, reminding them of the work they have done to make it to race day.

Driven by his passion for helping others, Mduduzi “Mdurango” Nhleko, started pacing officially in 2024 after years of unofficial support for runners. His goal? To guide runners toward their personal bests and share in the excitement of the race and the joy of the triumphs. The most rewarding part for him is watching runners reach their milestones, whether it’s their first marathon or a long-desired PB. With a deep understanding of pacing and race-day strategies, Mduduzi keeps his runners motivated through personal stories, steady encouragement, and expert pacing adjustments when needed. Trust is key for Mduduzi – he’s got the experience, and if you stick with him, you’re in good hands!

Paul “Smoothdice” Thompson began running 9 years ago after a life-changing motorcycle accident gave him “a second chance in life.” He is driven by the chance he was given to live fully. Now pacing in 2024, Paul finds immense joy in helping others achieve their running goals. His pacing highlights include a sub-35-minute 10km, and he believes in the power of persistence and finding joy in the sport, calling his mindset an “attitude of gratitude”. With a focus on consistency and encouragement, Paul ensures that every runner with him feels supported and motivated throughout the race.

Your 3h10 Bus Driver – Tebogo Rangoato – BATCH C

Tebogo Rangoata began pacing in 2022, inspired by his experience in the 400km Icons Journey marathon, a charity event. He finds the most rewarding aspect of pacing to be helping runners achieve their goals, especially seeing their joy at the finish line. Memorable moments include passengers thanking him for helping them reach their personal bests at events like the Tshwane North Ultra Marathon and Elands Marathon. To handle pacing pressure, he shares his race strategy with runners so that they can make informed decisions about whether to stick with his bus, and adjusts as needed to help those struggling. His advice to runners is not to panic, trust their training and the bus driver, focusing on race execution and the experience of the day.

Your 3h20 Bus Drivers – Joe Faber & Mojalefa Lebea – BATCH D

Your 3h30 Bus Drivers – Josep Rubio Palau & Tinus Olivier – BATCH E

Josep Rubio, a maxillofacial surgeon from Barcelona and a seasoned marathoner, brings a wealth of experience to the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon. With 26 marathons and 3 Ironmans completed, Josep sees pacing as a chance to give back to the running community, providing guidance and support based on his own journey. He advises runners to maintain a comfortable & steady pace early on, stay hydrated, and resist the urge to speed up too soon to avoid hitting a wall at the 35km mark. Josep’s approach combines strategic pacing with a focus on enjoying the race, ensuring a memorable experience for all.

Tinus Olivier has been running for over 30 years, and after achieving his own goals and receiving guidance and support, he now focuses on giving back to the running community in these same ways. With just over a year of pacing experience, Tinus finds immense reward in witnessing runners’ joy and fulfillment when they reach their dreams. Memorable moments for him include heartfelt thanks from a junior runner’s father and overall, the lasting friendships formed along the way. Tinus approaches pacing with a sense of pride in his role, and encourages runners to stick to their routine, avoid trying new things on race day, and maintain faith in their pacesetter!

Your 3h40 Bus Drivers – Lizo Siko & Mkhululi Jack – BATCH F

Lizo Siko made his pacesetting debut in 2022. He believes there is no greater feeling than achieving a PB. Running is Lizo’s favourite activity, and he finds it useful as a way to be present in a busy world. Accumulating personal records and triumphing over targets is his greatest feeling. As for his bus, Lizo tells us that you’ll be cruising, enjoying some maskandi music and partaking in the occasional chanting.

Your 3h45 Bus Drivers – Sphiwe Tsolanku & Charl Krieger – BATCH G

Sphiwe Tsolanku, inspired by his own experience as a slower runner striving to break the 4-hour mark, began pacing in 2022 after joining a sub-4 bus that helped him achieve his goal. His decision to become a bus driver came from wanting to help others in the same way. A unique and memorable highlight for him was acting as the assistant to the sub-9 bus at the Comrades Marathon, ensuring they delivered the group on time, along with his personal best at Kaapsehoop Marathon while pacing his first fast bus. Sphiwe distinguishes himself by sharing his detailed race plan early with his group and motivating them by repeatedly promising to stay with them to the finish line. His advice goes beyond race-day tips: he encourages runners to thoroughly understand their own strengths and the course beforehand, set achievable goals, and, most importantly, enjoy the race for a smoother experience.

Your 3h50 Bus Drivers – Youssef Kanouni – BATCH H

Your 4h00 Bus Driver – Maredi Mphahlele – BATCH I

Your 4h00 Bus Drivers – Shaun Maregele & Nduduzo Sibiya – BATCH J

Nduduzo Sibiya began his running career after being encouraged to sign up for a 10km race in 2016. He enjoyed the finish line feeling so much that his running career began immediately. His favourite aspect of race running and pace-setting is the race day vibes! The energy and excitement are palpable to him. A memorable moment for him was assisting his training partner to run a sub 4:00 marathon in 2023, his strategy drawing the attention of other runners who approached him to ask for his assistance and encouraged him to become a bus driver. Nduduzo emphasises the importance of staying calm and focused, sticking to the strategy whilst keeping morale high. His advice to runners on race day? Don’t focus on the entire task at hand. Break it into manageable pieces and stay close to the bus to avoid getting caught up in the start line rush of speed.

Your 4h00 Bus Driver – Smash Ramoshaba – BATCH K

Smash Ramoshaba has been pacing for three years, inspired by seeing fellow runners struggle to achieve qualifying times and committing to helping as many as possible. He finds the most rewarding aspect of pacing to be the joy of watching runners cross the finish line. A standout moment for him was at the 2024 Wally Howard race, where a prayer he led in the bus was so uplifting it was shared on TikTok. Despite running while sick, he helped several runners qualify after they failed at Loskop, driven by their tears and determination. To handle the pressure of pacing, Smash relies on prayer and singing to lift spirits and distract from the pain. He encourages runners by reminding them that any challenge, like hills, is mental, and with faith, all things are possible. His advice to those following the pace bus: “We run for Jesus,” and he sees himself as leading runners to the promised land—the finish line.

Your 4h00 Bus Driver – Tavon Petersen – BATCH L

Tavon Petersen, a pacer for two years now, was inspired by his love of running and helping others achieve their goals. The most rewarding part for him is seeing the joy on runners’ faces when they hit their targets. A memorable experience was pacing through tough weather, where the camaraderie and electric energy within the group helped them push through, with some runners tearing up as they finished. Tavon handles pacing pressure by staying positive and motivating the group with smiles and chants. His key advice: stick to tried and tested gear and nutrition, get good rest, and trust your training. He specifically recommends staying with the pace group until 30 kilometres before considering breaking away.

Your 4h10 Bus Driver – Dorian Esau – BATCH M

Dorian Esau, a passionate pacesetter for the past 5 years, thrives on helping others achieve their running goals. He finds deep satisfaction in seeing runners hit their targets after years of trying, sharing their tears of joy as they cross the finish line. Known for his vibrant energy, Dorian uses a Bluetooth speaker to play motivational music and chants like “POWER” and “ENERGY” to keep spirits high and the pace steady. His bus, affectionately called the #jolbus, promises a fun and supportive race experience. His motto is #stiekuitjoubangding, which is his way of saying “do not fear when your jol bus driver is near.”

Your 4h15 Bus Drivers – Tumelo “DJ Nyeps” Motshabi & Enrico Chinniah – BATCH N

Tumelo Motshabi, also known as DJ Nyeps, was inspired to become a pacer during the 2022 Comrades Marathon, where, as he assisted a sub-10h30 bus driver, he fell in love with pacing. For him, the most rewarding aspect is mastering the race’s route profile and effectively sharing it with his passengers, ensuring they are well-prepared and informed. His favourite moments are always crossing the finish line on time, surrounded by triumphant runners. Handling the pressure of staying on pace, turning bad days into good ones and doubts into confidence. Tumelo emphasises the importance of knowing the route and pacing charts to guide runners effectively. His advice to those joining the bus: choose your pacer wisely, and trust the journey as you race together to make history.

Enrico Chinniah, relatively new to pacing but already a standout, started his running journey in 2022 and has quickly racked up impressive achievements, including completing the Two Oceans Ultra and Comrades Marathons. For Enrico, the reward of pace setting outweighs the stress, as he finds immense satisfaction in helping others achieve their goals. His dedication and consistency shine through in his approach, and he is eagerly anticipating guiding runners at the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon 2024

Your 4h20 Bus Drivers – Natasha Felix & John Legoale – BATCH O

​​Natasha Felix, also known as TashDaRunner, became a pacesetter to provide support for female athletes, a role she felt was lacking in her own running experience. Natasha has found it immensely gratifying when runners who, after crossing the finish line, have shared how her pacing helped them hit their goals. To handle the pressure, Natasha relies on her personal mantra of commitment and the motivation from her. On race day, she adheres to proven routines and shares her pacing strategy with runners, as well as asking herself and others, “how hungry are you to achieve this goal?”. Her advice to those following the pace bus is to train at their goal pace and familiarise themselves with the pacesetter to better match their efforts.

John Legoale’s journey as a pacer began with his club’s long runs, where he would encourage slower runners to keep pushing. This passion led him to pacing the sub-4:50 bus, helping novices qualify for races like Comrades and Two Oceans over the past three years. For him, the most gratifying part of pacing is connecting with runners from all walks of life, listening to their stories, and supporting them through their race experiences. One of his most memorable moments was delivering his first sub-4:50 bus right on time, with the joy of his passengers marking it as a special milestone for him. To handle the pressure of staying on pace, he focuses on mental resilience and discipline, using strategies like the run-walk method to conserve energy. His advice to runners is to stay aware of their form, be patient, and focus on their own race without worrying about others.

Your 4h20 Bus Drivers – Mfundo Dlamini & Sinethemba Masana – BATCH P

Driven by a passion for running with a purpose, Mfundo Dlamini is passionate about the role of pacing for the reason of impacting the running community and racing for a cause bigger than himself. For Mfundo, the greatest reward is helping runners realise their true potential, often by providing that crucial mental boost. Memorable moments include pacing first-timers and witnessing their joy as they exceed their own expectations. Mfundo manages pacing pressure by focusing on average pace and balancing the needs of the runners with the overall goal. Communication is key, with a clear plan and engaging conversations to keep spirits high. His advice for runners? Be prepared to enjoy the journey and remember that fun is a core part of the experience.

Sinethemba Masana is relatively new to pacing, but with running experience since 2014, Sinethemba is dedicated to helping others achieve their race goals this year, putting personal aspirations aside for the cause. With a focus on thorough training, Sinethemba ensures a controlled race strategy, based on a comfortable pace and reliability. Her race day preparations include carrying a whistle to keep the energy up, and keep her bus awake! For those in the 4:20 bus, Sinethemba advises to trust the process and stick with the bus for the entire journey to the finish line.

Your 4h30 Bus Drivers – Lucas Seleka & Petrus Khoza – BATCH Q

Lucas Seleka has dedicated nearly seven years to guiding runners through marathons, and has been a runner himself since 2007. Inspired by seeing the struggles of fellow runners, he finds the most reward in talking, guiding, and encouraging with music and a tambourine rhythm from start to finish. His advice includes running hills wisely, checking in with each other, and singing along to keep spirits high.

Petrus Khoza, inspired by pacers like Coach Madoko and Coach Linda, transitioned to pacing in 2022 after achieving his own personal bests and seeking a new challenge. He finds it rewarding to help runners achieve their goals, especially in major races and qualifiers, and enjoys becoming a familiar figure in the running community. A standout moment for him was pacing his largest group ever at Comrades 2024, a feeling reminiscent of his success at the 2023 Wally Hayward Marathon. His race strategy involves meticulous pre-race planning, including pacing strategies and using tools like a tambourine for rhythm. He advises runners to choose their pace bus wisely by training for the target pace and avoiding starting too fast. Petrus’s motto is: “I bring the Flag and the Tambourine, and you bring your fitness and we create Magic and Memories.”

Your 4h30 Bus Drivers – JP Juries & Veruschke Juries – BATCH R

Husband and wife duo, JP and Veruschke Juries, are excited to pace together at the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon, blending their shared passion for running with a commitment to guiding others. JP’s journey began over a decade ago, and his dedication to pacing is driven by a desire to support fellow runners and help them achieve their race goals. Veruschke has also been pacing for many years, nine to be exact, and brings with her wisdom, energy and enthusiasm to their joint effort.

Together, they emphasise the importance of clear communication and strategic pacing. They plan to keep their group engaged with motivational support, practical advice on tackling race challenges, and a friendly, encouraging atmosphere. Their combined experience allows them to offer valuable insights and maintain a steady pace, ensuring their passengers have a memorable and successful marathon experience. Whether it’s navigating tough hills or celebrating milestones, JP and Veruschke are dedicated to making every moment count for their runners.

Your 4h40 Bus Drivers – Tumo Mokhatla & Samkelo Sithole – BATCH S

Tumo Mokhatla was inspired to become a marathon pacer after experiencing the support of a pace bus during his first Two Oceans Marathon in 2015. He was captivated by the help it provided to him and began pacing in 2020, finding joy in guiding runners to their goals. The most rewarding part for him is witnessing the diverse reactions of runners, from elation to tears of joy, as they cross the finish line. A memorable moment for Tumo was during the 2019 Cape Town Marathon, where an injury led him to pace a Sub-4:50 bus, which eventually helped him transition to official pacing in 2020. To handle pacing pressure, he trains with the bus pace in advance and follows detailed pace charts. He also adapts to challenging routes by familiarising himself with the terrain and adjusting the pace accordingly. Tumo advises runners to focus on their own running while he manages the pace, and encourages them to bring energy and enthusiasm to the race.

Samkelo SIthole became a bus driver after realising he could help others achieve the fulfilment he got from achieving his goals, whether that be a PB, qualifier, or better seeding. With three years of bus driving behind him, he is continuously motivated by the joy and satisfaction that his role in the race can bring to runners. He finds the most reward in watching runners overcome the challenges of a race, persevering till the end and finishing strong and jubilant. Samkelo knows that every race brings its own excitement, and he expects the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon will bring even more memorable moments for him and the passengers on his bus. To manage the pressure of pacing, he focuses on keeping his bus lively and engaged to keep all the athletes motivated. Race day tips include: focusing on mental and physical preparation, which he believes is “half the battle won.” With this preparation in place, Samkelo insists that sticking to the race plan, being disciplined and using water stations wisely will carry you the rest of the way. 

Your 4h45 Bus Drivers – Taariq Peterson & Renee Cupido – BATCH T

Taariq Petersen, from Durbanville Athletics Club, has been running since 2012 and recently started pacing officially with Western Province Athletics. Inspired by helping friends and clubmates achieve their goals, Taariq finds fulfillment in contributing to their successes, feeling as if he’s achieved a personal best with each of his passenger’s accomplishments. A standout moment for Taariq was training a group of 20 runners from his club to a sub-4:45 marathon in 2023, which was crucial for qualifying for major races. He values clear communication and strategic pacing, using markers and transparency to build confidence. His top tips include carrying personal nutrition early on and partnering with others to stay motivated. Taariq encourages runners to stay smart, manage energy wisely, and enjoy the marathon’s supportive atmosphere.

Your 4h50 Bus Drivers – Ashraf Orrie & Ebrahim “Magic” Abrahams – BATCH U

Ashraf Orrie, who began pacesetting after Covid, fell in love with the role and made it a permanent part of his running routine. He finds the greatest joy in helping others, particularly first-time marathoners, reach their goals. A highlight of his pacing career has been being invited to pace the London Marathon. Ashraf relies on his experience to manage the pressure and uses regular walk breaks to support runners who are struggling. Known for his continuous encouragement, he maintains a lively atmosphere by talking and motivating throughout the race. His key advice for runners is to trust both the pacing process and the pacer they choose.

​​Ebrahim Abrahams, known as “The Magic Bus,” has been a pacer since 2016. He is driven by the joy of helping others reach their goals. Starting out by assisting friends with marathon training, he became passionate about pacing and guiding runners through tough races. Ebrahim finds it extremely rewarding to see runners’ pride and joy when they accomplish things they have worked so hard for. Leading novice runners through the 2016 Two Oceans and Comrades marathons remains a standout memory for him, where teamwork made the experience unforgettable. Ebrahim stresses the importance of having a race plan and clear communication. His race-day tips include taking walk breaks early, staying hydrated, and trusting the plan. He encourages runners to choose a realistic goal, familiarise themselves with the pace, and trust in their pacer’s guidance while enjoying the race.

Your 5h00 Bus Drivers – Melanie Vollenhoven & Phaphama “Papic” Malusi – BATCH V

Melanie Vollenhoven, new to pacing with about a year of experience, is excited to make the Cape Town Marathon a memorable event for first-time runners. Her inspiration comes from helping others through the highs and lows of marathon running, ensuring they achieve their goals and earn that special medal. Melanie finds pacing deeply rewarding, creating lifelong memories and friendships along the way.

Her strategy involves even pacing with walk breaks to keep all runners comfortable. She emphasises enjoying the race day vibe and staying calm. For practical tips, Melanie is a big fan of anti-chafe cream, sticking to familiar nutrition, wearing a cap to stay cool, and shades to hide the pain. Join “Mel’s Bus” for a fun, energetic experience with bright socks, selfies, chatter, and, of course, medals!

Phaphama Malusi, known as Papic, was inspired to pace by the camaraderie and support he received when starting out in running. The most rewarding part of pacing for him is helping runners manage their pace and achieve their goals, especially by balancing fast and slow segments of the race. His favourite part of last year’s race was motivating fellow Eastern Cape runners during the Cape Town Marathon. His pacing strategy involves staying fit, managing the pace with confidence, and keeping communication open with all runners. He advises to be well-prepared for race conditions and to stay patient and persistent for the best results.

Your 5h00 Bus Drivers – Mindlo Mdhluli & Mkokeli Malghas – BATCH W

With 8 years of pacing experience, Mindlo Mdhluli is gearing up for his 4th Sanlam Cape Town Marathon and 2nd time pacing this event. Inspired by his own struggle to finish under 5 hours for a Two Oceans qualifier, Mindlo hopped onto a bus in order to qualify that day. He is now dedicated to helping others achieve their marathon goals. He finds the most reward in seeing runners achieve their targets and relishes the high-fives at the finish line. Memorable moments include pacing his first CTM in 2018 and receiving a pacing selection for the Amsterdam Marathon in 2022. To manage the pressure of pacing, he breaks the race into smaller segments, frequently updates his pacing charts, and celebrates milestones. Aiden advises runners to stick to their race plan, manage their nutrition, and trust the pacing process for a successful marathon experience.

Your 5h30 Bus Driver – Siyabulela Sokomani – BATCH X

Your 6h00 Bus Driver – Peter Taylor – BATCH Y

Peter Taylor, known as “Zola” or “Barefoot,” has been running marathons barefoot since 1984, when he finished his first marathon after deciding to go shoeless after 30 km. Over the years, he’s completed more than 100 marathons, including 7 Comrades, all barefoot. He’s also raised funds for SA Guide Dogs for the Blind by running the Ultra Two Oceans Marathon barefoot, carrying a red rucksack. Three years ago, he became a tail-end pace setter, helping runners stay motivated and reach their goals with chants such as, “Hou Bene Hou” & “Vasbyt”. Known for his humour and unique style, Peter enjoys sharing his knowledge and encouraging others to keep going, no matter the challenges.

Your 6h30 Bus Drivers – Shahieda Thungo, Bothwell Matewe, Diana Jansen & Magdaleen Kemp – BATCH Z

Bothwell Matewe was inspired by the supportive guidance he received from experienced runners early in his own journey. His favourite race moment was assisting a runner with significant health challenges, leading to an emotional finish and ongoing connection. Bothwell handles pacing pressure by maintaining a faster pace initially, ensuring later sections are manageable. On race day, he motivates runners with personalised encouragement and assigns timekeeping responsibilities. His advice to runners is to trust their training, communicate with the pacer, and ask questions as needed, “ask, ask, ask!”.

Inspired by legendary pace setters Mr. Vlam Pieterse and Shahieda Thungo, Diana Jansen has been pacing since 2018. After experiencing the immense value a good pacesetter can bring to a race, she was determined to be one herself. She treasures the moments of guiding runners to achieve what they once thought impossible, and finds immense satisfaction in the finish line celebrations. To handle the pressure of pacing, Diana encourages runners to buddy up and focus on small, manageable goals like reaching landmarks or counting posts. She emphasises the importance of a solid race strategy, avoiding a fast start, and keeping the atmosphere light and positive. For those following her pace bus, Diana advises trusting the process and staying motivated, no matter the challenges faced along the way.

Magdaleen Kemp is energised by the vibrant atmosphere of the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon and loves the diversity of runners on her bus. Her passion for pacing is fueled by helping first-time marathoners and making their race day unforgettable. The greatest reward for her is witnessing runners achieve their goals and sharing in their joy with high-fives and heartfelt hugs. Memorable moments include the camaraderie with runners and co-drivers, as well as the grateful messages she receives post-race. Magdaleen handles the pressure of pacing by relying on detailed charts and her genuine care for people, keeping the vibe light and encouraging. Her race day tips include pumping up with favourite songs, preparing gear the night before, and staying fueled and positive. Her mantra: “Hop on & hold on! You got this, buddy!”