A-Team Athletes Shine as Icon’s Journey
Marathon Begins in Alice
Alice Road Runners Club Celebrates Marathon Debutants and
Community Spirit
Alice/eDikeni, Eastern Cape – 14 July 2026
The Alice Road Runners Club has congratulated its A-Team athletes following an
inspiring Day 1 of The Icon’s Journey Marathon, which began in Alice/eDikeni on
Sunday. The eight-day, 400-kilometre marathon officially started at the University of
Fort Hare, bringing together runners and community members to celebrate
endurance, determination and unity.
As the local hosts of the opening stage, the Alice Road Runners Club welcomed
participants to Alice and joined in the ceremonial countdown that marked the
beginning of the marathon. Junior and senior athletes proudly represented the club,
reinforcing its motto, “Wayiqala Uzoyigqiba” (“What you start, you will finish”).
First Marathon Milestones
The club paid special tribute to two senior athletes, Nonceba “Ncesh” Tenza and
Tony “ITshitshi” Tyafa, who successfully completed their first-ever marathon. Their
achievement reflects months of dedication, discipline and perseverance and serves
as an inspiration to aspiring runners within the community.
The club believes that initiatives such as The Icon’s Journey Marathon encourage
individuals to challenge themselves, build resilience and discover their potential
through sport.
Best Wishes for the Journey Ahead
As the marathon continues, the Alice Road Runners Club has extended its best
wishes to all participants completing the remaining stages of the 400-kilometre
journey. The club expressed confidence that the runners will continue to
demonstrate courage, determination and the spirit of perseverance that the event
represents.
Investing in Community Sport
The Alice Road Runners Club also called on government departments, educational
institutions, businesses and sporting organisations to continue investing in
community-based sporting initiatives. Such programmes promote healthy lifestyles,
develop young talent, strengthen social cohesion and create opportunities for
personal growth.
Gratitude
The club thanked the organisers of The Icon’s Journey Marathon, volunteers and
community members for making the opening stage a success. It also congratulated
every participant for taking on the challenge and encouraged them to remain focused
throughout the remainder of the journey.
As the club’s motto reminds every athlete, “Wayiqala Uzoyigqiba”what you start, you
will finish.
Issued by:
IDike-lethu News
Alice/eDikeni, Eastern Cape