Comrades Marathon winner George Kusche, along with his wife Laiserie, their 21-month-old son George Jr., sister Suzette Kotze, and brother-in-law Philip Kotze, is enjoying a five-day stay in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) as part of the prize for winning Comrades.
Kusche, who previously placed 12th in his debut run at the Comrades Marathon in 2025, won the Up Run in 2026 with a time of 5:15:56, breaking the long-standing record. He is currently in KwaZulu-Natal to discover more than just the route between Durban and Pietermaritzburg.
For Kusche
After his appearance in KwaZulu-Natal just a few months ago, Kusche is back to explore the province beyond the race itself. He is spending time with his family as part of a program organized by KwaZulu-Natal Tourism and Film, which offers an introduction to the Midlands and Drakensberg regions.
Despite being away from the competition, the road between Durban and Pietermaritzburg remains inseparable from the experience there. Kusche noted: 'It's a very special feeling because we drove from Durban to Pietermaritzburg. There were many memories and flashbacks during the drive along this route, thinking about the race, the preparation, and the emotions that built up in the couple of days before Comrades.'
He added that 'it's almost like I am connected to this place. In a way, I feel like I have come home.'
One Place Holds Particular Significance
Inchanga was the spot where Kusche made the decisive move that ultimately led to his victory and record. He stated: 'It was a moment that changed my life and allowed me to win the race. It is also why I broke the record, as I made that crucial step at that time. Therefore, Inchanga is symbolic.'
However, for Kusche, the geography of Comrades is inextricably linked to its people. Having international racing experience and having spent several years in the United States, he believes that the local communities along the KZN route help distinguish Comrades from other races. He emphasized: 'Many people you meet from KZN will say they have followed Comrades since they can remember, even from infancy. All of South Africa is so passionate about this race because it is not just a run. It is a way to unite the country. I don't think there is any race on Earth that provides such an opportunity.'
Kusche's return also demonstrates the broader tourism potential created by the annual event, which attracts runners, spectators, and families to KwaZulu-Natal. Before Comrades, Kusche had visited Durban only for specific events but never had the chance to fully explore destinations like the Midlands and Drakensberg. His current trip is changing that situation. The family started their journey by immersing themselves in the heritage and cuisine of the Midlands, including Nelson Mandela Capture Site, before heading to the Drakensberg.
A self-proclaimed history enthusiast, Kusche particularly appreciated the opportunity to learn about South African history outside of books. The program combines this heritage experience with adventure and leisure activities in the Central Drakensberg, as well as a Zulu Mpophomeni tour in the Midlands. Kusche remarked: 'There is so much space here with hills. It is truly a beautiful part of our country. I definitely plan to return.'
Kusche's running shoes accompanied him on the family trip, which included early morning elite-level training sessions in the Drakensberg. The mountain training takes place ahead of his participation in the Comrades championship in Amsterdam in October. He stated: 'I just want to run a fast marathon. I would like to see if I can improve my marathon time.'
And Comrades Itself Remains Unfinished Business
Kusche also shared his desire to continue developing and improving. He said: 'I think I still have a long way to go. I want to conquer the Down Run, which I haven't run yet.'
Perhaps the most important message Kusche has for other runners is that the thousands of people who come to KZN for Comrades should not consider crossing the finish line the end. He prefers to explore the region after the race is over, when the pressure of training and competition subsides.