​A dedicated contingent of athletes from the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department [JMPD] Athletic Club [AC] is set to participate in the prestigious Comrades Marathon this Sunday, 8 June.

The gruelling ultramarathon, stretching an awe-inspiring 89km from Pietermaritzburg to Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, will see JMPD officers proudly represent the City on a national stage.

Since its inception in 2004, the JMPD Athletic Club has been a proud and passionate participant in this formidable journey. The team, registered with Central Gauteng Athletics, has consistently competed across the country, driven by a desire to showcase athletic excellence and the department’s commitment to community engagement.

Proudly donning their JMPD AC athletic gear, which reflects the organisation’s corporate identity, they will also carry the City’s banner during the event, offering invaluable high-profile visibility for the department and the City’s image.

All athletes representing the JMPD in the forthcoming Comrades Marathon have met the rigorous qualifying standards set by Athletics South Africa, the sport’s national governing body.

“The dedicated team comprises a diverse group of individuals from various ranks within the department, demonstrating a remarkable balance between their demanding daily duties and the rigorous training required for such an event. This highlights their commitment to a healthy lifestyle, contributing to maintaining the demanding pace of their work and fostering a healthy and focused mind,” says Commissioner Patrick Jaca, Chief of Police.

The JMPD team includes:

In recognition of their dedication and representation, the JMPD, as a supportive employer, has approved special leave and will provide transportation for the participants to and from KwaZulu-Natal.

Commissioner Jaca urges the JMPD runners to “display exemplary behaviour and uphold the highest standards of conduct throughout their journey and participation in the Comrades Marathon”.

Written by Xolani Fihla