Four runners killed in a devastating car crash after the Durban Marathon have left the South African running community in mourning. The victims lost their lives while traveling back home to Johannesburg after participating in the Best of the Best Marathon 2025 in Durban. Their tragic deaths have sent shockwaves across the nation, with heartfelt tributes flooding social media.
Four Runners Killed in Car Crash After Durban Marathon
The victims of the tragic Durban Marathon crash have been identified as Siraj Mbale, Adolph Ramalanzwa (O’deal), Seza Phiri, and Mbali Khanyi Hlatshwayo. The quartet, known for their close friendship and passion for running, had just completed the Best of the Best Marathon before their untimely passing.
The incident has left the local running community grappling with immense grief. Many who knew them personally, as well as fellow athletes, have shared their condolences and cherished memories of the runners.
Best of the Best Marathon Organisers Express Condolences
The organisers of the Best of the Best Marathon and the Ama-Ravens Athletics Club have extended their sympathies to the families and loved ones of the deceased. In a heartfelt statement, they said:
“As the Best of the Best Marathon organising team and Ama-Ravens Athletics Club, we extend our heartfelt condolences to their families, loved ones, and the running community.
“We are deeply saddened by this loss and are in the process of reaching out to the families to offer our support and gather details regarding their memorial services.
“To the families, friends, and teammates of these runners, our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. May you find strength and comfort in the memories shared, and may their souls rest in peace.”
Tributes Pour In for Four Runners Killed in Durban Marathon Crash
The tragic news has led to an outpouring of grief from fellow runners, friends, and fans. Social media has been flooded with tributes remembering the vibrant personalities and lasting impact of the four runners. Here are some of the heartfelt messages shared:
- @Letebem: “I don’t see how we will recover from this. Hai.”
- @MirandzM: “My heart is torn, I’m shattered, my pain is deep. I’m hurt and I’m not taking this very well. Rest in peace.”
- @ravhathu: “The crazy chats after the races, the loud laughter, their warm hearts.”
- @Toddinho24: “This is so heartbreaking. Seza was having a season of his life… On Sunday he named his PB run ‘season finale’ Kante. Od, what a guy, he’d find something positive when I’m crying in my stories, hypeman of note. Laidback yet hardworking dude. Condolences to their families.”
- @sociable_weaver: “Our friendship was short but I won’t forget you. I love that you desperately wanted to be better. You lacked patience but we were working on that. @OdealTheGreat you were swimming against the current, where most fear to go! RIP brother.”
- @NtebogengK80: “Tragic indeed… May her soul and the other fallen running comrades rest in God’s precious peace… May their families be comforted and strengthened as they prepare to honour and celebrate their lives… Shate.”
Running Community Mourns an Irreplaceable Loss
The Durban Marathon crash has not only robbed the South African athletics scene of four talented runners but has also left an irreplaceable void in the hearts of their loved ones. The tragedy serves as a painful reminder of the unpredictability of life and the bonds that tie the running community together.
As tributes continue to pour in, the memories of Siraj Mbale, Adolph Ramalanzwa, Seza Phiri, and Mbali Khanyi Hlatshwayo will forever be cherished. Their passion for running, camaraderie, and dedication to the sport will remain an inspiration to all who knew them.
May their souls rest in peace.
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