'I always advise patience' - Dijana targets victory in Kimberley as he warns athletes against the pitfalls of over-racing

Tete Morena Dijana, a celebrated three-time Comrades Marathon Champion, will be counted among the top contenders at the Diamond and Dorings Kimberley Big Hole Marathon, taking place on November 22nd in the Northern Cape. This inaugural event features a substantial prize of R200 000 for the winner and has drawn prominent athletes, including Namibian marathon and half marathon record holder Daniel Paulus, 2025 Totalsports Two Oceans podium finisher Lucky Mohale, and Lesotho's Namakoe Nkhasi. 

After being unveiled as the event's ambassador, the 37-year-old Dijana, who hails from Mahikeng in the North West Province, shared his race goals with #TheTopRunner, which include being the first athlete to cross the finish line.

Dijana crosses the finish line first to win the 2025 Comrades Marathon Down Run from Pietermaritzburg to Durban. Dijana is aiming to be first across the finish line at the inaugural Diamond and Dorings Kimberley Big Hole Marathon. Photo Credit: CMA Media.

"This event will serve as my qualification for the Comrades Marathon next year. Early qualification is necessary to commence preparations for the following year's Ultimate Human Race. I also appreciate the recognition by the race organizers, who have appointed me as an ambassador. Additionally, my aim is to secure a win in the race, "explains Dijana - who is coached by Dave Adams. 

This race is one of several prominent events, including the Cape Town, Two Oceans, Soweto, and the City to City Marathon, that provide a substantial prize money of R200 000 or more to the winner. While cautioning against the pitfalls of over-racing, Dijana expressed his pleasure at the increasing number of financially rewarding races in the country which offer athletes a range of choices.

Dijana pictured here with 9-time Comrades champion Bruce Fordyce and Northern Cape Premier Dr Zamani Saul at the launch of the Diamonds and Dorings Marathon in September. Photo Credit: Supplied.

"It is a positive development that certain races in the country offer substantial financial rewards. This trend indicates that we are heading in the right direction. It enables athletes to make informed decisions regarding the races they choose to participate in. But as an athlete, it is impossible to compete in all available races, so it is essential to focus on a single event and plan accordingly. Therefore, I always advise emerging athletes to exercise patience in order to achieve longevity in the sport," he said.