'I'm going to war' - Dijana backs Mpileng TNU 50km for essential Comrades training as event unveils new Park & Ride service

Billed as Athletics Gauteng North's ultimate Comrades Marathon qualifier, organisers of the Mpileng Tshwane North Ultra declared themselves ready to host AGN’s only single lap ultra marathon on 18 April. The fourth edition of the tough 50km event which starts and finishes at the Akasia Community Hall in Pretoria North and is run along eastern spine of the Magaliesburg has grown considerably since it’s inception in 2023 when just less than 1200 runners took part over in the 50km and 21km races. 

With a total of 4500 expected participants to tackle 10km, 21km and the blue riband 50km, Mpileng TNU Race Director Mahlomola ‘Hloks’ Lebea says they have decided to enlist the services of a transport partner to help alleviate the traffic in and around the host venue on race day. 

Dijana shares a smile with Mpileng TNU 50km Race Director Mahlomola 'Hloks' Lebea. Photo Credit: Lifutso Mabua.

"For 2026 we have a limited parking around the Akasia Community Hall and in effort to improve the event, we have included a park and ride service. One will be in Pretoria Central and another one will operate from the Pretoria North High School. The Park and Ride will reduce the congestion at the start," he said at the launch of the 2026 event which took place at the title sponsor Mpileng Funerals’ head office in the Tshwane CBD.

Also in attendance at the launch was three time Comrades Marathon champion Tete Dijana who took part in last year's event before winning the 98th edition of The Ultimate Human Race. Because of it's over 600m of elevation, The Hollywood Athletics club top runner agrees with the assertion that the Mpileng TNU 50km is an essential stepping stone for Comrades Marathon Up Run success.

Dijana enjoying the 2024 edition of the Mpileng Tshwane North Ultra where he clocked 3:37:08. Dijana says the race will once again be an important part of his training regime as he plans to win a maiden Comrades Marathon Up Run gold medal on 14 June. Photo Credit: SMacPix.

"I was here in 2024 and last year again. I had a good run," said reflecting 3:37:08 for 21st in 2024 and 3:34:27 last year. "I really need hills because I’m going to war because this year is an Up run. I’m looking forward to it."

Preparing to host the largest field in the event's history has its benefits. Lebea and his team, which comprises representatives from the three host clubs - namely Addicted to Life, Madoko Running Club and Atteridgeville Athletics Club - have roped in a local school who will benefit from some of the proceeds of the race.

"Our Ultra marathon passes right in front of the school and it is critical that we involve the entire community. So to promote active participation, we have partnered with the school. Remember that this is a high school so they will assist us with volunteers for the race, while we will contribute to the school’s athletics programme. We believe their involvement will motivate the learners."