Comrades finisher: UJ Industrial Engineering student shares story

For 21-year-old UJ Industrial Engineering student, Andziso Bright, running has become both a shield and a guiding light. This year, he completed the 98th Comrades Marathon, an iconic 87.7km ultra-marathon that tests the limits of human endurance.

In this Q&A with UJ News, he reflects on the race, the challenges of balancing academics with training, and why he runs—for his future, for his peers, and for purpose.

Q: Please tell us a little more about yourself.
A: My name is Andziso Bright. I’m 21 years old and from Mtititi Village, just outside Malamulele in Limpopo. I’m a third-year Industrial Engineering student at the University of Johannesburg.

Andziso Bright

Q: How did you get into running?
A: I started running as a way to stay away from negative influences, like alcohol. Growing up, running was part of our family life—my mom, Tsakani Manganye, is a dedicated runner herself. The sport gave me structure and helped me focus on something healthy and meaningful.

Q: What inspired you to take on the Comrades Marathon? Was this your first time?
A: Yes, this was my first Comrades. My mom has also completed the race, so seeing her achieve that planted the seed in me. I wanted to show young people back home and at university that it’s possible to live a healthy, disciplined life—and achieve big goals.

Q: Why did you choose the Soweto Marathon as your qualifying race?
A: The Soweto Marathon made sense financially and logistically. It’s a well-established local race that is accessible for students like me. It also helped me connect with other runners and grow my social media presence, which motivates me even more.

Q: How did you prepare mentally and emotionally for the Comrades?
A: Balancing training with my studies was very tough. Training in Johannesburg wasn’t always safe, so I often travelled to Pretoria—about four times a week—to train with my mom. On Wednesdays, I’d train around UJ’s Auckland Park Kingsway Campus after class. I used part of my NSFAS allowance to buy proper running shoes. Some of my modules took a hit during peak training, but I managed to catch up. Emotionally, it took a lot out of me—but it also gave me so much back.

Q: What did it feel like to cross the finish line?
A: It was incredible. After over a year and a half of preparation, finishing the Comrades showed me what’s possible when you stay committed. I’m proud of my results, but I’m also motivated to do better next year—hopefully, I’ll be able to afford to register again.

Q: What lessons from this experience will you apply to your studies?
A: I learned that giving up is not an option. On the road between Pietermaritzburg and Durban, you’re pushed beyond your limits—but that’s where growth happens. I realised that everyone has the same 24 hours. You may not be the top student in class, but if you put in the effort, you can still succeed. That applies to everything—your studies, your goals, your life.

Q: What message would you share with other UJ students about healthy living?

A: With so many young people in Johannesburg turning to drugs or alcohol to cope, I want to encourage others to find something meaningful—like running, or any sport—that gives them an outlet. A healthy lifestyle can offer balance and structure without compromising academics.

Q: Is there anything else you’d like to add?
A: Yes. To all athletes out there: don’t compare yourself to others. Your journey is your own. You’re only limited by how much effort you put in—whether in sport or in your academics.

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