The Department of Correctional Services

13/06/2026

DCS Athletics Club runners eye Comrades Marathon Green Number status

Department of Correctional Services (DCS) Athletics Club is set to etch its name deeper into Comrades Marathon history as several of its athletes prepare to join the prestigious Green Number Club.

On Sunday, 14 June 2026, during the demanding 85km Up Run from Durban to Pietermaritzburg, these runners will complete their tenth Comrades Marathon, earning the coveted Green Number, a symbol of loyalty and excellence in the world’s greatest ultramarathon.

Among those reaching this remarkable milestone achievement are :

1. Biza Moeletse
2. Ziphindile Dlamini
3. Tebogo Moloko
4. Nathi Ntshingila
5. Kgabo Sepuru
6. Mosa Mongake

13/06/2026

🏅 From rehabilitation to the world stage – DCS trebles sales at Comrades Marathon Expo 2026!

We’re proud to share a remarkable achievement by the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) at this year’s Comrades Marathon Expo.

National Commissioner Makgothi Thobakgale has commended the team for tripling sales compared to previous years – a powerful testament to the department’s growing presence and impact at one of the world’s most prestigious ultra-marathons.

“This significant improvement demonstrates that the products on display are of high quality, appealing to running enthusiasts and the broader public. Year after year, we strive to improve, and this year our sales have multiplied even before the official closure of exhibitions,” said National Commissioner Thobakgale.

The DCS stall brought together directorates responsible for sports and arts, wellness, rehabilitation, and community corrections – showcasing the power of unity and collaboration.

🌍 The expo went global, with buyers from the USA (paying in dollars!), China, India, Portugal, Russia, Zimbabwe, Eswatini, Botswana, and Namibia.

Among the hottest items: African clothing and cultural products, which sold out fast due to high demand. Visitors also snapped up handmade portraits, bags, traditional attire, leather works, beadwork, artefacts, and cultural accessories – all produced by offenders as part of rehabilitation programmes focused on building skills and self-sufficiency.

“This success is not only financial but also symbolic of the unity and discipline correctional officials and inmates bring to the rehabilitation journey,” added Commissioner Thobakgale.

Cash or card, the stall welcomed everyone. And the world showed up.

👏 Well done to everyone involved. This is rehabilitation in action, and the world is taking notice.

13/06/2026

National Commissioner Thobakgale honours three runners for outstanding Comrades Marathon finishes

13/06/2026

National Commissioner Thobakgale gave 207 DCS athletes the ultimate pre-Comrades boost! 💚🇿🇦

Speaking at the Pasta Evening in Durban, he shared how our own correctional officials inspired him to start running — and now he’s cheering on the team chasing 90km of “Up Run” glory.

From veterans chasing Green Numbers 🟢 to first-timers testing their limits — this team is proof that discipline behind the uniform translates to power on the road.

👏 To the 10-timers: you are LEGENDS.

Let’s go, Team DCS — finish strong, finish safe. See you at the finish line in Pietermaritzburg!

13/06/2026

National Commissioner Thobakgale honours Educator, Matshedisho for 19 Comrades finishes as he nears Double Green Number

Christmas came early for Correctional Services Athletics Club member, Mr Sabata Matshedisho, representing Grootvlei Management Area (Bloemfontein) in the Free State and Northern Cape (FS/NC).

National Commissioner of the Department of Correctional Services, Mr Makgothi Thobakgale conferred upon him a distinguished award in recognition of his 19th successful Comrades Marathon finish, an extraordinary accomplishment that positions him as a decorated seasoned runner.

Matshedisho, an educator at Goronyane Secondary School in Thaba Nchu, has been a consistent force within the Correctional Services Athletics Club since 2004. Apart from brief stints in 2015 and 2016, when he competed under the South African Police Service (SAPS), his loyalty and dedication to the club have remained unwavering.

His Comrades record speaks volumes; 19 successful finishes, comprising seven Bill Rowan medals, eight bronze medals, and four Vic Clapham honours. The 2026 edition of the race marks a unique chapter in his journey, as he receives milestone recognition ahead of race day.

Reflecting on his journey, Matshedisho shared that running has been a life-saving pursuit since his youth. “I joined the DCS Athletics Club because it was the most active running club, and it helped me transition from being a soccer player to a fully committed runner. I do not smoke and I do not drink alcohol, running is my way of life and my form of entertainment, which I enjoy to the fullest," he said.

He credits his mentor, Correctional official Mr Motlatsi Khubelu, for inspiring him early in his career. “When I joined DCS Athletics Club, Mr Khubelu was receiving his Green Number status, and that motivated me to aim for the same accolade. He shared invaluable advice and tips that shaped me into the runner I am today," stated Grade 10-12 Physical Science Educator.

Matshedisho also expressed heartfelt gratitude to his wife, who has been his unwavering supporter. “I would not have achieved this milestone without her. She ensures that everything runs smoothly from my running gear and shoes to supplements and she has always been there to support me," he mentioned.

With his Double Green Number now within reach, Matshedisho stands poised to join the ranks of the Comrades Marathon’s most accomplished veteran finishers.

13/06/2026

Area Commissioner Buthelezi Receives Special Recognition from National Commissioner Thobakgale for Completing 26 Comrades Marathons

Rooigrond Management Area (Mahikeng) Area Commissioner (AC) Nduduzo Buthelezi’s remarkable endurance, discipline and commitment to long-distance running have earned him special recognition from the National Commissioner of the Department of Correctional Services (DCS), Mr Makgothi Thobakgale.

On 12 June 2026, during the Department’s Comrades Marathon Pasta Evening held in Durban, National Commissioner Thobakgale presented AC Buthelezi with a special award in recognition of his extraordinary achievement of successfully completing the Comrades Marathon 26 times.

AC Buthelezi’s Comrades Marathon journey began at the age of 19 when, as a matric learner, he courageously lined up for his first race. Displaying determination beyond his years, he completed the gruelling ultramarathon in an impressive time of 7:12, laying the foundation for what would become an outstanding running career.

Between 1995 and 1997, his finishing times ranged between 7:51 and 8:11. Undeterred, he returned stronger in 1998 and delivered a breakthrough performance, completing the race in a personal best time of 7:04. This exceptional achievement saw him secure an impressive overall position of 290th among thousands of athletes across all categories.

Of his 27 Comrades Marathon appearances, AC Buthelezi has successfully completed 26 races, with his only non-finish recorded in 2008. Notably, 25 of these races were completed while representing the DCS Athletic Club. His impressive medal collection includes two Silver Medals, five Bill Rowan Medals, 14 Bronze Medals and several Vic Clapham Medals.

In 2003, he earned his first Green Number, a prestigious symbol awarded to runners who have completed ten Comrades Marathons. Fourteen years later, in 2017, he achieved another significant milestone by earning his Double Green Number after completing twenty races. Now, with only four finishes separating him from the coveted Triple Green Number, his remarkable journey continues as he prepares to participate in the 2026 Up Run on Sunday, 14 June.

As the Area Commissioner responsible for the Zeerust, Mahikeng, Lichtenburg and Rooigrond Correctional Centres, AC Buthelezi continues to lead by example by promoting health, fitness and wellness among officials. His story, from a determined young schoolboy athlete to a seasoned Comrades Marathon veteran, serves as a powerful inspiration and testament to the values of perseverance, dedication and excellence.

The Department of Correctional Services congratulates AC Buthelezi on this outstanding achievement and wishes him every success as he continues his pursuit of Comrades Marathon history.

13/06/2026

National Commissioner honours DCS veteran runner for an outstanding 34 Comrades Marathon finishes

In a moment filled with pride and celebration, the National Commissioner of the Department of Correctional Services, Mr Makgothi Thobakgale honoured Correctional Services (DCS) veteran runner, Vitalis Poli with a special award for his extraordinary achievement of completing Comrades Marathons 34 times.

Poli began his Comrades journey in 1990 and has not missed a single edition since, marking 34 consecutive years of participation in The Ultimate Human Race.

The seasoned runner is among a select group of athletes who have achieved more than a Triple Green Number. His distinguished Comrades Marathon profile includes four silver medals, nine Bill Rowan medals, 18 bronze medals, and three Vic Clapham medals, with his fastest time of 07:18 achieved in 1995.

Poli attributed his consistency to the support of his family, noting that their encouragement has made his journey easier. He added that he has never faced significant personal circumstances, such as the loss of a close family member or other major family commitments, that conflicted with the Comrades Marathon date.

The retired Correctional Services official, now 61 years old, says he is aiming to achieve his fourth Green Number. “My next goal is to attain the Comrades Marathon Quadruple Green Number, as my body still allows me to run and I remain in good health and condition,” he said.

Poli, a professional chef, stated that although his running journey has been marked by challenges, these did not deter him but rather reinforced his determination. “While running the Soweto Marathon, I was struck by a car driven by a drunk driver. On another occasion during the Comrades Marathon, I fell while descending Drummond Hill after being tripped by a road reflector while running alongside the leading woman. Despite the setback, I showed determination, taking about 30 minutes to recover before continuing and finishing the race,” said former Leeuwkop Management Area official.

Beyond his own achievements, Poli stands as a mentor and role model, using his deep running expertise to nurture talent and influence strategies across the running community, from local runners to elite competitors.

While presenting the trophy to Poli in the presence of 207 correctional officials preparing for the 2026 Comrades Marathon during the department’s Pasta Evening in Durban on 12 June 2026, National Commissioner Thobakgale commended him for his milestone and for flying correctional services flag high.

“We honoured our very own running legend Poli, as this Ultimate Human Race demands immense endurance, strength, discipline, and preparation and complete. His consistency over three decades serves as an excellent example to emerging runners. He remains a source of motivation and inspiration to many. This recognition reflects his outstanding achievements,” said National Commissioner Thobakgale.

The legendary runner will be lining up for the Up Run edition on 14 June 2026, taking on the 85km course from Durban to Pietermaritzburg, aiming to add another finish to his record and mark his 35th completion.

12/06/2026

National Commissioner Thobakgale addresses 207 DCS Athletes ahead of 2026 Comrades Marathon Up Run edition

Today, 12 June 2026, National Commissioner of the Department of Correctional Services (DCS), Mr Makgothi Thobakgale has conveyed his heartfelt best wishes to the 207 members of DCS Athletics Team who will participate in the 2026 Comrades Marathon.

Speaking at the Pasta Evening function in Durban, which brought together athletes from all six regions and National Head Office, National Commissioner Thobakgale reflected on how departmental sporting events had personally inspired him to take up running.

“I was motivated by correctional officials through attending departmental sporting events to start running races, marathons, and trial runs and since then, I have never looked back,” National Commissioner stated.

National Commissioner Thobakgale highlighted the diversity of DCS Athletics Club, which caters to seasoned veterans, youth, senior managers, novices, professionals, and social runners. He commended athletes for balancing their demanding work commitments with the discipline required to prepare for world class ultramarathon.

“It is inspiring to see young runners challenging themselves with the Comrades Marathon while our legendary runners continue to serve as a source of motivation,” NC Thobakgale added.

He extended his best wishes to all athletes, expressing hope that they would complete the race successfully and without injury. He paid special tribute to those striving to earn the prestigious Green Number, awarded to runners who complete ten Comrades Marathons.

“Having members who will be completing their 10th Comrades Marathon demonstrates the strength of our team. Such milestones are achieved through discipline, sacrifice, perseverance, and dedication,” NC Thobakgale concluded.

12/06/2026

https://www.sanews.gov.za/south-africa/correctional-services-ready-make-its-mark-2026-comrades-marathon

The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) is set to make a strong statement at the 2026 Comrades Marathon, with a formidable contingent of 207 officials ready to take on the iconic uprun from Durban to Pietermaritzburg on Sunday.

12/06/2026

Corrections to Comrades, the Ultimate Test of Endurance