Facing the Fear: My Journey to the Red Hill Marathon
Cape Community Newspapers reporter, Phiri Cawe lacing up for the feared Red Hill marathon.
Image: Tara Isaacs
Chasing stories and running a race are two very different pursuits.
Running — especially a marathon — is no child’s play. Along the way, parts of us die, only for us to be resurrected at the finish line.
This coming Saturday, I will take on one of the most feared marathons in the country — the Timber City Red Hill 42.2km. Yes, a full 42.2 kilometres. My journey to this decision began on a cool day when my phone rang. On the other end was a familiar voice. Calm, confident, almost angelic.
“Hi Phiri, my name is Zimkita. I’m calling about Red Hill. Would you like to run? There's 13km, 36km, and 42.2km.”
She paused, waiting for my response. In that silence, my heart raced. I had heard the stories — the hills, the pain, the mental warfare. With a low but determined voice, I said yes. Not just yes to running, but yes to taking the bull by its horns: the full 42.2km.
I carry many doubts about the race that lies ahead. I am a social runner, and that alone feeds my fears whenever I commit to a long-distance race. The mind has a way of amplifying doubt and anxiety, especially when the challenge feels bigger than your comfort zone. Still, I have committed: I will run, and I will give it my absolute best.
Running is still new to me, but I’ve come to understand its power. It is deeply therapeutic. It sharpens the mind, tests endurance, and exposes fear. It brings pain, doubt, and moments of wanting to quit — but it also delivers unmatched excitement once a challenge is conquered.
That is exactly why I accepted this race. I want to conquer it. I want self-discovery. I want resilience. I may be just another number on the starting line, but I intend to finish victorious.
Right now, my greatest task is overcoming fear. I refuse to be intimidated by those who have done this for years. Fit or not fit, I will line up alongside the country’s best — maybe even the world’s best — because courage starts at the starting line.
To those attempting this challenge for the first time: let us go there to eliminate the fear of the unknown. Let us explore this demanding athletic journey. I will face the terror many speak of, but I will not be intimidated. My mission is simple — to conquer the dragon called fear and anxiety, and to stand joyful at the end.
Igwala kulonina!