In this episode of Making a Runner, host Nic Acampora sits down with South African running icon, Irvette Van Zyl, as she prepares for her very first Comrades Marathon.

In this inspiring and deeply honest conversation, Irvette opens up about her rollercoaster journey to the start line, navigating serious injuries, relentless setbacks, and the mental and emotional battles that come with being an elite athlete.

Despite facing multiple challenges—including a stress fracture, calf thrombosis, and a torn hamstring—Irvette shares how she found the strength to keep moving forward, the importance of listening to her body, and the lessons learned from knowing when to step back in order to come back stronger.

Whether you're an experienced runner or just starting your journey, this episode is packed with relatable moments, practical insights, and a powerful reminder that progress isn’t always linear—but with resilience and self-compassion, anything is possible.

As Comrades Marathon approaches, let Irvette's story fire you up, no matter where you are on your own running journey. Enjoy.