The Comrades Marathon Association has expressed its deep sorrow at the passing away of Zithulele ‘Zet’ Sinqe on 22 December 2011. Many will remember him as an ardent and spirited runner who characterized the South African running scene since days gone by.
Zet, as he was affectionately known, also had the nickname of ‘Transkei Express’. After all, he was a son of the Eastern Cape, having been born in Umtata and bred there, and gifted with amazing running potential.
Zet was a passionate activist in the athletics world and made his mark both on and off the track. He has been described as the ‘Jomo Sono’ of the South African running fraternity, having been extremely vocal about transformation and giving a voice and creating opportunities for disadvantaged runners.
Among his many roles, Zet served as Vice Chairperson for the Central Gauteng Athletics Cross Country Association and was an athletics commentator for the SABC. He also distinguished himself as a gold medalist in the 1997 Comrades Marathon, where he came in fourth position in a time of 05h33.
Zet will be fondly remembered by many.