In 1999, unknown South African runner Sergio Motsoeneng stunned the ultramarathon world when he crossed the finish line of the prestigious Comrades Marathon with a remarkably strong performance. But race officials soon discovered that Motsoeneng had orchestrated one of the most infamous cheating scandals in distance running history.

Our fourth episode unpacks how the plan was carried out, the clues that led to its unraveling, and the fallout that followed. It’s a story of ambition, deception, and a fire extinguisher salesman.

Set off to see where this story ranks on our patented 'Wild or Mild' story ranking on our quest to discover the wildest story from the world of sport.

Sources:

https://www.businessinsider.com/the-not-quite-redemption-of-south-africas-infamous-marathon-cheats-2022-12?r=US&IR=T

https://www.atlasobscura.com/articles/two-brothers-one-ultra-marathon-and-the-greatest-cheat-in-running-history

https://capeargus.co.za/sport/2010-05-31-he-didnt-need-to-cheat/

https://www.news24.com/citypress/sport/life-goes-on-for-motsoeneng-twins-since-comrades-marathon-cheating-scandal-20230721

https://rockcycling.co/en-en/blogs/news/el-corredor-fantasma-la-historia-del-atleta-que-corrio-con-dos-cuerpos?srsltid=AfmBOoqM2lyrErbw-J-tR4ZgMRQoPsAT44lABCqJSuDtMVlRmdaONqFW

https://www.ofm.co.za/article/national/188818/today-17-years-ago-sergio-motsoeneng-admitted-to-cheating-in-comrades-marathon

Presenters:

James Whybrow

Ben Whybrow

Carlin Sheaves

Music and Cover Art:

Zoe Behrendt