Remembering Coach Ricardo Kutumela 🕊️
A Tribute from the Chairperson
The Run Alex family, together with the broader running community, continues to mourn the passing of Mr. Ricardo Kutumela—a man whose energy, passion, and kindness left an indelible mark on all of us.
For many of us, this loss still feels unreal. The Watermelon Gang and everyone who trained, ran, worked or laughed alongside Ricardo share a deep sense of grief. Yet, even through our sorrow, we find comfort in celebrating a life that was lived with purpose and generosity.
From the very beginning, Ricardo stood at the heart of Run Alex Athletics Club. He played a pivotal role in shaping our technical team and served diligently on the Executive Committee for two terms. To many, he was more than a coach—he was the face and energy of Run Alex.
Whether pacing runners across Gauteng or offering encouragement at the start line, Ricardo had a gift for inspiring people to believe in themselves. He reminded us often that the finish line is just another beginning. His consistency and willingness to help others built lasting relationships between Run Alex and many clubs, athletes and community projects across the province.
Beyond athletics, Ricardo’s impact extended into education and youth development. With his academic background and heart for mentorship, he played an instrumental role in establishing Read Alex, expanding our mission from sport to learning. He guided administrators, supported development coaches, and mentored new runners—always eager to see others succeed.
Because of that legacy, every year Run Alex prepares and sends around ten new athletes to the Comrades Marathon—many of whom had never attempted a marathon or ran an ultramarathon before joining the club. They come for fitness, but they stay because they find a home. That sense of belonging—that culture of care—is something Ricardo helped build.
His love for youth mentorship began long before Run Alex. From his early days in soccer, he was always drawn to helping young people—guiding, advising, and uplifting them wherever he could. His influence reached schools, communities, and countless individuals across Gauteng and beyond.
Ricardo truly lived the values we hold dear: dedication, humility, and care for others. These values are what every member of the Watermelon Gang stands for, and what we’ll continue to uphold in his memory.
Though his physical presence is gone, his spirit continues to run alongside us—in every race, every project, and every young person whose path he helped shape.
I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. — 2 Timothy 4:7
Rest in peace, Coach Ricky.
You have indeed fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith.
Funeral details will be communicated soon.
MEMORIAL SERVICE ALBUM BY: Tshwantsho Media
For more information about Run Alex, The Athletics Club or Read Alex please visit our website: www.runalex.co.za OR For any inquiries please send us an email at runalexac@gmail.com / info@runalex.co.za OR contact +27 60 677 1173
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