Coach Branca Honored at the Comrades Marathon

Physical education professor, physical therapist, and running coach Branca, founder of Branca Sports, received a historic honor in South Africa. On October 23, during the Gems Spirit of Comrades Awards ceremony held in the Great Ilanga Room in Durban, the Brazilian mentor was presented with the Hermes Award 2026, a formal recognition from the organizers of the legendary race.

In a celebration shared on social media, Branca described the award as a reflection of a lifetime dedicated to caring for people and strengthening bonds with the Comrades Marathon. As a gesture of gratitude for welcoming Brazilian runners over nearly three decades of participation, the coach also donated a framed official Branca Sports jersey to the Comrades Marathon Museum collection.

Empathy and support behind the scenes

The international tribute reflects the coach's human impact on the running community. On Radar Stemma, host Cado Santos recalled Master Branca's vital support while preparing to tackle the grueling ~90 km South African course, emphasizing the calmness and empathy the coach provided during tense training sessions at Ibirapuera Park.

The conversation highlighted how an experienced mentor's role extends far beyond mileage and pacing spreadsheets, playing a critical part in easing anxiety during the taper period and addressing the natural fears of facing extreme distances. With decades of hands-on experience and tailored attention to athletes, Branca has cemented his legacy as one of the leading Brazilian figures in Comrades Marathon history.