Buenos Aires: In a feat of endurance, cultural pride, and global recognition, Cameroonian long-distance runner Afowiri Kizito Fondzenyuy, known as the Toghu Marathoner, is poised to make history once again. On March 25, 2025, he will become the first and fastest man to run a marathon in Antarctica wearing Toghu, Cameroon’s iconic traditional regalia.
According to Cameroon News Agency, with 18 marathons already under his belt, spanning six continents and covering over 757 kilometers, Fondzenyuy has turned the sport into a platform for advocacy, raising awareness for causes dear to his heart. His past campaigns include fundraising for education, disability inclusion, and most notably, supporting the construction of a community bridge in Ngondzen, in Cameroon’s North-West region-a project that is currently under construction thanks to his marathon efforts.
Fondzenyuy first gained international recognition when he smashed the Guinness World Record for the fastest marathon run in traditional African attire at the Tokyo Marathon, a feat achieved under the global spotlight of the Abbott World Marathon Majors. His distinct identity-running draped in Toghu-has since become a powerful statement, elevating Cameroonian culture on the world stage.
Now, with Antarctica as his next battlefield, he is set to complete what few have ever attempted: conquering a marathon in Toghu across six continents, reinforcing not just his endurance, but the resilience of an entire people.
Beyond personal glory, Fondzenyuy’s Antarctic run serves a larger purpose-raising funds to establish a school for children with special needs in Cameroon. His passion for education and inclusion remains at the heart of his athletic journey, making each race a stepping stone toward meaningful change.
Reflecting on his upcoming challenge, he stated: ‘Every time I run in Toghu, I carry my people with me. Antarctica is more than just a race; it’s a statement of endurance, of culture, of breaking limits. And with every step, I hope to inspire others to chase their own impossible dreams.’
His achievements have already positioned him as a cultural and sports ambassador, with plans underway to donate his Guinness World Record-winning Toghu outfit to Cameroon’s National Museum-a move that will enshrine his legacy as a national icon.
With the Antarctic Ice Marathon just days away, Fondzenyuy is making his way from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia-the southernmost city in the world-before boarding a vessel to Antarctica, where the challenge of a lifetime awaits.
As he steps onto the icy terrain, battling temperatures as low as -20°C, he will once again prove that endurance is not just about the body-it is about culture, resilience, and the unbreakable will to inspire.