Khanyi's running career started in the year 2000, where she first completed the Soweto Marathon hosted in Soweto, the township where she was born. She later advanced to ultra marathons including Comrades, Two Oceans, OM Die Dam and many others. Her running adventures took to the international where she was the first black woman to complete the six star finisher. The Abbot Champions International Marathons six star finisher medal recognizes runners who have completed the full 42.2 km including Berlin, Tokyo, Boston, London, New York and Chicago Marathons. Added to the list is the Paris and Great Wall of China Marathons. International Marathon running opens a new world in challenging oneself to learn about different cultures and meeting people from around the world all driven by a common goal; running the world.
Khanyi has completed 10 of the grueling 87km Comrades Marathons to attain her Green Number. Comrades Marathon is run from Durban to Pietermaritzburg with over 15 000 runners participating. Famously known as the ultimate Human Race, Comrades Marathons tests the character, the resolve and tenacity of those who dare take up the challenge.
Khanyi has completed 10 of the 56km Two Oceans to achieve a Blue number. Two Oceans is known as one of the most scenic races run in Cape Town passing a point where the Indian and Atlantic Ocean meet. Two Oceans Marathon challenges every runner to navigate the undulating steepest point Cape Town has to offer, finishing at the iconic University of Cape Town grounds.