Athletics season opener set to return
Fully vaccinated runners will be able to collect their race numbers and T-shirts on any collection day.
Lace-up those running shoes and stretch out those legs because it’s almost time for the Dis-Chem Half-Marathon.
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Set to be held on January 16, the 20th Dis-Chem Half Marathon will be a run-through event with no spectators to ensure the event is safe and Covid-19 compliant.
“We are excited at the prospect of a live race once again and who knows, but perhaps the return to racing will see the course record broken,” said race director Charn Swart from Bedfordview Country Clubs Athletics.
Stan Goetsch of headline sponsor Dis-Chem said, “With the health and welfare of runners and their families at stake, with the significant amount of event preparation, which had taken place, we regretted having to cancel this year’s Dis-Chem Half-Marathon.
“While it is difficult to plan with certainty in these uniquely challenging times, Bedfordview Country Club Athletics and Dis-Chem are looking forward to once again witnessing the joy, spirit and excitement of the challenge of a live road running event at the traditional season’s opener,” said Goetsch.
Although the pandemic has changed our daily lives, the half-marathon’s course remains the same.
Winding its way through Bedfordview, Morninghill and Primrose, it will provide runners with a challenging route and spectacular views particularly as the road crests and dives down Primrose Hill.
Race marshals will be stationed along the route, offering encouragement to the runners along the way.
There will only be four water points and runners are encouraged to bring their own water.
Previously, the race sold out within weeks of entries opening.
Due to Covid-19 regulations, only 3 000 entries are available for the 21km race, a further 1 000 virtual entries will be available for runners who cannot get a live race entry.
The virtual run will be untimed, unsupported and can be run from January 17 to 23.
All 4 000 entrants of the half-marathon will receive a Dry-fit T-shirt.
Due to entry limitations, the Centrum 5km dash will not take place in 2022.
Swart encouraged athletes to get vaccinated before entering.
Fully vaccinated runners will be able to collect their race numbers and T-shirts on any collection day.
They will need to produce their vaccination certificate (not an SMS) and their ID.
Partially vaccinated runners can only collect their race numbers and T-shirts on January 15.
They will need to provide a valid negative Covid PCR test not older than 48 hours or undergo an on-site Rapid Antigen test at their own expense at collection.
All athletes will be screened and have their temperature taken at collection venues and on race day.
On race day, the live half marathon race will have a batched start and will be timed.
Athletes will not receive medals and will need to depart the finish venue seamlessly, as soon as they complete their run.
No club gazebos will be allowed and there will be no catering or shower facilities at the finish.
The 2022 event will raise funds for Lambano Sanctuary for orphaned children with HIV and the Namaqua Dog and Donkey Foundation.
Once again, runners’ donations over and above their entry fee will be matched by the Dis-Chem Foundation.
Enter online at https://dischem21.co.za. The live half-marathon race entry fee is R300, while the virtual race will cost R200 per entry.
Contact Bedfordview Athletics Club on 083 287 6792.
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