Race the Comrades Legends 2020 saw 70 Greenstone Hill Running Club (GHRC) members take to the streets in the -4°C morning on June 14.
Leigh-Anne Wagner from the club spoke about how GHRC members did in the Comrades Marathon this year.
“We only had one club member, Chad Costa, who completed the full distance of 90km in 8:31:00. The other members all completed distances ranging from 10km to 45km.”
Wagner added the majority of their runners were disappointed in not being able to compete in the event this year, as it is a highlight of the year for most runners.
“Those who did run said they missed the Comrades atmosphere and explained how there is something special about sharing the road with 20 000 other people.
“They said they miss the vibe of running the Comrades with all the spectators and supporters, and being able to say they have completed the ultimate human race.”
When Comrades was cancelled due to Covid-19, it was a huge knock emotionally for runners, according to Wagner.
“It has become a way of life, the sacrifice and effort that goes into it is beyond mediocre.
“All of a sudden it feels like you have no purpose and no drive.”
However, Wagner said their club always sees the glass half full.
“We all enjoyed the day out, meeting fellow club members en route. People cheered for each other and family and friends supported their runners day.”
This year there were no best performers as times for the runners were not logged.
“We cannot advise on positions placed either as we have not obtained this information from the event organisers.
“It was more for them to achieve their own goals,” said Wagner.
Runners experienced a lot more challenges this year, like planning routes, having no water tables and support, cold weather, lack of time to train for longer distances and the safety on the roads.
Wagner explained how the virtual race allowed everyone to participate in this iconic event as it accommodated all distances.
“More people could get involved, which allowed families to do this together.
“We did not have to wake up at 3am to get to the starting line and we could race when and where we wanted.”
She added it was a good way to encourage people to participate in the event.
The runner shared a message on the advantages of running: running is great for general well-being, self-confidence and it is an amazing stress reliever.
“It brings people together, gives us a common goal, a common interest and unites people like we’ve never seen.
“We also visit new places and run through the streets we would never have walked through.”
Wagner sent a shoutout to the other clubs for supporting them as they were running and everyone who was so friendly.
“The spirit of Comrades is in every runner and supporter, no matter where you are, and that is amazing.
“Keep on going, don’t ever give up.”
Residents who want to join the club can send an email to info@ghrc.co.za or contact them on their Facebook page.
