BAC sees an increase in members
The club wants to see more members participating in running competitions.
Speaking at Boksburg Athletic Club’s (BAC) 48th AGM on October 11, chairperson Karen Bradshaw said membership has rapidly grown this year compared to last year.
“We have 302 members compared to 259 last year. This shows that the club is growing stronger. Apart from our Facebook page, we have also launched an Instagram page to keep members informed, “she explained.
“I would like to mention that the Colgate race was hosted successfully once again. We are giving this honour to the sponsor of the race – Colgate – who has been supportive of the club. We truly appreciate their support and interest in us as a running club.
“A big thanks to you Caronn Harris as race convenor, she put everything together for the race with the help of Cathy from Colgate.”
She added that the Colgate race is such an important event on the club and the Gauteng running calendar.
“I want to also thank the race committee, and also John Kok, Frank de Ascencao, Gavin Bruce, Estelle and Phill Burmeister. Special thanks to Michaela because her team from Run/Walk for Life took responsibility for the 5km fun run this year.
“Every club member that volunteered their time not only on the day but also in preparation for the race I want to thank and acknowledge you,” said Bradshaw.
Bradshaw added that whether it was marking the route, handing out numbers and the always popular Colgate goodie bags, delivering coke and water or manning water tables, without those people’s commitment and dedication, there would not be able to host such a successful race.
“This year saw increased interest and participation in key events like Two Oceans, Comrades, Om Die Dam and Loskop as well as other various local marathons in Ekurhuleni.
“There is a great spirit presence in the club and our Boksies always look great in the very famous white and blue on the road,” she stated.
Bradshaw thanked their sponsor Capellos for offering the Comrades handout as well as offering them a venue for the Comrades breakfast and chairman’s run this year.
“The BAC flag was flown on the podium in 2023 by the phenomenal Van Wyk Team. Chris van Wyk managed three podium placings this year and Rita holds an impressive count of 11 podium finishes including Two Oceans and Comrades.
“David Gamede, Kevin Porobich, Sally Goncalves, Caronn Harris, Ian Manchest and Sue Laybourn all secured a podium position in 2023, and we look forward to seeing many more in 2024.”
Comrades award winners:
Comrades first lady Rita van Wyk, also placed 3rd overall Grandmaster Lady
Comrades first man Paul Kasu
Comrades silver medallists: Johan Dunn, David Gamede, Paul Kasu, Johan Meyer
Comrades veteran man: Johan Meyer
Comrades veteran lady: Caronn Harris
Comrades master man: Joseph Tshabalala
Comrades master lady: Sally Goncalves
Comrades grandmaster man: David Gamede, also placed 2nd overall Grandmaster Man
Comrades grandmaster lady: Rita van Wyk
Comrades first male novice: Bertus Nienaber
Comrades first female novice: Zanelle Hlope
Fastest back to back male: Paul Kasu
Fastest back to back female: Sally Goncalves
Youngest finisher: Michelle Dunn
Oldest finisher: Joseph Morowane (26)
Last athlete home: Sifiso Tshabalala
Run of the day: Paul Kasu
Most meritorious: Zanele Hlope
Husband and wife: Bronwyn and Wynand Strydom
Fastest green number: Joseph Tshabalala
Green numbers: Ian Manchest and Johan Burger
Also Read: Boksburg Athletic Club’s weekly time trial results
Also Read: #Comrades2023: BAC athletes receive special send-off
