Downhill race attracts thousands
Elias Mabane (Nedbank) won the men's 42km open category in a time of 2:22:28. What made the victory all the more memorable was that he was also the first veteran to cross the finish line.
Runners from all over South Africa made their way to the sleepy town of Kaapsehoop on November 1 to compete in one of the largest downhill marathons in the country. The Kaapsehoop 3-in-1 race took them on a long and tiring route among the Lowveld’s picturesque landscape up to the finish at Mbombela Stadium.
There was a feeling of optimism among runners for whom this race was an excellent early season test of their current fitness, stamina and championship credentials.
A total of 3 024 athletes finished the event with the 42km race having attracted 500 more entries than the previous year alone.
“We had a large number of pre-entries. The 42km marathon is without doubt the popular choice among runners who want to qualify for next year’s Comrades Marathon. Most of them will be determined to finish under five hours,” said Winnie Uys of Rudamans.
Elias Mabane (Nedbank) won the men’s 42km open category in a time of 2:22:28. What made the victory all the more memorable was that he was also the first veteran to cross the finish line.
Thapelo Mofokeng came second in 2:22:54 with Steelpoort’s Fanie Matshipa taking third in 2:25:08.
Nonsikelelo Mbmabo was the first female in the 42km race to touch the green grass of the stadium in 2:49:28.
She was closely followed by Cheryl-Lynn Koekemoer of Kempton Park in 3:03:9.
Michelle Mee was third in 3:08:11.
The race was a massive success with all the runners treated to enough refreshments, ice baths, and enough showering and parking facilities.
For many of these participants it was the first step in the right direction towards a better time, ranking and qualification.
