Run to the beat

Getting jiggy to beats from local talent on the 10km and 21km routes on 16 March, people jogging with earphones were few and far between, considering the string of artists performing en route.

MiCasa, Freshlyground, Brent Harris and the Jam, and the Graeme Watkins Project kept up the tempo as runners whooshed by during South Africa’s first musical race.

Tertius Botha, taking on the 10km race, said he often runs a route similar to Rock the Run, “This time we cranked it up, by incorporating music to an otherwise dull route.”

While serious runners conquered the hilly 21km half-marathon route, live entertainment aimed to keep spirits up.

Mushroom Farm Park hosted the run, and a post-event concert featured the bands that cheered on runners along the way.

With colour runs dominating running events last year, perhaps this will become a new platform for bands and singers to showcase themselves, while helping runners along the way.

The run also raked in cash for various charities that will be announced.