Running in the zone

Nearly 3 000 people turned up to make the inaugural Run Zone Joburg Northern Chase a success.

The run started and finished at Marks Park Sports Club, Emmarentia. Run Zone Athletics Club, which is based in Berario, hosted the event. It included 15km and 32km runs as well as a 5km fun run.

“We asked for feedback afterwards and it was all positive,” said club owner and event organiser, Graham Block. “We were told the run was well organised, the marshalls were all helpful, the food was good.”

The fun run was supported by about 300 runners, showing that social runners were also in attendance.

Block added that the atmosphere on the day was vibrant, helped by the six unique water points that were each designed and run by a different group. These included the Sharks Supporters Club, Northcliff High School and various other running clubs.

Block said the run was such a success that next year it would be even bigger. The date set for next year’s event is 22 March.

While the 5km fun run will be held again, the other distances will be pushed to half marathon and full marathon (21.1km and 42.2km respectively).

This will be the first time a full marathon will be held at Marks Park.

“We have a programme called Starting Block which helps people get off the couch and onto the road. That is why the 5km fun run will remain.”

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