Running clubs set to defend their titles

With just a month to go before the Comrades Marathon, Gauteng road runners are going through their paces. Those who are looking for a training run, the SA Pork Kwai Challenge on 11 May at the Randburg Sports Complex is a great fitness barometer.

Nedbank Running Club has entered a powerful team in this year’s challenge, hoping to dominate the race again as they did with their performance in 2013.

Last year saw Nedbank’s Green Dream Team score a hat trick, winning three out of four gold medals. This year most of the winners will be back to defend their titles. Reigning SA women’s marathon champion Cornelia Joubert, who won the Women’s 21.1 half marathon in 2013, forms part of the strong line-up and will be looking to hold on to her gold.

The Nedbank’s dream team also includes Joel Mmone who finished second in the Two Oceans Half Marathon, Rutendo Nyahora and Myrette Filmalter. Nyahora and Filmalter were last year’s top two ladies in the 10km earning gold and silver respectively. Hundreds of social runners will also be representing the club.

Organised by Randburg Harriers, the 2014 SA Pork Kwai Challenge comprises of a 21.1km, 10km run, as well as a 5km family fun run. There is even a 50m nappy dash for the under fours. All moms who take part no matter the distance, will get a Mother’s Day goodie bag after the race. There are also cash prizes up for grabs and various spot prizes to be given out. More than 7000 runners from athletics clubs all over Gauteng are expected to participate at the Randburg Sports Complex on the day.

The races will be followed by a fun Inter Club braai competition sponsored by Eskort. Clubs will be judged by a team of celebrity judges, including road running legends Nick Bester and Bruce Fordyce.

Get your entry form at local sports stores or at the Randburg Sports Complex on 9 and 10 May, between 11am and 4pm and on 11 May, between 5am and 6:45am.

Details: www.sportsvendo.co.za; 0860 460 906.