RandMark’s virtual events a hit

RandMark’s first Virtual Comrades 90,2km Challenge was a success.

Due to the official Comrades Marathon being cancelled, RandMark like many other clubs held their own Comrades Virtual Run from 1 to 14 June.

Charlene Beukman, the club’s running representative said the virtual race saw 61 entries, some from as far as Cape Town, Nelspruit, and even the United Kingdom. There were also entries from Randburg and Pretoria. A total of 40 runners finished.

Beulah Botha finished on top of the leaderboard with a progress of 260,6 per cent, covering a total distance of 235,10km in a time of 21 hours, 54 minutes and 49 seconds.

Michelle Broodryk was second with a progress of 188,4 per cent, covering a total distance of 169,96km in a time of 19 hours,
42 minutes and 45 seconds, followed by Jeandre Heritage with a progress of 188,4 per cent, covering a total distance of 167,67km in a time of 21 hours, 24 minutes and 51 seconds.

In addition, Beulah was one of three participants who completed the challenge in seven days or less, having covered a distance of 108,73km in just six days. The others to have achieved this feat was Casey du Plooy (92,64km in seven days) and Desiree Burger Eloff (91,90km in seven days).

Full results below:

According to Charlene, they received positive feedback.

“The participants really enjoyed the challenge and they are already up for a new one. Some thanked all involved for the hard work that was put into all of this, while others such as Charmaine Wright said, ‘Thank you, it was awesome and an amazing challenge’. Clement van der Merwe said, ‘Thank you for all the efforts’, and Irene Jonker said, ‘We all appreciate the
challenge and efforts’.”

RandMark’s also held a Virtual Cycling 300km Challenge.

According to Bertie Nel, the club treasurer, 39 participants entered and 24 finished. On top of his game and in first place was Jacques Maritz with a progress of 335,4 per cent, covering a total distance of 1 006,07km in a time of 34 hours, 31 minutes and 01 seconds.

Kwanele Sikhakhane was second with a progress of 215,4 per cent, covering a total distance of 646,31km in a time of 25 hours,
35 minutes and 50 seconds, followed by Gareth Jordaan in third place with a progress of 196,3 per cent, covering a total distance of 588,79km in a time of 24 hours, 39 minutes and 30 seconds.

Full results below:

Charlene concluded, “The events were a great success! Our goal was to keep runners and cyclists motivated during lockdown, and I believe we did well.”

The club is planning some new challenges in future.