Scores of athletes at Mall of the North Marathon

The second annual Mall of the North Marathon lured scores of athletes who participated over four different distances – some for the fun of it and the more serious ones to qualify for the Comrades on Saturday.
With the sun about to rise above the horizon athletes in the 42,2 km were set off by Marketing Manager Rene Mouton followed by those participating in the 21,1 km, 10 km and 5 km fun run.

The event was organised in collaboration with Pietersburg Road Runners (PRR) and club Chairperson Colinda Potgieter said it was a huge success. “We had more than 3 000 entries for the event, over 500 athletes more than last year. It was hard work but worth every moment.
“We received only positive feedback from athletes especially for the dedication and motivation they received from all water points on the route,” Potgieter said. She added that the race will definitely be hosted again next year as some of the main sponsors had already indicated their involvement in the 2017 race.
At the prize giving Mall of the North General Manager Sumari de Ridder said:
“It is hard work and organisers compromised a lot of hours to ensure this event’s success. Thank you to every person involved in organising a victorious event once again.” She also expressed her gratitude towards athletes who entered in their numbers.
Results
In the 42,2 km Bethuel Netshifefhe from PRR claimed victory in the open category with a time of 2:28.53 also finishing first as veteran category winner. Thomas Munzhelele also from PRR and Samancor runner Ladudi Makofane finished in second and third.
Polokwane’s favourite marathon athlete Jane Mudau (PRR) earned herself a second place in the 42,2 km, seven minutes behind the winner Gladys Lukhwareni (3:17.14). She also claimed first place in the women’s master category. Seipati Peo was third in the marathon.
The open category for men in the 21,1 km was won by Tlou Peo (1:07.09) followed by Pharson Magagane and Tebogo Pulusa in second and third respectively. Emmah Mathibela (1:30.50) was the first woman to cross the finish line follwed by Paulina Phaho and Elsabe Cronje. Phaho and Cronjé also finished first and second in the women’s veteran category respectively.
The 10 km for men saw Ikageng Gaorebe claim first prize in the junior and open category in a time of 32:25. Lesiba Peu and Samuel Manamela were second and third respectively. The women’s open category was won by Gift Ramabele (42:56) followed by Singa Malatje and Sarah Makuleka.
Open category marathon winner Bethuel Netshifefhe’s daughter Popi is sure to follow in her father’s footsteps as she was crowned as junior winner with a time of 48:17.

RC Myburgh
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