Pirates 21k half marathon goes virtual but keeps the same route
GREENSIDE – Local half marathon will be held virtually but participants are encouraged to run the traditional route.
The Pirates 21k race will look a bit different this year.
The annual run is dubbed the toughest half marathon in Joburg, with a route that goes over several long and steep hills, the most infamous being Northcliff Hill.
The run will be virtual this year in the sense that people can participate on any Saturday or Sunday in their own time over February.
“But this isn’t your average virtual run because we can’t give you a medal for ‘Joburg’s toughest 21’ unless you’ve been over the mountain,” said Pirates Road Running chairperson, Natalie Mills.
Thus, runners are encouraged to run the iconic Pirates 21k route that goes over Northcliff Hill. Runners can print a map of the route or load it onto their phone GPS. The route from Pirates Sports Club will be marked but there will be no marshals.
Mills said organisers believed separating runners through staggered starts in this way would keep the event safe for all.
There are spot prizes, T-shirts, medals and R5 000 for the running club with the most entries, and race packs can be collected at the sports club.
Entries, more information and results are available online at www.pirates21.co.za
Mills encouraged the community to register along with their family and friends. Food and drinks will be on sale at Pirates Sports Club each weekend.
Runners should also practise general pedestrian safety when running or when crossing busy intersections.
Detils: Pirates Road Running racedirector@piratesroadrunnning.co.za
