Limited entries left for Pirates 21K
GREENSIDE – Greyling said the event is for all runners with a cut-off time of three and a half hours.
The iconic Pirates 21K is back as a live event taking place on February 20.
After only taking place in a virtual format last year, race organisers are excited to have runners back on the road for a live event.
The live race is limited to 2 000 participants and has a staggered start to promote safety.
A virtual event has also been arranged for those who would like to run on any Saturday or Sunday in February and is limited to 1 000 entrants.
Pirates Road Running chair Gerry Greyling said, “Now in its 44th year, the Pirates 21K powered by Medshield is definitely not an easy run. However, it’s fast becoming one of the bucket list races on the calendar as it not only tests your fitness but remains a great day out.”
Greyling said the event is for all runners with a cut-off time of three and a half hours.
“It is aimed at both the elites and those who just want to have fun and bragging rights of completing Joburg’s toughest 21K. Combine that with the good old-fashioned hospitality that Pirates is known for, you get a great day out on the road and the right way to start a year of health and fitness.”
The route starts at Pirates Club in Greenside and then ambles along the leafy suburbs for about a kilometre before you hit the first hill up First Avenue, Linden. After which, it is undulating until you hit the two major hills affectionately known as K1 and K2, which culminates with ‘King of the Mountain’ at the top of Northcliff Hill – around 13km in. From there, it is mainly downhill back to Pirates with a final bump as runners pass the Engen garage near the club.
The first male and female to get to the top of Rockey Drive in Northcliff will receive a cash prize.
A number of measures have been taken to ensure the safety of runners including mat-to-mat timing, so there is no rush to get to the front. All entrants will also be required to present a full vaccination certificate at registration or proof of a recent negative Covid-19 test.
Entries for the live event are almost sold out. Visit www.pirates21.co.za for more information.
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