The Pirates 10km Road Race is back and if it is only half as good as it was last year, it will be one you do not want to miss.
The road race has a long-standing history, with the current route being followed since the early 90s.
The race, which will take place on 14 July with a 2 500 entry cap, is run on a scenic route through the tree-lined suburbs of Greenside, Parkview and Westcliff.
Last year, a few surprises occurred at the finish line. The first female runner to finish was none other than 15-year-old Gené Coetzee. The youngster edged out senior women runners Chrizell Roberts by four seconds and Nomsa Cossa by seven.
“It was a nice run but the hills were intense,” the junior runner said after finishing her first Pirates 10K in 00:40:26.
In the men’s division, Tumi Lephoto almost caused a riot when he nearly won running barefoot. He kept pace with the leaders most of the race and even led for a kilometre or two in the middle period but was later overtaken and finished in fourth place.
Another surprise on the day was that former men’s champion and hot favourite, Namakoe Nkasi was beaten by a whole 20 seconds by the winner, David Manja (00:30:04).
Despite all these incredible times, the run saw its share of 10km first-timers, dog walkers and pram pushers taking it at their own pace.
“Our aim for this year’s event is to create an event that inspires a love for road running amongst the next generation. There is significant prize money for juniors to compete for,” said Pirates Road Running chairperson, David Case.
“This year we are reintroducing the 5km fun run to the event. This fun run is for participants of all ages and we would really like to encourage parents to make the run a family event – it is a great opportunity to run with your children in a safe environment.”
The post-race area at Pirates Sports Club will include loads of food stalls along with children’s play facilities with jumping castles, a jungle gym, face painting and a treasure hunt.
Case encouraged community members and organisations to come out and support the runners.
“With the challenging nature of the course, runners would be very grateful to see a bunch of smiles and hear some kind words of encouragement.”
Community members can register at entrytickets.net until entry limits are met. Running shops, Randburg Runner and Sweatshop have entry tickets for people to purchase as well.
Details: Pirates Sports Club info@piratesclub.co.za; 011 646 5025.
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