Record numbers complete Pirates 21k

A long stream of runners, resembling the form of a snake, wound its way up and around Joburgs’s steepest hills for what is regarded as the toughest half marathon in the city.

The 42nd annual Pirates 21k saw a record number of runners hit the streets as early as 6am on 17 February. This included 4 900 entries for the run and 4 100 finishers.

The route began at Pirates Sports Club, Greenside, and made its way north and west through Victory Park and Linden, then west towards Northcliff Hill.

Great views were on offer if runners had enough energy to enjoy them, as the route went south over three infamous hills. The final hill topped out at 1 760m above sea level. This is the highest point in any road race in Gauteng.

After summiting the steep and strenuous climb (with water points placed at strategic points), runners enjoyed some nice long downhills as they made their way south and east back to Pirates.

Joel Mmone of Nedbank was the first man to finish in 01:08:27 and Carla Molinaro, also of Nedbank, was the first woman in 01:27:08.

“It all went well and we had good weather in the morning. It was neither too hot nor was it wet,” said Pirates Road Running chairperson, David Case.

“I saw lots of smiles on the route and social media was busy. The highlight for me was chatting to other running clubs afterwards.”

Case added that many running clubs and schools were involved in the run and volunteered to help at water points.

“It’s a tough run so it was also good to see the members of the community come out and sit on the pavement and cheer the runners on.”

Pirates Road Running will host a training run with the 21k route in reverse, in mid-May. Case said 400 to 500 runners usually participate.

More information will be made known about the event shortly, as registration for it begins in March.

Details: racedirector@piratesroadrunning.co.za; chair@piratesroadrunning.co.za; 011 568 0922.

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