SPAR Grand Prix Awards bedazzle in Broadacres
BROADACRES – SPAR Grand Prix's top runners are awarded in style.
It was a day for honouring running’s best at the glitz and glamour-filled SPAR Grand Prix Awards.
A month after the sixth and final race in the Grand Prix was held in Joburg, winners, sponsors, guests and dignitaries attended the awards at the beautiful Buitengeluk venue in Broadacres on 8 November.
Excellent food was served and violinist and singer, Cristina Rodrigues, kept everyone in a good mood with lovely melodies.
When it was time for speeches, SPAR group marketing executive Mike Prentice opened by revealing that 150 000 runners had participated in the 12th SPAR Grand Prix.
Furthermore, R850 000 was given away as prize money, and plenty of funds were raised for charity.
“We want to raise awareness of road running for women,” Prentice said, thanking running clubs, media and organisers for playing their part in making the Grand Prix a success.
R185 000 had been awarded to the Grand Prix winner, Glenrose Xaba. She could not be present on the day, due to writing an electrical engineering exam, but said via video that she felt honoured to hold such an amazing trophy.
She thanked SPAR for sponsoring the series and giving women runners an opportunity to excel.
Athletics South Africa president, Aleck Skhosana, likewise thanked SPAR for developing women’s running and said he hoped they would continue to do so for years to come.
“This event affords women from the remotest areas of South Africa to join experienced runners and do something they all love,” he said.
Then the three top finishers from each age category were called up to receive their awards before the top 15 open women were presented their awards and prize money.
Rudo Mhonderwa finished second in the Grand Prix, and Rutendo Nyahora came third.
Last year’s winner, Kesa Molotsane, finished fourth.
Lifetime achievement awards then followed for eight runners who had each completed at least 50 SPAR Women’s Races.
Lastly, running clubs and sponsors Boxer, Nedbank and KPMG were also thanked and received certificates for their contribution.
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