The South Coast Marathon, presented by South Coast Striders and Ray Nkonyeni Municipality (RNM), saw over 773 runners taking part in the event held at the Ugu Sports and Leisure Centre last Sunday.
Excellent weather conditions played its part, and runners of all ages enjoyed the 42km, 21km, 10km and 5km runs. Some R189 000 in prize monies were handed out, with the top prize of R10 000 each going to the 42km men’s and women’s winners.
The race was also a Comrades Marathon qualifier.
Municipal spokesperson Simon April, who took part in the 5km run, said there was great improvement from the previous marathons. “We were impressed by the number of participants and the general organisation of the event.
The mayor of RNM, Zodwa Mzindle, congratulated all runners. “Being physically active contributes to the prevention and management of non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and diabetes, and reduces symptoms of depression and anxiety,” she said.
Mzindle was also impressed with the number of RNM employees who took part in different categories, led by municipal manager Ketha Zulu.
The South Coast Striders director, Deborah Berridge, and team did an outstanding job organising the event from start to finish.
Results are as follows:
Men – 42km: 1st – Dion Ross 2:29:45, 2nd – Mphilisi Mtolo 2:31:47 and 3rd – Nkosinathi Duma 2:32:12.
Women – 42km: 1st – Fikile Mbuthuma 3:14: 41, 2nd – Vuyokazi Hebe 3:42: 24 and 3rd – Zodwa Magidigidi 3:44:12.
Men – 21km: 1st – Luthando Ndonyela 1:10:03, 2nd – Simphiwe Zulu 1:10: 46 and 3rd – Lindokuhle Zakhele Chiliza 1:11:19.
Women – 21km: 1st – Andisiwe Njunguza 1:24:16, 2nd – Gena Löfstrand 1:37:31 and 3rd – Jade du Toit 1:47:49.
Ozayr Mia said the marathon was well organised. “I found the South Coast Marathon more challenging than the Comrades up run. There are not many hills, but the ones on the course are demonic, and because it’s a double loop, you meet your demons twice, but with all of that, I did manage to qualify for next year’s Comrades Marathon. “
Another runner said: “Congratulations to Striders for hosting an amazing marathon. There were sufficient watering points and marshals. Keep it up; looking forward to another exciting event.”
The organisers thank runners, sponsors, marshals, and all those manning the watering points from start to finish.
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