Ride and run was unforgettable

The second annual Umdoni Coastal Adventure Mountain Bike Ride and Trail Run at the Rocky Bay trails was filled with energy and excitement last Saturday.

Besides the superb turnout by people of all ages, the winter sun and stunning scenery made for a perfect morning.

The event was hosted by Umdoni Christian Academy (UCA).

Blake Killoran, a Grade 4 learner at UCA, was one of the many young participants and stated that it was an epic morning.

“I had lots of fun riding the 6km route at Rocky Bay with my friends,” said Killoran.

Ciska Elston, coach for Run Walk For Life Amanzimtoti, thoroughly enjoyed the trail even though she is mainly a road runner and would definitely do it again.

This was also described as a remarkable experience for local runner Daina Osborn, who is a member of the Scottburgh Athletic Club and recently completed her first Comrades Marathon.

“The trail showcased the local beauty of running through lush sugarcane fields, and the camaraderie among participants and organisers was equally impressive as everyone involved displayed an exceptional willingness to assist and a friendliness that made the event even more enjoyable,” explained Osborn.

“It was heartwarming to witness such a supportive and enthusiastic community. Local events like these are incredibly valuable, providing a wonderful opportunity for people to come together and enjoy the natural beauty of our region.”

The local runner hopes that the Umdoni trail event continues to grow from strength to strength, becoming a staple on the local calendar and attracting even more participants in the future.

Gathering Together also had 14 runners from the Kelso community.

Results are as follows:
44km – bike:
Men: 1st – Tayne Rudling, 2nd – Luke Smith, 3rd – Hendrik Stapelberg.
Women: 1st – Rune Van Zyl, 2nd – Zinnia Freitas.

20km – bike:
Men: 1st – Wayne Kearly, 2nd – Jean-Dre Mullér, 3rd – Seth Loesch.
Women: 1st – Storm Smith, 2nd – Donna Henderson, 3rd – Simone Nel.

6km – bike:
Men: 1st – Reece Ruiter, 2nd – Noah Stubbs, 3rd – Jordan.
Women: 1st – Olivia Cox, 2nd – Jessica Ruiter, 3rd – Jennifer-Jayne Miller.

20km run –
Men: 1st – Sbongiseni Shozi, 2nd – Rickey Hulley, 3rd – Lindsay Albers.
Women: 1st – Melanie Stapleberg, 2nd – Judith Wijne, 3rd – Noyolo Yekwayd.

12km – run:
Men: 1st – Ayanda Mthimkhulu, 2nd – Roshen Anandlal, 3rd – Dave Strydom.
Women: 1st – Daina Osborn, 2nd – Kirsty Moriarty, 3rd – Louise McLeod.

6km – run:
Men: 1st – Nathi, 2nd – Thozizi, 3rd – Thobani

First U12 age group 6km run – Kane Rivetti.

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