Despite Sunday’s sizzling heat, young and old runners and walkers tackled the 10km, 21.1km and 42km coastal routes from Scottburgh to Hutchison Park in Amanzimtoti for the annual Goss and Balfe South Coast Sapphire Marathon.
This year was a special edition of the race, because Sapphire Coast Tourism (SCT) chairperson, Romy Wenzel, joined the hordes of athletes in the 21.1km run to experience it first-hand.
“I thoroughly enjoyed my first half-marathon ever. There was a great running spirit, awesome support from spectators alongside the road and magnificent views. There is no doubt, this race is certainly one of the province’s most scenic and iconic races to be enjoyed by runners and walkers with breathtaking views of our beautiful Sapphire Coastline.
“This race is a great opportunity for visitors to experience the amazing activities and sightseeing opportunities on the KZN Upper South Coast. SCT was very excited to welcome new and returning participants to this gem and hopefully we will see them again next year, as this is an event not to be missed in 2020.
“Congratulations to Amanzimtoti Athletics Clubs for a well organised event, with innovative water tables, a colourful set up at the finish line and many thanks to all helping hands, from community members and groups, who assisted on the road,” said Romy.
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In the 42.2km, Bonginkosi Zwane claimed the win in a blistering time of 2.32.30, while Coreen Malherbe was the fastest woman home in 3.19.54.
Vumani Mlaba was the top male runner in the 21.1km in 1.10.29. Three-time winner, Janie Grundling, successfully retained her title as the fastest woman. The Durban resident won the women’s 42.2km in 2014 and 2017, as well as the 21.1km last year. She finished in 1.22.53, followed home by Romy, who was second in the 35 to 39-years-old category in 1.35.04.
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