Farquharson shares her love for Colgate Race
"It's one race I enjoy."
Long-distance runner Gillian Farquharson sent well wishes to those running this year’s Colgate Race at Boksburg City Stadium on May 4.
Farquharson won the women’s 15km race last year. She clocked 01:00:08 with Kate van Jaarsveld finishing 14 seconds off the pace in 01:00:22. Youngster Kelly-Lynn Barkley completed the podium at 01:02:07.
Although the former Nedbank Running Club athlete would not return to defend her title as another race has taken priority, she would be on the sidelines on race day, cheering on the runners.
“I wish the athletes all the best for the upcoming Colgate Race. If I do not join them on the road, I will be on the sideline cheering everyone on,” she said.
Her victory at Boksburg Stadium came after winning the MiWay Wally Hayward half-marathon, which boosted her confidence in the Colgate Race.
“I won at Wally Hayward a few days before, something unexpected. Stepping up at the starting line at Colgate filled me with excitement, pride and accomplishment, even though it was a chilly morning start.”
Before the gun went off, Farquharson enjoyed a warm-up with her then-teammate Kate van Jaarsveld. They ran alongside each other most of the route until Farquharson launched her attack towards the end.
“The race is often a blur, but when you reflect on it, little moments stand out. One was the warm-up and start a race with someone I admire and respect, Kate van Jaarsveld.
“We ran the entire race together, pushing one another through the challenging parts and constantly encouraging and motivating one another,” said Farquharson.
She said it was one race she enjoyed. The race sponsor, Colgate, offered the runners goody bags stuffed with Colgate products, and she enjoyed the festive water points.
“It was well-organised,” she said.
She advised first-time participants to have fun.
“Running is often regarded as an individual sport because it is about your pace, endurance and personal goals. The beauty of running, especially when doing it with teammates, is it becomes something more than a solo effort.
“You push one another beyond physical performance. You have a shared energy and knowing someone is beside you to help and push you makes a difference.”
Asked to predict the women’s 15km, she said Nedbank’s Barkley is the one to watch.
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