Entries now open for the 2016 Dick King run/walk

THE 39th edition of the annual Dick King Run/Walk takes place on Sunday, 3 April starting on Beach Road opposite Spur in Amanzimtoti at 6am.

Organised by the Amanzimtoti Athletics Club, the historic half marathon attracts a number of runners and walkers to the beautiful KwaZulu-Natal South Coast.

Originating in 1976, the race was started by the first chairman of the now Amanzimtoti Athletics Club – Peter Malone – who named it after the British trader and colonist, Dick King. As the story goes, King and his horse stopped in Amanzimtoti on the way from Port Natal to Grahamstown during King’s epic journey to warn about the pending Boer attacks. The Dick King race is essentially along part of the same route he would have taken.

The race is separated into a 21km run and 15km walk that takes competitors from Beach Road through to Illovo and back. Past winners are expected to participate in the hopes of retaining the prestigious title.

Metro Police will approve all safety and security plans which will include an ambulance and rescue bus on race day, as well as emergency respondents. Refreshment tables will be placed every three kilometres along the route providing participants with water and Coca Cola. The lead car will also assist in keeping participants safe.

The race begins at 6am on Beach Road in front of Spur and finishes in front of Valentinos. DJ Mike Bennet will keep those supporting the runners and walkers entertained on the day.

The race categories include open, 35-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60+, 70+ and junior male or female. The winning runners will both receive the illustrious marathon trophies and the top three competitors in all categories will receive a cash prize. Every participant will also receive a T-shirt and medal.

Entries for the race are open online at www.totiac.co.za at a cost of R100 for the 21km run and R90 for the 15km walk. Pre-entry for the race closes on 27 March. Temporary licences can also be purchased.