Mikolongwe gives Qhubeka AC race a thumbs up

The winner of the inaugural Qhubeka AC Human Rights Day Race, Bright Mikolongwe, confirmed he will take part in this year’s race on March 21 at the School of Achievement in Germiston.

Mikolongwe won the men’s 10km race in a time of 32:59 but said this year he will take part in the new 21.1km double lapper, which was added after a demand for a longer distance from the running community.

“I’m happy because they’ve added the half-marathon, which is my favourite distance,” he said.

The Malawian, who achieved a PB of 02:19:31 in only his second marathon at the TracN4 Elands Marathon on March 2, explained his goal is to improve his times on the road, starting with the 21.1km on March 21.

“It’s not always about winning but to achieve PBs in the 10km, 15km and 21km as well as the 32km and 42.2km. Because of my results at Elands and with my coach and all my sponsors, we are planning something big,” he said.

The runner praised the Boksburg club for the success of last year’s race, saying it was well organised and encouraged the community to come out in numbers to support it.

“The route is good and flat for people who walk, run or those participating for the first time. I want to encourage all runners and walkers to join Qhubeka AC’s 10km, 21.1km and 5km fun run.

“Qhubeka is a new club and it’s important for community members and all runners to support such growth in the sport. All clubs in our region should come out like they did last year and make this race a success,” Mikolongwe said.

Around 600 runners took part in the race in 2023. The club’s chairperson Benzi Tenza said they are expecting double the number.

“It’s on and it’s bigger and better. The event was rated as a low-risk event by the SAPS but we’ll have the presence of the EMPD, and private security. Runners can expect the same hospitality,” said Tenza.

He added they will continue to take entries until the morning of the event.

The entry fee for the half-marathon is R240, R190 for the 10km race and R100 for the 5km event. Those with temporary licenses will pay R70 for the 21.1km race and R60 for the 10km.

The 21.1km and 10km races will start at 06:00 and the 5km will follow at 06:15. All finishers will receive medals.

Also Read: Qhubeka AC adds half-marathon to Human Rights Day event

Also Read: Qhubeka chair grateful to community for successful race