BAC celebrates its members
From seasoned runners chasing personal milestones to younger athletes dreaming of their own achievements, BAC’s awards evening celebrated the people behind the club’s growing list of successes.
Boksburg Athletics Club’s Comrades Awards at the Dias 88 restaurant in Sunward Park on Saturday recognised the dedication, training and personal sacrifices that go into taking on the Comrades and Two Oceans marathons.
The evening brought together the club’s Comrades runners, juniors and other athletes to celebrate their achievements and the contribution they make to the 51-year-old club.
Vice-president David Jones said combining the junior athletes with the Comrades and Two Oceans runners was intentional, giving younger members an opportunity to see what can be achieved.
“This is the first year we’ve combined our juniors, track and field with these ultra marathon runners,” he said. “This is a great opportunity for the older athletes to meet the new generation, thus creating an opportunity for them to inspire the youth.”
Among those recognised was 64-year-old David Gamede, who said the achievement had given him another reason to continue challenging himself.
“It means a lot to me. It motivates me and encourages me to defy my age, to keep pushing and to want to do even more.”
For him, the club’s recognition also represents the importance of belonging to a running community.
“We do not run for awards. However, the fact that the club takes the time to recognise us means a lot.
Everywhere I run, everywhere I race, whether it’s a big race or local race, many runners in South Africa now recognise BAC’s colours. They know the blue and white.”
With the 100th Comrades Marathon on the horizon, Gamede already has his sights set on another personal milestone.
“I’ll be 65 next year. I really want to run an excellent time. I’ve been trying for years to break seven hours, and I’m training to achieve that,” he said.
For Paul Kasu, being recognised by the club was equally meaningful, particularly because of the role the club plays in supporting its runners.
“Without the recognition and without being known by the club, we won’t go further,” he said.
Kasu’s focus now is on improving his previous Comrades performance, aiming to shave off more time from his previous down run of just over six hours.
The evening also highlighted the personal stories behind the club’s athletes.
Christina Silale, a mother of two, said running and the support she receives from the club has helped her remain focused through difficult times.
“I’m a single mother. I have a good support system, and it helps me keep my mind positive,” she said. “My plan next year is to be in the top 10 and then first in my category. I’ve already started training.”
The awards evening was not only about experienced runners.
The club’s younger athletes were also recognised for their achievements, with Engela Jansen van Vuuren and Jordan Brits among the juniors celebrated.
Jansen van Vuuren said being recognised was unexpected but left her feeling proud.
“It means everything. I’m very proud of myself, so it feels very good. I look up to my dad, which is why I run.”
The young athletes train three times a week and said they hope to continue building on their progress next year.
“I am very happy about this award. It’s going to keep me pushing for more,” said Jansen van Vuuren.
Jones said the club currently has members with decades of experience, including some who have been part of the club for about 40 years.
“I’ve been a member of the club for 29 years and we have a very solid club. We have good people and our kit is quite remarkable at races,” he said.
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