Runners go the distance for Balwin Sport Jeppe Marathon
“We have worked hard to get our numbers back to where they were pre-Covid.”
Athletic excellence was the day’s theme when thousands of runners hit the streets to compete in the Balwin Sport Jeppe Marathon.
The race, now in its 39th year, is an annual highlight on the sports calendar, attracting participants of all ages and skill levels, from elite athletes to recreational runners.
Hosted at the Saheti School on February 9, the event showcased top-tier running talent and supported the George Bizos Saheti Scholarship and Bursary Fund (GBSSBF).
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With a scenic and somewhat challenging route, the event tested the runners’ endurance through Bedfordview and Edenvale.
The race distances included a 42.2km marathon, a 21.1km half marathon, a 10km race and the George Bizos 5km Fun Run.
The four races drew a field of over 5 800 participants, growing significantly compared to last year.
This year, Philani Nkomo won the 42.2km men’s race in 2:26:50, while Melinda Jansen van Vuuren led the ladies home in 3:06:28.
Sakhile Sangweni won the 21.1km men’s race in 1:09:37, and Lebo Phalula won the ladies’ race in 1:16:2.
Race participants could donate funds to the GBSSBF, which honours the legacy of the late Advocate George Bizos by enabling learners in financial need to access the holistic education offered at Saheti.
A substantial amount was raised for the scholarship fund after the race.
The school’s director of co-curriculars, Erica Lion-Cachet, said it was a privilege to collaborate with the Jeppe Marathon organisers.
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“While our partnership spans many years, it has gained remarkable momentum in the past two.
“We have seen a growing number of participants in the George Bizos 5km Fun Run, which is heartening,” said Lion-Cachet.
She said the school was grateful for the generosity shown through this partnership, especially knowing a portion of the funds raised will contribute to the scholarship fund.
Lion-Cachet said the fund is vital in empowering young minds and shaping the future of deserving learners.
“We remain committed to this cause and are honoured to be part of a partnership that fosters community spirit and educational opportunities.”
Race director Bruce King expressed enthusiasm about hosting the marathon at the school, emphasising the institution’s exceptional facilities.
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“Saheti offers wonderful facilities, and its immaculate fields provide the perfect setting for an event of this magnitude.
“From our side, the Jeppe Quondam Athletics Club is happy with the turnout at this past week’s race. We have worked hard to get our numbers back to where they were pre-Covid.”
King said the race went off without a hitch thanks to many people’s efforts behind the scenes.
“It is often this behind-the-scenes work that is overlooked after the success of such an event and I say thanks to all who assisted,” said King.
King also thanked the communities through which the race is run.
“We understand it is sometimes difficult and disruptive, but we thank them and ask them to get involved next year. Come out as communities and support the runners on the day.”
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The race’s title sponsor, Balwin Properties, has also committed to growing road running by sponsoring the Balwin Sport race series – four events, namely the Jeppe Marathon, the Peninsula Marathon in Cape Town, the Pretoria Marathon and the Dolphin Coast Marathon in KwaZulu-Natal.
Sub-sponsors Garmin, ASICS, 32GI, 5FM, City Lodge Hotels, Midea SA, aQuelle, Medi Response, Biddulphs International, Subaru SA and LaundraMax SA ensured a successful race.
Jeppe Athletics thanked all the sponsors, especially the communities through which the race is run, and invited the public to come out and enjoy the day with the runners.The running club hopes next year’s event will be bigger and better.
