Helalia smashes records at iconic SPAR race
There was a cash prize purse of R30 000 to mark the event's 30th anniversary.
PHOTO: Rogan Ward
NAMIBIAN Helalia Johannes ran an incredible race in Durban as she claimed the SPAR Women’s 10km Challenge win in a time of 30 minutes 59 seconds, the fastest time over this distance recorded in Africa.
In doing so, Helalia also smashed the Namibian record for the third time in a matter of two months.
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The 38-year-old Helalia did not take long to assert her domination over the field of 14 751 runners after the start in front of the iconic Moses Mabhida Stadium
She appeared to enjoy her entourage of motorcyclists from the Steelwings Club as they ensured her safe passage throughout the 30th anniversary of the race, which also carried a prize purse of R30 000 to commemorate it.
Helalia said she was sure more records would follow, but that she did not have any set plans for the immediate future.
“We’ll just have to wait and see where and when I will be running again. I have been improving my times steadily.”
A whooping R30 000 was also raised for the race’s charity, the Cancer Association.
Results
Open:
1. Helalia Johannes (Nedbank) 30.59; 2. Tadu Nare (Nedbank) 32.36; 3. Irvette Van Zyl (Nedbank) 32.57.
Junior:
1. Nare Tadu (Nedbank) 32:36; 2. Tayla Kavanagh (Hillcrest Villagers Athletics club) 36:23; 3. Dipulo Mashishi (Murray & Roberts) 38:05.
20 to 39:
1. Helalia Johannes (Nedbank Namibia) 30.59; 2.Diana Lebo Phalula (Boxer) 34:59; 3. Makhosi Mhlongo (Hollywood bets Running Club) 35:15.
40 to 49:
1. Bulelwa Semai (Boxer) 38:36; 2. Elizabeth Dlhiwayo (Run walk for life Rustenburg) 38:38; 3. Janene Carey (Boxer KZN) 40:22.
50 to 59:
1. Judy Bird (Murry & Roberts) 41:10; 2. Michelle Sims (PDAC) 25:28; 3 Maya Lawire (Boxer) 41:26.
60 to 69:
1. Olga Howard (Nedbank) 44:54; 2. Blanche Moila (Savages) 48:14; 3. Colleen Peens (Team Vitality) 49:31.
70+:
1. Jackie Davis (Savages) 55:55; 2 Gillian Tregenna (Wings Athletics) 01:01:48; 3 Getrude Lottering (Boxer) 01:16:42
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