TZANEEN – Runners from across the region gathered in Hoedspruit on Saturday for a successful community road race featuring 5km, 10km and 20km distances.

The event attracted athletes of all ages and abilities, with young competitors and seasoned runners alike producing impressive performances on a cool autumn morning.

Junior athletes shine in 5km race

The 5km race provided some of the day’s most exciting action, with junior athletes dominating the front of the field. Malwandla Ndlovu claimed victory in a time of 30:45, finishing comfortably ahead of Ndzalama Ndlovu, who crossed the line in 33:29. Luke Smit completed the podium in 37:13, while Noah Scott finished fourth in 37:14.

The women’s race was won by Tanya Prinsloo, who placed fifth overall and secured the u/16 girls’ category title in 37:18. She was followed by Nienne Botes and Rachel Talanda, who both delivered strong performances in their respective age categories. The race highlighted the growing strength of junior athletics in the area, with several u/16 and u/18 competitors finishing among the leading runners.

Competitive 10km action

The 10km event attracted a competitive field and saw Michael Broodryk emerge as the overall winner in 55:33.

A standout performance came from Jordan Prinsloo, who finished second overall and was the first female athlete across the line in 57:08, claiming top honours in the u/18 girls’ category. Matt Lindenberg secured third place overall in 57:50.

Veteran and master runners also featured prominently in the 10km race. Jake Hoddinott won the veteran men’s category, while Dirk Venter claimed victory among the master men.

In the women’s divisions, Tehri Mathewson and Elize de Meyer took top honours in the veteran and master categories respectively. Young runner Mornae Kleynhans impressed by winning the u/16 boys’ category and finishing 20th overall.

Closely fought 20km race

The longest distance of the day, the 20km race, produced a closely contested battle at the front of the field.

Jason Kipling delivered the fastest performance of the event, crossing the finish line in 01:45:14 to secure overall victory. He was closely followed by Lourens Beeslaar, who finished second in 01:46:01, while Grant Lapping completed the top three in 01:47:31.

The women’s competition in the 20km race was equally impressive.

Elzanne Kuun claimed the title as first female finisher in 01:50:02, placing fifth overall and winning the veteran women’s category. Libby Page finished eighth overall in 01:52:25 to take first place in the open women’s division.

Other notable performances came from Karine Bezuidenhout, Liezl Swanepoel, and Jessica Osmers, all of whom secured top 20 overall finishes.

Strong community support

A total of 134 runners completed the three race distances, underscoring the popularity of road running in Hoedspruit and the surrounding communities. The event showcased a strong mix of emerging talent and experienced competitors, while also providing an opportunity for families, friends and local supporters to come together in celebration of fitness and community spirit.

With competitive racing, encouraging participation across all age groups and strong local support, the Hoedspruit road race once again proved to be a highlight on the local sporting calendar.

Organisers praised participants for their enthusiasm and sportsmanship, contributing to a memorable day of athletics in the Lowveld.