Phalaborwa runners conquer Makgobaskloof Plunge
Phalaborwa runners conquer the Makgobaskloof Plunge, a Comrades Marathon qualifier, despite challenging weather conditions.
LIMPOPO – Runners from various clubs in Phalaborwa braved the Haenertsburg cold and the Tzaneen heat on Saturday as they took on the Makgobaskloof Plunge, a Comrades Marathon qualifier race.
Neill Kelder, running in Solidariteit Club colours, completed the 42.2km marathon in 05:25:05.
“The Makgobaskloof Plunge is a highlight every year; it is a well-organised race, and the support at the water stations was fantastic,” said Kelder.
Sophie Mokumo from Phalaborwa Road Runners also tackled the 42.2km marathon, finishing in 05:07:55.
medal on the 42.2km Makgobaskloof Plunge on Saturday.
In the 10km road race, Present Mongwe (40:05), Karen Paulse (01:01:28), and Gert Rabie (01:07:09) excelled, with Mongwe and Paulse winning their respective age categories and Rabie securing second place in his.
Three runners from PMC Athletics Club, Daniella Surmon, Michael Surmon, and Renny Mthombili, completed the half marathon in just over two hours. Victor Mokumo finished the marathon in 04:40:06.
Sevha Mabunda from Ba-Phalaborwa Youth and Disabled Athletic Club took first place in her age category in the 10km race with a time of 01:12:26, while Dzunisani Mkansi completed the marathon in under four hours.
From Foskor Athletics Club, Reginald Monareng claimed first place in his category in the 10km road race.
John Makofane, Pateng Matsane, Derick Mmola, and Joel Mushwana all earned finisher medals in the 21.1km road race.
Eight runners from Foskor tackled the 42.2km marathon: Thomas Baloyi, Mashakwareng Monyela, Mapula Tshehla, Mmuso Mahlo, Paipai Malatji, Potego Malepe, Pfarelo Mukwevho, and Salmina Mema all completed the marathon.
