Runners amped to conquer the Elands Marathon
The fastest Comrades qualifier in Mpumalanga will see thousands of athletes pacing down the N4, with the finish line in their sights.
It’s all systems go for the TRACN4 Elands Marathon taking place on Saturday April 22!
Backed by TRAC, this year’s marathon promises to be the best yet.
Not only is the event supported by other well-known national and local brands and sponsors, this year’s edition has also attracted more than 1 700 athletes. This means it will be even bigger than last year’s comeback event.
ALSO READ: Youngster from Barberton Primary shows promise on the track
The main race is the 42.2km, which has been dubbed the fastest Comrades qualifier in Mpumalanga. A 21.1km run and a 10km one will also form part of the event, ensuring that runners of all fitness and experience levels can participate.
The 42.2km race – a down run – starts at Laerskool Oosterlijn in Emgwenya (Waterval Boven) and ends at the Sappi Skills Training Centre in Ngodwana.
The 21.1km starts at the Fortis Malaga Hotel and the 10km starts at the Sappi Skills Training Centre, where they both will end as well.
ALSO READ: Mpumalanga awaits approval of flood damage budget
All races start at 06:30.
As the TRACN4 Elands Marathon is a down run, a fast-winning time is expected, and, with R12 000 designated for the first man and woman home in the 42.2km, there is no doubt that the competition throughout this scenic marathon will be stiff.
Given the many prominent runners competing, it is going to be exciting to see who crosses the finish line first.
With the race being run mostly on the TRAC N4 Route, the Elands Valley portion of the road will be closed from 05:30 to 12:30 on race day. Traffic will be diverted through Schoemanskloof during this period, which will ensure competing runners’ safety throughout the event.
ALSO READ: Lowvelder sponsored competition brings out the best in golfers
One of the highlights of this year’s race is the TRACN4 Elands Marathon Expo, which will be held on Friday April 21, at Millys on the N4. Proudly sponsored by Caltex Mpumalanga North and Millys, the expo will operate from noon to 21:00 and will be the official race number collection point. It will also serve as a hub where runners and supporters can soak up the prerace atmosphere, stock up on race day essentials, and stand a chance of winning great prizes from exhibitors.
