Runners get into spring at Witklip
Those who completed the 21km for the first time agreed that the course seemed to be flat but still had its challenges, especially the hill climbs to the finish which proved to be a true test of stamina.
A perfect Lowveld spring day greeted about 300 runners at the popular Om-die-Dammetjie race at Witklip Dam on Saturday.
This is one of few races, if not the only one in the Lowveld, in which people can enjoy a refreshing jog alongside water.
“I love this race,” said Nelspruit Marathon Club stalwart Owen McGee, “I try to participate every year no matter what.”
It was made possible thanks to the sponsorship of Nedbank, which is a proud supporter of running nationally and has a strong relationship with Mpumalanga Athletics. This, together with the coordinated efforts of the Department of Water Affairs and Komatiland Forests (KLF), contributed to the event’s success. Athletes from as far as Gauteng, along with various local running clubs had a choice between the 10km and the more challenging 21km race.
Those who completed the latter for the first time agreed that the course seemed to be flat but still had its challenges, especially the hill climbs to the finish which proved to be a true test of stamina. Entries to the 10km have seen a growth this year with park runners challenging themselves to the next level. The winning podiums were hotly contested with the hosting club Nedbank LVCC (Lowveld Country Club) making a clean sweep in the male 21km.
Nelspruit Marathon Club, Legogote Villagers and Barberton Athletics Club were also well represented.
The race is run at the end of the fire season and it was therefore fitting that Lowveld and Escarpment Fire Protection Association took the gold medal for best water point, closely followed by Mozma’s Trading, KLF, First in Guards and Nedbank.
Nedbank LVCC would like to thank all Lowvelders who joined.
