Spirited runners ready for this weekend’s Comrades

The world- famous ultramarathon is one of the higlights of the running calendar and follows at 90km route between Pietermaritzburg and Durban. It is a gruelling test of skills, sportmanship and determination and many South Africans are glued to the TV for the duration of the event.

The Legogote Villagers held a special ‘send off’ breakfast for participating runners at Bee-Eaters last Saturday, where they received goodie bags and shirts. It is a jolly affair that serves to motivate the runners and celebrate their courage and determination. Andre Vianello the club’s honorary coach has run the Comrades Marathon 21 times and shared his wealth of experience with his fellow runners. He is injured this year and unable to run.

This year 29 runners from Legogote Villagers will be among the 24 000 runners competing. Three of their runners are novices running their first marathon, while Calvin Khoza will be competing in his 22nd and Gerhard Nortje in his 27th.

Spectators (both at the race and in front of the TV) are urged to look out for their famous white “Good Morning White River” banner, which is noted by commentators each year.

If the Comrades is on your bucket list, why not join the local club and be inspired by these dedicated runners. The club hosts various weekly runs, including time trials from their club house at the White River Rugby Club into town on Thursday afternoons around 18:00.

Enquiries: www.legogotevillagers.co.za or legov@vodamail.co.za. Keep an eye on our website and facebook page to see how the club members fared.