Sun and sweat no hindrance for runners at Mataffin Home Run

Despite the scorching heat, runners young and old came out in their numbers to support the Mataffin Home Run at Mbombela Stadium on Saturday November 25.

This quick 10km race was the perfect weekend time killer for some, a study break for learners, and the first of their New Year’s resolutions for others, with some of the usual culprits putting on their tekkies once more, some new faces in between.

Organised by Ngodwana Marathon Club, a few hundred athletes participated in either the 10km race or 4.9km fun run.

The route started at the stadium, over Samora Machel Drive via the walk bridge, onto the Halls Estate, past Mataffin Equestrian Centre and back again.

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Sibongkosi Maseko of Bella’s Athletics Club clocked in first in the senior men’s category with a time of 33:21. On his heels was Hope Matsia, who also walked away victorious in the junior category. Lovers Hlatswayo came in third, being the first man over 40 to clock in.

In the women’s categories, another Bella’s athlete, Nomvula Sithole, took the honours (42:05). Definition Athletics Club’s Sheba Sithole came in second (46:12) with her fellow clubmate, Chantal Middel-Boveé, in third place (46:28).

The Lowveld heat did have an effect on the athlete’s times, however, they were still more productive than your average person, and that on a Saturday morning.

Other results:
• Junior men
1st – Hope Matsia; Nkangala Athletic Academy
2nd – Sbusiso Malopoane; Legogote Villagers
3rd – Andile Ndlala; Ngodwana Marathon Club.

• 50+ men
1st – Alphius Motlaung; Nelspruit Marathon Club.

• 60+ men
1st – Piet van Rensburg; Legogote Villagers.

• Junior ladies
1st – Sheba Sithole; Definition Athletics Club
2nd – Ava Oosthuizen; Bella’s Athletics Club
3rd – Rebecca Braack; Lowmed.

• 50+ lady
1st – Adelaide Vilakazi; Barberton.

• 60+ lady
1st – Sandy McLagan; LVCC.

• 70+ lady
1st – Sibongile Qwabe; Nelspruit Marathon Club.