A mass of anti-gender-based violence supporters coloured the R40 from White River to Mbombela on Saturday as hundreds of runners took part in the End Gender-based Violence (GBV) Half-marathon.

The End GBV Half-marathon 3-in-1 2023 was hosted by Bella’s Athletics Club.

Over 800 hundred athletes, aged from three to 90, showed their support of the theme by dressing up and carrying placards. They competed in a 21.1km race, a 10km race, and a 4.9km fun run/walk.

A festive and positive atmosphere reigned throughout the event.

Bella’s Athletics Club’s spokesperson, Andile Shabangu, said it was a success. “This year, the marathon attracted about 800 runners from around the country and eSwatini, Kenya and Mozambique, which is more than the 300 we had last year.

“We were joined by the SAPS and GRIP to raise awareness regarding GBV and to support those who have been affected it.”

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GRIP’s CEO, Tarryn Lokotsch, said, “Being an avid runner myself, I promptly entered the race and also contacted Bella’s to ask whether GRIP could be part of the event. We were welcomed with open arms and were allocated a water point station as well as a spot for our GRIP gazebo at the finish of the race, which gave us the opportunity to interact with the community about our services and how we are helping in the fight against GBV.

“Bella’s and their race align so perfectly to the GRIP vision, which is to live in a society free from GBV. It is also quite fortuitous that we are both proudly purple in colour. The race was so well supported by the community, and everyone had such a lovely morning participating in the event and running for such a worthy purpose.

“My team and I would like to thank Bella’s Athletics Club, not only for all of the advocacy work they are doing to end GBV, but also for helping GRIP to create awareness in the community and for supporting our organisation. We look forward to collaborating with Bella’s in many more events.”

21.1km men
1. Regan Magwai (Hollywood) – 01:04:46
2. Dennis Kipkoskei (temp licence) – 01:04:59
3. Siboniso Sikhakhane (Entsika) – 01:05:07.
21.1km women
1. Rudo Mkondrwa (LVCC) – 01:23:01
2. Roseline Isahia (Uniwisp) – 01:24:37
3. Samkheliswe Thwala (City of Mbombela) – 01:31:12.
10km men
1. Abednico Mashaba (Uniwisp) – 00:30:27
2. Musa Mnisi (Sasol) – 00:30:37
3. Splamandla Nkosi (Xcel) – 00:30:40.
10km women
1. Farida Zwane (Rockies) – 00:37:03
2. Nomvula Sithole (LowMed) – 00:39:14
3. Sheba Sithole (Definition) – 00:41:04.