Up for the Challenge!

From serious athletes to families, everyone put on their running shoes and took to the road for the annual Deloitte Challenge KZN last Sunday.

The event, which included a 42.2 kilometre marathon from the Ballito Lifestyle Centre, 21.1 kilometre half marathon, ten kilometre Ten-K, five kilometre Fun Run and 40 kilometre cycle race attracted over 6 000 entries, not just from around the country, but from the rest of Africa too. All races ended at the Growthpoint Kings Park Stadium.

Sponsored solely by Deloitte, the event was hosted by the Dolphin Coast Striders Running Club and offered a total of R69 500 in prize money.

Chairman of the Dolphin Coast Striders and race director, Barry Holland said the whole club was out there and the day was a phenomenal success.

“It is easy to say you are the best, but very hard to back it up. We can back it up. I believe this is the best marathon event in South Africa. The Two Oceans and Comrades Marathon are ultra marathons, but in the marathon category, The Deloitte Challenge is the best.”

He said the times achieved this year were incredible, especially in the half marathon category and the 10 kilometre run.

First man home (in the marathon open category) was Nkhosikhona Mhlakwana in a time of 02:20:18. The first lady to step up onto the winner’s podium was Suzette Botha, who completed the marathon in a time of 02:57:46.

Deloitte office managing partner, Ruwayda Redfearn said the Deloitte Challenge KZN was a huge success.

“The marathon was the last official Comrades qualifier, which was a wonderful way to support our athletes who will be taking on the ultimate endurance challenge. Other aspects of the race – especially the five kilometre Fun Run and the many attractions at the Race Village – proved the perfect way for families to enjoy the outdoors,” said Redfearn.

She said more than R30 000 was donated from individual athletes’ to LIV Village, the chosen beneficiary of the race.

Based on this year’s success, Redfearn said the company was committed to not only growing it next year to be even bigger and better, but also to making it a much anticipated annual event.

“We are inspired to continue our efforts to ensure that the Deloitte Challenge remains a platform for all athletes and continues to be an annual highlight on the athletics calendar for bringing together the KwaZulu-Natal community,” said Redfearn.

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