Linden Runners AC hosts 400 runners at its 5th annual Jacaranda Run
Running through the streets of Linden, lined with Jacaranda trees, was the point of the Jacaranda Run. To show people the picturesque beauty of the neighbourhood, and maybe get some great runners to move there.
Linden Runner AC hosted the fifth annual Jacaranda Run which offered 400 runners the opportunity explore the suburbs of Linden, Greenside, Emmarentia, and Albertville on a 10km and 21km route.
This year the streets were covered in purple Jacaranda flowers and the routes had been mapped with the streets voted most picturesque by its residents. “This is a community initiative, and for us, as a club, it offers a golden opportunity to show off our challenging run routes, but also the beautiful neighbourhoods we get to train in,” said club chairperson Estie Van Heerden.
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The event attracts runners from Midrand, Pretoria, Benoni, and even international runners, who come to view the Jacaranda trees, and to experience the warm club hospitality and the friendly locals in Linden. Van Heerden said this is Linden’s showcase, and feedback this year was that people could not believe how peaceful and tidy our areas are. “The aim is not to host a large scale road running race, but rather to offer an intimate event with loads of local flair and friendly faces. This is also a great opportunity for the runner who wants to embark on their first 10km, without the pressure of a formal race and large crowds.” she said.
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As with every year, the club hosted the event from Linden Bowling Club, which offered finishers ample space to lie on the lawns post run, soaking up the sun and music while they enjoyed cold beverages sponsored by Castle Lite. Families came to support their loved ones, and the finish line crowd shared in the proud moment when a novice runner crossed the line to complete their first milestone distance. Runners who entered the event received a custom designed pair of Jacaranda Run socks which they could wear on the day as many runners chose to wear purple, sport their new socks, and share in the great vibe created by this event.
“We want this run to remain special. The crew goes out of their way to create special experiences for each runner. We also focus on keeping this a zero waste event, by urging runners to run with their own foldup cups, and offering no food with plastic wrapping,” said the chairperson. She also proudly said they managed to clean up the route, including all their water points, within an hour of the last runner crossing the finish line.
Their aim for 2025 is simple: Keep the formula, give more exposure for local businesses, and involve more community based run groups to come and experience Linden in all its purple glory. “This way we will make Linden a very attractive running neighbourhood, and lure some great runners to join our community,” said van Heerden.
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