Enter now for popular marathon, thousands to win

The annual Mall of the North Marathon offers aspiring Comrades Marathon qualifiers the ideal opportunity to do so in time for the 1 May cut-off date. The venue is centrally situated within the province and its neighbours and the course offers sufficient challenge without being inaccessible to less experienced runners.
Pre-registration for the race diarised for 7 April is now open. A total of R83 000 in prize money can be won by participants in this prestigious event presented in partnership with main sponsors, Jaguar, Vodacom and Polokwane Athletics Club (PAC). Polo­kwane Observer is the sole media sponsor.
The full 42,2 km marathon that starts at 06:00 is a certified Comrades Marathon qualifier and open to runners aged 20 and older. The half marathon (21,1 km) also starts at 06:00, the 10 km at 06:20 and a fun run (5 km) at 06:40.
The race starts and ends at the overflow parking area at Mall of the North.
The route will, with the exception of the 5 km fun run take place in its entirety on the R81, and promises excellent times. The road will be closed for normal traffic from 05:00 to 12:00 to ensure athletes’ safety.
Wheelchair athletes are welcome to participate in the half marathon, the 10 km and the 5 km.
Entries can be made online at www.entrytime.com until 1 April or at the Mall of the North help desk opposite the Game entrance until 6 April, from 10:00 to 17:00 on weekdays and Saturdays.
Athletes are also welcome to register on the race day from 04:00 to 05:50 at the tenant parking area, upper level.
Registration costs R180 per person for the marathon, R120 for the half marathon, R80 for the 10 km and R40 for the fun run. Temporary licenses are available at R30 each. Athletes older than 60 years pay half price.
Call race director Willie Smit on 072 149 2674 for more information.

Story: ELNA ESTERHUYSEN
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