Mazda Polokwane Nite Race attracts hundreds of athletes
Hundreds of road runners braved the cold weather on Friday evening to participate in the annual 2-in-1 Mazda Polokwane Nite Race that started and ended at the rugby fields between the old and new Peter Mokaba stadiums. The challenge consisted of a 5 km fun run/walk and a 10 km race. The top finishers in the …
Hundreds of road runners braved the cold weather on Friday evening to participate in the annual 2-in-1 Mazda Polokwane Nite Race that started and ended at the rugby fields between the old and new Peter Mokaba stadiums.
The challenge consisted of a 5 km fun run/walk and a 10 km race. The top finishers in the 10 km race received cash prizes and finishers in all categories medals. In the 5 km, regular road runner Harry Lamola made his opponents eat dust. In the 10 km race, Kamogelo Masemola who is affiliated to Zebediela Athletics Club crossed the finish line first in the open men’s category while Elsabe Cronje from Run/Walk for Life was the first woman home.
The night was spiced up by intellectually impaired athlete, Vuthlari Makamu who took to the road ahead of the starter’s gun. Vuthlari’s safety was guaranteed by traffic officers who were patrolling the route to ensure the safety of all the athletes.
Race organiser and chairperson of Polokwane Athletic Club Corrie Calitz said about 350 athletes participated and he was happy with the turnout although they wished to cater for many more. He further assumed that the harsh weather and school holidays affected the attendance. Calitz concluded by saying it is exciting to see athletes enjoying themselves on the road.
Story and photos: ENDY SENYATSI
>>endy@observer.co.za
Results for the race are as follows:
Men
Open
• Kamogelo Masemola.
• Emmanuel Ramohlale.
• Phuti Mohale.
Veterans
• Johan van der Merwe.
• Paulo Machava.
• Frans Kamouile.
Masters
• Freddy Mohale.
• Richard
Mathonsi
• Gert van Emmenis.
Grandmasters
• Bobby Sacco.
• Rametse Maripa.
• Joggie Kruger.
Juniors
• Isaac Moshia.
Walkers
• Jan du Plessis.
• Frans Makhafola.
10 km
Women
Open
• Elsabe Cronje.
• Monique Wreyford.
• Hilda Molokomme.
Veterans
• Louise Strydom.
• Louise van der Dool.
• Vee Makwarela.
Masters
• Elsabe Cronje.
• Amilia Haupt.
• Nolene Mare.
Grandmasters
• Ansie Marais.
• Elze Klopper.
• Kobie Visagie.
Juniors
• Jeanette Motanyane.
Walkers
• Joelanda du Plessis.
• Daleen van Zyl
ed athlete Vuthlari Makamu could not wait for the official start of Mazda Polokwane Nite Race.
10 km category.
