Mall of the North Marathon this Saturday

Expectations and cheer are already running high as all loose ends in the final preparations for this year’s Mall of the North Marathon are being brought together to ensure yet another successful event on Saturday.
The official bus driver of a group of approximately 30 athletes during this year’s 42,2 km race, Lucky Mojela is also out of his skin at the prospect of playing yet another important part in the success of the race and his fellow runners.
The 41-year-old athlete has been running professionally since 2005 and is aiming for his 11th Comrades Marathon this year.
“The duty of a bus driver is to lead, guide, advise and motivate a group of athletes aiming to qualify for the Comrades. To qualify an athlete has to complete the 42,2 km in 4:35 meaning one has to keep a pace of at least 6,45 minutes per kilometre,” Mojela said.
The bus at any marathon is easily noticeable as it is a group of athletes running together and normally characterised by singing, whistling and the beat of a tambourine.
Mojela has lead the bus in marathons such as the Comrades, Two Oceans, Soweto Marathon as well as other local and countrywide events.
“It is difficult to say how many athletes will join the bus but we would be 30 or more. The bus usually grow as other athletes join during the race,” he added.
He is very excited and indicated that Mall of the North Marathon is one of those events that once you have run it you will return the next. “The race route is fairly easy and safe as no traffic is allowed during the race and the big number of entries is proof of its popularity,” he said.
He reminded those who have not yet entered that they still have time until 18:00 tomorrow (Friday) to do so at the mall’s information desk at the Game court. Online entries are already closed.
Late comers are also welcome to enter on Saturday at the overflow parking from 04:00 to 05:50.
Entry fees for the 42,2 km, 21,1 km, 10 km and 5 km are R240, R180, R80 and R40 respectively. A temporary licence is available at R30 – not applicable for the 5 km fun run. Athletes 60 years and older will pay half price and wheelchair athletes are also welcome.
The starter’s gun for the 42,2 km and 21,1 km will go off at 06:00 while the 10 km athletes will start 20 minutes later. The fun run will start at 06:40.
Mall of the North Marathon is also known for hosting ample waterpoints along the R81 towards Modjadjiskloof.
These points will ensure that athletes keep hydrated by providing water sachets, cold drinks, oranges and potatoes with Aromat.
For more information contact the race director Corrie Calitz on 082 464 1963 or Mall of the North Marketing Manager Mari Delport on 072 698 4867.

Story: RC Myburgh
>>rc.observer@gmail.com