Get ready for the Comrades Qualifier, 9 April

POLOKWANE – Road runners who wish to compete in the 2016 Comrades Marathon are urged to start preparing for the Mall of the North Comrades Qualifier race that will be held on 9 April at Mall of the North.

The 2016 Comrades Marathon will be run on Sunday, 29 May starting at 05:30 and finishing at 17:30. This year the race will be a “down run” starting at the city Hall in Pietermaritzburg and finishing at the Sahara Kingsmead Cricket Stadium in Durban. The race distance is approximately 90 km.

According to the organisers of the event, Pietersburg Road Runners Club, all entrants for the 42,2 km, 21,1 km and 10 km races must belong to a licensed club and be in possession of a valid 2016 license number, which must be worn on the front and back of their vest.

The license numbers issued by the organiser must also be worn on the front of the vest over the 2016 license number.

Colinda Potgieter, Pietersburg Road Runners Chairperson, said they are hoping for 3 000 athletes this year.

“The route is very simple and fast and gives athletes a great chance to qualify for the Comrades. Athletes in the 42,2 km race have to cross the finish line under five hours to qualify,” explained Potgieter.

She added they will not allow any entries after reaching the 3000 mark. Entries are now open and will close on 31 March.

Athletes can register online by visiting www.mallofthenorth.co.za or they can get entry forms at Total Sports Mall of the North, Sportsmans Warehouse Thornhill, Fourways and Centurion.

License numbers will be collected from 1 to 8 April at the Mall of the North help desk, Friday at the start venue from 16:00 to 20:00 or Saturday at the start venue from 04:30 to 06:00.

There will be cash prizes and medals to be won.