A total of 24 runners from Ermelo, representing various running clubs, recently braved the cold morning temperatures to run the Comrades Centenary Hope Challenge.

The run was from Ermelo to Volksrust via the N11.

The runners participated in distances ranging from 42km to 90km.

Ms Nosipho Mjelo said the support on the road was amazing from fellow runners, motorists and community members.

Sibusiso Ncongwana was the first runner to reach Volksrust after spending just over nine hours on the road to finish his 90km run.

The following athletes posted these times in the 90km race:
• Sibusiso Aaron Ncongwane 9:25,45
• Thami Mrubata 9:37,06
• Derrick Dlamini 10:50,30
• Victor Maraga 10:50,30
• Maxwell Mashiane 11:22,03
• Obed Ginindza 11:22,05
• Vusumuzi Shadrack Nhlapho 11:27,05
• Sydney Khumalo 11:55,57
• Themba Nzuza 11:27,05
• Mzungezi Nhlabathi 11:59,59

Lucia Nkonyane completed an 88km run in 11:51,58, while Amos completed an 85km run in 11:51,58.

Dawn Madondo participated in a 75km run and clocked in at 10:02,57.

In the 66km race Elijah Ndou crossed the finish line in 11:15,29. Mondli Mkhize and Nosipho Mjelo completed the 60km run in 8:11,36.

Andrew Mathibela participated in the 50km and finished in a time of 5:28,49 while Ntombi Hleza took on the 41km in a time of 4:30,22.

The following runners participated in a various races Nomvula Mthethwa (65km), Sthe Maraga (60km), Thokozani Maseko (45km), Makhosonke Dladla (45km), Vusi Mavuso (45km) and Simthembile Robson (42km).