Witpoortjie Boxing Club challenges community to 2,4km time trial
"It is just a bit of fun. Running is important and it is easier when you have a target to aim for."
Boxing is far more than throwing gloved fists or keeping a glass jaw out of harm’s way. Boxers are among the fittest athletes on the planet and while strength training is vital, the magic lies in the cardio work.
Inspired by head coach Phillip du Randt’s army days, Witpoortjie Boxing Club is issuing its 2,4km time trial running challenge. In his prime, Phillip’s personal best over the distance was nine minutes and 15 seconds, and he is setting that target for his students as well as members of the public. “It is just a bit of fun. Running is important and it is easier when you have a target to aim for,” said the veteran boxing coach.
The runs will be held every Saturday until the end of the year, staring 28 November, and will double as a fundraising campaign for the club. The club provides meals for many of its younger members and every bit will help as they strive to continue doing so. For the cost of R20, any member of the public can have a shot at the nine minutes and 15 seconds mark for a trophy, with a bonus R200 cash prize for the first to beat the eight minutes 30 seconds threshold.
The current 3 000 metres world record is seven minutes and 20 seconds, set by Kenyan Daniel Komen all the way back in 1996. That time would have been set at an average of 14,489 seconds per 100 metres, and to beat Phillip’s time, road runners would need to average only 23 seconds per hundred metres. Starting at 9am at the Witpoortjie Recreation Centre, here is a chance to stretch your legs for a good cause.
