Westgate Family Run takes the cake
Runners from all walks of life took part in the annual Westgate Family Run.
The annual Westgate Family Run was a runaway success, attracting about 1 000 runners on Sunday, February 9.
The road race was organised by Roodepoort Athletics Club and consisted of a 5km family fun run and a 10km run for more serious athletes.
According to Roodepoort Athletics Club chairperson Conrad de Buys, the aim was to promote health, fitness and wellness in the community.
“It is a family-focused event where families compete together, and afterwards, take part in the various entertainment activities on offer,” he says, adding that Roodepoort Athletics Club had about 60 runners taking part on the day.
Runners in both the five and 10km events told the Roodepoort Record that the route, which included two waterpoints, was challenging in some places with steep inclines, but a highly enjoyable run nonetheless.
Every finisher received a medal that was designed and sponsored by Westgate Shopping Centre, and there were branded T-shirts available for purchase.
The 5km race was won by Team Vitality runner Ryan Marshal in a time of 20:41.
Wildebees Motshedi, an unaffiliated 55-year-old runner, was hot on his heels, taking second place in 20:51, making him the first finisher in the Men 50–59 category.
Zimi Masiza rounded out the top three in a time of 23:26, followed by Banele Sibongo (24:07) and Misizi Mphele (24:27).
Refilwe Mokaoane was the first woman across the finish line in a time of 28:38 to clinch 20th place overall. She was followed by 15-year-old Krugersdorp High School learner Masego Mashaba who finished in 30:24 to secure 22nd overall.
The top five women category was rounded out by Charmaine Maluleke (31:58), Kamogelo Mogila (32:07) and Lure Quinn (32:22).
The 10km race was a hotly contested affair, which was wholly dominated by Waterfall City Athletics Club runners Mfukwa Masina, Admire Chiwambo and Omo Hlungwane.
Masina clinched the win with a time of 32:45, followed by Chiwamba (33:25) and Hlungwane (33:41).
Tebogo Betana took fourth with 35:14, and Sicelo Ngcobo finished fifth with a time of 35:24.
Conrad expressed his thanks to Westgate Shopping Centre for their sponsorship and assistance with planning the event.
“Our thanks go out to all the other sponsors as well as the JMPD for helping keep athletes and families safe on the road.”
