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Panorama runners shine at races

Discover these runners' secrets to achieving great results and staying ahead of the pack.

Five Panorama Running Club runners hit the roads around Wanderers Stadium as they participated in the Hollywoodbets Joburg 10km race on Saturday, September 13.

The race was organised by the Hollywoodbets Running Club, and it was a beginner-friendly race that offered 5km and 10km routes for participants.

One of the Panorama runners, Johnny Lawler, smashed his previous best time of 47:12, clocking a new personal best of 42:29. Teammates Thandolwethu Skosana and Modiehi Nkopane also celebrated personal bests, finishing in 1:09 and 1:16, respectively. Mbhekwa Nkosi wrapped up the race in a solid 1:24, while the club’s vibrant junior, Lily Lawler, proudly completed the 5km race in 50:00.

Mzwakhe Kubheka, Vongani Magudu, Sewela Setshogoe, Modiehi Nkopani, and Marita represent the club.

All eyes turned to the Vaal City Marathon the next day, marking the official opening of the Comrades and Two Oceans Marathon qualifier season. Three of the club’s marathoners performed well. Xolani Ndhlovu achieved a new personal best with a 3:02 finish, while the ever-consistent sub-4:00 runner, Matome Mogoboya, clocked in at 3:47, marking one of his best times on this course. Tshireletso Tlalang made his marathon debut, finishing his maiden race in an impressive 4:40.

Johnny Lawler approaches the finish line. Photo: Submitted

“These results highlight the commitment of our runners, especially our marathoners, who have now secured their early qualifiers,” said club captain Maritagane Mapheto.

“We always encourage members to aim for early qualifiers so they can focus on preparing for the big races, like the 2026 Two Oceans and Comrades,” he said, adding that this helps the runners ease the pressure later in the season.

Modiehi Nkopane and Thandolwethu Skosana. Photo: Submitted

Between the races, the club continued to host its weekly run, covering 10km,15km, and 21km on the club’s marked routes around the area in preparation for upcoming events. Looking ahead, Maritagane explains that the Panorama marathoners are eyeing the 2026 qualifiers, with important races such as the City2City Ultra (September 28) and the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon (October 19) on the horizon.

Johnny Lawler with his medal after the race. Photo: Submitted.

Preparation races like the Waterfall Half Marathon, Absa Joburg 10km, SPAR Women’s Challenge 10km, and Fat Cats 10km will help runners stay race-ready. To support the athletes, the club also offers all runners a weekly training plan with sessions that focus on strength and speed held every weekday from 17:00 to 18:00.

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Neliswa Sibiya

Neliswa Sibiya is an intern journalist at the Krugersdorp News/Roodepoort Record, where she covers local news, community events, and human interest stories. She aims to bring the voices and issues of the community to the forefront. She is currently pursuing a Diploma in Journalism at the Tshwane University of Technology; this is her third year.

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