Athletic club celebrates sold-out Pink Drive race
Affectionately known as the Pink Drive, XJ Athletic Club is fast becoming a household name in the local athletics community
The XJ 10km Pink Drive Race continues to grow from strength to strength, with this year’s event selling out three days before race day.
Hosted by XJ Athletic Club, the second edition of the race drew 450 runners from across the region, including participants from the OR Tambo, Harry Gwala and Ray Nkonyeni districts.
Club secretary-general Mawande Mpithi said the turnout exceeded expectations. He added that the race was a huge success with encouraging feedback from runners.
“The turnout was impressive. The weather was perfect, and the feedback from participants has been positive,” said Mpithi. “We can’t wait for the third edition, where we plan to raise the standard even higher.”
The race also caught the attention of international athlete Nape Letlatsa from Lesotho, an elite runner representing Max Elite. Letlatsa praised the XJ team for their organisation and professionalism.
“I registered manually over the phone at the last minute, yet my race pack was ready when I arrived,” said Letlatsa. “Everything was well-coordinated – the water points, marshals and traffic department all did a great job. This was excellent preparation for the upcoming Umzila KaThambo Half Marathon in Mbizana.”
Club PRO Bonginkosi Mbotshwa said the event also attracted a large number of first-time and social runners.
“Many new runners joined us and said there’s no turning back – they’re officially on board the Pink Drive train,” said Mbotshwa. “We’re proud of the professionalism displayed by every member of the team and grateful for the support that made this race a success.”
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