Runners double up at record race
Ayanda Ngcobo on winning the 42km marathon and for breaking the course record.
Runners and walkers, both young and old came out in their numbers for the South Coast Marathon presented by the South Coast Striders Athletics Club on Sunday.
The popular event proved a resounding success despite a unique logistical challenge at the start.
The event took place at the Ugu Sports and Leisure Centre which shared the venue with the Ugu Maskandi Festival, which was held on Saturday. While the festival ran into the early hours of Sunday morning, leading to some traffic congestion, event organisers and law enforcement worked together to ensure a smooth and safe start.
In a proactive measure, the committee in collaboration with local authorities and head referee, Henry Somaru, made the critical decision to delay the race by an hour.
Yashiren Naidoo from South Coast Striders said: “We apologise to our local and out-of-town participants for any inconvenience, but this was necessary to ensure everyone’s safety. The move was widely supported with runner and sponsor Paul Preston commending the swift response. The atmosphere was positive despite the delay, and the cool, drizzly morning provided ideal running conditions.”
With the delay set aside, participants praised the challenging, hilly course as perfect training for the Comrades Marathon. A total prize purse of R252,000 attracted elite athletes, with both men and women marathon and half-marathon winners breaking course records and receiving double prize money.
The South Coast Striders, as seasoned event planners, prioritised the experience for the masses, ensuring well-stocked water tables and generous goodie bags. The exceptional support of local marshals was also a highlight as they guided runners and offered constant encouragement.
“The committee is grateful to Ray Nkonyeni Municipality and other local businesses for their commitment to promoting healthy living. The organisers are looking forward to hosting an even bigger and better event in 2026, set for October 4 on a date that will not clash with the festival,” said Naidoo.
Results are as follows:
Men’s 42km: 1st – Ayanda Ngcobo 02:24:16; 2nd – Benjamin Nyongesa 02:29:41; 3rd – Sicelo Mkhwanazi 02:30:21.
Women’s 42km: 1st – Nontokozo Mkhize 03: 4:06; 2nd – Elizabeth Potter 03:25:59; 3rd – Lieketseng Molefe 03:26:56.
Men’s 21km: 1st – Jobo Khatoane 01:06:59; 2nd – Lungelo Khumalo 01:07:41; 3rd – Brino Chidzungu 01:09:12.
Women’s 21km: 1st – Malineo Mahloko 01:21:56; 2nd – Nokuthula Ntshangase 01: 36:43; 3rd – Jade Du Toit 01:42:32
HAVE YOUR SAY
Like the South Coast Herald’s Facebook page, follow us on Twitter and Instagram
