Record entry for SC Marathon
The finish area at Hutchison Park was a hive of activity as the supporters waited in anticipation for the runners to cross the finish line.
THIS year’s Goss and Balfe South Coast Marathon saw a record field of over 2,000 runners from clubs as far as Cape Town complete the 21km and 42km race hosted by Amanzimtoti Athletics Club at Hutchison Park.
Despite bad weather prior to the race on Sunday, perfect weather greeted the runners on race morning, with a cool start and no wind.
Very hot conditions around 10am made it difficult for the runners completing the marathon. Paramedic Garrith from Rescue Services said no major incidents occurred along the route, and only a few runners were treated for dehydration. The rescue bus collected around 40 runners who didn’t complete the marathon due to the hot conditions most runners complained about the heat and their lack of training for the event.
The chairman thanks all members, friends and parents who helped as marshals at the runner’s registration, spotters, drinks pourers, tea and coffee makers and medal helpers.
This year it was encouraging to see a lot of new members helping at the South Coast Marathon, which augurs well for future events.
Runners often forget that it takes months of planning to host a race, permission must be obtained from local authorities, race registration by event timing, planning for water tables, set up of finish area and prize-giving. The runners who finished were given a rub down by Laurie and Amy from Kingsway Physiotherapists, and the club thanks them for sponsoring their time, to take care of all the aching muscles.
The finish area at Hutchison Park was a hive of activity as the supporters waited in anticipation for the runners to cross the finish line. This year’s winning times for the 21km, 1.11.46 and in the 42km, 2.37, were much slower than last year.
Goss and Balfe South Coast Marathon results: Men: First Nkosinathi Micheal Duma 2.37.43 (Nedbank AC), second Mosoeunyane Morapalla 2.40.29 (Nedbank AC), third Jabulani Dlomo 2.40.45 (Bluff AC). Women: First Janie Grundling 3.04.45 (Westville), second Nonsikelelo Mbambo 3.20.20 (Natal Carbineers), third Monica Vorster 3.25.32 (Boksburg).
Half marathon men: First Micheal Mzobe 1.11.46 (South Coast Striders), second Phiwayinkosi Mthembu 1.13.47 (Bluff), third Delani Armstrong Mkhize 1.14.42. Half marathon women: First Cary Ann Smith 1.25.25 (Nedbank), second Janene Carey 1.28.00 (Boxer Superstore), third Maya Lawrie 1.29.37 (Boxer Superstore).
Notice is given to all members of Amanzimtoti AC that the AGM will take place on 29 October at 7pm at Lords and Legends, Hutchison Park. A light meal will be served at 8pm after the AGM.
The club is looking for members who are eligible to serve on the new committee. The portfolios are chairman, vice chairman, secretary treasurer, club captain, PRO, and IT for the club webpage. Committee members are expected to attend a meeting a month and help with the Dick King and Goss and Balfe South Coast Marathon. New members interested in being elected for the new committee can contact chairman Des. The club hopes to see some new faces.
Toti AC juniors train in track and field at Lords at 4.45pm, Mondays to Fridays. Call Riaan on 078-457-1936.
Morning runs are from 5am at Warner Beach Prep School. For senior strength training, meet at Lords 5pm on Tuesdays. Call Cecil on 079-895-4323.
The 8km and 4km time trials on Wednesday are from Lords from 6pm and Saturday’s 11km run is at 6am. Walkers train on Monday and Tuesday at 4.30pm, Wednesday at 5.30pm and Thursday at 4.30pm. For walkers’ information, call Cornell.
Go to www.totiac.co.za for club information.
