Show of unity at Chatsworth Ultra

AFTER all the terrible happenings in and around Durban where complete and total disregard for life and property was shown by citizens towards foreigners, it was an awesome feeling standing at the start of Sunday’s Chatsworth Freedom Ultra marathon.

Hundreds of runners of all different colours, from different race groups, countries and backgrounds ran together with one common goal – to finish the race.

This is what makes road running such a special and unifying sport. A small group of runners from Amanzimtoti Run Walk for Life (RWFL) made the early morning trek to Chatsworth for the 52km and 25km races. In the 25km, Warren Gibson and Roxanne Legge finished in front in a fantastic 2hrs 32mins with Elizabeth Toerien close behind in 2hrs 35mins. Justin Willemse was next best in 2hrs 43mins. Gisselle Hall finished with Jutin in 2hrs 43mins.

In the 52km ultra distance, Shaun Finn was on form with a fast 4hrs 34mins. Edmund Luiz bettered his 2014 time with a good 5hrs 29mins and Sphiwe Dludla led the women’s challenge in 5hrs 49mins. Nhlanhla Mthembu was home just before cut off in 6hrs 23mins. Last man home was Peter Moodley in 6hrs 32mins.

Now if only everyone could carry this spirit and camaraderie with them once the running is over and they go back to their everyday lives.

To experience this awesome sport, go down to Amanzimtoti High School grounds where RWFL meets every Monday, Wednesday and Friday between 5pm and 6pm.