Athletes descend on Amanzimtoti for Sapphire Coast Marathon
Athletes from over 208 clubs braved the slight drizzle and cooler weather for this Comrades Marathon qualifier.
RUNNERS from various clubs in the country braved the cold weather to compete in the 2023 Goss & Balfe Sapphire Coast Marathon in Amanzimtoti on October 29.
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The organiser of the event, Lynette Botha of Amanzimtoti Athletic Club (AAC), said there were an impressive 2 203 entrants from 208 clubs across the country who managed to navigate the new route in this Comrades Marathon qualifier.
“Despite anticipating heavy rain, there was only a bit of drizzle and cooler weather to welcome our athletes on the day. Both registration days went smoothly, and we received positive feedback from all runners who stopped at the water stations along the way,” she said.
Athletes had the option of a 10km, 21.1km or 42.2km.
One of the runners, Romy Wenzel of Sapphire Coast Tourism, completed her second half-marathon in a time of 01:33:03, securing her third place in the women’s open race.
“The route had changed since my first 21.1km in 2019, so I didn’t have high expectations in terms of my performance. Despite the new route’s challenging uphills, numerous turns and the cold, wet conditions, I beat my goal time. I enjoyed the route, which showcased various parts of the Sapphire Coast Region while drawing in visitors. It was also wonderful to witness participation from a diverse range of clubs and a wide age group, with various race options to cater to each participant’s preference,” she said.
The race organising committee extended thanks to the local companies who hosted water tables, the marshals, metro police, Sapphire Coast Tourism and AAC, as well as Scottburgh AC and Bluff AC, who assisted on the day.
“We would also like to extend our appreciation to the community for their help and patience in hosting this annual event,” added Botha.
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