THE Sapphire Coast Marathon once again lived up to its reputation as one of KZN’s most scenic yet demanding road races, as hundreds of athletes, including a strong contingent from the Durban South clubs, tackled the coastal route through Amanzimtoti recently.

Also read: Comrades Marathon: Durban South runners show up with medals

In cool, overcast conditions, the race included the KZN Athletics (KZNA) Championship Marathon and was a qualifier for both the Comrades Marathon and Two Oceans Marathon. Athletes took part in the 10km, 21.1km and 42.2km events, with many locals proudly donning their club colours on the demanding course.

Yellowwood Park Athletic Club:

Among the finishers in the 42.2km was Yellowwood Park Athletics Club member Shesha Terrence Msani, 47, crossing the line in 05:16:11. He had targeted a sub-five-hour finish but said the route’s steep climbs made for tougher-than-expected going.

“I was expecting to run around 4:57 to 5:00 for a sub-five Comrades qualifier, but the route was tougher than I expected. The hills really caught me off guard, but I started strong, finished smiling and it was a great experience overall. I cannot wait to run it again next year,” said Msani.

He first hit the road inspired by a friend in 2014.

Also from Yellowwood Park, 50-year-old Susan Schoon finished the 21km in 03:02:00 as part of her training for the Sani Stagger 21km in the Drakensberg on November 8.

“I was very nervous starting because my last half marathon in April didn’t go well, and I have not been able to stick to my training due to work. But I did way better than I thought I would and absolutely loved the run. The best feeling was running past our Yellowwood Park tent and hearing everyone scream for you, it is just the greatest motivation,” she said.

Bluff Athletic Club:

Bluff Athletic Club’s Karuli Volker, 35, finished the 42km in an enviable 04:18:00, way ahead of her goal of finishing in under five hours.

“The Sapphire Coast route is always tough, lots of hills, especially going into Prospecton and then up Twini Hill. This was my third time running it, so I knew what was coming, but it’s still hectic. The cool weather helped and even though I was not as fit as last year, my training and discipline paid off. I am really happy with the result,” she said.

Volker began running two and a half years ago, moving on from swimming and general fitness.

Wings Athletic Club:

In the 10km event, Wings Athletic Club’s Tracy Samuels finished the course in 01:44:00. Recently returned to full health after illness, she said being able to run again made the day worthwhile.

“The day was just perfect to run. The hills were quite taxing, but I took it easy, so I managed. It was a good run overall,” she said.

Runners praised the organisers for a well-co-ordinated event with ample refreshments, marshals’ encouragement and community support lining the route.

The Sapphire Coast Marathon continues to grow as a highlight in the local running calendar.

For more Southlands Sun news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok