VANDERBIJLPARK.- It was an exchange of compliments and a handshake on the podium as the winners received their prize money at the end of the Vaal Rivier City Marathon.

This Rand Water-sponsored marathon took place at Isak Steyl Stadium on Sunday morning. The Emfuleni Local Municipality (ELM) Executive Mayor, Sipho Radebe, was one of the dignitaries tasked with handing out medals and trophies alongside Rand Water representatives and Dr Molefi Oliphant, who is the main organiser of this annual event.

To date, the Vaal River City Marathon has been run under ELM’s Vaal River Carnival programme. The race started early in the morning with the much-anticipated 10km distance for both men and women.

The race was dominated by familiar faces like Admire Chiwambo, Tshepo Gavu, Poloko Maphunye, Helene Van Rooyen, Tiisetso Sebata, Karin-Mari Dotze, Paseka Mokubung, Samuel Sebata, Nicolene Beneke, and Rose Jijane.

The above-mentioned athletes finished first, second, and third in different categories and distances. However, the eyes were on the 21.1km and 42.2km with some high-profile runners competing against each other for prize money and to qualify for two important Athletics South Africa events, the Two Oceans and Comrades Marathon.

Speaking to journalists after the race, Oliphant remarked that the level of competition this year was exceptionally high, with every athlete bringing their A-game. He emphasised that this is one event that unites South Africans through a shared love of sport. Oliphant also expressed his gratitude to the local municipality for their crucial support in making the race a success.

His sentiments were echoed by Radebe, who was full of praise for the Vaal River City Marathon organisers, commending them for hosting one of the best sporting events in the Emfuleni area.