Local runners ready to take on major events
Runners affiliated to local clubs are excited to participate in the upcoming major athletics events, especially Mall of the North Marathon to be hosted on March 26.
Pietersburg Road Runners spokesperson Colinda Potgieter said all athletes are enthusiastic and elated about the resurrection of road running and walking since the start of Covid-19.
She says most of the athletes will participate in the popular Mall of the North Marathon which will be hosted by the Polokwane Athletic Club. “The race will offer us the opportunity to show off our team of competitive walkers, novices and junior
The runners who intend to use the race as a Comrades qualifier can contact Johan van der Merwe.
runners as well as some social runners and walkers. Certainly our more competitive runners will participate in the full marathon which is also a qualifier for the provincial championships selection.”
She further added that runners who intend to use the race as a Comrades qualifier can contact Johan van der Merwe for information regarding the different qualifying times for 10km, 21.1km and 42.2km.
“Runners can qualify for different age and gender categories but need to be affiliated and in good standing with a club. Pietersburg Road Runners committee can assist with more details and you are invited to send your queries to johan@digitlimpopo.co.za.”
“Those that need further assistance are welcome at our clubhouse situated next to the Polokwane Bowls Club in Suid Street. Club attire is on sale at the clubhouse and committee members can assist with
registration and information on site.
“Not only can we assist with registrations, but a number of members are seasoned runners and walkers with ample experience in how to get fit, how to stay fit and how to perform during races.
“We offer training groups, advice and a positive atmosphere for achieving your goals,” Potgieter said.
Chairman of Polokwane Athletic Club Corrie Calitz is pleased with the number of entries they have received for the Mall of the North Marathon.
He says since opening for registration in February they have received 600 entries from the envisaged 1 500. “We are still left with two weeks before the actual race and response from runners is positive. Club members are welcome to register and we are taking manual entries every Wednesday evening from 17:15 at the Polokwane Athletic Club clubhouse at the Peter Mokaba Stadium.”
He stressed that the event will be used by athletes as a Comrades Marathon qualifier and athletes from different clubs are welcome to participate. “We are targeting 1 500 for the event and we are confident that we will reach that figure. T-shirts for the event are on the way and the final registration will be on March 24 and 25.”