Nedbank running club paints the roads of Cape Town green with two overall victories.

The annual Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon and Half Marathon returned to the streets of Cape Town over the weekend with over 35 000 runners taking to the streets of Cape Town over the Saturday and Sunday and the Nedbank running club put on yet another spectacular show, taking overall victories on both days in the 56km and 21km.

With the 56km main event taking place on Saturday which included LIVE television broadcast on SuperSport, Nedbank running club green dream team member Onalenna Khonkhobe ran the race of his life to chase down teammate Lloyd Bosman over the final 5km to take an emphatic victory in 3:09:30, with Bosman finishing 2nd only 28 seconds back, giving the Nedbank running team a 1-2 podium finish. Nedbank running club athletes Degefa Lafebo and Lyno Muchena also finished in the top 10, with 7th and 10th respectively.

At the pre-race elite press conference, the day before the race, a confident Khonkhobe had his fellow athletes watching on as the 27-year-old athlete who is coached by Nedbank running club development coach Pio Mpolokeng announced himself. “Today I introduce myself to you and tomorrow, you will acknowledge me,” said Kohonkhobe. And acknowledge the man we certainly did, as a powerful last 6km where he averaged 2:55 per km sealed the deal to victory.

“We trained hard for this one and the results is the effort that we put into it.” Having run his first Two Oceans Marathon back in 2022 where he finished 6th, Khonkhobe rated the Two Oceans Marathon as a race remarkably close to his heart. “I call this race my ancestor’s race because nobody knew me before 2022 and when I finished 6th, many people saw me on tv and I became known,” said Khonkhobe. “It was a must that I came back to it and win it.”

In the women’s race, the Nedbank running club had 3 athletes in the top 10 obtaining gold medal finishes, of whom all 3 used the event as prep towards the Comrades Marathon on 9 June. Andrea Pomaranski finished 6th in 3:44:28 with teammates Caitriona Jennings and Adele Broodryk in 7th and 8th respectively. Pomaranski makes her debut at Comrades whilst Broodryk has been 3rd and 2nd in her last two Comrades and Jennings taking a podium spot in 3rd, the last time the Comrades Marathon went up to Pietermaritzburg. Jeannie Henderson finished 11th and Helene Van Rooyen in 15th.

A remarkable performance by Maretha Smit who 17th and was 1st Western Province athlete and in the men’s division Ricardo Swarts was the first Western Province athlete in 20th position.

Nedbank running club athletes also excelled in the age category prizes. In the men’s 50-59 category, Leslie Pangemanan finished 3rd. In the women’s 40-49 category, Poramanski and Jennings took the first two spots on the podium. Annatjie Botes took silver in the 60-69 age group, running a quick 4:58:51.

The following day in the half marathon, the green dream team were out in action again. After leading much of the first half of the race, George Kusche running his debut half marathon relinquished the lead to Nedbank running club teammate Thabang Mosiako who cruised to victory in a time of 1:04:40. Kusche got pipped on the line, finishing 3rd in 1:05:33. Teammate Wellington Varevi from Nedbank running club Zimbabwe was 5th.

Rainart Behrens took the junior men’s title in 1:20:14 with teammates Friedl van der Merwe and Johannes Grobbelaar taking gold and silver in the 60-69 age group. Margie Saunders set yet another world class time in the 70-79 age group, winning by over 20 minutes with a time of 1:47:00. Christiana Adrianse won the 40-age category prize in the 21km race.

Our Nedbank African Athletes from Namibia, Ethiopia and Kenya performed really well in the Durban International Marathon on 28 April 2024

Results:
Open Men:
4. Thomas Reinfold - 2:10:10 (Nedbank Namibia)
5. Simon Paulus - 2:11:24 (Nedbank Namibia)
7. Jeremiah Shaliaxhwe - 2:12:24 (Nedbank Namibia)

Veteran Men:
2. Paulus Iiyambo - 2:19:25 (Nedbank Namibia)

Open Women:
3. Amena Woke Yimer - 2:38:10 (Nedbank Ethiopia)
4. Mohammed Misa Yimer - 2:38:38 (Nedbank Ethiopia)
6. Irene Cherop Litorateng - 2:41:52 (1st Vet) (Nedbank Kenya)

Samsung Galaxy Fit3 Competition

The first 2024 Licensed Nedbank Running Club member replying via e-mail to nbsport@lantic.net with the correct answer to the following question will win a Samsung Galaxy Fit3 (Only one winner)

Question: How many days does the Galaxy Fit3 last off a single charge?

Get into the peak of road running with the All-New Samsung Galaxy Fit3

With the launch of the Samsung Galaxy Fit3, Samsung is continuing to redefine the fitness tracker landscape catering to consumers seeking premium features at an affordable price point. Engineered to seamlessly integrate with Samsung Galaxy smartphones, the Galaxy Fit3 is poised to revolutionise the way users track their fitness goals and stay connected on the go.

The Samsung Galaxy Fit3’s advanced functionality means you can effortlessly track your workouts, heart rate, sleep patterns, and more, empowering you to achieve your fitness goals with ease. Whether you're hitting the gym, going for a run, or simply exploring the outdoors, the Galaxy Fit3 is ready to keep up with your every move. It is not just a smartwatch or fitness tracker but your ultimate companion for an active lifestyle.

The Samsung Galaxy Fit3 combines sleek aesthetics with practical design elements, ensuring both style and functionality. Boasting a vibrant 1.6-inch display, this slim and lightweight device offers a seamless user experience. Its band quick-release button allows for easy customisation, while the light and sleek fitness band ensures all-day comfort. Crafted from durable aluminium with a sandblast finish, the Galaxy Fit3 exudes elegance while standing up to the rigours of daily wear and all the various activities. Equipped with a light sensor and barometer, it's ready to tackle any environment. Plus, with IP68/5ATM waterproof rating, it's designed to withstand water submersion up to 50 metres[1], making it the perfect companion for outdoor adventures.

Constant charging becomes a thing of the past with the Samsung Galaxy Fit3's impressive battery life. With up to 13 days on a single charge, it offers one of the longest battery lives in its class, ensuring uninterrupted usage even during extended outdoor excursions. Additionally, its fast-charging capability allows for a quick 65% charge in just 30 minutes, keeping you powered up and ready to go at all times.

Samsung understands the importance of affordability without compromising on quality. And with the Galaxy Fit3, the company has addressed consumer concerns by offering premium features at an accessible price point. From fitness enthusiasts to everyday users, everyone can enjoy the benefits of advanced tracking and connectivity without breaking the bank.

The Samsung Galaxy Fit3 is designed to empower users to lead healthier and more active lives. Its sleek design, advanced features, and long-lasting battery life make the Galaxy Fit3 the perfect choice for those who demand premium performance from their devices. It is available at participating retail stores nationwide for R1299[2].

Justin Hume, Vice President of MX Business at Samsung South Africa said: “The Galaxy Fit3 has opened an opportunity to deliver both performance and value to our customers. It is a great looking and feature-packed fitness tracker that will help consumers hit their fitness targets without hitting their wallets. Whether you're a fitness fanatic or just looking to stay on top of your health, the journey to a healthier you can start with the Galaxy Fit3.”

The Samsung Galaxy Fit3 is now available for purchase at select retailers and online stores. Join the fitness revolution today and experience the next level of smartwatch technology with the Samsung Galaxy Fit3.

#Comrades2024 Route Notice
 
With just 40 days to go to Comrades race day, the Comrades Marathon Association (CMA) is cautioning runners about ongoing roadworks on King Cetshwayo Highway as it crosses over the N2 just before the Westwood Mall in the Sherwood/ Westville vicinity.

CMA Race & Operations Manager, Ann Ashworth says, “We have been instructed by the Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) and Durban Metro Police to ensure that we inform all runners of the danger posed by ongoing construction between Sherwood and the Westwood Mall at the Event Safety & Security Planning Committee meeting which was held recently.”

“The route, which is typically four lanes wide as it crosses the bridge, will be narrowed to two lanes and bordered by concrete barricades. The CMA will be erecting additional lighting to ensure that any hazards are well lit and readily identifiable by participants.”

The CMA is taking all possible precautions to ensure participants have a safe and enjoyable race experience. In adhering to strict safety protocols, a Netcare 911 emergency vehicle and medical team will be positioned on each side of the bridge in the unlikely event of injury.

The 97th Comrades Marathon will be the 49th Up Run on Sunday, 9 June 2024, starting at the Durban City Hall at 05h30 and ending 12 hours later at the HollywoodBets Scottsville Racecourse in Pietermaritzburg, covering a distance of 85.91km.

Nedbank Running Club SWD: PRIZE GIVING 27 APRIL 2024

1) SENIOR MEN        
RUNNER OF THE YEAR 2023        
SELWYN MATTHEWS        
        
MERIT AWARD        
GOLD - FRANCOIS MAQUASSA        
SILVER - AMBER-JADE CLAASSEN        
        
2) SENIOR WOMEN        
RUNNER OF THE YEAR 2023        
SHAREESE GROBBELAAR        
        
MERIT AWARD        
SILVER - SKYSHA BARETTE        
BRONZE - MONICKE MALAGA        
BRONZE - HERQUINE(GAYNOR)  JAMES        
BRONZE - TARREN JUILLIES        
        
3) SUB-VETERAN MEN        
RUNNER OF THE YEAR 2023        
LLOYD BOSMAN        
        
MERIT AWARD        
GOLD - BERNARDO FREDERICKS        
BRONZE - DANIEL STEVENS        
BRONZE - LUFEZE XINWA        
        
4) SUB-VETERAN WOMEN        
RUNNER OF THE YEAR 2023        
CHARMAINE LAMPRECHT        
        
MERIT AWARD        
BRONZE - ELIZABETH ZEELIE        
BRONZE - SIBONAKAILSO SIBANDA

Click here to see list of all the prize winners

Click here to see the rest of the photos

Young athletes lead the way at the 12th edition of Freedom Run

Nearly 700 runners took to the streets of Motherwell to celebrate Freedom Day at the 12th edition of the 10km Freedom Run, the only township-based race in the Legacy Project series and a proud platform for many young and promising athletes.

Nicholas Seoposengwe, 22, of Ikhamva athletics club, stormed to the finish in perfect weather conditions at the Raymond Mhlaba Sports Centre in 29.11, with Ikhamva team-mate, Cwenga Nose, 23, following in second position in 29.29. Sibahle Maqwara, 22, running for Nedbank running club, finished third in 30.20
Nicholas was happy with his race.

“The Freedom 10km was part of my training for the NMB Half Marathon in June, I did not improve on my PB of 28.22, but I am satisfied with my time,” said Nicholas.

Ikhamva Athletics club dominated the finish with outstanding results, the top two overall winning positions and age category firsts in the 40-49 category with Luyanda Tshangana, finishing in 31.13, the 50-59 female age category with Michelle Howes finishing in 42.21 and Desmond Zibi in the 60-69 category finishing in 34.29, breaking his own SA 10km record of 34.33.

Ikhamva athletics club coach and Freedom run race organizer, Mike Mbambani was thrilled with the results.
“The Motherwell Freedom race is special, this was our 12th edition, it should have been 13th, but we missed a year during Covid.

“We had a huge turnout and.we are grateful for the continued support of the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, the EPA LOC, Motherwell Club volunteers, and Traffic services who all play a key role in ensuring the success of events such as these.

“Everyone felt safe on the road and athletes ran good times as a result.

“It is our intention to grow and continue to build this event,” added Mbambani.

Kelly van Vliet, of Nedbank running club, was the first woman home and ran a fantastic race to finish in a time of 37.26, considering she is fresh from competing in the recent Two Oceans Ultra Marathon. She was also first in her 35-39 age category.

Bubbly as always, Kelly was very happy with her performance.

“I really enjoyed the race, I was nervous how my legs would hold after Two Oceans, but I ran well, the race was well organized and the route was flat and fast,” said Kelly.

Leigh Callaghan, who runs for Achilles AAA, was the second woman to finish, in 38.42, with Jordan Tissink finishing in third position, in 39.07.

MMC Bassie Kamana, responsible for Department of Sport, Recreation, Arts & Culture, showed his support and surprised the crowd by quietly joining and finishing the 10km race himself.

“I am very proud of this professional event which is hosted in the Motherwell township, the fact that it has reached its 12th edition deserves a special congratulations to the organisers.

“Road running has the potential to unite people of all races, ages and levels of fitness, in the township, and this is a remarkable goal,” added Kamana.

EPA President, Sticks Stiglingh, an experienced athlete himself, also participated in the 10km race and credited the growth in the promising young athletes competing in EPA events.

Your weekly Nedbank RunnersGuide Race News.

Comrades Marathon - a summarised look at the Up Route.