It’s all systems go ahead of the much anticipated Thembisa mile and 10km run and walk set to take place at the Moses Molelekwa Arts Centre near Makhulong Stadium next Sunday.
The race, currently in its 11th year, continues to grow in leaps and bounds with every edition, and this year’s is expected to be no different as thousands of
runners lace up for another running party.
The unique race comprises a one mile (1.6km) and 10km event, which was added to the event in 2014 when the race became an official road race.
The exciting race is open to runners and walkers of all abilities from beginners to the elite or professionals and continues to attract scores of athletics enthusiasts.
South Africa’s top runners, including Glenrose Xaba, Lebo Phalula, Elroy Gelant, Karabo Mailula and Chris Mhlanga, are expected to take part in this year’s edition.
Another top runner who is expected to return this year is 21-year-old Prudence Sekgodiso, who has won the mile event twice and will be looking to add another title to her name.
The defending champion for the men’s event, Chris Mhlanga, will be back to spearhead the elite field after beating some of the top runners to the prize last year.
The organisers expect 3 000 participants who will take to the streets of the sprawling Ekurhuleni township with entries set to close at midnight today.
Organiser Donald Mathipa, who is a social runner and athletics commentator, said the Ekurhuleni race – themed the Running Party – would deliver another big field.
“We are expecting people to come in numbers, the entries are already at a decent number with only a few days to go until the big day,” said Mathipa.
“We have a lot of exciting prizes for the top performers, there will be SPAR vouchers for the top three boys and girls in the under-10, under-13, and under-five age group categories for the one mile race.
“We will also have SPAR goodie bags for the first 2 000 entries and all registered finishers will receive bronze medals.”
