AFB Makhado Marathon a Comrades qualifier

The Soutpansberg Athletics Club in Louis Trichardt is geared up to commence the new year on a high note by hosting their very own Comrades qualifier, the AFB Makhado Marathon, on 3 February.

The race will take place at AFB Makhado and will offer 5km, 10km, 21km, and 42km (qualifying distance) races on the day. The starting gun will first go off at 06:00 for the 42km marathon. The 42km course is the same as the 21km half-marathon course and will be completed twice. The 5km and 10km races will start at 06:10, followed by the 21km at 06:20. Water points will be available along the route every 3km.

The beautiful backdrop of the Soutpansberg mountain range and the presence of fighter jets at AFB Makhado will set the scene for race day. Secure parking will be available, but please note that no firearms on your person or in your vehicle will be allowed.

Entries will be available on the day of the race or online at https://www.entryninja.com/events/79903-comrades-qualifier. Race number collection starts at 04:30 on 3 February or at the offices of the Zoutpansberger and Limpopo Mirror in Louis Trichardt (16B Joubert Street) on Friday, 2 February, from 07:30 to 15:00.

The entry fees are R30 for the 5km, R80 for the 10km, R150 for the 21km, and R250 for the 42km. Please note that you will need a temporary day license, available at R50 if you do not have a LIMA license. The route is predominantly flat, with an elevation gain of about 200m. However, the 42km runners will face the heat twice, so be prepared and make use of the water points offering water and Coke. Runners can also preview the route beforehand at https://connect.garmin.com/modern/course/243463496.

For further information, please contact Keagan at 072 042 8276 or [email protected], or Casper at 062 826 1220.

Date:13 January 2024

By: Karla van Zyl

Karla van Zyl joined the newspaper team in February 2021 as a junior intern.

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