Athletes in the central parts of the country can look forward to the opportunity to qualify for the Two Oceans and Comrades marathons, when the Powerade Three-Provinces race takes place on September 12."The challenging 42,2km race through the Northern Cape, the North West and the Free State, enables the participants to qualify for the Two Oceans- and Comrades marathons," says Francois Conradie, chairman of the Christiana Marathon Club.
Conradie says the race presents one of few rural qualifying opportunities, and its popularity increases annually due to the high standard.
"About 400 athletes are expected to enter this year. We even expect entries from as far-a-field as Mossel Bay."
The marathon will start at 6:30am in Grens Street, Jan Kempdorp, while the half marathon will start at the same time, 13km out of Christiana.
The marathon rules are in compliance with ASA requirements and there will be adequate water points en route.
The fun run of only 5 km, which is easy enough for everybody including those who prefer to walk, will start at 8am at the finishing point in Rivier Street, Christiana.
The marathon and half-marathon prize giving will be at 11.30am at the finishing point.
All athletes will receive medals, while the winners will receive trophies.
This year athletes can also receive permanent race numbers, after completing five (orange), 10 (Green) or 15 (navy) races.
Busses have been arranged for the Saturday morning to pick up the athletes at 5am from the finishing-off point in Christiana and take them to the starting point in Jan Kempdorp.
Entry fees: Marathon - R50, half-marathon - R35, and for the fun run -R10. Temporary numbers are also available at R10 each.
The deadline for postal entries is Monday 25 August. Entries will also be accepted as from 5:30am at the various starting points.
For more information on the marathon, as well as assistance with accommodation, Conradie can be contacted on 082 833 5625.
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