Gqeberha is gearing up for a fitness fiesta as the BayRun returns next month, part of the celebrated Discovery Vitality Run Series. The event, hosted by the 32Gi Athletic Club, will take place on Saturday, 5 October, starting and finishing at Cape Recife High School.
Since its inception in 2017, the Vitality Run Series has been a beacon for fitness enthusiasts across South Africa, encouraging physical activity through iconic running events. This year’s BayRun is expected to draw an even larger crowd, building on the success of last year’s race, which saw over 1,000 runners take to the streets of Gqeberha.
A Community Affair
The BayRun is more than just a race—it’s a celebration of community spirit and the love of running. Participants can choose from three distances: a challenging 21km, a competitive 10km, or a fun 5km. The event is open to everyone, from seasoned athletes to casual runners, with Discovery Vitality members earning Vitality points for taking part.
Stellar performances from local athletes marked last year’s event. Sinethemba Mirele of Nedbank Running Club claimed victory in the men’s 21km with a time of 1:13:29. At the same time, Cherise Carreira of Boxer Athletic Club led the women’s field, finishing in 1:21:12. In the 10km, Sinawo Poti of Ikhamva Athletics Club crossed the finish line first in 31:22. Kelly van Vliet of Nedbank Running Club led the women in 38:04.
A New Chapter for the BayRun
This year’s BayRun will continue to build on the tradition, with exciting updates and prizes. All finishers will receive a special medal, and the first male and female runners in each distance will be awarded a pair of Puma running shoes. Participants can also look forward to a host of lucky draw prizes, including a grand prize of R2500 in cash.
“The camaraderie among the Gqeberha runners is truly inspiring,” says Mari Leach, Wellness Specialist at Discovery Vitality. “From beginner walkers to those chasing personal bests, these events really have a place for everyone.”
Race Director Jonathan Mandell of 32Gi Athletic Club echoed this sentiment, expressing excitement for the upcoming race. “We had a fantastic turnout last year despite the cold and wet conditions. This year, we’re hoping for good weather and an even bigger crowd at the start line.”
Event Details and Registration
The BayRun, which holds Eastern Province Athletics league status, will kick off with the 21km at 06:00, followed by the 5km at 06:05, and the 10km at 06:15. The prize-giving ceremonies for the 10km and 21km races will take place at 08:20 and 09:30 respectively, with the main lucky draw for the R2500 cash prize scheduled for 09:45.
Participants can enter online at Webtickets until midnight on Tuesday, 1 October, or register at Brian Bands, Sportsmans Warehouse, and UD Sports in Uitenhage before Wednesday, 2 October. Race numbers and late entries will be available for collection at Wembley Tennis Club in Mill Park on Friday, 4 October, from 12:00 to 19:00, and at Cape Recife High School on race day from 05:00 to 05:45.
In addition to the races, the event promises a lively atmosphere with coffee, boerewors rolls, and pancakes available at the finish. Clubs and schools are encouraged to bring their gazebos, with a special prize for the group with the most entries.
For further information, contact Jonathan Mandell at 083 414 2624 or Theresa Buchner at 081 723 8230.
Gqeberha, get ready to lace up and hit the road for what promises to be an unforgettable BayRun with Discovery Vitality!
PICTURE: Fast start for the 21km race for the 2023 BayRun with Discovery Vitality. Photo Credit: Richard Pearce Photography
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