SPORT NEWS - The Nedbank Running Club SWD squad are now counting down the days to the Comrades Marathon, as they are set to take on the Ultimate Human Race in Durban on Sunday 14 June.
The team was officially sent off during a special function at Hennie’s in George on Saturday 30 May, where the runners, their supporters and the club members had gathered in anticipation of the gruelling ultramarathon ahead.
The event was made even more memorable by the presence of Comrades Marathon legend Bruce Fordyce, a nine-time winner of the iconic race. Fordyce shared some motivational insights and personal experiences with the athletes before handing over some official Nedbank Running Club Comrades T-shirts.
This year, SWD will field a strong and diverse squad, including 18 novice runners who will be tackling the Comrades Marathon for the very first time. Among the debutants is Lloyd Bosman, runner-up in the 2024 Two Oceans Marathon 56km race, who will be aiming for a top-10 finish in his first attempt.
On the women’s side, Nerida Lubbe and Carla Spangenberg are expected to be strong contenders for silver medal finishes, based on their consistent performances in the build-up races.
Several seasoned athletes will also be chasing major milestones. Joan van Wyngaard will be running for her green number, while Una Saayman aims for her double green number after 19 Comrades finishes.
Veteran Eddie Mouton will target his triple green number, having already completed an incredible 29 Comrades Marathons.
The club thanked Hennie’s for hosting the send-off function and for their continued support of local athletics. - Compiled by Michelle Pienaar
The Nedbank SWD Running Club’s management and Bruce Fordyce. Back: Daniel Raubenheimer, Naeem Cassim and Reggi Mitchell. Front: Melvin Koopman, Alta Zeelie, Fordyce, Adri Raubenheimer, Bebbie Prins and Ronel Pieterse. Photo: Willie Pieterse
