All-weather runners pitch for popular Pineapple Run

The inclement weather conditions did not deter 200 determined runners who lined up after 7am at the starting line at the 2023 BUCO Pineapple Run at the Big Pineapple in Bathurst on Saturday October 7. 

The 45th running of the popular event on the running calendar, organised by Kowie Striders covered the 5km fun run event, 10km and 27km distances. The bigger distance comprised mostly a gravel route and only 6km of tar making it challenging for the runners who braved the elements up to the finish at the Port Alfred Country Club. The rain forced a route change over the 27km distance, but most runners despite the wet and muddy underfoot conditions were happy with the cooler conditions that prevailed. 

The rainy weather did not dampen enthusiasm at all; the atmosphere and camaraderie were electric among the runners who came from afar afield as Gqeberha, Kariega, East London, Makhanda, Ndlambe itself and other areas of the district. The prize-giving ceremony at the clubhouse was jam-packed with runners and walkers filling up the venue to receive their medals and lucky draw prizes. 

Andile Motwana of Nedbank Running Club won the men’s 27km race in 1:27.57 with club colleague Refiloe Solomons coming tops in the women’s race in 1:54.09.  

A highlight was the 25th running of the race by Makhanda’s elite runner, Terri-Lynn Penney, who was first veteran home and third woman overall. 

Gelvandale Athletics Club from Gqeberha won the team prize for registering the most participants at the race. 

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