City celebrate return of Capital Climb in sizzling style

Close to 600 participants braved the early-morning summer heat for the long-awaited return of the Parklane Superspar Capital Climb on Sunday, October 30. More than 400 runners opted for the 15-km route to World’s View and back to the start/finish at Voortrekker High School.

 

The runners had to contend with a complete route change in view of construction activities on the N3 and resultant traffic pressure on Old Howick Road. The undulating course took them through the city’s plantation to Celtis Road and a tough haul up to the Wykeham Collegiate before striding downhill along Kitchener Road to the finish.

 

The 5-km route attracted several young runners with junior runner Joshua Klopper first home in just under 27 minutes, while young Madison Cathy took the women’s honours in just over 33 minutes.

 

The 15-km event was won by Dion Ross in an impressive time of just over an hour, followed by Siphele Zondi and Senzi Thomas. Marissa Groenwald, Ruth Cozien and Sarah Gray rounded out the podium finish in the women’s race.

 

Parklane Group general manager Brett Austen Smith said the event exceeded the expectations of the sponsors.

 

“We’re very proud of our association with the first Capital Climb after the Covid pandemic and are committed to making this Pietermaritzburg institution an even greater iconic success,” said Austen Smith.

Top five 15-km finishers
Men: Dion Ross (01:04:29), Siphele Zondi (01:08:15), Senzi Thomas (01:09:59), Lindo Latha (01:12:46) and Russell Hoskins (01:13:46)
Women: Marissa Groenwald (01:17:49), Ruth Cozien (01:20:25), Sarah Gray, (01:30:05), Xoli Madida (01:31:39) and Zaheera Khan (01:32:17)

For the full results, visit www.finishtime.co.za

Picture top - Family outing: Roxanne Krog carries her child over the finish line alongside Rudi van der Merwe and their dogs.

 

Pictured below - That way: Second-placed Sarah Gray with some youthful road marshalls showing the way.

 

Supplied.