Several big names are part of a strong professional field set to compete in the Nelson Mandela Bay Half Marathon at Pollok Beach on Saturday (7am).
The 21.1km road race has attracted some leading continental runners.
SA’s Stephen Mokoka, 40, who has made four Olympic appearances and holds a 50km ultra-marathon world record and three Cape Town Marathon titles, is one of those who will be chasing the title this weekend.
Other well-known runners such as Gqeberha’s Melikhaya Frans, brothers Daniel and Simon Paulus (Namibia) and South Africans Puseletso Mofokeng and Dino Nako will be among the strong male entries.
Kenya’s Rodgers Kipchirchir Murei and Saibi Chebet of Uganda confirmed their participation in May.
In 2024, three-time Olympian Elroy Gelant, 37, who won the first edition of the NMB Half-Marathon in 2014, crossed the finish line in one hour, three minutes and 54 seconds for his second title.
The 2022 champion, Namakoe Nkhasi, took second place in 1:04:04, and Precious Mashele was third in 1:04:05 for Central Gauteng Athletics.
In the women’s corner, top athletes Glenrose Xaba, Selam Khatala, Taylor Kavanagh and Cacisolle Sosibo have also confirmed their participation.
In the 2024 women’s race, Ethiopia’s Tadu Nare dominated as she led from the gun to the tape to win in 1:12:01, ahead of compatriot Diniya Abaraya (1:12:31), who finished as the first junior.
Lesotho’s Blandina Makatisi was third in 1:13:39, while Xaba, in fourth overall (1:13:42), finished as the first South African.
The 11th edition of the popular race will see the addition of a 5km distance, with the aim of attracting more development athletes.
Event organiser Michael Mbambani said his team had finalised the preparations and were ready to host the race.
“In terms of readiness, we have done all the necessary dry runs and have held a safety and security meeting with the municipality,” he said.
“We are ready to deliver another successful 11th edition of the NMB Half-Marathon.
“Thanks to our sponsors. The NMBM, Nike SA and East Cape Motors are our major sponsors for year’s 21km.
“We are targeting a massive participation, and for the 5km race we are so close, we just need 200 runners to clock the 2,000 entry target, which is very exciting.
“It’s a good return on investment for the city because we know very well people will be staying over in Gqeberha.
“We can’t wait for it to get going and hope to get good weather on the day.”
The popular race starts from Marine Drive at Pollok Beach and includes a loop through Nelson Mandela University.
The cut-off time is three hours and 30 minutes.
The Herald
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