GEORGE NEWS - A festive, carnival-like atmosphere greeted almost 500 runners who gathered at the Rocket Café in Arbor Street, George, on Monday 15 December for the inaugural Louis Massyn Rocket Run - an event that immediately established itself as more than just another race on the local calendar.
From elite athletes chasing fast times to holidaymakers lacing up for fun, the field was a colourful mix of shapes, ages and ambitions.
Serious competitors shared the road with casual joggers, visiting tourists and fun runners who happily admitted that speed was optional and enjoyment compulsory.
The 5km fun run attracted nearly 300 participants, while around 250 hopefuls lined up for the more demanding 10km event.
Lining the route, the spectators turned up in their numbers, their cheers echoing through the streets of George and providing encouragement for the runners pushing through the heat and fatigue. For many, those voices became the difference between slowing down and finding one last surge to the finish.
One of the standout moments of humanity during the day came courtesy of Mandla Tom from George. After completing his own 10km race, he remained near the finish line, enthusiastically motivating and welcoming every runner who followed. His infectious energy and support embodied the spirit of the event and earned applause from athletes and spectators.
On the competitive front, Lloyd Bosman (Nedbank) claimed victory in the men's open 10km in a swift 30:53, while Cindy Viljoen topped the women's open race in 44:34.
Junior honours went to Valentino Loggerenberg (Rainbow) and Karli Lotter (Outeniqua Harriers). In the Masters division, Melikhaya Mzisi (Knysna Marathon Club) and Riana Volschenk (Whales Club) took top honours, while Marlon Mortlock (Knysna Marathon Club) and Phyllis de Fouw (Boxer) triumphed in the Masters category.
Veteran runners were equally well repre-sented, with Peter Jaehne (Outeniqua Harriers) and Mariet Horn (Knysna) taking line honours in the greatmasters category. Johannes van Wyk (great-great-masters) and Leslie Stuart (great-great-grandmasters) rounded off the winners' list with inspiring performances.
On a near-perfect late Monday afternoon, the Louis Massyn Rocket Run was officially launched - and judging by the smiles, camaraderie and community support on display, George has welcomed a new running tradition with open arms.
Marlon Mortlock won the men's masters category in the 10km race in a time of 40:54.
"I'm okay," says Sylvia Jaftha.
Heinrich Filander pulling out all the stops near the end.
Melikhaya Msizi finished in 6th overall position in the men's open 10km race, but was first in the veterans category in a time of 38:22.
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