SEDGEFIELD NEWS - The 27th edition of the Tortoise Tuff Road Race, powered by FJ Cruiser Lifestyle Design Centre, delivered record numbers, top-class performances and vibrant community spirit in Sedgefield on Saturday 21 March.
Hosted by the Sedgefield Striders, this year’s event attracted runners from across the country - including Gauteng and Mpumalanga - all eager to test themselves on the notoriously demanding ‘Tuff’ route.
“We experienced the power of true community spirit through meaningful collaboration and shared purpose,” said club chairperson Alvin Whitten.
Matthews and Spangenberg shine in 30km
The flagship 30km race produced standout performances despite the route’s steep inclines.
Selwin Matthews (Nedbank SWD) powered to victory in a superb 10:43, holding off teammates Bruce Maboza and Lindani Ngwenya (Plett AC).
In the women’s race, Carla Spangenberg (Nedbank SWD) impressed with a commanding win in 02:08, finishing ahead of Jeanette van den Berg (Outeniqua Harriers) and Alison Nell (21Gi SWD).
Plett AC dominates half-marathon
Plett AC runners set the pace in the half-marathon, with Sivuyile Qola taking top honours in 01:20. Teammates Rick Swemmer and Diego Scheepers followed close behind.
Nerida Lubbe (Nedbank SWD) was the first woman home in 01:32, finishing an impressive fourth overall. She was followed by Diana Henry (temporary) and Ashrica Booysen (Knysna Marathon Club).
Fast times in the 10km
The flat and fast 10km race lived up to expectations, with Valentino Loggenberg (Rainbow AC) clocking 31:54 to claim victory. Austin Koopman (Nedbank SWD) and Bonga Nkqintiza completed the podium.
Nikki Walter (Knysna Marathon Club) led the women’s field in 38:57, ahead of Ariadne van Zandbergen (Cape Multisport Club Eden) and Rinaldi van den Westhuizen (Nedbank SWD).
Walkers impress
The walkers’ events also produced strong performances.
In the 10km, Timotheas Markgraaf (Borchards Eagles) won the men’s race in 01:03:37, with Sedgefield Striders’ grand master Nic Brummer and Darren Bannister close behind.
Mariana van Zyl (Nedbank RC SWD) took the women’s honours in 01:10, followed by Joanie Calitz and Liedie Coetzee.
In the 21.1km walk, Ernst van Zyl (Nedbank RC SWD) claimed victory in 02:27, while Christa Coetzee (32Gi SWD) won the women’s race in 02:43, with Jackie Calitz (De Rust Drawwers) second.
Community spirit on full display
From young fun runners to seasoned grandmasters, Sedgefield buzzed with energy as locals turned out in force to support participants.
Water points once again proved a highlight, with creative themes, enthusiastic supporters and plenty of encouragement along the route. The Lions of Sedgefield claimed the prize for best water point at Platbank, while Legends Sports Bar earned praise for its popular sprayer tunnel.
Race director Surisa Nel said the event continues to bring people together.
“Running and walking have incredible potential to unify communities. It is a privilege to host this event,” she said. “A huge thank you to all our athletes, sponsors, volunteers and the local community. This is our way of giving back to the running community, and we can’t wait for next year.”
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