February 8, 2005
By Lucky Sindane
ABOUT 4 000 runners are expected to line up for the 21st Pick 'n Pay marathon set to take place on Sunday, 20 February through the eastern suburbs of Johannesburg.
"About 1 000 runners have already registered and we are expecting the number to increase during the last few days before the marathon takes place," says event co-ordinator, Samantha Durkin.
The day's events will be hosted by Jeppe Quondam Athletics Club and will see runners take part in the Pick 'n Pay marathon as well as a 21,1km half marathon.
The marathon is a two-lap circular route of 42,2km that starts at the Saheti School in Senderwood, wends its way through the neighbouring suburbs of Bedfordview and Edenvale, and ends back at the Saheti School.
There will also be a 5km fun run and a 420m mini marathon for children under 10.
Total prize money for the day is R27 000, with R12 000 being set aside for special incentives as the marathon celebrates its 21st birthday.
"As a special commemorative incentive, long sleeve t-shirts will be given to all marathon and half marathon runners who pre-enter," says Durkin.
The marathon is an early qualification race of the 2005 Comrades Marathon in June and is the last qualifier in Central Gauteng for the Two Oceans Marathon, which takes place over the Easter weekend.
The record for the men's marathon - set by Mark Plaatjes - has stood for 21 years, since the first race in 1984, at two hours, 14 minutes and 47 seconds.
The women's marathon record was set in 1990, by Frith van der Merwe and stands at two hours, 33 minutes and 49 seconds.
Both the marathon and half marathon set off from the school at 6am, with the 5km fun run following at 6.15am. The 420m races for the youngsters start at 9.30am.
Entries for the marathon and half marathon are open until Monday, 14 February at a cost of R50 and R35 respectively. No entries will be accepted on the day.
Entry forms are available and accepted at most leading specialist running shops. Entries can be faxed through with the deposit slip or proof of payment to 011 463 3177.
For more information or to enter online go to www.picknpay.co.za or www.saactive.com or call the race office on 011 463 2743.
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