RACE REPORT- Sanlam Cape Town 10km by first in category, Collette van Eck

There were only a handful of “Fish Hoekers” running the Sanlam 10KM, but as there was a selection of “Trail Runs” and a “Marathon” on offer for the weekend it was to be expected. From “entry collection” to the start, water tables and finish it was a very slick, well organised event, with loads of Marshals helping you along.

Saturday dished up near perfect running conditions, and the crowd support was very festive along the beach front. It was fantastic to see Harold Berman in the crowd , he still seemed to remember the names of most of the field. (for those who don’t remember him. He used to commentate at most of the runs in the WP in the 80’s, 90’s and early 2000’s. He has this amazing memory for names and individual stats).

The course was fast and flat. Out and back along the Sea Point promenade, with a deviation at the end through Green Point park. The “Fish Hoekers” produced some impressive results. Michael Gibson cruised around the course, finishing in a commendable time of 36:53 (sub 4 min a km), Siobahan Ball broke 50 minutes, to record her personal best 49:46. Not far behind were Dominique Bender, Mikaela Ball, Benji Kok, Kerryn Finnie and Anthea Ball, all finishing with credible times.

Okay so this last bit had to be added as our “eagle eyed” marketing boffin, wanted something about my run. So, as I run so few races these days due to being 1) Lazy 2) Hate the thought of driving off in the early hours of the morning to find the venue and then parking, and 3) The fact that we have the most beautiful runs on our doorstep. (It’s very easy to put all sorts of negative thoughts in my little head.) The start as I said was very slick, and running around Sea Point on a clear, cool and almost windless day, was a pleasure. There were two water support stations which is more than generous, and all the helpers at the stations were very supportive and festive (probably could do with a bit of coaching from “Our Wendy-Lee” tho’ to be perfect!!). I actually had a very comfortable run and managed to end up first in my category. (This was largely due to the huge selection of runs available.) All in all a good morning out, well done to everyone on their achievements.