World-renowned athlete Gerda Steyn is set to participate in the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Mangaung event in Bloemfontein on October 25. The 10km run will take place in the city's streets, with the starting point at Grey Kollege. Steyn, a native of Bothaville, expressed her excitement to be running in her home province, where she grew up and attended university. This event marks a milestone for Steyn, as she has never participated in a competitive run in the Free State or Northern Cape before.
Steyn, a decorated athlete with multiple accolades, including seven consecutive Two Oceans marathon wins and a Comrades Marathon victory, is looking forward to the event. She believes that participating in the Absa RUN YOUR CITY series will allow her to connect with a different side of the running community. The event is expected to draw a large crowd, with Steyn's presence likely to inspire local runners. Her participation is seen as a significant boost to the event's profile.
According to Steyn, the Absa RUN YOUR CITY series has built a reputation for bringing together mass participants and elite athletes in the heart of South Africa's urban spaces. She praises the series for its well-organized and enjoyable experience, from registration to the finish line. Steyn also notes that the 10km event will help her stay sharp and focused, as there is no room for errors in a short-distance run.
The event's organizers are thrilled to have Steyn on board, with Michael Meyer, managing director of Stillwater Sports, expressing his delight at her participation. Meyer believes that Steyn's presence will inspire young runners from the Free State to pursue their dreams and strive for greatness. The event aims to provide a platform for local athletes to compete with elite runners.
Registration for the event closes on October 8, with the starting time set for 07:00 on October 25. The entry fee is R255, with an additional R70 required for a temporary license. Steyn's participation in the event is seen as a significant drawcard, with many runners eager to compete alongside a South African sports icon.
Steyn's recent achievements include a third-place finish at the Jungfrau Marathon in the Swiss Alps. Her decision to participate in the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Mangaung event is a testament to her commitment to engaging with the local running community. The event promises to be an exciting experience for participants and spectators alike.
The Absa RUN YOUR CITY series has been growing in popularity, with Steyn's participation likely to further boost its profile. The event's focus on bringing together runners of all levels has resonated with athletes and organizers alike. As Steyn prepares to take on the 10km challenge, her fans and fellow runners are eagerly anticipating the event.
Key points
- Gerda Steyn to run 10km in Bloemfontein's Absa RUN YOUR CITY Mangaung event on October 25.
- Steyn has never participated in a competitive run in the Free State or Northern Cape before.
- The event aims to provide a platform for local athletes to compete with elite runners.
