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Luyanda Mapoyi wins the 25th annual PPC Riebeeck Bergmarathon


Luyanda Mapoyi from Khayelitsha, Cape Town, is this year's winner of the 25th annual PPC LTD Riebeeck Bergmarathon held in the picturesque town of Riebeek West over the weekend. Celebrating its silver anniversary, the marathon, which is a Comrades qualifier, proved its staying power by continuing to grow in popularity. This year's event attracted 20% more participants than last year, with the majority taking part in the 21.1 km race.

24 year old, Mapoyi, who has only been running for a year, had this to say about the event, "I have been training for this race for just over three months and it has been tough. The route today was difficult but the beautiful views made up for it. I will definitely be doing the race again next year."

The event which attracts athletes from all over the country has been a highlight on the Western Cape marathon calendar since its inception, 25 years ago, and remains well-known for its awe-inspiring views and friendly atmosphere. Brian Rothman from Goodwood in Cape Town has run every PPC Riebeeck Bergmarathon since the first PPC marathon in 1985. "Every year this marathon goes from strength to strength. I have thoroughly enjoyed participating and I'll continue to do so as long as I can," he said.

 

Above photo: Luyando Mapoyl (left) with PPC Executive Director Harley Dent (right)

Above photo: PPC Riebeeck GM, Frikkie van Zyl starts the marathon

On top of its growing popularity, the event is also recognised for its exceptional organisation. In 2008 and 2009 it was awarded four stars for being the best organised event in accordance with the Boland Athletics five star merit award system.

Comprising of a 42.2 km marathon, a 21.1 km half marathon, a 10 km race and 5km fun run, the day was enjoyed by both accomplished athletes as well as families who opted for a weekend away in the beautiful Riebeek Valley.

"We are incredibly proud to be celebrating the silver anniversary of this exceptional event that continues to grow year after year. For us at PPC, the marathon remains an important part of our sponsorship calendar; hence we have committed ourselves to continue to sponsor it for as long as the runners continue to run. I look forward to seeing everyone again next year," said PPC Riebeeck Factory GM, Frikkie van Zyl.

25th PPC Riebeeck Bergmarathon results:

"We are incredibly proud to be celebrating the silver anniversary of this exceptional event that continues to grow year after year. For us at PPC, the marathon remains an important part of our sponsorship calendar; hence we have committed ourselves to continue to sponsor it for as long as the runners continue to run. I look forward to seeing everyone again next year," said PPC Riebeeck Factory GM, Frikkie van Zyl.

42km Run
Men   Women
  Name Club Time     Name Club Time
1st Luyanda Mapoyi New Balance Khayelitsha 02:39:36   1st Liana Maree Stellenbosch 03:26:10
2nd Tau Khotso Ceres 02:42:21   2nd Sandra Baetsen Llandudno AC 03:34:29
3rd Dumisani Dosi Paarl/Boland Athletics 02:51:04   3rd Marie Louw Harmony AGN 03:35:35
                 
21km Run
Men   Women
  Name Club Time     Name Club Time
1st Sityhilo Diko Nedbank 00:31:52   Luyanda Mapoyi West Coast Ac 00:38:12
2nd Adriaan Geldenhuys Maties 00:32:41   2nd Tau Khotso Mr Price 00:38:34
3rd Luyanda Qolo Hangklip 00:33:12   3rd Dumisani Dosi Tygerberg NLK 00:42:19
                 
10km Run
Men   Women
  Name Club Time     Name Club Time
1st Thembelani Zola Mr Price WP 01:11:13   1st Annerien Van Schalkwyk Irene Marathon Club 01:19:27
2nd Wanda Roro Adidas AC WP 01:11:28   2nd Alae Brand Nedbank Running Club CT 01:23:53
3rd Dawid Gous Swartland 01:15:18   3rd Bulelwa Mtshagi Mr Price Celtic Harriers 01:27:56