New Balance’s cross country night race



Twin sisters, Malethabo and Lethabo Seema receive their prize. Photo by Robert Mabusela

 By Tebatso Mogaladi

New Balance in partnership with Tshwane University of Technology (TUT), held the third night cross country race at TUT, Pretoria campus on Friday night.

The anticipated race saw different people ages from eight to 70 years and all types of races participate in. The race had different rounds ranging from 4km to 8km. Learners aged 8-21 years participated in the 4km race.

TUT FNB stadium was filled with excitement throughout the entire event. Parents came in large numbers to support their loved ones and encouraged them as they were running alongside with youngsters aged 8.

The races became more intensive and interesting when learners aged 8-13 started to show real emotions of tiredness but continued to give their best.

The young runners received various prizes. Event coordinator, Alan Smith said that he thought it was very important for young people to stand on a podium that would make them feel they want to run.

“New Balance organises good races and we want to attract the best and reward the people at cross country as well,” said Smith.

Cliton Lombard from Tuine Laerskool was the first youngster who won the boys under 9 year’s race in 11 minutes time. The opening man 8km was won by Gladwin Mzazi for the 3rd year in a row. Kgosi Tsosane won the 1st hot spot in the race but thereafter, Gladwin Mzazi took the lead and won the 2nd and 3rd Hot spot and went on to win the race.

Twin sisters from Rosina Sedibeng High School, Malethabo and Lethabo Seema took first and second position in the 4km girls under 16 year’s race. The sisters attracted the crowd with their excellent running.

One would push another one to cover the gap in between and continued to jog altogether with the same pace. However, this was shattered in the last lap when Lethabo broke through to reach the finishing line first.

Second place, Malethabo said “I am so excited that I took second position although it was a difficult race and cold. I just want to thank New Balance for supporting us and also my twin sister who made me to take second position.”

“Our training sessions are tough, but tonight it proved to be worth having it. One day I want to be world champion just like Caster Semenya and represent my country,” Malethabo added.