New Athletics South Africa ultra-marathon 50km championships set for Gqeberha

The renowned Nedbank Runifield Breaking Barriers 50km ultra-marathon, previously held in the Windy City amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, has undergone a significant transformation.

The event, now rebranded as the Runifield Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, is scheduled for Sunday, February 25, in Gqeberha.

Originally designed to support 100 elite athletes in generating income amid the pandemic’s aftermath, the race has evolved into a national competition welcoming mass participation.  

In an exclusive interview with SABC Sport manager of the Nedbank Running Club Nick Bester, revealed the expanded scope of the event.

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“I can confirm to the national broadcaster that this year’s event will follow a revised format. The official details regarding entry fees and registration for the 50km and 10km races will be provided by Athletics South Africa and the Eastern Cape Athletics offices, which are set to resume operations tomorrow (Monday) after the holiday break. In collaboration with the bank, the event has evolved into a national competition, expanding mass participation to approximately 2500 participants, with the restrictions on elite athletes lifted from 100. The top male and female finishers will be awarded a prize of R40 000 each.  Notably, the race dynamics have shifted, as participants will now navigate a 50km loop, taking in scenic views of the sea and other tourist attractions in Gqeberha, departing from the previous format of running the 10km five times,” shared Bester.

The ultra-marathon championships will double as qualifiers for the prestigious Two Oceans and Comrades Marathon. Runners of all levels, both elite and recreational, are invited to join the running festivities in the Eastern Cape.

Bester assures participants of a top-tier event, featuring full road closures, well-equipped water points, vigilant marshals, and a challenging yet competitive route.

“As the competition now attains a national status, ASA intends to enhance the prize pool and acknowledge potential record-breaking achievements on race day. The 10km race is scheduled a day before the ultra-marathon, providing enthusiasts who prefer both running and walking ample time to relish their experience on the course,” said Bester, who expressed excitement about dispatching some of the elite runners from the green and gold running club to partake in the festivities.