LANGEBAAN – One of the biggest sporting events on the West Coast, the annual Benguela Weskus Marathon, takes place on Saturday, 17 March.
Over eleven years the race, organised by the Langebaan Strandlopers athletics club in association with the West Coast Honorary Rangers, has grown in popularity and stature. The magazine Runner’s World rated the marathon as the second best race in the country for 2008 and 2010.
Both the 42.2km and 21.1km take place around the scenic Langebaan lagoon within the West Coast National Park.
There is also a 5km fun run/walk held in adjacent Langebaan.
No cars are allowed inside the park before or during the race, only the official race vehicles, so runners can enjoy their run in safety.
The marathon runners will be transported by bus to the start of the race at Tsaarsbank, deep inside the park on the Atlantic seaboard. The marathon is a qualifying race for the Comrades Marathon.
Both the half marathon and the fun run/walk start from and end near the offices of the West Coast National Park in Langebaan.
Prize money of R18 000 can be won and there will also be lucky draws at the official prize-giving held at the park offices. Refreshments will be for sale at the various food and drink stalls. Entries for the 42km and 21km close on 8 March. No late entries are allowed for the 42.2km due to the pre-booking of buses.
For race and entry queries call 074 233 8865. Website: www.strandlopers.co.za. Email: weskusmarathon@strandlopers. co.za
The main sponsor this year is the Benguela Group. The race is one of the Honorary Rangers biggest fund raising events. All monies raised will go towards improving the park.