The 17th annual RCS Gugulethu Reconciliation Race in association with the Cape Times saw a win by the University of Johannesburg’s athlete Jeromy Andreas, who clinched a one-second victory ahead of his former UWC teammate Anthony Timoteus in the Men’s 10km run on Saturday.
Inspired by the national spirit of unity that defines Reconciliation Day, the RCS Gugs Race is an ideal platform to celebrate the common bond of humanity between all South Africans.
Over 2000 runners, walkers and supporters made their way to the vibrant township of Gugulethu to witness a thrilling race, entertainment and prize giveaways at the NY49 Gugulethu Stadium.
The battle between Andreas and Timoteus carried on throughout the 10km race with Andreas finishing with a time of 30:06, one second clear of Timoteus, followed by Milton Kekana 5 seconds back in third.
In the women’s 10km race, Zintle Xiniwe finished with a time of 35:59, 3 seconds ahead of Zimbabwe’s Fortunate Chidzivo, followed by Vuyiseka Nkumede in 3rd place.
It was Xiniwe’s sixth year in a row winning the RCS Gugs Race. She said that as a resident of Gugulethu she felt proud to win it at home and believed that runners could improve by
training more and never giving up.
Winners in the respective junior championship went to Tashnew Damons, Amahle Dintsi and Mthandazo Qhina and Busisiwe Matiwane.
The times from the RCS Gugs Race this year were faster than the times recorded in
2016.
Chief executive at RCS Regan Adams said: “The race’s vision is driven largely by Gugulethu Athletics Club chairperson Gladwell Ndzube and we are very proud that the club has enabled many talented runners to reach their full potential within running circles.”