Sport

Kimberley Road Runners gear up for 2024 Vodacom Meerkat Marathon

Danie van der Lith|Published

The running community of Kimberley are gearing up as the Kimberley Road Runners club prepares to host the highly anticipated Vodacom Meerkat Marathon on Saturday, February 3, 2024. Runners are seen coming into the last section of a previous Vodacom Meerkat Marathon. Picture: Facebook (Omphemetse Tagane)

The running community of Kimberley is abuzz with excitement as the Kimberley Road Runners club prepares to host the highly anticipated Vodacom Meerkat Marathon on Saturday, February 3, 2024.

Launching in 2015, this annual event has become a staple in the running community, with its sole hiatus during the 2021 lockdown. Geared towards both seasoned athletes and casual runners, the marathon not only raises funds for charity but also plays a crucial role in sustaining the Kimberley Road Runners club.

Renowned as the largest and most attended road running event in the Northern Cape, the Vodacom Meerkat Marathon has garnered a reputation for its challenging courses and vibrant atmosphere. This year, the Kimberley Road Runners are setting their sights on breaking attendance records and fostering community engagement.

The marathon will feature the classic 42.2km, 21.1km, and 10km races, with the 10km race forming part of the AGW 10km Championships. Adding a touch of fun to the event, there will also be a 4.9-kilometre fun run, ensuring that the Vodacom Meerkat Marathon truly has something for everyone.

Runners are seen coming into the last section of a previous Vodacom Meerkat Marathon. Picture: Facebook (Omphemetse Tagane)

What makes this marathon stand out is its status as a qualifier for the prestigious Comrades and Two Oceans Ultra Marathons, drawing elite athletes from far and wide. Registration is now open, and participants can secure their spot by visiting: t.ly/1Pjs9

Added to the thrill of the race itself, and in a bid to support local entrepreneurs, the Kimberley Road Runners Club is inviting individuals interested in having a stall on race day to make contact.

Megan Coetzer, the club secretary and administration, can be reached at 079 893 3402 for those eager to secure their spot and showcase their products or services.

As the city gears up for this exhilarating event, the Vodacom Meerkat Marathon promises not only a challenging run for athletes but also a festive atmosphere for spectators. Join the Kimberley Road Runners on race day for a celebration of community, athleticism, and the indomitable spirit that defines the running culture in Kimberley.

Distances and Start Times:

42.2km - 5:30am

21.1km - 5:30am

10km - 6:00am

4.9km - 6:30am

Cut Off:

42.2km - 6 hours (11:30am)

21.1km - 4 hours (9:30am)

10km - 2 hours (8:00am)

4.9km - no cut off

Early Online Entry Fees (until 30th January)

42.2km - R 270

21.1km - R 200

10km - R 170

4.9km - R 60

Late Online Entry Fees (from 31st January)

42.2km - R 280

21.1km - R 210

10km - R 180

4.9km - R 70

Manual/Late Entries & Race Number Collection

KRR Bishops Club: 31st January 2024 from 17h30 - 20h00

KRR Bishops Club: 1st February 2024 from 17h30 - 20h00

KRR Bishops Club: 2nd February 2024 from 17h30 - 20h00

4.9km – Medals to the first 100 finishers.

42.2km, 21.1km, 10km – Medals to all finishers within the cut-off times.