Lukhanyo Wanda Roro-Joja triumphs at the 32nd PPC Riebeek Bergmarathon

Lukhanyo Wanda Roro-Joja triumphs at the 32nd PPC Riebeek Bergmarathon
Some of the country's top athletes descended on the picturesque Boland town of RiebeekWest this weekend to take part in the 32nd PPC Riebeek Bergmarathon. Under ideal Cape
weather conditions, Lukhanyo Wanda Roro-Joja ran his way to the 42km victory in a time of
02:33:56, ten seconds ahead of Reuben Mhashu (02:44:18) with Ncedo Makunga third in
02:53:48.
The women’s 42km race was won by Angelique Rabie with a time of 03:32:32, second was
Elize Kloppers (03:34:52) and third was Laura Peddle (03:38:20).
The 21km half-marathon was also hotly contested, finally being won by Siviwe Nkombi
(men’s race) and Candice Hall (women’s race). The 10km race was won by Anthony
Timoteus.
Hosted by PPC and the Swartland Athletics Club, a record number of over 2000 runners
took part in the Bergmarathon this year. Supporters from across the country and the local
community were out in full force to cheer everyone on – including international cricketer JP
Duminy, who participated in the 10km with beneficiaries from his NPO the JP21 Project,
managing editor of Women’s Health, Amy Hopkins and Runner’s World deputy editor Lisa
Abdellah.
The race, which transforms the quiet town of Riebeek-West into a bustle of celebration and
activity each August, attracted a mix of past competitors and new entrants this year –
bringing much needed investment to the community and boosting local tourism.
The runners enjoyed the undulating route which starts from the PPC Riebeek-West factory
into the local roads and lived up to be an exciting experience for the first-time runners.
Commenting on the event, Bernard Venter, PPC Riebeek Factory General Manager said,
“We’re delighted by this year’s record turnout, and thank and congratulate everyone who
participated.”
“It’s great to see the growth of the race since its inception 32 years ago. We’re thrilled that
so many people could join us to celebrate this milestone of PPC’s involvement in the
Riebeek-West community, and look forward to building on this partnership well into the years
to come.”
Ends