More than 1 500 runners, walkers and supporters gathered in Saldanha on Saturday for the inaugural Sea Harvest Foundation Health Run, a community event dedicated to promoting health, wellness and community upliftment across the West Coast.
Against the backdrop of spectacular winter sunshine participants of all ages took part in the 21,1 km half-marathon, 10 km road race and 5 km fun run/walk, bringing together local residents, athletics clubs, schools and visitors from across the region.
In the 21,1 km half-marathon, Paul “Smoothdyce” Thompson of Boxer Athletics Club WP crossed the line first in an impressive 1:18:25, while Aimee Rubino won the women’s race in 1:30:44. In the 10 km race Alfonzo Jordaan of Langebaan Strandlopers Athletics Club claimed the men’s title in 31:54, while Ashali Pholman of Langebaan Athletics Club won the women’s race in 41:48.
Executive Mayor of Saldanha Bay Marius Koen welcomed participants, supporters and visitors to the event.
“This event is about promoting healthy lifestyles, bringing communities together and showcasing the incredible spirit of Saldanha Bay and the West Coast.
“I would like to thank all participants, sponsors and organisers for helping make this event such a success.
“We hope this will become a proud annual tradition for Saldanha Bay.”
More than 1 500 participants
Beyond the sporting achievements, the event delivered meaningful support to local causes, with donations of R5 000 each made to the Shilton van Wyk Foundation and Siyabonga Care Village, supporting youth development and community upliftment initiatives in the region.
Sea Harvest Foundation Chairperson Terence Brown paid tribute to Leonie Vorster, founder of the event and owner of Weskus Events, for her passion and commitment to growing the race.
“To see the event grow from 175 entries four years ago to more than 1 500 participants this year is extraordinary.
It has been a fantastic collaboration between the Sea Harvest Foundation, Boland Athletics, Top Events, local athletics clubs, volunteers, sponsors, the municipality and the wider community.”
Vorster said the overwhelming support for the event reflected the strength and spirit of the local community.
“Saldanha is going places. We are putting Saldanha on the map. This is going to be one of the biggest events on the West Coast.”
Kevin Lodge, Director of Top Events, said this year’s event exceeded all expectations and saw a substantial increase in participation. “We look forward to welcoming everyone next year.”
