A sea of runners flooded Secunda’s streets for the Mall’s Take Heart Race on October 24.

However, the man who stood tallest on the podium that day was Siyabonga Xowana, who crossed the finish line of the 21km race in a fast 01:08:40.

Sbusiso Mabaso finished just shy of two minutes later, in 01:10:28. Graham Malinga finished third in 01:15:28.

Chrizell Roberts delivered a strong performance, winning the women’s race in 01:27:29, followed by Putumz Macingwana (01:43:14) in second and Ilse Smith (01:45:16) third.

Tahiamo Lephoto, an avid runner from Standerton, clinched the gold medal in the 10km, finishing in 32 minutes and 16 seconds.

Lucas Jani finished second in 32:38, just seconds ahead of Never Mahlangu (32:42).

Michelle Parkes was the first woman to cross the finish line in the 10km race. She completed the distance in 42 minutes and 11 seconds.

Elzette Pretorious (43:42) was second and Thuli Mbatha (43:53) third. This was the fifth official Secunda Mall Take Heart Race.

Secunda Mall, in partnership with Sasol Marathon Club, will host the event, featuring a 21.1km half marathon, 10km race and 4.9km fun run or walk.

The fun run also had a special community purpose, with entry fees going towards supporting a local non-profit organisation (NPO). This year, the beneficiaries were Khulula Animal Welfare Society and Tree Seeds Foundation.