Thousands of enthusiastic runners took part in the 2024 Goss & Balfe Sapphire Coast Marathon on Sunday, 27 October, enjoying the scenic course through Amanzimtoti. Brino Chidzungu (43) from South Coast Striders secured the overall 42.2km men’s title, while Lisa Collett claimed victory in the women’s division. This year’s event was supported by Sapphire Coast Tourism and organised by the Amanzimtoti Athletics Club.

A Race to Remember

“I’d like to congratulate everyone who competed in this year’s Goss & Balfe Sapphire Coast Marathon and express heartfelt thanks to our Amanzimtoti Athletics Club members, residents, Sapphire Coast Tourism, our sponsors—Suzuki Amanzimtoti and Hansa Safety Services—and the local municipality for their support,” said Lynette Botha of Amanzimtoti Athletics Club. The race drew 1,742 participants, serving as an early Comrades Marathon qualifier and providing a fantastic opportunity to showcase the Sapphire Coast’s beauty.

Romy Wenzel of Sapphire Coast Tourism impressively finished second in her third half-marathon, raising awareness for the ‘Wheels on Waves’ initiative. Founded by Wesley and Reece Smith, Wheels on Waves offers free access to the ocean for disabled beach-goers using a custom floating chair called the Sandcruiser. The initiative aims to transform Amanzimtoti Main Beach into a world-class accessible tourism destination.

Another standout, Malusi Mchunu (36), a local resident and member of Sapphire Coast Tourism, completed the marathon in 4 hours and 29 minutes. “The scenery was stunning, the city was spotless, and it was great advertising for Amanzimtoti,” he shared. “The hills were challenging, and the wind at Isipingo added difficulty, but it was worth it. I’d highly recommend this race to future participants and holidaymakers.”

2024 Goss & Balfe Sapphire Coast Marathon Race Results

42.2km Race: Men’s Results

1. Brino Chidzungu (43), South Coast Striders – 02:29:14
2. Nkosinathi Duma (37), Faku Chiefs AC – 02:31:28
3. Mhlengi Khowane (35), Dolphin Coast Striders – 02:36:38

42.2km Race: Women’s Results

1. Lisa Collett (47), DHS Old Boys – 03:22:32
2. Estrelita Kotze (24), Nedbank AC – 03:28:44
3. Charne Woodrup (27), Dolphin Coast Striders – 03:29:32

21.1km Race: Men’s Results

1. Lindokuhle Zakhele (30), Lovemore Brothers AC – 01:10:32
2. Simphiwe Zulu (47), Hollywood AC – 01:13:29
3. Ditshwanelo Moloisane (21), Orcas Academy – 01:14:20

21.1km Race: Women’s Results

1. Nokuthula Ntshangase (32), Black Diamond – 01:31:47
2. Romy Wenzel (40) – 01:32:49
3. Manuela Diener (46), Female Savages AC – 01:37:04

10km Race: Men’s Results

1. Brian Ontieri (22), Lovemore Brothers AC – 00:32:33
2. Muzi Xolo (22), Lovemore Brothers AC – 00:33:50
3. Sphelele Nhlumayo (22), Lovemore Brothers AC – 00:36:35

10km Race: Women’s Results

1. Busisiwe Chamane (30), Black Diamond – 00:37:35
2. Lethokuhle Letsoalo (41), Hollywood AC – 00:41:06
3. Precious Duma (46), Hollywood AC – 00:48:59

Get the full list of results: HERE

Sapphire Coast Attractions

Sapphire Coast Tourism offers numerous family-friendly activities and accommodations, from 5-star hotels to camping spots near the beach. Popular attractions include:

• Amanzimtoti Main Beach: Splash Water World slides, restaurants, shops, and local craft markets.
• Wheels on Waves: Accessible beach facilities, including the Sandcruiser floating chair. Book with Wesley Smith (082 802 1348) or Reece (066 439 8287) or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
• Aliwal Shoal: Charter boats for deep-sea fishing, scuba diving, shark cage diving, and snorkelling.
• Beach Horse Rides: Guided horseback rides for all skill levels.
• Crocworld Conservation Centre: Home to Henry, the oldest Nile crocodile in captivity, plus a new zipline experience at Jikaleza Outdoor Adventures.
• Illovo River: Perfect for water sports, fishing, and birdwatching.
• Golf: Play a round at Umkomaas Golf Club or Amanzimtoti Country Club.
• Nature Walks and Birdwatching: Visit Nungwane Waterfalls or explore trails by horseback, 4x4, or mountain bike.

For more information, visit www.sapphirecoasttourism.co.za or the Sapphire Coast Tourism Facebook page.

Support Wheels on Waves

To support this initiative, contact Wesley Smith (082 802 1348) or Reece Smith (066 439 8287) or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. All proceeds go towards purchasing a Sandcruiser. For EFT donations, use the reference: Wheels on Waves or WoW and send proof of payment to the email above.

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Press Release Submitted By

Company Name: Amanzimtoti Athletics Club / Sapphire Coast Tourism
Contact Person: Lynette Botha
Website: www.sapphirecoasttourism.co.za

Total Words: 713

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Social Media Post

2024 Goss & Balfe Sapphire Coast Marathon Winners Announced!
Congratulations to Brino Chidzungu and Lisa Collett on their victories. The scenic race showcased Amanzimtoti’s beauty and raised awareness for Wheels on Waves!

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