The 2024 Goss & Balfe Sapphire Coast Marathon Showcases the Best of Amanzimtoti Community Spirit

Since its inception in 2008 with around 600 participants, the Goss & Balfe Sapphire Coast Marathon has grown significantly, attracting over 2,700 runners in 2023. The upcoming 2024 edition, scheduled for Sunday, 27 October, promises to be even bigger, with Sapphire Coast Tourism and organisers, Amanzimtoti Athletics Club, expecting a large turnout for this Comrades qualifier.

Lynette Botha, from Amanzimtoti Athletics Club, expressed her excitement: “Amanzimtoti is a true coastal gem, and this well-organised race continues to draw competitors eager to experience the beauty of the KwaZulu-Natal coastline. The event's community spirit is unmatched, with support from residents, spectators, and the many causes championed on race day.”

Running for a Cause

Among the participants is Romy Wenzel, a proud Sapphire Coast resident and community activist. Originally from Germany, Romy has called the Sapphire Coast home since 2005 and now plays a key role in promoting the region through Sapphire Coast Tourism. She will run the half-marathon for the third time, supporting the Wheels on Waves initiative.

Wheels on Waves was founded by Wesley and Reece Smith to provide disabled beachgoers with specially designed flotation devices, allowing them to enjoy the ocean at Amanzimtoti Main Beach. Reece, who is quadriplegic, inspired the donation of a water-based chair to the beach, and now the initiative aims to raise funds for additional Sandcruiser Beach Wheelchairs, with the goal of making Amanzimtoti a tourism hotspot for disabled individuals.

Goss & Balfe Sapphire Coast Marathon Details

There’s still time to enter the 2024 Goss & Balfe Sapphire Coast Marathon!Date: Sunday, 27 October 2024Venue: Amanzimtoti Athletics Club, 1 Riverside Road, AmanzimtotiParking: R10Online Entry: www.eventtiming.co.zaLate Online Entries Close: 20 October 2024Enquiries: toti.ac.racedirector@gmail.com | 079 467 6457Medals: All finishers receive medals.

Race Details

10km Race

• Starts: 6am
• Late entry fee: R230
• Temp licence: R90
• Route: 10km route

21.1km Race

• Starts: 6am
• Late entry fee: R280
• Temp licence: R110
• Route: 21.1km route

42.2km Race

• Starts: 5.30am
• Late entry fee: R400
• Route: 42.2km route

Late Entries and Race Pack Collection

• Venue: Amanzimtoti Athletics Club, 1 Riverside Road
• Dates:
  • Friday, 25 October 2024: 4pm to 7pm
  • Saturday, 26 October 2024: 10am to 4pm
  • Sunday, 27 October 2024: From 4.30am
• Note: No entries on race day.

For more information, contact 079 467 6457 or email toti.ac.racedirector@gmail.com.

Supporting Wheels on Waves

To support the Wheels on Waves initiative or donate funds for the purchase of Sandcruiser Beach Wheelchairs, contact Wesley Smith at 082 802 1348 or Reece Smith at 066 439 8287. You can also email rollingwithreece@gmail.com.Alternatively, donations can be made to Sapphire Coast Tourism:

Account Name: Sapphire Coast TourismBank: Nedbank LimitedBranch Code: 198765Account Number: 1306016886SWIFT Code: NEDSZAJJReference: Wheels on Waves | WoW

100% of all proceeds go towards the purchase of a Sandcruiser.

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The 2024 Goss & Balfe Sapphire Coast Marathon Shows the Best of Amanzimtoti SpiritJoin us for the Goss & Balfe Sapphire Coast Marathon on 27 October! Support great causes like Wheels on Waves and experience the beauty of Amanzimtoti!

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