RUNNING STRAND
Strand Athletics Club has been part of the Helderberg running landscape for more than three decades- and like many great running stories, it began with a simple idea and a passionate few.
In 1989, a group of local runners recognised a gap. The existing club in the region had grown so large that its members were scattered across Cape Town and the Winelands, leaving a need for something more local and community-focused.
They envisioned a club rooted in the Helderberg- one that would bring together runners from Strand, Somerset West, and Gordon’ s Bay.
And so, Strand Athletics Club was born.
The founding members included runners such as Jan Grobler, James Moolman, Johann Diener, Dawie Roussouw and Bram Fisher, along with a small group of equally committed athletes. In those early days, Strand AC runners were easy to spot- proudly wearing white and yellow vests with“ STRAND” printed in blue on the chest, paired with royal blue shorts.
One event which has become truly synonymous with Strand AC is the Balwin False Bay 50, an iconic 50km ultra-distance road race, run from Kleinmond to Gordon’ s Bay along the breathtaking Clarence Drive coastline. Organised by Strand Athletics Club with the support of Hangklip Harriers Athletics Club, the race is widely regarded as one of the most scenic ultras in South Africa.
The inaugural event was held in 2001 and was named the best new race in South Africa by the Runner’ s World magazine. From 2026, the introduction of a 10km race option will allow even more runners and community members to be part of the day, adding to the inclusive spirit the club has always stood for. With strong volunteer support and the backing of valued partners like Balwin Properties, the False Bay 50 continues to grow from strength to strength.
Today, Strand Athletics Club remains proudly rooted in its original vision, a local club, built on passion, community and a love for running, with the objective to develop and foster the sport of athletics amongst its members and the community that we serve. Whether it’ s a first-time 5km runner or an ultramarathoner chasing big goals, Strand AC continues to offer a place where everyone belongs. Launching their new club design in March is the start of something great with Balwin Properties as their partner.
And after more than 35 years, the story is still being written- one run at a time.
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