RACE REVIEW
The Biogen Half Marathon and Smecta 5km , presented by Momentum Multiply , took place on 12 January 2025 . Participants enjoyed perfect running weather for the scenic and challenging routes through Bedfordview and Primrose .
The runners showed their support , and the race was a sellout , despite the new name . The twenty-third edition of Gauteng ’ s premier half marathon is proudly hosted by Bedfordview Athletics Club for novice and seasoned runners to enjoy at the start of the year .
The winning men and women athletes respectively were Namakoe Nkhasi from Nedbank Running Club Lesotho in a time of 01:05:56 , and Neheng Khatala from Hollywood Athletics Club Lesotho , who finished in a time of 01:17:10 . Second in the men ’ s race was Jobo Khataone from Maxed Elite International , with Nthabiseng Letokoto from Maxed Elite Lesotho taking second in the women ’ s race . All top four runners hailed from Lesotho . Congratulations to the overall and respective age category winners . A total of R61,600 in prize money was paid out to these deserving runners .
Brandon Fairweather , Biogen Brand Manager said : “ Congratulations to all runners and walkers who participated in the event , and well done to the organisers for ensuring the Biogen Half Marathon presented by Momentum Multiply remains Gauteng ’ s Premier Half Marathon . It is wonderful to see another sold out event and seeing so many people setting their goals and intentions clear just after the festive season .
“ With an event already under the belt and we want to wish you all continued health and strength in the year ahead . I would also like to thank the organisers at Bedfordview Athletics Club , as well as our presenting sponsors at Momentum Multiply , and the supporting sponsors , staff , teams and volunteers that make the race possible . May you all # beyourbest in 2025 .”
Damian McHugh , Chief Marketing Officer Momentum Health said : “ Momentum Multiply is proud to partner with Biogen and Dis-Chem to support the incredible Biogen Half Marathon presented by Momentum Multiply . This race embodies determination , perseverance , and community values that closely align with who we are at Momentum Multiply .
“ Congratulations to all the runners who took on the challenge ! We extend our heartfelt thanks to the organisers at Bedfordview Athletics Club , as well as the dedicated volunteers and enthusiastic supporters . Your efforts bring events like these to life and this event is a fantastic way to kickstart the year , embracing the journey of health , wellness , and living your healthiest 2025 .”
“ We would like to thank the communities in Bedfordview and Primrose for their patience on race day . We really appreciate the support that we get from Better Bedfordview , a non-profit organisation that assists us with clearing the route and fixing potholes . A massive thank you to the EMPD , Bedfordview and Primrose CPFs , RAG , Blue Hawk Tactical and Spider Tactical Reaction security companies who offer us that extra security and assistance on the day ,” said race director Charnia Yapp from Bedfordview Athletics .
Thank you to the sponsors Biogen , Momentum Multiply , Dis-Chem and all the co-sponsors SmectaGO , Gillette , Old Spice , Norflex Gel , Dove , Transact , Essentiale Extreme , Heneways and Aquazania , who make races like this possible for all runners to enjoy . Race costs are incredibly high , and we try extremely hard not to let that impact the runners with the race entry fees . The sponsors bring incredible value to the runners , including the race shirts , goody bags , medals , activations , product and services .
The race supports the Lambano Sanctuary and the Namaqua Dog and Donkey Foundation , which undertakes the sterilisation , vaccination and treatment of animals in informal settlements on the East Rand . R33570 was raised for Lambano Sanctuary and R28790 for Namaqua Dog & Donkey Foundation . A big thank you to
the runners for their generosity and donations which the Dis-Chem Foundation matched .
The race committee extends their gratitude to everyone who helped make the day possible , from the field set up team , registration crews to the marshals on route , the event suppliers and the residents of Bedfordview and Primrose for their patience and tolerance of the disruptions endured during the course of the event .
Better Bedfordview did a fantastic job tidying up the route and fixing potholes . The visible patrolling of the race route by the Road Rangers , Bedfordview and Primrose CPF and the security companies – BHT , RAG , BSG and Spider Tactical – was appreciated .
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PHOTOS HERE
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For more information : info @ biogen21 . co . za • www . biogen21 . co . za
6 ISSUE 176 | www . modernathlete . co . za