More than 1,200 runners went against wet conditions to support the Lake Farm Centre Charity Run, with Achilles athletes delivering standout performances.
Eastern Cape, South Africa (10 March 2026) – Rain and windy conditions were not enough to stop more than 1 200 runners from turning out for the 31st annual Charity Run hosted by Lake Farm Centre on Saturday.
The annual fundraiser once again brought together competitive athletes, casual runners and families, all rallying behind the Eastern Cape organisation that has spent decades providing care and opportunities for intellectually challenged residents.
On the road, Achilles Athletics Club produced one of the standout performances of the day. Their athletes claimed the men’s 25km Rolf Kordes Endurance Challenge title and swept the podium in the 10km race.
Gift Chigomarawa led the charge in the 25km, crossing the line in 1:31:51. Khaya Gqwetha of Vukani Running Club followed in 1:33:29, while Jeniel Zana of Run4Christ Athletics Club secured third in 1:35:10.
In the women’s 25km race, Tracy Campbell of Nedbank Running Club finished first in an impressive 1:51:42. Dane Cronje from Charlo Athletics Club took second place, while Abbie Mitchell of Bestmed Athletics Club rounded out the podium in 1:54:36.
The 10km race belonged to Achilles runners, with Mxoleleni Tabata powering in a 34:43. The shorter 5km event also drew strong participation, with Asive Solomon finishing as the overall winner.
The event also carried a heartfelt moment as long-time runner Alan Taylor was honoured for his extraordinary contribution to the running community.
“The Charity Race is in its 31st successful year, and so I bid farewell to everyone, and may the running community continue to support Lake Farm Centre.”
Lake Farm Centre General Manager Amelia Laubscher said the turnout once again showed the strength of the running community.
“We are thrilled with the response this year, and would like to thank all the runners, suppliers and sponsors who made this fundraiser possible.”
Amelia further added on the importance of the 25km Endurance Challenge.
“Lake Farm Centre continued the 25km Endurance Challenge which was launched two years ago to honour Rolf Kordes, local former world class athlete, who used this Lake Farm 25km route for most of his training runs but is now coping with dementia.”
Off the course, the atmosphere had its own charm. The day wrapped up with prize giving and lucky draw prizes worth over R10 000, bringing a fitting close to the fundraiser’s 31st edition.
By the end of the day, the roads around Lake Farm had hundreds of kilometres covered. All in support of a cause that continues to bring the running community together year after year.
Sources: Supplied
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