Washie record broken

STAFF REPORTER

THE 36th Washie 100 Miler between Port Alfred and East London last weekend saw a record number of entries take on the gruelling overnight race.

Eighty runners set out from the Port Alfred Country Club, of which 71 finished at the East London Buffs Club, the organisers of the race.

There were 18 female participants who finished, and 53 men. Four finishers were awarded their permanent number after completing their fifth race.

RUNNING HOME: Dean Wilson (left), Robert Bell, Johan Buitendag and Paul Meecham, all from East London, took part in the gruelling Washie 100 Miler from Port Alfred to the Buffs Club in East London last Friday Picture: CANDICE BRADFIELD

Johan van der Merwe from Pietersburg Road Runners broke a 30 year record with his time of 13 hours 7 minutes 5 seconds. Manie Sayman previously held a time of 13:13:38, set in 1982.

The first lady in was Megan Davey from Randburg Harriers who completed her second race. The first Buffalo Club Runner was Butch Duffey, who also completed his 22nd journey.

Two Rand Road Runners excelled with Eric Wright running his 24^th race and John Magagane, who has won before, coming in for his 12^th Washie. The oldest participant was Raj Naganna, who completed his 11^th race.