GET your bike out and takkies on for the annual Red Baron Tomato Trot and Cycle, which is looking to attract 2200 runners, walkers and cyclists on February 4.
Starting out with only 36 runners, the Tomato Trot was founded 22 years ago by three Brakfontein runners – John Brown, Rocco Kruger and Danie Bessinger – who, along with Ivan Dewing, decided to share their passion for running and the paradise in which they ran.
“The event was founded on the premise that town runners are missing out on a great opportunity to experience the countryside while practising their sport,” said one of the organisers, Caroline Kruger. “The rather unusual name originated from the environment in which the run takes place; through the tomato fields and farmlands of the Brakfontein area,” she said.
This year, The Red Baron Tomato Trot and Cycle will be a #RunClean event for the first time.
This means no more plastic sachets at water points, as these create litter and are hazardous to the animals and water systems in the farming area.
“All refreshments on the routes will be provided in washable, re-usable cups. Thanks go to Volume Injection Products for sponsoring the 6000 plastic cups it will take to run the event in a ‘clean’ m a n n e r, ” Kruger said.
The event incorporates six different runs /fun runs/walks; namely a 15km run/walk and a 5km fun run/walk sponsored by Border Athletics; a 55km and 35km mountain bike cycle on the Cycling SA calendar and a 15km and 8km cycle.
“The event provides an opportunity for the whole family to get out of town and enjoy amazing scenery and fresh country air,” Kruger said.
All the races will start and finish at Lilyfontein School, where there will be refreshments and entertainment for spectators, supporters and athletes.
This year, there will also be an obstacle along the 5km fun route, adding some adventure to the fun run. All participants will receive a race T-shirt when they register and a bag of Red Baron tomatoes at the end of the race. Winners of each of the categories will win cash prizes and there will also be a lucky draw. Prizes for the lucky draw include R2 500 vouchers towards the purchase of Dunlop tyres.
Entries can be made at www. roag. co. za or at Sportsmans Warehouse Beacon Bay. All details are available at www. lilyfontein. co. za
