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16 March 2007

Ranger scoops first prize in Karoo National Park Half Marathon

Karoo National Park”s own Jan Frieslaar claimed first prize in the Karoo National Park Half Marathon held on 17 February. Jan, who has been competing in half marathons since 1996, works as a field ranger and guide in the Park and has distinguished himself by claiming first prize in a variety of local marathons including the Meiringspoort Half Marathon and Karoo Heart Festival Half Marathon. He also finished second in the Cango Caves Half Marathon.

Park Manager, Mzwanele Mjadu, impressed by Jan”s talents, related his story to head office which resulted in Director of Tourism & Marketing, Glenn Phillips, organizing a sponsorship for him from Hi-Tech. Two new pairs of running shoes later, Jan is a very happy man.

“The news shoes will make training easier and help me to win more half marathons,” says Jan.

The 21 km Karoo Half Marathon is held annually in the Park, attracting over 90 entries. Maria Koller from Austria entered the marathon after checking into the Park the night before and hearing it would take place the next day. She claimed second prize while her younger sister finished third.

Maria, who visits South Africa each year, thoroughly enjoyed the experience and has vowed to promote the marathon to other Austrian runners.

Carmen Malony from Oudsthoorn took first prize in the women”s division.