Sunday 22nd March 2026
The long awaited Boyes Drive Classic was finally here alongside our very very early Sunday morning. Driving out to the other side of our world takes time you know. So up with the sparrows meeting at the Total Garage, eight of us divided ourselves into 2 cars. That’s how keen we were to participate in this race. Car one held Issie who drove, Sonz, Heidi and Megan. Car two held Paula (who was celebrating her birthday) who drove, Mandy, Naomi and yours truly.
An uneventful drive through gave us perfect parking at the False Bay College which I had no idea even existed. It was formed as part of the nationwide restructuring of technical colleges into TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) colleges.
Once parked we naturally made our way off in search of ablutions. We were hoping of course for the indoor concrete type – you know? But to our disappointment we were met with Portaloo’s but on the upside, we were so early that nobody else had used them yet? We then sat in the car for a while as it was more than a little chilly and the elements were offering a sharp wind. Fortunately I had taken my West Coast jacket along and this came in very very handy.
This race was programmed to start at 06h30. A perfect time I’d say as it wasn’t pitch dark with the street lights offering enough day light to suffice. I must be honest and say that I’d been looking forward to this run since the ZAC advertised that it would be taking place this very year.
I know for a fact that there were 1001 runners competing. Now that’s what I call a comfortable safe amount of athletes sharing the road.
A pretty straightforward route it was. Leaving the College grounds it was pretty much a 7.5 km out-and-back route along the coastal slopes of Boyes Drive. The route includes a tough climb with panoramic views of False Bay and surrounding areas. I must add that the climb up Boyes Drive has to be the longest hill I’ve ever ran. Just when one thinks it’s the top of the road, it isn’t. Goodness knows I was so grateful to come across the refreshment tables that were managed and handled by the friendliest of peeps offering cold water and even colder coke.
Once at the very very top of Boyes Drive with the most amazing views, it was a short decline to the turn around point and straight after that yet another refreshment station. All good in my book so far. Now time to head back to the College. There was now a slight but very very welcome sea breeze which offered some relief after the monstrous climb up Boyes Drive.
Before long we were back on flat land with just a km or two to go. Through the shadows and shade that the huge trees offered rustling loudly as we ran along. The end was now in sight. One could almost smell the finish line. Just a hop and a skip over three speed bumps and voila! Home! Crossing the line one was awarded the obligatory medal and of course the Coke van and tables were on hand to quench one’s thirst.
This is a race that was SO well organized. The marshals were so friendly and helpful. The refreshment stations were well stocked and the route? Well the route was just spectacular. Would I run this race again? Yes sirree at the drop of a hat. Hard work of course but damn it was awesome.
I would however like to see a little traffic management on us leaving the College as it took ages, absolute ages to leave the parking area. Traffic lights, busses, pedestrians, runners and yet more vehicles. Other than that I have to say it was a brilliant morning. Well done to Zandvlei Athletic Club for pulling this off. Very good indeed.
I must add that this is purely my point of view and I hope not to offend anyone with my review. See you on the road – Gill x
