Middelburg – The annual Old Medal Night Race returned to Steelcrest High School, Middelburg on 14 January 2026, drawing about 250 participants. The event aimed at promoting a healthy lifestyle, strengthening community ties and showcasing the school’s facilities.
The race, organised by the Midack Athletic Club, welcomed runners, walkers, learners and adults of all ages. Midack Athletic Club chairperson and race organiser, Lenette van der Merwe, said the night race is part of the club’s annual calendar and marks their first event of the 2026 season.
“We host this race every year as Midack Athletic Club. Our first race is always the night race in January, followed by another one in April, and then a big race in August,” said van der Merwe.
She explained that the main objective of the event is not only to encourage physical activity, but also to introduce the community to Steelcrest High School and its facilities.
“The aim of this race is to promote the school to the community so people can come and see Steelcrest High School, the facilities they have, and also to promote the running culture across Mpumalanga province,” she said. “We want everyone to be able to enter the race, whether it’s a fun run or a competitive category, so people can stay healthy and fit.”
Van der Merwe highlighted that the event plays a significant role in supporting learners and encouraging youth participation in sport.
“Everyone drives past the school, but you don’t always see what the school is about and how learners are supported and motivated through sport,” she said. “This race is not only for adults; it is also for school children. It’s important to show that everyone, both young and old, can take part.”
Given that the event took place at night, van der Merwe assured that strict safety measures were implemented to protect participants.
“We had assistance from the traffic department, who were patrolling the roads and guarding the runners,” she said. “We also received support from the Steve Tshwete Local Municipality, and ambulance services were on standby along the route to respond to any emergencies.”
She added that the race also serves as a platform to instil the importance of fitness among young people. “It shows children that staying healthy and fit is important, and that anyone can do it, no matter their age,” she said.
Van der Merwe encouraged community members interested in athletics to get involved. “Our message is that we are open to everyone. From children to adults, you are all welcome to join the club,” she said.
One of the participants, Refilwe Maloma, shared a deeply personal journey, revealing that she joined the race in July 2025 as a way of coping with the loss of her mother in June that year.
“I thought joining the race would help me deal with the grieving I was going through,” Maloma said. Although she ran five kilometres during the January race due to being unfit after the festive season, running has since become a meaningful part of her life.
“The more I ran, the more I realised that it was actually fun,” she said. “Now I participate in almost all the races, especially in Middelburg and Secunda. It’s no longer about grieving for my mom; it’s about starting something and finishing it.”
Steelcrest High School grade 12 learner Mahlatse Mokwena said the race was her first experience. “It was my first time doing this race, and my younger sister inspired me because she always participates,” Mokwena said. “It was a fun experience, and I would definitely do it again.”
