| The Comrades and Two Oceans Marathon |
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In 1979 only 2 BCC members ran – Jack Quail and Johnny Neilson and finished in 9h26. Bedfordview Country Club had eight entrants in the Comrades Marathon, boasting a one hundred percent finishing record. First Polly’s runner home was Neil Alexander who ran his best Comrades in 7h18, and was the only member of the local contingent to win a silver medal. One of the best Bedfordview efforts was by novice runner Clem Lilley, who clocked in at 7h59, a fine first run in the 90km marathon. Sixth and Seventh Bedfordview runners to finish, Derek Parker and Doug Thirlwell deserve a mention for determination. Despite being injured in training for the big day, Derek ran 10h21 to collect his bronze medal. Doug, who missed the 11 hour cut-off by only 30 seconds the previous year, came back full of fight to finish in 10h40, this time to win his coveted Comrades medal. Keith Ball was the third Pollys’ man to finish in his fourth marathon while Hymie Dinner and Johnny Neilson completed the race in under 9 hours.
In 1981 – 18 BCC runners took part. 1st man home was Neil Alexander. 1st novice runner was Peter Naude. Some of the other runners who took part were Keith Ball, Johnny Neilson, Alan Armstrong, Johnny Swarts, Derek Parker, M.O., and Mike Hemans. Over the years there have been many good and some not so good performances with lots of stories to tell.
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