Among the nominees were a host of Nedbank running club green dream team athletes. In the category ‘team of the year’ the South African men’s team for the World 50km championships who took team gold in the championships were nominated. This team was spearheaded by Nedbank running club national team manager Nick Bester who was the team coach alongside Nedbank running club athletes Lungile Gonqa, Edward Mothibi and Joseph Manyedi. On the night, the team lost out to the Spar Protea’s Netball team who won this years African Netball World Cup.

Up against the likes of Rugby World cup winning captain Siya Kolisi, the always smiling Gerda Steyn was nominated in the category ‘the people’s choice of the year’ which as can be imagined went to Kolisi after the Springbok’s phenomenal Rugby World Cup triumph.

Receiving special recognition on the night was Comrades champion and Nedbank running club green dream team athlete Edward Mothibi. Going by the nickname ‘slender,’ Mothibi was presented a Ministers excellence award medal for his efforts this year. This was fitting as not only has Mothibi had a great year that consisted of winning Comrades as well as team gold for South Africa in the World 50km championships, but it was his birthday on the same day as the awards.

“Wow this has been a good year for me I can’t believe it,” said an elated Mothibi with his award. “Id like to thank all my sponsors Nedbank running club, Nike, Biogen, FutureLife, Bavaria, Tsogo Sun, my coach Dave Adams, Nick Bester and all my supporters. This award is for you!”