The oldest and most enduring super ultra marathon known as the Washie 100 has been hit with a double tragedy.
The chairperson of Buffalo Road Runners Craig Nelson confirmed to Algoa FM News that an athlete was killed after being struck by a bus while a seconder suffered a fatal heart attack.
Police Spokesperson Warrant Officer Majola Nkohli says at 4.45 am on Saturday, they were summoned to an accident scene on the N6 between Sutterheim and East London.
He says upon arrival they found the lifeless body of a 46-year-old runner.
Nkohli says the name of the deceased is known but he must still be formally identified.
He says it is alleged that the athlete was hit by a bus.
This is the first time an athlete has died in the race's 45-year history.
The race started at the Cathcart Country Club on Friday afternoon and will finish 160 km later at the Buffs Club at 7 pm on Saturday.
(This article has been updated with comment from SAPS)
