THEME FOR THE RACE –RUN THE PEOPLE’S RACE WITH THE BANK THAT BACKS YOU
Nie Cele
Highly spirited athletes oozing with energy and confidence came in droves to collect their race packs at Nasrec Expo Centre. This was for the preparation of the ‘Big Marathon race’.
Inside the Expo centre hall, service providers, exhibitors, retailers and stakeholders had their hands full busy as a bee setting up their attractive stalls ready to promote and activate their wide range of products including footwear, apparel, supplements, nutritional products and the latest advancements in running technology.
The most notable and big exhibitor amongst them was the new apparel partner JOMA Sport which has expanded its footprint presence in the SA running market in style.
This Johannesburg apparel technical partner is expected to manufacture and supply the ever popular, brightly coloured breathable race shirt.
This renowned sports brand also unveiled a limited edition of exclusive products for this iconic event including a stylish and dynamic event shoe designed specifically for the event.
Not long ago Roger Noades, Director of Joma South Africa is on record saying they are excited to partner with the iconic African Bank Soweto Marathon as the event’s technical sponsor.
“This prestigious marathon serves as the perfect platform for Joma to showcase our top tier running footwear. Our goal is to provide runners of all levels with a tried-and-tested international choice in technical footwear at an incredibly competitive price, delivering unmatched value.”
BACK TO THE STORY– Believe it or not! The much anticipated fast growing Mzansi’s iconic one day people’s race African Bank Soweto Marathon is happening tomorrow Sunday the 3rd November 2024 and will deliver exceptional performance , so says the organisers.
This 29th edition popular race is expected to attract runners from all walks of life from all the provinces of this country.
An estimated highly spirited 23000 runners are expected to be neck and neck by nose and converge at the Nasrec Expo Centre where the race will begin and finish.
Organisers have promised a record-breaking performance
In the build up, during the ribbon cutting ceremony and a media briefing, Organisers revealed the three races that will be taking place on the day, race prizes, partners, sponsors and all the race nitty- gritties.
They also reiterated this 29th edition of “the people’s race “ will continue to honour Soweto’s rich history and celebrate the country’s 30 years of democracy.
Whilst the start and finish venue differs from that of last year, the route remains the same, treasuring the eight significant heritage sites on the marathon route; including the Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital; Walter Sisulu Square; the Regina Mundi Catholic Church; Credo Mutwa Cultural Village; Morris Isaacson High School and June 16 Memorial Acre; Vilakazi Street and the Hector Pieterson Memorial.
The ribbon cutting ceremony and media briefing event was attended City of Johannesburg’s acting Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Community Development, Eunice Mgcina, President of Athletics South Africa, James Moloi, acting President of Central Gauteng Athletics, Karabo Mabilo, Thokozani Mazibuko from the Soweto Marathon Trust, Zintle Zulu of African Bank, Courtney Williams of Joma South Africa, and Race Director for the Soweto Marathon, Danny Blumberg.
Together, these leaders marked the official start of this year’s marathon with a ceremonial ribbon cutting, signifying the marathon’s commitment to fostering sportsmanship and community pride.
Soweto Marathon Trust spokesperson Thokozani Mazibuko is on record that it is the people that make this race one of a kind.
Mazibuko extended gratitude to all sponsors and partners who continually invest in the success of the African Bank Soweto Marathon, especially title sponsor African Bank, now in its second consecutive year supporting this fast-growing event.
“It is with tremendous thanks that our unwavering headline partners African Bank, as well as all our partners, clubs, governing bodies, new runners and elite athletes are 100% on board for this edition: We will not disappoint. This race is so much more than just a race – it is an experience that is unrivalled in passion, with the power to unite and celebrate all that is good in our beautiful country. As the Soweto Marathon Trust, we acknowledge our responsibility to deliver an exceptional race that is exponentially better than ever before and promise the fans of this African Bank Soweto Marathon that we will deliver a one-day race that is safe, rewarding and thoroughly enjoyable.”
MMC for Development Planning in Joburg told the audience the city was ready to host all the 23 000 participants .
She extended a warm welcome to all those who will be participating in the race and thanked the organising team and partners pointing that City’s essential services such as EMS, JRA and JMPD will be on high alert throughout the event.
“As we celebrate this year’s marathon, we honour the strides made over the past 30 years of democracy and look forward to many more years of unity, resilience, and achievement. The City of Johannesburg wishes all runners the best of luck as they take part in this historic race and experience the rich heritage and spirit of Soweto,” said Mgcina.
Blumberg echoed MMC Mgcina’s confidence in the Soweto Marathon’s readiness, confirming that 1 800 volunteers will be stationed along the route to handle logistics and assist runners. He assured participants that there will be ample water points to combat the anticipated 32°C heat and urged everyone to stay hydrated.
“For African Bank, the spirit of this iconic race mirrors an audacious heritage that took root in the heart of Soweto.
“It is an honour to partner with the Soweto Marathon again – a race that reflects the spirit and tenacity of our people. It is certainly a race that connects people across various demographics and as such it connects with African Bank’s purpose of being a bank for the people, by the people, serving the people. This collaboration allows us to celebrate and support our community’s dreams and aspirations, highlighting our shared commitment to empowerment and progress.
“At African Bank, we believe anything is possible when you have the audacity to believe in your dreams. The African Bank Soweto Marathon is not just a race; it represents Soweto’s history, culture, and spirited character. We are privileged to stand alongside the runners, supporting them throughout the race. Together, we will continue to shape lives and champion the extraordinary potential in all of us,” said Edna Sathekga-Montse, Group Chief Transformation & Sustainability Officer at African Bank.
DID YOU KNOW?
Three races are billed for the day.
10km, 21.1km and the famous 42.2km.
The prize money remains equal for both the male and female categories, with the top prize awarded to the 42.2km Open winner set to take home R250 000.
First prize winner for 10km gets R5000. First prize winner
First prize winner for 21km gets R10 000.
For more information visit www.sowetomarathon.com.
