Luyanda Lunika
The City of Johannesburg and its partners proudly celebrated the launch of the 29th edition of the AfricanBank Soweto Marathon today, 31 October 2024, at a media briefing at the Nasrec Expo Centre.
This iconic marathon, inaugurated in 1991, stands as a tribute to 30 years of democracy in South Africa, embodying the resilience, unity, and spirit of our nation. This year’s edition will see over 23 000 runners participating in this momentous event on Sunday, 3 November.
In attendance at the briefing were City of Johannesburg’s acting Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Community Development, Cllr 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.
MMC Mgcina expressed her confidence in the city’s readiness to host all 23 000 participants, extending a warm welcome to all who will traverse the city’s iconic landmarks, including the renowned Vilakazi Street, the only street in the world to have housed two Nobel Laureates — former President Tata Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu.
She thanked the organising team and all partners whose contributions have made the Soweto Marathon a hallmark of excellence in athletics. Cllr Mgcina underscored the City of Johannesburg’s commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all participants, with essential services such as Emergency Management Services, the Johannesburg Roads Agency and Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department on high alert throughout the event.
“As we celebrate this year’s marathon, we honor 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 MMC 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.
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.
Race pack collection kicked off today with an official ribbon-cutting ceremony. Athletes are strongly encouraged not to wait until the final day, Saturday, November 2nd, as the nearby FNB Stadium will host the Carling Black Label quarter-final match between Keizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns, which could lead to significant traffic delays around the Nasrec Expo Centre.
SOURCED FROM THE JOBURG WEBSITE.
