ADVERTORIAL
South Africa ’ s biggest one-day race is set to deliver the exceptional .
The 29th edition of “ the people ’ s race ” is ready to welcome runners from far and wide come Sunday 3 November 2024 , with organisers promising a record-breaking performance . Returning to Nasrec , Soweto , the Africanbank Soweto Marathon 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 .
Soweto Marathon Trust spokesperson Thokozani Mazibuko says that it is the people that make this race one-of-a-kind . “ It is with tremendous thanks that our unwavering headline partner Africanbank 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 . We promise the fans of this Africanbank Soweto Marathon that we will deliver a one-day race that is safe , rewarding and thoroughly enjoyable .”
Over and above retaining all partners , the Africanbank Soweto Marathon warmly welcomes a new apparel partner in JOMA . The Johannesburgbased , big-presence brand will manufacture and supply the ever popular , brightly coloured , breathable race shirts .
For Africanbank , the spirit of this iconic race mirrors an audacious heritage that took root in the heart of Soweto . “ It is an honour to
Date : Sunday 3 November 2024 Start & Finish Venue : Nasrec Stadium , Johannesburg Categories & Start Times : Standard Marathon ( 42.2km ): 05:30 Half Marathon ( 21.1km ): 06:30 10km Run : 07:30
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 Africanbank ’ 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 ,” says Edna Sathekga-Montse , Group Chief Transformation & Sustainability Officer at Africanbank .
“ At Africanbank , we believe anything is possible when you have the audacity to believe in your dreams . The Africanbank 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 ,” she adds .
The theme of this year ’ s race is Run the People ’ s Race with the Bank that Backs You .
Entries for all three categories are now open and runners will undoubtedly welcome the news of the retained 2023 prices , namely R380 for the marathon , R300 for the 21.1km , and R280 for the 10km . To enter , runners are encouraged to visit www . sowetomarathon . com . The prize money remains equal for both the male and female categories , with the 42.2km open winners set to take home R250,000 .
For more information , please visit www . sowetomarathon . com
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