African Bank has stepped in to rescue the Soweto Marathon after this year’s race faced cancellation. Fondly known as “the people’s race”, the Soweto Marathon, and the people’s bank, African Bank, are proud to bring running enthusiasts the ever-so-popular African Bank Soweto Marathon. The 28th Edition will take place on Sunday November 5 at the FNB Stadium in Soweto.
The Soweto Marathon was South Africa’s biggest one-day road race in 2022 and having previously attracted up to 40 000 participants, the race through Soweto remains a highlight on the calendar for many runners, not only from a logistical and race organisational perspective, but equally from a historical and patriotic perspective.
The 10km, 21.1km and 42.2km races, all start and finish at the iconic FNB Stadium, and will honour Soweto’s rich history along the route. Participants pass 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 the race has always been a much sought-after sponsorship property and that his team will work tirelessly to ensure that African Bank and all those who participate on race day, enjoy an experience unrivalled in pride, passion and professionalism.
“We are extremely grateful to African Bank for their backing and belief in our treasured property. With their support and the support of multiple other partners, we will continue to deliver a product that sees thousands return year upon year to enjoy this exceptionally executed event, run by the people, for the people.”
For African Bank, the spirit of this iconic race mirrors an audacious heritage that took root in the heart of Soweto.
“Soweto is the birthplace of world leaders, sporting champions, business moguls and gamechangers,” said Sbusiso Kumalo, Group Chief Marketing Officer at African Bank.
Entry fees:
R380 for Marathon (42,2km)
R300 for 21,1km
R280 for 10km
Starting times: 42.2km: 5.30am;
21.1km: 6.30am;
10km run: 7.30am.
Prizemoney remains equal for both the male and female categories, with the top prize going to the 42.2km Open winner set to take home R250 000.
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