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 African bank 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 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.”
Over and above retaining all partners, the African bank Soweto Marathon warmly welcomes a new apparel partner in JOMA. The Johannesburg-based, big presence brand will manufacture and supply the ever popular, brightly coloured, breathable race shirts.
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," says Edna Sathekga Montse, Group Chief Transformation & Sustainability Officer at African bank.
The theme of this year's race is Run the People’s Race with the Bank that Backs You.
Entry fees 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 top prize awarded to the 42.2km Open winner set to take home R250 000.