BNAC Marathon gets new sponsor
The club almost went into the race without a major sponsor after their longstanding sponsorship by Kwikscaff ended.
The Benoni Northerns Athletic Club (BNAC) has secured a new sponsor for the BNAC Marathon after partnering with BES Empowerment College for this year’s race on April 21.
The club almost went into the race without a major sponsor after their longstanding sponsorship by Kwikscaff ended.
This meant it would have had to self-sponsor the event, which would have severely affected its finances because the club relies heavily on proceeds from the race to fund its activities and developmental initiatives.
“We are excited about working with our new sponsor to bring this year’s race to fruition. We look forward to a successful partnership for many years,” said race organiser Kerry Webb.
Giving back
BES’ managing director, Greg Mitchell, said they seized the opportunity when the BNAC reached out for help because BES wanted to give back to the community, which they’ve “fed off for many years”.
“BES is a Benoni company, and we run several businesses in the area and Boksburg. We thought it was time for us to get involved. I firmly believe Benoni people should help each other,” said Mitchell.
The marathon was rated as one of SA’s most-attended Comrades Marathon qualifiers for the past two years.
Mitchell said the large numbers the race often attracts will allow them to expose the college to the thousands of runners and spectators in attendance.
The college, based in Benoni Central, offers several courses. However, its primary focus is on call centre operations, one of the fastest-growing industries in SA, according to Mitchell.
“We are looking for clients and students in Benoni. We thought the race would be a good opportunity to showcase who we are because many Benonians will be there.”
Partnership
Asked if this was a long-term deal, Mitchell said they are dipping their toe in the water to see what the race entails and will then evaluate if it’s worthwhile going forward.
“If it goes well, we’ll continue with it. I don’t want it to be a once-off thing. I’d like it to be an ongoing thing. But we need to understand it a little better. We’ve never been involved in road running before. We’ve got good positive vibes. It’s more long-term for us. But we’ll see how this one goes,” he said.
Webb said this partnership reflects the spirit of community, which is what they pride themselves in because the race brings locals together.
“With the associated costs of hosting road races spiralling, our sponsor’s support is invaluable to maintaining the high standards participants have come to expect from the BNAC Marathon.
“The BNAC Marathon is a proudly local event, with club members working together to make it happen. Local businesses host water stations, and residents show their support. Benoni’s great sense of community and spirit is always evident during our races,” said Webb.
The race includes the 10km, 21.1km and 42.2km events, a new 48km ultramarathon, and the 5km run.
Webb said they have introduced manual entries, available at the Benoni Northerns Sports Shop from 09:00 to 17:00 on weekdays and from 09:00 to 13:00 on Saturdays.
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