A thorough review of the Covid-19 health risks posed by large events and gatherings has left the organisers and sponsors of the Old Mutual Soweto Marathon 2020 with no choice but to cancel the event this year.
The Soweto Marathon started and finished in the South at the FNB stadium.
Calling off South Africa’s biggest one-day road running event, fondly known as the People’s Race, was not an easy decision. “We’re deeply disappointed at not being able to host the 27th edition of this iconic annual event,” said Soweto Marathon Trust chairperson Sello Khunou.
“The People’s Race has always been a great celebration of our people’s strong spirit, but with the Covid-19 pandemic expected to peak only around September this year, we cannot take the risk of hosting 40 000 people on November 1, which is too soon thereafter.”
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Vuyo Lee, the chief marketing officer at Old Mutual, the title sponsor of the race, said, “As a responsible business, we have a duty of care to all our stakeholders and we must do whatever we can to help curb the spread of the pandemic, and protect the health and safety of our people,” she said.
“Much as we love the People’s Race and its unique celebration of iconic locations in Soweto, the struggle against Covid-19 is a battle that can only be won by social distancing and staying away from crowds as much as possible.”
“The Soweto Marathon is so much more than just a road race. It’s a celebration of our history, our heritage and our country and a reminder to runners that resilience, perseverance and commitment are key to success, even when times are tough and the road is long.
“I thank our sponsors who stood behind our decision wholeheartedly. We will be bigger and better come 2021 when the glorious Soweto and her people will host our athlete’s once again,” said Khunou.
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