POLOKWANE – The declaration comes after the CDM Mayor, John Mpe, launch the marathon at Legacy Polokwane BMW last Wednesday.
Entries are now open and participants can register online at www.bouttime.co.za and register for the four race categories on offer: 42km, 21km, 10km and 5km.
The race will begin and end at the Polokwane C Rugby Field.
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Speaking at the launch, Mpe said the marathon has proven to be an example of how a sporting event can promote a region and contribute to local economic development in respect of the rich tourism offers for residents and visitors.
“The life-blood of any sport is the athlete. The men and women who dedicate themselves to training to develop aerobic endurance through diligence and discipline, and their preparation gives epic race a major boost for success. Whether it’s a 5km or 42km, they all inspire us to continue staging this marathon for their preparation for the Two Oceans and Comrades marathons. Encouraging and motivating them through R150 000 worth of prizes is the least we can do to show our appreciation as the district.”
The aim is to enhance and promote social cohesion, promote nation building and national identity, and encourage a healthy lifestyle, said Mpe.
He said registrations extended until the day of the marathon on 16 February, and more than 3 000 international and national athletes are expected to participate.
“These include acclaimed runners from African countries who won in the past two editions. The race is open to anyone who wants to participate and we still encourage runners to affiliate with registered clubs. If athletes do not belong to a club and do not have licences, temporary licences can be purchased at R30 each, for the 10km, 21km and 41km,” he said.
He told BONUS that CDM encourages runners to register now and book their place in the race.
“Final registration will be done at the venue for the convenience of participants. Regardless of who crosses the finish line first, this race is an inspiration and we look forward to all athletes showing the spirit of determination to give it their all. We therefore invite members of the public from Capricorn and beyond to register early, and also spectators to come and cheer for our athletes. We praise Polokwane Athletics Club for working with us in this venture and Legacy Polokwane BMW for the partnership and giving us the venue for this launch,” he explains.
