Soweto Marathon sponsors Old Mutual took the media and other stakeholders on a marathon route tour.
This was aimed at informing the public about changes which have been brought to the people’s race this year.
The 10km race which used to go around the Aeroten area will now go into Diepkloof from Nasrec.
According to organisers, this was done to add a township feel to the 10km race.
The 21km race will cover the areas of Diepkloof, Orlando East, Klipspruit and the Nancefield Hostel.
The races will be going clockwise which makes it easier for managing traffic. Organisers have made some improvements on busy intersections like the Soweto Highway /Mooki and the Koma/Bolani Road.
The main race will not use the Bolani and Koma road intersection because of traffic congestions experienced last year.
Runners will be turning right from Koma to the small road at the back of the mall.
Future plans are to use the new road behind the mall which is currently under construction.
Mapaseka Makhanya who won the 21km race last year will be running 42km this year.
She said, “My plan is to win the big race this year. I think it’s about time the title comes back to Soweto.”
Makhanya does not think the changes in terms of the routes will have any major impact on the race.
