Soweto Marathon 2020 cancelled due to Covid-19
“We’re deeply disappointed at not being able to host the 27th edition of this iconic annual event,” - Soweto Marathon Trust Chairman Sello Khunou.
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.
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,” says Soweto Marathon Trust Chairman 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 August this year, we cannot take the risk of hosting 40 000 people on 1 November, which is too soon thereafter.”
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Thobile Tshabalala, Head of Brand at Old Mutual, the title sponsor of the race, fully agrees.
“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 says.
“Much as we love the People’s Race and its unique commemoration of South Africa’s historic triumph over apartheid, 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 race consists of three different distances – the 42.2km marathon, the 21.1km half marathon, and a 10km run, with the route honouring Soweto’s rich history.
Participants would have typically run past 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 & June 16 Memorial Acre, Vilakazi Street, and the Hector Pieterson Memorial.
“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 would like to 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. Adds Khunou”
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