The Soweto Marathon welcomes new sponsor

The Soweto Marathon has announced African Bank as the new headline sponsor.

The announcement was made during a media briefing at Sakhumzi Restaurant last week as the People’s Race prepares for its 28th edition set for the first weekend of November.

The theme for this year’s race is, “Daring to run your own race’, at your own pace, meeting your own personal goals and being the best version of yourself.”

Despite not having a headline sponsor last year, the Soweto Marathon was the biggest one day race, attracting thousands of runners from across the country and beyond.

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Soweto Marathon Trust spokesperson, Thokozani Mazibuko expressed his gratitude towards African Bank for the new partnership and promised hard work from his team to make sure the race is a success again.

“We are extremely grateful to African Bank for their backing and belief in our treasured property,” said Mazibuko. “With their support and the support of multiple other partners, we will continue to deliver a product that sees thousands return year upon year to enjoy this exceptionally executed event, run by the people, for the people.”

The announcement of this new partnership with African Bank has put to bed fears and doubts following rumours of the race being cancelled this year.

Last month there were news reports alleging that the Soweto Marathon Trust had been left with no choice but to cancel this year’s race due to a dispute surrounding TV broadcasting rights.

This was later disputed by the Central Gauteng Athletics (CGA) which confirmed that the race had not been cancelled.

While things are still not clear in terms of TV broadcasting rights, runners are gearing up for the People’s Race and the entries have been open.

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Last year’s race went ahead and it was a huge success without it being broadcast on TV. With African Bank at the helm as the new sponsor, this year’s race is expected to grow even bigger.

“Soweto is the birthplace of world leaders, sporting champions, business moguls and game changers,” says Sbusiso Kumalo, Group Chief Marketing Officer at African Bank.

“Our vision of an African Bank for the people, by the people, serving the people, was born here. We believe that anything is possible if you have the audacity to believe in your dreams.

“And as you take your next step in this marathon of life, we wanted to show Soweto, and the rest of South Africa, that we will be with you every step of the way.”

Entries for all three categories are open and the fees have been reduced to R380 for the marathon; R300 for the 21.1km and R280 for the 10km. this makes the race even more inclusive and allows for even more Sowetans to take part. Visit www.sowetomarathon.com to enter.