The streets of DK were buzzing with excitement as thousands of runners took on the Diepkloof Half Marathon this past weekend.
The much loved marathon was making a comeback for the first time after covid disruptions, making it a highly anticipated affair.
It is hosted by the Diepkloof Athletic Club and provides a perfect setting for the community to come together in celebration and promotion of a healthy lifestyle.
For those planning on running the Soweto Marathon next month, the Diepkloof Half Marathon was a good place for practice as the route includes parts of what they can expect come November 5.
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It started on Immink Street behind Diepkloof Square and went down to Marthinus Smuts Drive which was flat and very comfortable for all runners.
Many were surprised by the final kilometres going up Eben Cuyler Drive to the finish line at the Diepkloof Communal Hall.
Even more exciting than the route was the celebrations at the finish line where children from Takalani Home were handing out medals to all participants.
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The comeback of the Diepkloof Half Marathon not only attracted local runners but athletes from as far as other provinces did not want to be left out.
Mapaseka Makhanya, one of the Phalula twins and Lucas Radebe were some of the famous faces spotted on the road.
The former Leeds United and Bafana Bafana captain said the marathon is a great way to get people excited about sports and looking after their health again.
“Looking at all the challenges we have in our communities, only sports can bring us together and we can get a chance to chat and come up with solutions,” said Radebe. “Most importantly though let’s get that vibe going again, let’s get sports going again, let’s get the adults and kids involved in sports as a form of community building.”
Speaking on behalf of the Diepkloof Athletic Club, Sebenzile Mothei thanked all the runners who participated, the club and everyone who made the race a success including the police, marshals, water point personnel and the community of Diepkloof.
“The race went well and we had great support from our family in running.
“The route was tough and those who will be running the Soweto Marathon are definitely going to finish as they trained well on Sunday,” said Mothei.
Special thanks went out to Soweto Toyota, Lucas Radebe Foundation, Diepkloof Square, Pope Security, Zak-Zak, Jozi FM, Jeppe College, Hollywoodbets, SFS, City of Johannesburg, City of Mbombela Marathon Club and Takalani Home.
