The 29th edition of the African Bank Soweto Marathon saw over 25 000 runners converge on the streets of Soweto, with Onalenna Khonkhobe and Neheng Khatala emerging as the men’s and women’s champions, respectively.
Khonkhobe, representing Nedbank Running Club, clocked an impressive time of 2:18:36 to take the top spot on the podium, surpassing last year’s winner Ntsindiso Mphakathi’s time of 2:19:13.
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Lesotho’s Joseph Khoarahlane Seutloali secured second place with a time of 2:18:54, while Kenya’s Kipkemoi Kipsang finished third in 2:19:05.
In the women’s category, Neheng Khatala from Lesotho dominated the field, crossing the finish line in 2:43:07. Margaret Jepchumba from Kenya took second place with a time of 2:44:55, while Ethiopia’s Worke Degu Amena secured third spot in 2:48:11.
A celebration of perseverance and unity
The African Bank Soweto Marathon, dubbed ‘The People’s Race,’ lived up to its reputation as a truly inclusive and celebratory event.
Thousands of runners, from elite athletes to recreational runners, took to the streets, embracing the vibrant spirit of Soweto.
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Soweto Marathon spokesperson Thokozani Mazibuko expressed his pride in the event, saying that it had been a fantastic day.
“We are grateful for our partners and the community’s support in making this event a success.”
African Bank’s chief marketing officer, Sbusiso Kumalo, added, that this Soweto Marathon is a powerful reminder of what is possible when we back to our communities and uplift each other.
“The commitment and spirit of the runners, partners, and volunteers have truly made this a race for the people, by the people.”
Top 10 finishers
Men:
1. Onalenna Khonkhobe (RSA) – 2:18:36
2. Joseph Khoarahlane Seutloali (Lesotho) – 2:18:54
3. Kipkemoi Kipsang (Kenya) – 2:19:05
4. Lesetja Papo (RSA) – 2:19:22
5. Gadisa Bekele Gutama (Ethopia) – 2:19:25
6. Ntsindiso Mphakathi (RSA) – 2:20:03
7. Tumelo Motlagale (RSA) – 2:20:18
8. Ian Slinger (RSA) – 2:20:52
9. Tete Dijana (RSA) – 2:22:32
10. Jobo Khatoane (Lesotho) – 2:22:48
Women:
1. Neheng Khatala (Lesotho) – 2:43:07
2. Margaret Jepchumba (Kenya) – 2:44:55
3. Worke Degu Amena (Ethopia) – 2:48:11
4. Nyawira Muriuki (Kenya) – 2:51:22
5. Malineo Mahloko (Lesotho) – 2:54:58
6. Gladys Jepchirchir (Kenya) – 2:56:05
7. Rutendo Nyahora (Zimbabwe) – 2:58:32
8. Galaletsang Mekgoe (RSA) – 3:00:52
9. Makhosazana Mhlongo (RSA) – 3:08:11
10. Msawenkosi Sibande (RSA) – 3:10:35
The 2024 African Bank Soweto Marathon will be remembered as a testament to the power of community and perseverance.
As the sun sets on another successful event, runners and organizers alike are already looking forward to next year’s edition.
