With the backing of Nike SA as the title sponsor, the “People’s Race” is set to host 21 000 runners on the streets of Soweto, as it traverses past iconic landmarks and heritage sites.
Newly appointed Athletics South Africa president Aleck Skhosana assured runners that there will never be a repeat of the infighting that saw the race being cancelled last year.
“Never again shall we have a situation like the previous one.”
“We are committed to delivering a running event that will re-ignite a sense of community and continue a legacy, and are proud to welcome Nike on board as this year’s title sponsor.
” Our race partners share in the vision to deliver an event that is based on a structure that is credible and mirrors the manner of governance and management of other events of this magnitude.”.
He said the Soweto Marathon had become a historical race and premier event on the race calendar and with Nike and other partners on board, it would be restored to its former glory.
Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Community Development Chris Vondo expressed excitement and welcomed the partnership with all stakeholders involved in making sure that the race is organized professionally.
“We want the race to attract the interests of all runners like the Comrades Marathon as we boast a rich history and the fact that it’s in Soweto and the route passes our heritage and iconic sites like Vilakazi Street where the house of the father of our nation, Nelson Mandela is. We as the City also promote the healthy living life style.”
Nike Running Brand Manager Simi Adeagbo welcomed the introduction of the 21.1 kilometres race in what was traditionally a 10 and 42.2 kilometres event.
“Nike is enabling the running movement and this experience is set to push runners, from novice to established, and we will be there with our Nike+ running app and run clubs to help our runners all the way to the finish line,” she said.”
