African Bank has been unveiled as the new headline sponsor of the Soweto Marathon, concluding a five-year deal with race organisers.
The 28th edition will take place on 5 November at FNB Stadium in Nasrec, Soweto.
The Soweto Marathon was South Africa’s biggest one-day road race in 2022 and having previously attracted up to 40 000 participants, the race through Soweto remains a highlight on the calendar for many runners, not only from a logistical and race organisational perspective, but equally from a historical and patriotic perspective.
The 10km, 21.1km and 42.2km races all start and finish at FNB Stadium and honour Soweto’s rich history along the route. Participants pass 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 and June 16 Memorial Acre; Vilakazi Street and the Hector Pieterson Memorial.
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“We are extremely grateful to African Bank for their backing and belief in our treasured property,” said Soweto Marathon Trust spokesperson Thokozani 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.”
African Bank taking over as title sponsor follows the withdrawal of Old Mutual a few years ago.
“Soweto is the birthplace of world leaders, sporting champions, business moguls and gamechangers,” said 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.”
Pay channel SuperSport, the broadcaster contracted by Athletics South Africa for all local athletics events, will televise the race.
Entry fees have been reduced to R380 from R550 for the marathon, R300 from R450 for the 21.1km, and R280 from R350 for the 10km.