With a mass start and road race format, the annual Soweto Marathon is set to be filled with activity as parts of Soweto will be closed in anticipation of the 12th annual Soweto Marathon.

Fondly known as “the people’s race”, the province’s oldest annual and most historic marathon has teamed up with one of the country’s leading financial institutions-African Bank on a long term agreement, which will extend far beyond the finish line of the annual event.

The 10km, 21.1km and 42.2km races, all start and finish at the iconic FNB Stadium, Johannesburg, on Sunday 5 November 2023 and will 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.

Road closures are expected to provide runners with enjoyable experience running through the township once again, while ensuring that traffic continues to run smoothly.

Soweto Marathon Trust spokesperson Thokozani Mazibuko stated that the race has always been a much sought-after sponsorship property and that his team will work tirelessly to ensure that African Bank and all those who participate on race day, enjoy an experience unrivalled in pride, passion and professionalism.

“We are extremely grateful to African Bank for their backing and belief in our treasured property. 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.”

For African Bank, the spirit of this iconic race mirrors an audacious heritage that took root in the heart of Soweto.

African Bank Group chief Marketing officer, Sbusiso Kumalo, said; “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.”

Entry fees for all three categories are now open – and runners will undoubtedly welcome the news of the decreased prices namely R380 for the marathon; R300 for the 21.1km and R280 for the 10km. To enter, runners are encouraged to visit www.sowetomarathon.com.

Prizemoney remains equal for both the male and female categories, with the top prize going to the 42.2km Open winner set to take home R250 000.