Louzanne Coetzee set to run the Soweto Marathon for the third time
20th August 2024
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Paralympian Louzanne Coetzee has confirmed to SABC Sport that she will compete in her third Soweto Marathon.
The highly anticipated “People’s Race” is set to take place at a new venue along the Golden Highway, concluding at Nasrec on 3 November 2024.
Coetzee, who is currently preparing for her third Paralympic Games in Paris from 28 August to 8 September, has already completed two 42.2km marathons. However, she has yet to decide whether she will participate in the 10km or 21km race this year.
''I am excited, they have a new sponsor. I am hopeful and excited for the race this year, still deciding if I will do the 10, 21 or the 42, hopefully not the 42. Let's see what Soweto brings to the table,'' said Coetzee.
Despite its reputation as one of the toughest races in South Africa, Coetzee returns annually to push her limits.
''Soweto was my first marathon, I don't why I go back to suffer every year because every year is hard. But I think Soweto tells the story of South Africa and the support we always get from the residents there. It is such an amazing marathon,'' added Coetzee.
Coetzee also offered some advice to the first-time runners participating in the People’s Race this year, encouraging them to take it easy, enjoy the experience, and have fun despite the scorching heat.
''Don't put too much pressure on yourself, it is a tough route and it is hot in November. just enjoy it, and don’t put pressure on yourself for your first one,'' she concluded.
