Soweto Marathon entry dates extended

SABC Sport has gathered that the response to the return of the Soweto Marathon has not been as exciting as expected. 

Year on year, the Soweto Marathon entries sell like hot cakes but they are struggling to attract interest this year following a two-year absence. 

Previously, entries would reach up to 35 000 to 40 000 within two weeks of opening for registration but reliable sources have told SABC Sport that entries had not yet reached 10 000 caps.

The 27th edition of the race will take place over three distances, consisting of 10km, 21.1km, and 42.2km, at the FNB Stadium on 6 November. 

Race director Danny Blumberg has refused to divulge the number of entries so far but called on enthusiastic runners to use the extension to snap up entries to avoid disappointment.

"We are looking forward to the 6th of November at the FNB Stadium for the Soweto Marathon. The event hosts three distances, the 42km, 21km and 10km races," said Blumberg.

"With Covid having a devastating impact on the event industry, and the running community as a whole, I think we can all agree that we're looking forward to race day and seeing our runners coming out in support of this wonderful event.

"I have some good news for the runners, today [Thursday] was meant to be the closing date but with the demand, we have decided to extend the entry dates until we reach out entry cap, which generally sees between 35 000 and 40 000 runners on race day.

"With that said, we look forward to seeing all the runners coming to the Soweto Marathon on the 6th of November at the FNB Stadium. If you haven't entered [for] the event, please visit www.sowetomarathon.com - see you on race day."

By Charles Baloyi