Johannesburg City Marathon set to make its mark in 2nd edition
As the race countdown continues, the JHB Harriers shares all the thrilling details ahead of the second edition of the Johannesburg City Marathon this Sunday.
The final media briefing ahead of the highly anticipated second edition of the Johannesburg City Marathon took place on March 27, at the Thaba Eco Hotel.
Hosted by the Johannesburg Harriers Athletics Club, the briefing set the stage for what promises to be an unforgettable race on March 30.
Chairperson Donovan Goliath was filled with pride as he spoke to the gathered media about the growth of the marathon, now one of Johannesburg’s premier events.
“The members of the JHB Harriers Athletics Club are the backbone of the Johannesburg City Marathon, and I am grateful for their contributions. We said we wanted to make this race one of the biggest in Johannesburg, and so far, we are well on the way. It has grown in leaps and bounds.”
A big thank you also went out to the event’s key partners: Thatenda-M Engineering, Mercedes-Benz The Glen, and the City of Johannesburg Sports, Arts, and Culture for their support in making this year’s race possible.
A race through the heart of Johannesburg
The Johannesburg City Marathon offers runners a truly unique experience, taking them on a scenic journey through the heart of the city.
Starting at the Klipriverberg Nature Reserve in Kibler Park, runners will be treated to views of some of Johannesburg’s most iconic landmarks, including Gold Reef City, the historic Johannesburg Central Police Station (formerly known as John Vorster Square Police Station), and the Constitutional Court precinct, which includes the Old Fort Prison Complex. The route will also take runners past the Nelson Mandela Bridge and offer the rare opportunity to run on the freeway.
“This marathon isn’t just a race; it’s an immersive tour of Johannesburg. Runners will get to experience parts of the city that they might not normally see in their daily lives. It’s going to be something truly special,” Goliath added.
A promised step-up from last year
After taking feedback from last year’s race into account, the JHB Harriers is promising an even smoother experience this time around.
The club has worked hard to ensure the race’s readiness, and safety is at the forefront of their preparations. With water points every 3km and plenty of access to toilets and sanitary towels, runners can rest assured that their needs will be well taken care of.
There will also be no traffic disruptions for the runners, meaning it’s just them and the open road as they race through the streets of Johannesburg.
“We are ready and excited for Sunday,” said a club representative. “This year is going to be bigger and better, and we can’t wait to see the runners hit the road.”
Support and pace to the finish line
To support participants, the marathon will feature experienced pacers, also known as bus drivers, who will guide runners along the route and help them achieve their goals. With a mix of 42.2km, 21.1km, and 10km race distances, the event has garnered 4 000 entries.
Mongezi from Thatenda-M Engineering, one of the race’s key sponsors, expressed his excitement: “We’re thrilled to partner with the Johannesburg City Marathon. We share a passion for sports, and we look forward to this being a fantastic race.”
Get ready for an unforgettable experience
With race day just around the corner, all eyes are on Sunday. The Johannesburg City Marathon promises to be an exciting experience for runners and spectators alike. Whether you’re aiming for a personal best, enjoying the sights of Johannesburg, or simply cheering on your friends and family, this is an event you won’t want to miss.
