Gauteng’s fastest-growing race, the Waterfall City Half Marathon, is set to return on September 21, promising runners an extraordinary journey through some of Waterfall’s most stunning landscapes.

Now in its fourth year, this signature race is a celebration of community, healthy lifestyle, and athletic excellence.

The excitement kicked off on July 9 during the official launch of the race at the Mall of Africa’s Ster-Kinekor. Hosted by Waterfall City Athletics Club, affectionately known as The Blue Waves, this year’s theme—‘Flash Forward: Fast Forward into the Future’— honours the evolution of running through technology, inclusion, and innovation.

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Kenny Lethole, co-founder and director of the club, passionately addressed a crowd of enthusiastic runners, speakers, and sponsors, sharing the growth of the club and the marathon itself.

“I’m really excited to see all these many enthusiastic faces here today, especially from the running community,” said Lethole. “I’m honoured to share with you a brief background of the amazing club behind this marathon. As an athlete, I’ve always believed in the power of sports to change lives.”

Lethole quoted former president Nelson Mandela: ‘Sport has the power to change the world. It has the power to inspire. It unites people in a way nothing else can.” He emphasised Mandela’s belief that sports can break down cultural and racial barriers and serve as a powerful vehicle for social change.

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This inspired the creation of the Waterfall City Athletics Club, a platform uniting individuals of all ages, races, and abilities in their passion for running, making the sport accessible to everyone.

From its modest origins during the pandemic, this event has solidified its status as a key highlight on Gauteng’s running calendar. Since its inception in 2022, participation has skyrocketed from 3000 to 6000 in 2024, and for this year’s event, they anticipate hosting 7000 runners, media, VIPs, and supporters, solidifying its reputation as one of the region’s fastest-growing races.

The race kicks off at 06:00 at Waterfall City Park, Mall of Africa, featuring the 21.1km half-marathon, a 10km race, and a 5km family fun run.

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Race director Mpho Makhado stated, “With a blend of testing inclines, fast flats, and scenic turns, it’s a course that pushes your limits and rewards you every step of the way. Whether you’re a first-timer, a social runner, or chasing a new personal best, this race has something for everyone—a true celebration of the runner’s journey.”

Click the link to register for the Waterfall City Half Marathon: https://waterfallcityac.co.za/

For more information about the launch, check out Midrand Reporter.

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