SPONSORED | Runners set to make strides for change in Phosa Marathon
Beyond the race, the marathon significantly contributes to the community by benefiting early childhood development centres, providing support for athletes with disabilities, and aiding organisations dedicated to fighting gender-based violence.
Ready, set, uplift! The Dr Mathews Phosa Marathon takes off on August 23 – uniting runners for a cause bigger than the finish line.
The half-marathon was officially launched at Rob Ferreira High School on Friday, with it also set to serve as the host venue.
The race kicks off at 06:00 and includes:
• a 21.1km route (R160 per person),
• a 10km race (R120 per person), and
• a 4.9km fun run (R50 per person).
There will also be short-distance events for persons with disabilities, which are free to enter.
To celebrate early entries, the first 200 runners in the 21.1km, the first 100 in the 10km, and the first 50 in the 4.9km event will each receive a free T-shirt.
Registered participants can look forward to a runner’s campsite, boot camp, braai, goodie bags, a music festival, and a host of other activities planned.
Launched in 2023 to honour Mpumalanga’s first premier, the Dr Mathews Phosa Marathon is organised by the Mpumalanga NPO Association. The event was conceived as a platform to promote community upliftment by identifying and honouring South African legends across all sectors of society.
Several community-focused initiatives benefit from the marathon, including early childhood development (ECD) centres, support for athletes with disabilities, and organisations at the forefront of combating gender-based violence (GBV).
In an interview, Phosa said the event was ultimately about the beneficiaries.
While I am flattered that my name is attached to this cause for humanity, we must honour the youth more than honour me. The issue of GBV is disgusting. As a man, I am ashamed that men do these things to women and children. We must raise our voices through the marathon,” he said.
According to the Mpumalanga NPO Association’s secretary-general, Sipho Zitha, big plans are already in motion for the 2025 event, which is expected to attract 1 500 participants.
“Three pillars were identified as the core objectives of the initiative – advancing ECD support programmes, prevention of domestic and intimate partner violence, and advocacy for the inclusion of persons with disabilities in sports,” Zitha said.
To date, more than 100 ECD practitioners have been supported in enrolling for level IV and V qualifications. Over 100 children with disabilities have also been earmarked to benefit from inclusive sports advocacy programmes.
As part of the GBV prevention pillar, dialogues for men and boys will be hosted across all three of Mpumalanga’s districts.
Zitha added that the organisation continues to run weekly radio shows that address social ills and offer access to clinical and counselling psychologist services for families, individuals and couples experiencing psychosocial challenges – including survivors of domestic and intimate partner violence.
“We once again thank all our inaugural sponsors – and those considering supporting us. We commit to using every cent donated in a cost-effective and transparent manner, in line with our values and sound financial principles,” Zitha concluded.
Anyone interested in participating can visit www.entrygeek.co.za to register.
More information is available at www.drmathewsphosamarathon.org.za. For enquiries, contact the race administrators on 065 077 5736/067 365 5688 or email info@drmathewsphosamarathon.org.za.
