The Mandela Marathon attracted 10 000 runners.The race which had three categories, 42.2km, 21km and 10km, took place on Sunday, August 31.During the launch of the race early this year, organisers set their target to honour the late statesman Nelson Mandela.

This was the first year for the race after the passing of Mandela.The prestigious marathon held to celebrate and honour Mandela’s legacy who was captured while in the Midlands in the early ’60s. Howick police captured Mandela; right after he addressed a conference held at the Manaye Hall in Imbali Township, which is the starting line of the marathon.

Members from the Loskop Gijimas, Forderville Athletics Club and Estcourt Athletics Club were part of the marathon. Mr Phiri, one of Estcourt’s athletes recalled that besides the bad weather, the runner’s and walker’s high spirits made up for it. He also expressed that being able to be apart of the marathon was an unforgettable memory.