R’fontein to host Comrades’ qualifier
It has been confirmed that the second annual JM Busha Peace Pledge Marathon is the last qualifier for the Comrades' Marathon.
History will be made at the Greenhills Stadium on Tuesday, 1 May when the Mohlakeng-based Colossus Athletics and Aerobics Club will host the second annual JM Busha Peace Pledge Marathon, said to be Africa’s biggest race.
The Peace Pledge Marathon is being rolled out in all 54 countries in Africa, with the vision of bringing people together to celebrate diverse cultures and to promote peace and unity in the continent, but to put the cherry on top, it will also be a Comrades’ Marathon qualifying race.
Andrew Vusi Mathiya, the founder of the Colossus Athletics and Aerobics Club told the Herald, “The marathon is the last Comrades’ qualifier and an easy trip from either Johannesburg or Randfontein.”
Joseph Mabodla Mathiya, Colossus’ the coordinator added, “We also have confirmation from Comrades’ Marathon chairman, Rowyn James, that the race does meet the set qualifying standard.”
What make us even more excited is that we have both local runners and also some from outside the West Rand and Gauteng who have indicated that they have cancelled going to Pretoria on the same day for the popular Wally Hayward Marathon,” said Joseph Mabodla, the organiser.
With cash prizes at stake for the first man and woman home in the 42km and 10km, the race is set to be a humdinger.
“The race has also attracted interest from top Comrades’ Marathon athletes Mamphane Makhulu and Tiisetso Ramokhese, who will give an African flavour to the race, which seek to celebrate both Africa Day and Africa Month. We also expect other African athletes from Ethiopia, Kenya and Zimbabwe who have a reputation of taking the race to locally based athletes.”
Some of the landmarks on the course include the Nola factory, the Aranda Aureus industrial site, Tambotie Mall, Sungate, Middelvlei, and Culemborg Park. The runners will also pass the residence of Mpho Nawa, former West Rand District Municipality (WRDM) Mayor.
After the race there will be great food, music from SADC artists, arts and cultural exhibitions for the whole family to enjoy.
• Details: Contact Vusi on 078 569 0042 or Joseph on 081 343 3787 for more information.
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