Over 2 000 athletes expected at CDM 4-in-1 marathon

POLOKWANE – More than 2 000 international and national athletes are expected to participate in the 2023 edition of the Capricorn District Municipality (CDM) 4-in-one Marathon and Comrades qualifier scheduled for the Peter Mokaba Stadium on February 25.

The race will start at the stadium at 06:00 and end at the stadium too.

Registration can be done at the Polokwane Athletic Club (PAC) offices at the stadium on February 22-23 from 09:00-18:00.

CDM Mayor Mamedupi Teffo said the marathon aims to encourage a healthy lifestyle among citizens in the Capricorn district, enhance and promote social cohesion, promote nation building and national identity.

She pointed that the marathon has proven to be an example of how a sporting event can promote the district and also contribute to the rebuilding of the local economic development in respect of the rich tourism offers for residents and visitors.

“Regardless of who crosses the finish line first, this race is an inspiration, and we look forward to all athletes showing the spirit of determination to give their all. We therefore, invite members of the public from Capricorn and beyond to register early, and for spectators to come and cheer for our athletes, family members to join their runners, and also friends to come and be with us.”

PAC chairman Corrie Calitz said athletes will contest for the top honours in 5km, 10km, 21km and 42 km on the day.

“We urge athletes to register on time. As usual, there will be emergency medical services on all routes to nurse those who might need attention and there will be a recovery area where finishers will receive post-event help such as drinks and various products from sponsors.”

The 12th time Comrades Marathon runner, Maropeng Rocky Mojela was announced as the ambassador of the race.

Mojela is expected to ‘drive the 42km bus’, estimated to run for four hours and 35 minutes.

He advised novices who want to join the bus to train every day in order for them to enjoy the bus. “This is a 42km bus which is open for everyone and for the athletes to enjoy themselves they must at least do hill runs three to four times a week.

“Also run 21 and 10km maybe three times a week to be fit and so that they can be able to keep us with the pace on the day and enjoy the marathon. The bus will be carrying more than 150 athletes from various clubs in the city.”

Moffat Senyatsi, spokesperson for CDM said there will be R120 000 cash prizes to be won on the day.

“Everything is set for the day and they there will be free T-shirts for the first 1 000 online entries.”

Online entries can be made here.