VANDERBIJLPARK.- It is that time of the year when South African athletes prepare for the annual 5th edition of The Vaal River City Marathon scheduled to take place at Isak Steyl Stadium in Vanderbijlpark on 3 September.
This marathon has since its inception attracted the top runners in the country.
Former SAFA President Dr Molefi Oliphant is the founder of this event, with Arcelor Mittal Athletics Club as the host club. This Vaal River City Marathon will take place in accordance with the rules of Athletics South Africa and Athletics Vaal Triangle.
Speaking to Sedibeng Ster Sport, Dr Oliphant said that they have received record-breaking applications from South African top runners. Since its inception five years ago, The Vaal Rivers City Marathon attracts well-known athletes who use this event to qualify for the Two Ocean Marathon.
The race is divided into the following categories, 5km Fun Run, 10 km, 21.1 km, and 42. n2km (senior men, women, junior boys, and girls, veteran men and women).
Athletes use this Vaal River City Marathon as a qualification for the Two Ocean Marathon. Dr Oliphant told Sedibeng Ster Sport that the preparations for this year’s Vaal River City Marathon are at an advanced stage. He also told Sedibeng Ster Sport they are ready, come, 3 September.
“The preparations are going well thanks to our sponsorship for their commitment to ensuring that we host a successful event. In terms of preparations, I think we are 100% ready,” he said.
Under his leadership as SAFA President, South Africa hosted a successful 2010 FIFA World Cup. Despite retiring as SAFA President, he has been honoured as SAFA Life Time President.
Dr Oliphant is still much involved in football and serves in CAF and he is also involved in community projects, he also serves in some of the local institutions including his organization, the Oliphant Institution of Leadership.
