VANDERBIJLPARK.- It is that time of the year when athletes from all over the country will line up at the Isak Steyl Stadium for the 8th edition of the Rand Water Vaal River City Marathon on September 13.

The event is organised by a notable figure in South African sport, Dr Molefi Oliphant, in conjunction with Athletics Vaal Triangle, sanctioned by Athletics South Africa. Rand Water is the official sponsor of this since its inception eight years ago.

Oliphant doesn’t need an introduction.

He is one of the football administrators who made history when South Africa hosted a successful 2010 World Cup.

Oliphant, who is the South African Football Association (SAFA) Lifetime President, was part of the Local Organising Committee alongside Dr Irvin Khoza and Danny Jordaan. Every year, the Vaal River City Marathon attracts top runners from all over the country and is one of the most successful sporting events in Sedibeng.

The event is also in line with the annual Vaal River Carnival City programme.

As always, Vanderbijlpark will come to a standstill on Sunday.

The runners will compete in the following distances: 42.2 km, 21.1km half marathon, 10 km and 5km Fun Run. They will use the Vaal River City Marathon to qualify for both the Comrade Marathon and Two Oceans Marathon.

According to the organisers, it is already sold out. Sedibeng Ster Sport will be there to capture all the action.