Runners paint streets of Matatiele pink
The event had sold out two weeks before race day,
A successful Women’s Day half marathon in Matatiele recently attracted runners from the local community, neighbouring towns and beyond. The race was held in commemoration of the women who marched to the Union Buildings in Pretoria in 1956 in protest against apartheid pass laws.
The inaugural event featured three race categories – 5km, 10km and 21km – with cash prizes and vouchers awarded to winners. Second-and third-place finishers received vouchers and goodie bags.
Jubilee Pharmacy hosted the event. Director Boitumelo Faro said the success of the event demonstrated what can be achieved when the community works together around a shared vision.“Our intention is now to grow this beyond a once-off race and establish it as a permanent annual calendar event for Matatiele,” said Faro.
He said the pharmacy wanted runners, businesses and the wider community to take ownership of the event, with local businesses encouraged to participate, sponsor the race and use it as a platform to showcase Matatiele.
Faro said Jubilee Pharmacy’s commitment extended beyond its role as a healthcare provider.
“We believe that health, sport, tourism and economic development can work together. Through sport and tourism, this race has the potential to bring people into Matatiele,” he said.
He thanked the Alfred Nzo District Municipality, Matatiele Local Municipality and Afribuild, the event’s biggest sponsor. Afribuild also sponsored the women winners.
Race administrator Miliswa ‘Millz’ Zenzele said organisers were impressed by the turnout.
“We thank stakeholders who made sure that this day saw the light. We also cannot leave behind the runners who participated in their numbers, especially the men who supported us,” said Zenzele.
She said the event had sold out two weeks before race day, with some runners unable to participate due to anticipated security and traffic management requirements.
Zenzele said organisers were already looking forward to next year’s race and were encouraged by the positive feedback from participants.
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