The Legends Township Marathon (LTM) brought clubs and individual runners from all walks of life together for its 29th edition at Eldorado Park Stadium on February 22.

Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie joined the action.

The event attracted more than 5 000 runners, positioning itself as one of the township’s biggest annual gatherings.

One of the organisers and founder of Legends Barber, Sheldon Tatchell, described the moment as “truly special”, reflecting on how the race has grown over the past two years.

“In 2024, I ran this race, and there were only 1 000 runners. We did not see what we see today, but the community showed support,” he said.

Tatchell explained that Legends Barber came on board as title sponsor last year, when participation increased to more than 3 000 runners. This year, the numbers surged again, accompanied by a visible rise in exhibitors and vendors.

“We said this year we want to go bigger and give opportunities not only to the runners but also to those who are exhibiting,” he said, adding that most vendors were local entrepreneurs from Eldorado Park.

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According to Tatchell, the vision extends beyond athletics. He said the aim is to build the township economy by ensuring that major brands and local businesses operate side by side.

“The runners get to experience what it is to buy locally. We want to grow this beyond just getting sponsors from outside,” he said.

He also highlighted the social impact of the event, noting that some young runners who previously competed in Crocs were now able to participate with proper running shoes after receiving sponsorship support.

Akani Simbine, who attended and partnered in the initiative, stressed the importance of keeping young people active and focused.

“I think it’s very important to have young runners engaged in sporting activities, being physically active and being outside for a good purpose,” he said.

He explained that preparing for a marathon gives young people structure and something constructive to work towards.

“With the marathon, we are allowing them to prepare. That keeps them busy and working towards a goal,” he said.

Simbine said events like this help young athletes believe in stronger possibilities.

“Some of these young runners believe that they can be the next Caster Semenya or the next Akani.”

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“That’s a great thing because we are instilling belief and a dream in these children,” he added.

He acknowledged the social challenges facing township communities, including gang violence and other negative influences, but said sport can redirect that energy.

“We know the social fears in townships, but you can be on the sporting field, doing your homework, being with your friends and preparing for a constructive goal,” he said.

Through the Akani Simbine Foundation, discussions are underway to introduce structured athletics programmes in Eldorado Park to ensure that young runners remain in a supportive system beyond race day.

Tatchell outlined broader development plans linked to the marathon, saying the event’s proceeds would be reinvested into Eldorado Park through initiatives such as a rugby development academy, vegetable gardens and upgrades to sporting facilities.

The aim is to help reshape the area’s image into one of peace and hope for the next generation.

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The event received support from sponsors including FNB, Biogen, Virgin Active, Coca-Cola and the City of Johannesburg, alongside several local businesses.