The race, which began three years ago with only about 1 000 local competitors, has soared to the ranks of a supermarathon as it will host more than 10 000 local and international competitors this year. This year’s growth is up 74% from the previous year.
The route traces Mandela’s legacy from the venue of his final speech as a free man before his arrest at Manaye Hall in Pietermaritzburg to the site of his capture in Howick.
The event caters for different events along the route such as a trail run, mountain biking , children’s races and road races of different lengths along with the 42,2 km marathon.
Even the prize money has increased to just less than R1 million and the proceeds of the entire marathon will be donated to charity.
The event has gained international interest with 23 countries participating this year. The marathon can be viewed on SABC 2.
Mayor of uMgungundlovu District Yusuf Bhamjee during a Mandela Day Marathon press briefing yesterday.
The Witness, August 29, 2014
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