Danny Blumberg celebrates a decade as Soweto Marathon race director

The 45-year-old Johannesburg-born technical official has witnessed the event’s highs and lows over the past decade, overseeing its growth from peak entries of 35 000 runners to quieter years of just 10 000.

This year, more than 17 500 entries have already been snapped up, with the cap set at 20 000.

Blumberg, who is responsible for designing the challenging route that runners love—and often blame—says his role is demanding but deeply rewarding.

Speaking to SABC Sport, Blumberg admitted that being a race director is often a “thankless job,” but one he believes young people can turn into a fulfilling career.

“It’s a proud moment for me. I’ve been involved with the event for over ten years now,” he said. “Every year comes with its challenges—changing venues, managing growth.

Before Covid-19, we had up to 35 000 runners and had to find ways to accommodate them.

“There have also been issues between the Soweto Marathon Trust and the NPC, but what I’ve learned is that the runners and the event are bigger than any of the problems.

They show up every year and yes, they can be very critical, but our goal is always to deliver a race they can be proud of. The people of Soweto are proud of this event too. It’s an honour and a privilege to serve as race director for such passionate people.”

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Blumberg stressed that the title “race director” goes far beyond the name.

“It’s a technical role—cutoffs, elites, marshals, seeding, water stations—you have to make sure every detail works, big or small,” he explained.

“It’s stressful, but it’s something people can aspire to, whether you’re a former runner or just passionate about the sport. You can start with smaller events and grow from there.

“And of course, it’s always the race director’s fault when the route is hilly or tough. Soweto is not easy—it's hilly, humid, and hot.”

Blumberg has also lent his expertise to major events such as the Gaborone Marathon in Botswana, the Standard Bank Marathon, the 702 Walk the Talk, the Nelson Mandela Walk and Run, and several smaller races.

But Soweto remains his favourite.

On Saturday, as the People’s Race unfolds at Nasrec, Blumberg hopes everything runs smoothly allowing him to celebrate not just a decade of service, but another successful chapter in the marathon he holds closest to his heart.