Nelson Mandela Day Marathon returns to KZN for the first time since 2019

Nelson Mandela Day Marathon returns to KZN for the first time since 2019

President of KwaZulu-Natal Athletics (KZNA) Steve Mkasi has officially announced the revival of the Nelson Mandela Day Marathon in Howick next month.

This marks the first occurrence of the marathon since 2019, when the Covid-19 pandemic necessitated its hiatus.

In a collaborative effort with the local provincial municipalities, KZNA has worked tirelessly to reintroduce this significant marathon.

Notably, the event aligns with the 10th anniversary of Nelson Mandela’s passing on December 5, 2013, with the race set to take place four days later on 9 December 2023.

"In this year’s edition, participants can look forward to engaging in the 21km half-marathon, a 10km race, and the renowned 46664 run," Mkasi told SABC Sport in an exclusive interview. 

"The traditional 42km marathon will not be part of this year’s event. Additional activities associated with the marathon will also be revealed in the coming week. 

"The half-marathon will commence at the Hilton Police Station, while the 10km event kicks off at the Howick Sports Field near the Midmar Dam, and the races will all culminate at the Mandela Capture Site in Howick."

Entries for the event opened on Friday at Webtickets, with the total number of entries set to be capped at 5 000 – 2 000 of which will be allocated to the half-marathon and the remaining 3 000 to the 10km.

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