Soweto Marathon organisers lay criminal charges against Stan Itshegetseng

SM NPC spokesperson Jabu Mbuli confirmed that the case was opened at a Soweto police station as a precautionary measure to safeguard runners ahead of the 29 November event at Nasrec.

According to Mbuli, the decision to involve law enforcement follows repeated public threats made by Itshegetseng, who has vowed on several occasions that the race would not go ahead.

“The provincial body opened the case against Stan Itshegetseng for intimidating runners in Gauteng. Athletics is our business in the province, and no one has the right to threaten or intimidate runners," said Mbuli. 

"The police have placed him on high alert. We take the safety of runners very seriously."

Mbuli admitted that entries have been slower than usual, with fewer than 10 000 runners registered out of the 20 000 cap.

"The entries are moving at snail’s pace, but we remain confident that the race will go ahead smoothly. We want to assure all athletes that their safety is our top priority. No one will be threatened or get hurt during the race," he added.

He also confirmed that major running clubs such as Nedbank Running Club, Mixed Elite, and Entsika Running Club have registered their athletes for the event, which features 10km, 21km, and 42.2km races.

“We received confirmation from Nedbank and Mixed Elite managers that their runners will participate across different distances.

"We are about 90% ready in terms of preparations, and the prize money remains unchanged at R250 000 for the first man and woman to cross the finish line," Mbuli concluded.

Contacted by SABC Sport for comment, Itshegetseng remains unfazed by the charges, declaring that, come hell or high water, the event will not take place.

READ: Soweto Marathon organisers change marathon starting time