Last call for athletes to participate in region 5 marathon

ATHLETICS NEWS - Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, has urged all aspiring runners, young and old, seasoned, or first-time runners, to take part in the Region 5 Marathon taking place this weekend at the Union Buildings in Tshwane.

“This marathon is not only for elite athletes, but also for everyone who believes in the power of sport to unite and uplift,” McKenzie said on Wednesday.

The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture has officially begun the countdown to the Region 5 Marathon, which is expected to set the capital ablaze with colour, culture, and competition.

With entries continuing to roll in and anticipation soaring, organisers are calling on athletes across Southern Africa to secure their spots in what is fast becoming one of the continent’s most exciting new running spectacles.

Offering R50 000 each for the 21.1km male and female winners, the Region 5 Marathon is raising the bar for regional competition — blending elite athletics, community spirit, and cultural celebration into one unforgettable experience.

“The Region 5 Marathon is not just about running, it is about showing the world the strength, unity, and talent of our continent. This is a celebration of health and togetherness, and I'm proud that South Africa is part of it.

“It’s about thousands of South Africans coming together, getting fit, and building our nation through sport. With big prize money on the table, we are showing our commitment to growing athletics and creating real opportunities for athletes at every level. I urge all aspiring runners, young and old, seasoned, or first-time runners, to take part in this extraordinary event,” McKenzie said.

African Union Sports Council (AUSC) Region 5 CEO, Stanley Mutoya, hailed the event as a “historic milestone” for the region.

“It is with great excitement that we announce the hosting of the Region 5 Marathon - a first of its kind in our history. We call upon all participants and spectators to come dressed in vibrant African attire, as we turn the streets of Tshwane into a canvas of unity and identity.

“We further encourage Embassies to exhibit and showcase Africa’s rich culinary heritage, making this event not only a sporting spectacle but also a cultural festival,” Mutoya said.

He also called on corporates to join hands with Region 5, noting that the marathon serves as a bold activation in the lead-up to the Group Twenty (G20) Summit, proving that sport is a unifying force that connects communities, economies, and nations.

“Importantly, this marathon also serves as South Africa’s strategic build-up to the 13th edition of the Region 5 Youth Games in 2028,” Mutoya said.

The President of the Southern Africa Confederation of Athletics (SACA), Zakhele Dlamini, described the event as a defining moment for Southern African athletics.

“We are excited about the Region 5 Marathon. This historic event is a catalyst for road running excellence in our region and a platform to inspire participation, performance, and pride among our athletics federations. It marks a bold step in strengthening Southern Africa’s presence on the global athletics stage,” Dlamini said.

President of Athletics South Africa (ASA) James Moloi said the host country is ready to deliver a spectacle worthy of the continent.

Athletics South Africa (ASA) President, James Moloi, said the host country is ready to deliver a world-class event.

“The Region 5 Marathon is a proud moment for South Africa and for the entire Southern African athletics family. Hosting this event at the Union Buildings - a symbol of unity and progress - sends a powerful message that our region is ready to lead the future of global road running.

“As ASA, we see this marathon as a springboard for development, giving young athletes, clubs, and communities a reason to dream big. We invite the world to witness what Southern Africa can offer - passion, performance, and pure African energy,” Moloi said. -SAnews.gov.za