Online Reporter
Ellina Mhlanga
Zimpapers Sports Hub
FOLLOWING the confirmation of the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon recently as the first Abbott World Marathon Major to be held on African soil, local athletes have welcomed the move as a positive development.
It becomes the eighth member of the most prestigious series in the marathon global circuit, joining other illustrious races like the Tokyo, London, Boston, Sydney, Berlin, Chicago and New York City marathons.
According to the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon website, the race will formally enter the series at the next edition on May 23, 2027.
This comes after the second successful evaluation at this year’s edition of the race held on May 24.
The likes of Isaac Mpofu and Fortunate Chidzivo have participated at the marathon including this year’s edition.
Mpofu feels the race will open doors for more African marathon runners to take part in such races unlike when they had to look outside the continent, which comes with high cost of international travel and accommodation.
“What I can say it’s a big step up for the Cape Town race, and a big opportunity for athletes too.
“It’s in Africa and we are blessed as it is close to us, a few costs when one needs to go to attend,” said Mpofu.
He added:
“Major races are good for us as they provide a clean and straight qualification to big world events like the Olympics and the World Championships, as long as we run a good time.
“Best move for us as Africans is to have a major event like this close by.”
Chidzivo shares the same sentiments
“Despite being a marathon runner, this calls for celebration.
“This is a huge achievement and it means low cost for us to attend than when we go to Europe or Asia, and sometimes you stress about visas etcetera.
“Now we have a chance to scoop big points with less cost as I mentioned above.
“Congratulations to Sanlam Cape Town Marathon team.
“Hopefully they will continue to consider recreational athletes from African soil to get standards for other majors around the world.”
Bongani Ndlovu