Following the last-minute cancellation of the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon due to severe winds this past weekend, African Bank, the headline sponsor of the Soweto Marathon, has stepped forward with an act of solidarity for the disappointed runners.
Partnership delivers 50% discount for 5,000 runners
In partnership with the Soweto Marathon NPC, the bank has announced that all registered Cape Town Marathon participants can now enter the Soweto Marathon — The People’s Race — at 50% of the standard entry fee. The marathon takes place on Saturday 29 November at Nasrec, and up to 5,000 runners will be able to benefit from the offer.
“Following this weekend’s unfortunate cancellation of the Cape Town Marathon due to severe weather conditions, African Bank, in partnership with the Soweto Marathon NPC, has announced a special offer to displaced runners who were registered to participate in the Cape Town race,” a joint statement said.
Bank aims to ease runner disappointment
According to Sbu Kumalo, Group Chief Marketing Officer at African Bank, the initiative aims to ease the disappointment many athletes felt when the Cape Town event was called off.
“To ease the disappointment many runners experienced, African Bank is offering 50% off entry fees for up to 5,000 Cape Town Marathon registrants who wish to participate in the 42 km Soweto Marathon. Runners will have until November 1 to claim this offer. In addition, African Bank customers will receive 100% of their entry fees back in rewards points,” said Kumalo.
Special offer keeps momentum alive
“We are giving runners an incredible opportunity to keep the momentum going! In the true spirit of a bank for the people, by the people, serving the people, we’re offering a special 50% discount on entries for the Marathon distance at the African Bank Soweto Marathon 2025.”
Proof of registration required
To qualify for the discounted entry, runners must provide proof of registration for the cancelled Cape Town Marathon. Assistance and verification will be handled by the Soweto Marathon race office.
Organizers embrace running community spirit
Soweto Marathon spokesperson Jabu Mbuli said the offer reflects the organisers’ and sponsor’s shared commitment to the country’s running community.
“As a united group, we are aware that it is the country’s running community that we serve first and foremost. Runners want to run! For this reason, we are genuinely grateful to launch this joint initiative and encourage those keen to run to lace up and join us for The People’s Race on Saturday 29 November. We would be delighted to host you.”
The People’s Race offers redemption opportunity
The Soweto Marathon, affectionately known as The People’s Race, remains one of South Africa’s most iconic running events — celebrating endurance, resilience, and the spirit of community. Thanks to African Bank’s support, hundreds of runners who missed out on Cape Town’s race will now have the chance to finish their 2025 running season on a high note.
