Inaugural Nelson Mandela Marathon kicks off in Cape Town
It has Kenyan long-distance icons, Catherine Ndereba and Dr Paul Tergat as its ambassadors
The inaugural 42.2 kilometre Nelson Mandela Marathon commenced in Cape Town from the starting point close to the Castle of Good Hope. This race is designated as the world's first value-based running series, also forming a part of the Mandela Legacy Sporting Series. Thousands of participants, including both local and international athletes, are anticipated to traverse the streets of Cape Town today for the inaugural Nelson Mandela Marathon.
The event, organized by the Nelson Mandela Foundation, is inspired by Madiba's conviction in the power of sport to bring people together and inspire collective action. Its objective is to eventually be acknowledged as one of the global Marathon Majors. Renowned Kenyan long-distance runners, Catherine Ndereba and Dr Paul Tergat, serve as its ambassadors.
During the marathon, the Foundation aims not only to have millions of people run in Madiba's honor, but also to prompt individuals to contemplate what his values require of us in the current time and how we can embody those values through meaningful actions. Through the Nelson Mandela Marathon and the Global Running Series, the Foundation intends to unite people across generations, communities, and borders, guided by the principles of courage, dignity, equality, unity, and freedom. Remembering Madiba is significant; how we utilize his legacy is equally paramount.
Written by urgent.news from SABC News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
