Soweto gears up for A Re Shomeng Diepkloof Half Marathon with R87,000 prize money

Soweto prepares for the return of the A Re Shomeng Diepkloof Half Marathon on November 15, boasting a substantial R87,000 prize pool. The event will commence at the University of Johannesburg's Soweto Campus, attracting approximately 3,000 athletes to contest the 5km, 10km, and 21.1km races. The Diepkloof Athletics Club (DAC) anticipates a more substantial event this year, inviting elite competitors, recreational runners, families, and football icons.

Runners will traverse the streets of Diepkloof, passing iconic locations such as the Soweto Towers and the Zodwa Khoza Foundation situated in Diepkloof Phase 2. The top finishers in each category will claim R10,000 for men and women in the 21.1km race, with R5,000 for second place and R2,500 for third. Cash prizes will also be awarded for the 10km and 5km races, with additional rewards for the top three male and female finishers in each category.

Beyond the professional athletes, former Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs stars are anticipated to participate in the 10km race via special buses. Notable players include Naughty Mokoena, representing Pirates, and Lucas Radebe and Lucky Mzizi, representing Chiefs. Participants can also join pace groups led by seasoned runners to aid in achieving their personal goals.

The event will offer a family-oriented atmosphere with music, a DJ, a children's play area, giveaways, and a race-day village. The official race T-shirt will be designed by the David Tlale Academy, providing young designers a platform to display their skills. Title sponsor A Re Shomeng, which translates to "let's work out," aims to promote health-conscious lifestyles and nurture future professional athletes.

The marathon will also generate temporary employment for Soweto residents and University of Johannesburg students, providing small businesses with the opportunity to sell their products and services. DAC, one of Soweto's oldest community athletics clubs, has a history of nurturing running talent, including former Comrades Marathon champion Claude Moshiwa.