Mandela Day Marathon to go ahead on 9 December in Howick

After last taking place in 2019, the Mandela Day Marathon is finally back. The much-loved race celebrating the life of late former President Nelson Mandela had the been the subject of a lengthy legal battle between KwaZulu-Natal Athletics and the Mandela family which resulted in the postponement of the event which had been scheduled for the 27th of August, 2023. But KZNA have announced that those hurdles have been overcome, paving the way for the race to take place on 9 December, 2023.

"As KZNA, we are always on the look out for events that will help athletes enjoy competitive running as well earn some money for themselves and their families. This event comes at a time when we will be remembering the passing of our former President and entering into the festive season. We believe it will indeed benefit our community of athletes," said KZNA President Steve Mkasi.

Runners enjoying previous editions of the event which last took place in 2019. Photo Credit: Mandela Day Marathon.

While many runners embrace the return of this celebrated event, there is one key difference to keep in mind. When the race was last run in the pre-Covid19 era, it featured a 42,2km event starting at the Manaye Hall in Imbali and finishing at the Mandela Capture site in Howick as well as a 21km and 10km event.

This time around the race which is organised by the provincial athletics federation in association with the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Governmment, uMgungundlovu District Municipality, Msunduzi Local Municipality and uMngeni Local Municipality features a half marathon which will start at the Hilton Police Station, a 10km race which starts at the Howick Sports Field and a 46664 (family fun run) which starts next to the Midmar Dam. All three events finish at the Mandela Capture Site in Howick. But, the traditional 42km marathon will not be featured this year. KZNA say they have followed satisfied all the necessary legal requirements to make sure that the race goes ahead without opposition.

KZNA President Steve Mkasi says they've exhausted all the necessary processes to ensure that the 2023 Mandela Marathon goes ahead this December. Photo Credit: Colleen McNally.

"The hosting of the event follows a series of consultations with all concerned stakeholders. The Marathon is hosted to celebrate and honour the life and legacy of the iconic father of the nation, the late President Nelson Mandela. The 2023 event also coincides with the 10th anniversary commemoration of Madiba’s death on 5 December 2013," said a KZNA statement.

Entries for the event open today (16 November 2023) and are available for purchase online at Web Tickets (www.webtickets.co.za). The total number of entries will be capped at 5000 with the 21.1km at 2000 runners and 10km at 3000 runners.