Onalenna Khonkhobe wins 2024 Soweto Marathon on debut

Khonkhobe’s time surpassed last year’s winner, Ntsindiso Mphakathi, who finished in 2:19:13 in 2023. He was sixth overall on Sunday.

Khonkhobe, 28, has enjoyed a stellar year, adding this win to his earlier triumph at the Two Oceans Ultra Marathon. This victory marked his debut at the Soweto Marathon, and he expressed satisfaction with his performance despite the challenging conditions. “The last two kilometres were very tough. My coach told me to use the same programme I used to prepare for the Two Oceans, and I think that really helped me today.”

Having already won several smaller races this year, including the Dischem Half Marathon in January and the Pirates Half Marathon, Khonkhobe sees 2024 as his breakthrough year. Reflecting on his achievements, he said: “This is my best year because I won the Dischem Half Marathon, then the Pirates Half Marathon, Two Oceans, and today the Soweto Marathon.”

In the women’s race, Neheng Khatala of Lesotho claimed victory with a time of 2:43:07. Margaret Jepchumba of Kenya secured second place, finishing in 2:44:55, while Ethiopia’s Worke Degu Amena completed the podium with a time of 2:48:11.

The 2024 Soweto Marathon, famously known as the People’s Race, saw a massive turnout of 25,000 runners. The event began at 05:30am with City of Johannesburg Executive Mayor Cllr Dada Morero firing the starter gun and then walking the 10km race alongside Deputy President Paul Mashatile.

Mayor Morero later praised the runners and the community for their spirit and support. “Congratulations to all 25,000 runners and the community of Soweto, who made this race a special one,” he said. “Despite the sweltering temperatures, Soweto’s residents came out in large numbers to cheer on the runners, their unwavering support reverberating through the streets.”

The 21.1km runners set off shortly after at 6:30am followed in succession by a lively group of 10km participants.

Thokozani Mazibuko, spokesperson for the Soweto Marathon, shared his pride in the event's success: “It’s been a fantastic day! This was one of the biggest Soweto Marathons since its inception, truly capturing the spirit of Soweto. Our team and valued partners have gone above and beyond for the people of Soweto, South Africa, and beyond our borders. We are deeply grateful to everyone who contributed to making this event a success. A hearty congratulations to the over 25,000 runners who took to the streets today.”

Written by Luyanda Lunika04/11/2024