Big commercial backing for Durban International Marathon
The Durban International Marathon has grown in leaps and bounds in a short period of time. The third edition of the race which will be staged on 12 March 2023 is set to attract a field of 10 000 runners laden with elite athletes as well as thousands of amateurs.
Earlier this month, the race which is hosted by Phantane Athletics Club unveiled a R250 000 prize pool. There’s also added incentives for athletes who achieve the Olympic qualifying standard with US $10 000 and US $ 5000 for the first and second athletes in both the men and women’s fields.
Raising the profile of the race which also doubles up as the SA Marathon Championships would not be possible without the assistance of commercial partners, according to KZN Athletics President Steve Mkasi.
Coca-Cola have come on board as hydration partners. The global beverage business has also provided a cash injection along with Energizer, Spar, eThekwini Municipality and the KZN Department of Sport Arts and Culture.
“We appreciate the assistance from our stakeholders. Each one of them add dynamic value to the race,” Mkasi said.
“In a short period, the local organizing committee have shown that they mean business. The vision is to grow this race into one of the biggest in the world, that of course will not be possible without the help of government and corporate South Africa,” Mkasi said.
Special mention must also be made to the Riverside Hotel.
“They have graciously granted us the use of its space leading to race day as a race office. They are also providing great rates for us for athletes. We urge everyone to make use of the establishment,” Mkasi added.
The KwaZulu-Natal Department MEC for Sports, Arts and Culture, Amanda Bani-Mapena said the race presents another opportunity for the province to showcase its ability to host big events.
“It promises to be a major economic booster for our province. We are very excited to get behind an event of this magnitude,” Bani-Mapena said.
The 42km race which begins in Prospecton, south of Durban ends at People’s Park at the Moses Mabhida Stadium.
