DEPARTMENT’S ATHLETES BRAVE THE RAIN AT THE 30TH SOWETO MARATHON

By Sipho Ncube

• Athletes from Gauteng’s Department of Social Development lead by example, emphasising the importance of a healthy lifestyle.
• A team of 21 runners took part in the annual People’s Race, more formally known as the Soweto Marathon.
• Encouraging others to join the athletics club, Dalton Mathalise from the western corridor’s partnerships and finance unit said that running had improved both his physical fitness and mental clarity.

A total of 21 members of the Gauteng Department of Social Development Athletics Club proudly took to the streets of Soweto to participate in the 30th edition of the iconic Nedbank Soweto Marathon, affectionately known as The People’s Race.

The popular activity, regarded as one of South Africa’s premier races alongside the Comrades Marathon, features 10km, 21.1km, and 42.2km categories.

Despite the rainy weather on 29 November 2025, the department’s athletes showed remarkable endurance and enthusiasm while celebrating the rich heritage and spirit of Soweto.

One of the participants, Dalton Mathalise from the western corridor’s partnerships and finance unit, not only completed the race but continues to inspire colleagues to embrace physical activity and consider joining the club.

“I started exercising in July last year and never imagined I could run 21km, let alone complete a 42.2km marathon. Finishing the Soweto Marathon in 5 hours and 35 minutes was a milestone,” he said.

“Participating in smaller races of 15 to 21km helped build my confidence.”

Mathalise added that running has greatly improved both his physical fitness and mental clarity.

“I’m able to stay focused longer as a supervisor, and my energy levels remain high. I can also multi-task more effectively, even though our unit is currently short-staffed after a few colleagues left for greener pastures,” he shared.