Ramatsiyi Moholoa

Ramatsiyi Moholoa

Hundreds of runners are expected to invade Katlehong on Sunday morning to participate in the Ekurhuleni Half-Marathon.

And, as part of efforts by the organisers to make this a family affair, a 10km road race has also been included to accommodate beginners and joggers.

This sixth yearly edition of the Ekurhuleni Half-Marathon is presented by the Katlehong Athletics Development Committee.

It is a committee made up of representatives from the four clubs in the township.

The structures are Katlehong Athletics Club, Bonang Athletics Club, Khomanani Athletics Club and Khuphukani Athletics Club.

"We have made all the necessary arrangements and are looking forward to a successful event," said Benjamin Maphanga, a member of the committee.

"We have been staging this half-marathon for the past six years, we are delighted that it is growing in leaps and bounds.

"Augustine Manamela, one of the country's top runners, has indicated to us that he is coming back to defend the men's title he won last year.

"We are not sure if one of the other popular runners, Elizabeth Phaka of Diepsloot, will be able to defend the women's title," said Maphanga.

Duma Nkosi, executive mayor of Ekurhuleni who is a regular marathon runner, is one of the popular faces at this event.

Maphanga said the half-marathon and 10km road race will start simultaneously at 7am at Katlehong Sports Complex and finish at the same venue.