Over 3 000 of South Africa’s top road and lifestyle athletes will take to the streets on Sunday, 17 February 2008 in celebration of the Puma Peninsula Marathon’s 41st anniversary, in Cape Town.
The route for the Puma Peninsula Marathon has been in use since the inaugural race in 1964. With only one exception, this mind-blowing marathon has always been run in a southerly direction from Green Point to Simon’s Town.
After being discontinued for four years between 1994-1997, the marathon made an amazing comeback in 1998, and with the help of title sponsor Puma soon became the fastest marathon in Africa. The two official charities of the marathon are the Beth Uriel Home and the Cape Times Fresh Air Fund.
According to manager Lindsay Henley, Beth Uriel means "House of Light" in Hebrew and was started in 1987. "We are committed to the passionate pursuit of independence for each of our family members.
"With family values at its core, it is dedicated to creating opportunities for previously disenfranchised people," continues Henley. "The genuine encounters that I have with people in South Africa have given me a lot of joy and have changed my life."
"For several years, we have manned water tables at the Puma Peninsula Marathon and have had an amazing time. Working with older youth, it is very important to teach them that they can begin to help themselves and not rely on handouts. It has also motivated several of the family members to get out, get active and to start running," says Henley.
The Puma Peninsula Marathon is a qualifier for both the Old Mutual Two Oceans Marathon and the Comrades Marathon, while athletes who are not quite ready to take on the full marathon can opt for a shorter distance, by competing in either the Puma Half Marathon, or a more relaxing Puma 8km Walk. All finishers in all three categories will be eligible for lucky draw prizes from the sponsors.
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