Another exciting African Bank Soweto Marathon saw Lesotho’s Neheng Khatala take the overall crown in the race, when she put in a strong performance to cross the line first at the iconic race in the heartland of South Africa’s commercial capital in Gauteng, on Sunday, 3 November 2024.
“So I am very proud of myself and very thankful to everyone who supported me in every race in South Africa, I am so grateful. I feel like I am part of South Africa, and this is my second home, I feel welcomed, it’s a very warm country.”
2024 Soweto Marathon Champion, Neheng Khatala
Dubbed one of the toughest marathons on the continent, Khatala gave it her all, the runner from Lesotho visibly gritting her teeth as she pushed to finish in a time of 2:43:07 and get her hands on the R250,000 winner cheque.
Kenya’s Margret Jepchuma was the second runner home, crossing the line with a time of 2:44:55 ahead of Ethiopia’s Worke Degu Amena, who finished in third place in a time of 2:48:11.
There were no South Africans in the top five, and the best-placed runner from Mzansi was Galaletsang Mekgoe, who crossed the finish line in eighth place in a time of 3:00:52 ahead of compatriot runners, Makhosazana Mhlongo and Msawenkosi Sibande, who rounded off the Top 10 for the popular race.
Speaking to 2024 gsport SABC Women in Television award winner Thato Moeng on SuperSport’s X page, Khatala says this victory is one that she will cherish as she had a challenging year juggling running and studying.
“This means a lot, it’s been a tough year for me, I haven’t been consistent in training because of my studies and I was sick, but I just kept faith, I kept training and financing [my] studies and running,” Khatala said. “I wanted at least three wins per year this year and I think I have so many top threes and two wins here.”
This year’s race saw the 29th edition of the ‘People’s Race’ welcome runners from all over the continent as the event continues to honour Soweto’s rich history and celebrate the country’s 30 years of democracy.
Photo Caption: An exciting 2024 African Bank Soweto Marathon saw Lesotho’s Neheng Khatala take the overall crown in the race, putting in a strong performance to cross the line first at the iconic race in the heartland of SA’s commercial capital in Gauteng on Sunday, 3 November 2024. All Photos: African Bank Soweto Marathon
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