By Palesa Mofoti picture sourced
The Taemaneng Running Club (TRC) launched the 6th Phakamile Mabija Human Rights Half Marathon(PMHRHM) at Nare Boutique Hotel. The marathon is held annually on 21 March to commemorate Human Rights Day, to pay tribute to Phakamile Mabija, a political activist and fighter of the anti-apartheid struggles, who died in custody in 1977.
Thami Mabija, a family representative, said they are excited and support the race because it embodies who ‘Phaka’ was and honours his leadership in the youth and community activities.
The race will be held in partnership with the Diamonds and Doorings and sponsored by ABSA.
Through the marathon, TRC aims to unearth grassroots talent among young people and provide a platform to showcase their talent.
The race will start and finish at Kimberley Boys’ High School. The route will include passing through the city’s most iconic landmarks such as Mayibuye Multipurpose Centre, Mayibuye Uprising Massacre Memorial and Phakamile Mabija Street to mention a few.
Race Director and Secretary General for the TRC, Pulane Pharasi, said they expect approximately 1000 participants. Three hundred and thirty (330) athletes have registered.
The organisers are working on the logistics with Sol Plaatje University to for the Phakamile Mabija Memorial Lecture.
Athletes will be fighting for R10 000 for 21km first prize, R7 500,00 for 10km and R3 000 for 5km, the prize money will be equal for male and female categories.
A founding member of TRC, Shimmy Macomo, stated that the club’s establishment was aimed at improving the living standards of black children.
Three-time Comrades Marathon finishers Amanda Mkhize ‘Zulu Girl’ and Running Influencer Of The Year winner Sabelo Buqa aka ‘Umasokisi’ will be the Race Ambassadors.
Assurance was given that all health and safety checks will be conducted and water points have been identified and some of them are sponsored.
Pharasi urged community members to participate in the race or to come out in their numbers to support the runners.
The TRC also aims to rename the Transvaal Road Police Station to Phakamile Mabija Police Station.
Comments are closed.