Van Zyl, on the other hand, had predicted a record-breaking performance, but she narrowly missed it by just 33 seconds. Her final time was 2:34.16, surpassing Selam Gebre from Ethiopia and Faith Chepkoech from Kenya.
“The dream of breaking the record is still alive,” Van Zyl remarked. “Once more, this race was gruelling, but I’m intimately familiar with its challenges. It was around the 30km mark, near Orlando Stadium, where I made my decisive move, as that’s where the true race begins,” she said.
The City of Johannesburg Executive Mayor, Cllr Kabelo Gwamanda, who fired the starter’s gun to start the 10-kilometre race, congratulated the winners and all participants.
“I want to extend my warmest congratulations to the winners of the Soweto Marathon. It is of immense significance and pride that both the male and female winners of the 42.2 km race are South Africans. This not only showcases the incredible talent and dedication of our local athletes but also symbolises unity and the spirit of South Africa. It’s a testament to the strength and resilience of our nation,” Mayor Gwamanda said.
The Member of the Mayoral Committee for Community Development (MMC), Cllr Lubabalo Magwentshu, who had completed the 10-kilometre race, added his words of congratulations.
“I want to congratulate all the incredible athletes who participated in the Soweto Marathon. It’s a remarkable day for South Africa, and I am proud to see our compatriots winning the race. This achievement not only reflects their dedication but also inspires us all. Today, we celebrate the spirit of sportsmanship and unity in our nation,” said MMC Magwentshu.
He added that special gratitude goes to everyone who made the race a success.
“The People’s Race is a beloved event in the heart of South Africa; it represents a symbol of resilience and unity. People from all levels of society gathered to watch and participate in this grand race, and I’m happy with each athlete’s participation,” Magwentshu said.
