The Mamepe Striders has issued a renewed and emphatic apology to runners affected by marshalling errors during the inaugural MNS Attorneys Carnival City Marathon, vowing that this year’s edition will deliver a far more organised and reliable race experience.
The debut event, held at Carnival City Sport Grounds last May, left participants in the 5km and 10km races frustrated after being misdirected at key diversion points. The confusion ultimately resulted in both races finishing without clear winners.
Mamepe Striders deputy chairperson Arthur Moba admitted the club fell short in its planning and co-ordination, particularly in the shorter races, but stressed that valuable lessons have been learnt.
“We had prepared as well as we could,” said Moba.
“However, mistakes happen and we learn from them. We sincerely apologise to all those who were affected. It was something we never anticipated, but we take full responsibility.”
Runners take part in the inaugural MNS Attorneys Carnival City Marathon last year.
He assured runners that significant steps have been taken to prevent a repeat of last year’s issues.
“Those taking part in the 5km and 10km can expect a much improved race. We are still growing as a club, but we’ve made major strides to ensure a smoother experience this time around,” he added.
While the 42.2km and 21.1km routes remain unchanged, the 5km and 10km races will follow newly designed routes, which were put to the test during a dry run on April 12.
According to Moba, marshalling – the key area of concern last year – has received focused attention.
“Our marshalling wasn’t properly co-ordinated, especially in the 10km and 5km. There was miscommunication between marshals and traffic officers,” he said.
“During the dry run, all officials were thoroughly briefed, and we practised marshalling across all routes.”
Runners cross the intersection of Springs and Denne roads in Brakpan during the start of the MNS Attorneys Carnival City Marathon dry run on April 12.
In a hands-on approach to preparation, marshals physically ran the routes to familiarise themselves with diversion points and water tables.
“This year, nothing has been left to chance. Our marshals now understand the routes inside out,” said Moba.
Additional safety measures have also been introduced. More cones will be placed along the routes to improve visibility and reduce risk, particularly after last year’s incident where a runner was struck by a vehicle near the Life Dalview Hospital roundabout.
Moba added that neighbouring clubs will assist with marshalling duties to strengthen co-ordination on race day.
In a further show of goodwill, the organisers have increased prize money for the marathon, half-marathon and 10km races, while also introducing prize money for the 5km – a race that previously ended in controversy.
Although the marathon serves as a qualifier for the Comrades Marathon, Moba said the enhanced incentives are also aimed at elevating the race’s status.
“We want the race to be competitive and attract elite runners,” he said. “Our goal is to see it grow to the level of established events like the Johnson Crane Marathon, Jacaranda City Challenge and the Benoni Northerns Marathon.”
Runners run on the R23 during the start of the MNS Attorneys Carnival City Marathon dry run on April 12.
Runners at the start of the MNS Attorneys Carnival City Marathon dry run on April 12.
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