SA set for first marathon congress

THE first Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS) conference in South Africa will give road racers across the African continent an opportunity to learn from experts and create an economic appeal.

AIMS endeavours to promote distance running worldwide and works alongside the International Association of Athletic Federations (IAAF) on topics relating to international road races, while sharing expertise within the association.

AIMS is an organisation of more than 400 of the world’s leading distance races from over 100 countries.

Its aim is to forge stronger relationships with races, structures and government on the African continent.

Delegates of the conference next month will engage organisations from around the world and share the latest findings from the organisers of the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon, Africa’s first IAAF Gold Label marathon.

Awarded the IAAF Gold Label status earlier this year, the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon is an event that brings runners, athletes, joggers and communities to enjoy a weekend of running.

Sanlam Cape Town Marathon race director Janet Welham said the conference will cover key aspects of putting together a spectacular event and provide delegates with the opportunity to witness first-hand how the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon has become an iconic city marathon.

“The conference will provide us with the opportunity to share our knowledge and lessons learnt around the challenges facing African races, to elevate and gain recognition of Africa’s events worldwide.”

She said delegates will be given the opportunity to an expo at the V&A Waterfront, on for two days, and will also have free entry to the 4.2km fun run and the 10km Peace Run or the marathon itself.

The marathon aims to facilitate change through its Run4Change Legacy Programme, which comprises health and wellness, fundraising, promoting peace and sport and develop, and empower athletes.