Boontjieskraal
The MEC for Sport, Arts and Culture in the Northern Cape, Mr. Mangaliso Matika, paid heartfelt tribute to the province’s athletes who participated in the 2025 Comrades Marathon, during a celebratory ceremony held in their honour. The event brought together athletes, federations, partners from the private sector, and government stakeholders in recognition of those who carried the Northern Cape flag with pride during the world-renowned ultra-marathon.
In his keynote address, MEC Matika described the athletes as “warriors of endurance,” highlighting the courage and commitment they displayed, whether they completed the race or not.
“You remind us that success is not just about crossing the line—it’s about the commitment to start, the courage to continue, and the heart to endure,” he said.
The MEC also used the platform to deliver a significant policy direction: a call to establish a flagship qualifying ultra-marathon in the Northern Cape, in collaboration with Athletics Griqualand West (AGW) and North West Cape. He emphasised the need to follow in the footsteps of iconic events like the Two Oceans Marathon, Om die Dam, and the Soweto Marathon.
“It cannot be that we continue to send our athletes to other provinces to compete in nationally recognised marathons, yet we don’t host one ourselves. This must change,” Matika asserted.
“Under my leadership, this Department is committed to making the Northern Cape Marathon a reality. This is not merely an idea. It is a mission. It is a legacy we must build together.”
Messages of support were provided by both athletics federations, AGW and North West Cape, for the hosting of the gala dinner for the Comrades Marathon by the Northern Cape Department of Sport, Arts and Culture. Their continued partnership underscores a shared commitment to uplifting long-distance running in the province.
MEC Matika reaffirmed the Department’s commitment to working with both AGW and North West Cape Athletics federations, municipalities, and the private sector to bring this long-standing aspiration—championed by Premier Dr. Zamani Saul—to life.
In recognising the athletic leadership within the province, MEC Matika congratulated Mr. Thato Setlholo on his election as the new President of Athletics Griqualand West, expressing confidence in his ability to lead during this transformative period for athletics in the Northern Cape.
He also extended sincere gratitude to Dr. Lorato Banda, the outgoing President, for his “sterling leadership and unwavering commitment to the growth of athletics in the province.”
MEC Matika concluded the evening by reaffirming the Department’s intent to continue supporting clubs and development structures through their respective federations, ensuring resources and programming are channelled toward meaningful and sustainable athlete development. As a contribution towards the federations, Athletics GW and North West Cape each received an amount of R50 000.
“Today, we do not just celebrate your results—we celebrate your journey. Your dedication. Your sweat. Your heart. You make the Northern Cape proud.”
The Department will soon convene stakeholders to begin formal planning towards the launch of the inaugural Northern Cape Marathon.
