The much-anticipated Two Countries Marathon between South Africa and Zimbabwe makes its long-awaited return to the Bushveld this year, marking its 21st edition. Athletes from Musina, Louis Trichardt, and surrounding areas – along with participants from across South Africa and abroad – will set off on Saturday, 20 September, for this unique cross-border event.
The marathon offers distances for all fitness levels, including a 42km marathon, 21km half-marathon, 10km run, and a 5km fun run. The flagship 42km event begins in Zimbabwe, with athletes transported by bus to the starting line before making their way back across the border into South Africa. Participants in the 42km race must pre-enter and hold a valid passport to compete.
The return of the event is about more than just running. The organisers emphasise that the marathon promotes people-to-people relations between South Africa and Zimbabwe, while also showcasing how regional economic integration can be achieved when governments and communities work together.
The marathon is hosted by the Limpopo Provincial Government, led by the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, in collaboration with the Matabeleland Province in Zimbabwe and the Soutpansberg Athletics Club, under the auspices of the Trans-Limpopo Spatial Development Initiative (TLSDI). Several private-sector partners have also joined to support the event.
With athletes expected from both South Africa and abroad, Musina's tourism and hospitality industries are set to benefit from the influx of visitors. The provincial government has also confirmed its intention to make the marathon an annual fixture again, aiming for it to grow stronger each year.
Entry fees are R250 for the 42km, R150 for the 21km, R80 for the 10km, and R30 for the 5km fun run. Prize money totalling R121,500 will be up for grabs on race day.
For more information, contact Ferreira Nel on (082) 749-0413 or Anel Roets on (072) 989-0769.