Kimberley Big Hole Marathon: Safety on track amid pre-race tensions

ORGANISERS of the much-anticipated Diamond and Dorings Kimberley Big Hole Marathon, taking place on Saturday, November 22, have moved to reassure athletes and spectators that world-class safety measures will be in place throughout the event.

The inaugural race has already attracted over 2,000 entrants and is officially recognised as a qualifier for both the Comrades and Two Oceans marathons – a major milestone for Kimberley’s running community.

Organisers say safety remains the backbone of the event, supported by a robust security plan, strong police visibility and comprehensive monitoring along the entire marathon footprint.

Their reassurances follow a social media post circulated this week showing burning tyres and claiming the marathon would not proceed until Sol Plaatje Municipality resolved certain employment-related grievances. The post alleged that some individuals have been building sidewalks and paving roads in Kimberley for more than 15 years without recognition or permanent employment.

While organisers are aware of the post, they say they are continuously monitoring the situation and remain confident that participants and spectators will be safe. With nearly 2,300 runners already confirmed, they emphasised that all operational plans remain firmly in place to ensure a secure and enjoyable race day.

Marathon Expo

The build-up reached full momentum this week with Tuesday’s opening of the Marathon Expo at the Mittah Seperepere Convention Centre. The Expo serves as the central hub for race-pack collection and athlete support ahead of the event.

Organisers urged runners to make full use of the hub, emphasising that no race pack collections and registrations will be allowed on Race Day. These take place strictly in the indicated times at the Convention Centre, up to November 21, between 9.30am and 7pm daily.

With the race pack secured, runners will be able to dream of the prize purse that further underscores the prestige of the race. The men’s and women’s overall winners will each take home R200,000, with R70,000 and R30,000 awarded for second and third places. Prize money extends to the top 10 finishers in the 42.2km race, while leading performers in the 5km, 10km and 21km events will also be rewarded.

Meanwhile, an additional R50,000 has been set aside for the first Northern Cape male and female finishers affiliated with Athletics Griqualand West or the North West Cape Federation.

Road Use Advisory

Residents and motorists are advised that several intersections along the route will be affected. Roads will not necessarily be closed, but traffic officials will be stationed throughout to ensure smooth flow and runner safety.

Affected routes include Oliver Road, Landbou Road, the R31 towards Barkly West, Green Street, Sechowareng, Hulana Road, Seleke Street, Barkly Road, Cecil Sussman Road, Phakamile Mabija Road, Hull Street (Boshoff Road) and Long Street.

The race committee has appealed for patience and encourages residents along the route to support runners and showcase Kimberley’s renowned hospitality.

For armchair athletes, you’re covered too. The marathon will be broadcast live on SABC Sport from 5am.