Petition To The Lima Board: Online Signing Of Petition Regarding Lima Referee Mr Leon Bannau

Petition addressed to: Limpopo Athletics Board

We, the undersigned representatives of athletics clubs, social running clubs and individual runners in Limpopo Province, hereby submit this online petition to express our serious concerns regarding the conduct and officiating practices of LIMA referee Mr Leon at road-running events in the province. We believe that the current situation requires urgent attention from the Limpopo Athletics Board, as it is negatively affecting runners’ experiences, the reputation of Limpopo running events and the willingness of athletes from other provinces to participate in races hosted in Limpopo.

• Disqualification decisions and the application of rules.

We are concerned about repeated disqualification decisions that runners perceive as unnecessary, excessively strict or inconsistently applied. There is growing frustration among participants who feel that additional requirements or interpretations of the rules are being introduced without sufficient communication, clarity or consistent application.

• Unpleasant and hostile running experiences.

Running events should promote fitness, health, community spirit, sportsmanship and enjoyment. Unfortunately, concerns about the referee’s conduct and approach to officiating have contributed to unpleasant experiences for some runners.
We believe that officials should uphold discipline while treating athletes with fairness, respect and professionalism. No runner should feel intimidated, unfairly targeted or discouraged from participating because of how rules are communicated or enforced.

• Negative impact on participation by runners from other provinces.

We are particularly concerned by reports that runners from other provinces have become reluctant to support races hosted in Limpopo because of their experiences and concerns regarding officiating practices.
If this continues, Limpopo risks losing valuable participation, interprovincial support, tourism opportunities and the positive relationships that road-running events help to build.

• Impact on social runners and the broader running community.

Social runners play an important role in sustaining local races, supporting event organisers and promoting healthy lifestyles. Their participation should be encouraged through fair treatment, clear communication and a welcoming sporting environment.
We are concerned that the current situation is contributing to dissatisfaction, grievances and declining enthusiasm among runners who should feel welcomed and valued at Limpopo events.