keThis is a prototype containing all 2023 info – please let me know if you have feedback. Updates will be made regularly as races are added, cancelled and confirmed.
“Status” definitions
- Confirmed = Entries open / opening shortly
- Date confirmed = Date from provincial fixture list with high probability of race happening
- Unconfirmed = Provincial fixture list not received yet and / or new race with lower probability of happening
- Cancelled = Race definitely not happening in 2023
Click to enlarge or collapse sections.
Last update: 20 October 2023
January
AECI Mielie Marathon (Sat 21 Jan): Confirmed
| Location | Welkom, FS |
| Route Type | Circular |
| Website | http://www.goudveldmultisport.co.za/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 200 |
| Race Description | This is a fast, uncongested, single-lap marathon around the Free State’s second largest city. The route is flat and the support tables are friendly. This will be the 44th running of the event (as such it is the oldest marathon in the States) and is a great pick for a fast January qualifier. The race offers a permanent number to her regular customers and you can get some Comrades tips from local legend Louis Massyn (47 Comrades finishes) along the route. |
| Detailed Report | Mielie Marathon (The Amaizeing Race): https://runningmann.co.za/2019/02/09/mielie-marathon/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 250km (2h30) drive from Joburg down the N1. |
Volksrust Marathon (Sat 21 Jan): Confirmed
| Location | Volksrust, Mpu |
| Route Type | Out-and-back |
| Website | http://volksrust.com/marathon/index-1.html |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 100 |
| Race Description | An up and down, out and back route with some of the best support tables in the country (and arrive at the start with enough time to enjoy a complimentary cup of coffee and rusks). A bit of dirt road running is thrown into the end of the loop for those that like to get off the tar for a bit. Make sure you leave room in your tog bag for the medal – it is by far the biggest in the country! |
| Detailed Report | Volksrust Marathon (High Spirits in the Highlands): https://runningmann.co.za/2018/02/04/volksrust-marathon/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 240km (2h45) drive. |
Finlime Flat One Marathon (Sun 22 Jan): Unconfirmed
| Location | Lime Acres, NC |
| Route Type | Circular |
| Website | http://arulagroup.co.za/marathon.html |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 30 |
| Race Description | If you fancy running a marathon in the middle of the Kalahari Desert then make a plan to include the one of the smallest Comrades qualifiers in the country (just 22 finishers when I ran in 2018) into your running schedule. The route is fairly flat and the spectacular desert landscape is only broken by the odd diamond and lime mine. Logistically, this is one of the hardest races to get to but it offers a truly unique marathon running experience and I would recommend all South African runners make the effort to do this marathon at least once. |
| Detailed Report | Finlime Marathon (The Time I Ran a Marathon in Middle of the Kalahari Desert): https://runningmann.co.za/2018/01/29/finlime-marathon-kalahari-desert/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 600km (6-7hr drive) from Joburg or fly to Kimberley and shorten the drive to 1h45. |
STBB Red Hill Marathon (Sat 28 Jan): Confirmed
| Location | Cape Town, WC |
| Route Type | Circular |
| Website | http://www.redhillmarathon.co.za/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 1000 |
| Race Description | Find out what happens if you kept running straight at Two Oceans instead of turning right towards Sun Valley. The route is a stunner that explores the southern tip of the Cape Peninsula and is the most beautiful of the January marathon options. Abridged description from race site, “Runners will line up facing away from Peer’s Cave… The route then takes the runners through Kommetjie, Misty Cliffs, Scarborough, and at the Perdekloof Picnic site, the Marathon runners will veer off towards Cape Point for a 6km loop…[after which you] continue over Red Hill. The runners join up with the Simonstown Main Road at the end of Red Hill, and continue towards Fish Hoek.” Be aware that Fish Hoek is a dry suburb so you may have to smuggle your own beer to the finish line. |
| Detailed Report | Red Hill Marathon (Fish Hoek, line & sinker): https://runningmann.co.za/2020/02/28/red-hill-marathon/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | Fly to Cape Town; 45km drive from the airport to Fish Hoek |
Wonderpark Akasia Marathon (Sat 28 Jan): Confirmed
| Location | Pretoria, Gau |
| Route Type | Double-lapper |
| Website | http://www.akasiaathleticsclub.co.za/mainrace.html |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 2000 |
| Race Description | A flat double-lapper around the north of Pretoria and proof that a small running club (Akasia with around 60 members) can put on an excellent event. Not much of interest along the route but this a good option for Gauteng runners to get the first marathon of the year done. Although there is plenty of parking at the Wonderpark Shopping Centre, there are about 6,000 runners across all distances so allow time for the congestion. The marathon honours Johann Van Eeden, an Akasia athlete who has completed 40 Comrades. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 80km (1h) drive but allow extra time for congestion. |
Ottosdal Nite Marathon (Sat 28 Jan): Confirmed
| Location | Ottosdal, NW |
| Route Type | Out-and-back |
| Website | https://ottosdaldrafentrap.co.za/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 300 |
| Race Description | With a 5:30pm start, this is the only night marathon in South Africa. An out-and-back, traffic-free route where lanterns line the road and guide you home after the sun sets. Ottosdal is the smallest town in the country to host a marathon and the town’s population more than doubles over race weekend (there are cycling events as well for the bike curious). Enjoy the simplistic beauty of being out in nature as the sun starts to set. The profile is undulating although there are no major hills but a few good pulls that will give your legs a good workout while the declines allow your legs to enjoy a few sundowners. This race is also the meat in the marathon running weekend sandwich that allows hardcore runners to run three marathons in just over 24 hours (with Wonderpark Akasia and Johnson Crane providing the bread). |
| Detailed Report | Ottosdal Night Marathon (Testing the Limits of Delayed Gratification): https://runningmann.co.za/2019/02/21/ottosdal-night-marathon/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 240km (3h) drive west past Potch and Klerksdorp. |
Middelburg Marathon (Sat 28 Jan): Confirmed
| Location | Middelburg, Mpu |
| Route Type | Circular |
| Website | https://www.facebook.com/events/628272040935571/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 200 |
| Race Description | The race promises to be an early season fitness tester that offers some of the finest views of Middelburg. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 160km (1h45) drive using N12 or N4. |
Johnson Crane Marathon (Sun 29 Jan): Confirmed
| Location | Benoni, Gau |
| Route Type | Double-lapper |
| Website | http://johnsoncranemarathon.co.za/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 4000 |
| Race Description | This race lives up to the expectations that Benoni is the flattest, highest and most tedious part of the highveld: The two mostly flat laps are run between an altitude of 1618m and 1664m through the city streets, suburbia and out into the countryside passed smallholdings. Watch out for the nasty ‘slow poison’ pull from 18 to 20km which you get to repeat at the end of your marathon. Although this is not the most interesting route (there has not been much interesting to look at in Benoni since 1994 when Charlize Theron left for Hollywood), this race holds a special place in my heart since it was my debut marathon back in 2002 (when it was still a single-lap race). I enjoyed it enough to run 10 but have not run it since 2015 (after earning my permanent number and parole). In Pre-Covid times, the event had 14,000 participants across all distances, making it one of the biggest running events in the country and by far the largest in January. It is normally very well organised with plenty for the family to do at the finish line. If you are short of clothes and cash, after the December holidays the race always has a quality shirt and goodie bag for participants. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 30 minute drive along the N12. However traffic is very congested so you need to allow at least 90 minutes. |
February
Vodacom Meerkat Marathon (Sat 04 Feb): Confirmed
| Location | Kimberley, NC |
| Route Type | Circular |
| Website | https://www.facebook.com/events/404353618359718 |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 100 |
| Race Description | The flat, circular route provides a great on foot tour of some of Kimberley’s historic sites like the Big Hole, Rhodes Memorial (with canons and other artefacts from the Anglo Boer War), the Northern Cape houses of parliament and the Star of the West (the oldest pub in South Africa). The scenery over the route varies a great deal and provides a cosmopolitan perspective of suburbia, township, industrial and country life in and around the city. A carnival-like atmosphere awaits all finishers at Bishops Old Boys’ sports fields line. You can have a beer at the oldest pub in South Africa – the Star of the West – before, after or during or your marathon. If your legs are too tired after the race, you can always try the Halfway House – the first drive-in pub in South Africa. |
| Detailed Report | Meerkat Marathon (The One With A Presidential Sendoff): https://runningmann.co.za/2019/03/02/meerkat-marathon/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 500km (5h) drive or 1h flight (approx R2,000 return) |
Kloppers Marathon (Sat 11 Feb): Confirmed
| Location | Bloemfontein, FS |
| Route Type | Circular |
| Website | http://kloppersrun.co.za/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 200 |
| Race Description | The race followed a new route in 2019 but still has the same great sponsor (Kloppers have sponsored the race since its inception 30 years ago). For those who’ve never run around the City of Roses, it can be surprisingly hilly – but the organisers have made sure they keep the climbing to a minimum with the objective of securing a good qualifier for their runners. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 400km (4h) drive due south on the N1. |
Bhekizizwe Joseph Shabalala Marathon (Sat 11 Feb): Confirmed
| Location | Watersmeet-Ladysmith, KZN |
| Route Type | Point-to-point |
| Website | https://www.bjsmarathon.com/ |
| Typical Finishers | N/A |
| Race Description | A new point-to-point race run from Watersmeet to Ladysmith. The race honours the legacy of the late Ladysmith Black Mambazo leader Dr Joseph Shabalala. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 350 (3.5h) drive south on the N3 |
Aquelle Joburg North City Marathon (Sun 12 Feb): Confirmed
| Location | Johannesburg, Gau |
| Route Type | Circular |
| Website | https://www.facebook.com/JoburgNorthCityMarathon/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 500 |
| Race Description | Find you true north with RunZone AC’s excellent single lap route around Joburg’s shady northern suburbs. An undulating circular route that has been designed for speed. A course where the climbs are gentle and the downhills are generous – and you get to run the “flat part” of Northcliff. |
| Detailed Report | Joburg North City Marathon (The new kid on the Block): https://runningmann.co.za/2022/02/23/joburg-north-city-marathon/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 10km north of the city centre |
Hillcrest Marathon (Sun 12 Feb): Confirmed
| Location | Hillcrest, KZN |
| Route Type | Double-lapper |
| Website | http://hillcrestvillagers.co.za/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 1000 |
| Race Description | If you ever wondered what a real avenue of trees looks like, Hillcrest is the place to find out. The route provides the astute runner an opportunity to get acquainted with the undulations and atmosphere they’ll encounter on their way down to Durban during Comrades later in the year. Whilst Comrades slowly processes 20,000 runners through Kwazulu Natal’s colon, you get to see the fresher, unprocessed side of the suburbs during the Hillcrest Marathon. This is one of the most scenic city runs I’ve done and, whilst I am not one to rush into definitive statements, Hillcrest can definitely lay claim to being the most beautiful double-lap, urban marathon in South Africa. |
| Detailed Report | Hillcrest Marathon (Code Brown on the Comrades route): https://runningmann.co.za/2020/03/13/hillcrest-marathon/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 550km (5h30) drive or 1h flight to Durban and 60km drive from King Shaka Airport. |
Jeppe Marathon (Sun 12 Feb): Cancelled
| Location | Johannesburg, Gau |
| Route Type | Double-lapper |
| Website | https://jeppemarathon.co.za/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 2000 |
| Race Description | One of the highlights on the Joburg running calendar. Sadly, this race lost its sponsor in 2018 but have continued to give a fabulous experience to runners as thousands of athletes hurtle around Bedfordview and Edenvale. Local businesses try to outdo each other by putting on the most impressive hydration station. Some runners think this course is tough (but they are wrong and need to get out more). Although there are one or two short, sharp steep pulls, most of the climbing is gentle – the highest-lowest point elevation difference is just 76m. You also do most of the hard work on the first half of the lap, hit the highest point (1672m) and then fly home from Gillooly’s Farm to the finish (1596m). You just need to remember to leave a little in the tank for a nasty pull in the last kilometre. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 11km from central Jhb but race day traffic is very congested so allow extra time. |
Aurum Klerksdorp Marathon (Sun 12 Feb): Confirmed
| Location | Klerksdorp, NW |
| Route Type | Double-lapper |
| Website | https://klerksdorpmarathonclub.com / FB Page: https://www.facebook.com/klerksdorpmarathon/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 200 |
| Race Description | The largest town in the North West province boasts a well organised, fast and flat marathon with great water tables. This route has changed to a double-lap in 2020 through the suburbs to give runners more shade and less traffic. There is just one hill in Klerksdorp – but of course they make sure to show it off to their visiting runners during the marathon. The race is organised in collaboration with The Aurum Institute – a leading healthcare organisation that has successfully been battling the joint scourge of HIV and TB for the past 20 years. |
| Detailed Report | Klerksdorp Marathon (You Shouldn’t Judge A Town By Its Main Road): https://runningmann.co.za/2019/03/10/klerksdorp-marathon/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 170km (2h) drive along the N12. |
Sasol Secunda Marathon (Sat 18 Feb): Confirmed
| Location | Secunda, Mpu |
| Route Type | Double-lapper |
| Website | – |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 500 |
| Race Description | After Sasol founded Sasolburg, they decided to establish a second town around the nearby coalfields of Mpumalanga. They called the town Secunda (which I imagine narrowly beat out Sasolburg II in the naming stakes). Sasol retains their dominance on the area by sponsoring both the Sasolburg and Secunda Marathons. The Secunda marathon is your standard, flat, industrial double-lapper. If running to the backdrop of massive cooling towers, smoky chimneys and giant steel constructions is your thing, then this is the race for you. The race claims to provide slightly more variety than their sister town of Sasolburg with a few gentle undulations to stop your legs from going to sleep – and if you are feeling tired the lively support tables will give you a boost. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 130km (1h30) drive east along the N17. |
BestMed TUKS Marathon (Sat 18 Feb): Half marathon only
| Location | Pretoria, Gau |
| Route Type | Circular |
| Website | https://www.up.ac.za/athletics/home |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 1000 |
| Race Description | If you thought single-lap races were extinct in Pretoria you’d be wrong – they returned in 2018 with the inaugural Tuks Marathon. The University of Pretoria is one of the country’s leading institutes of higher learning – and enrolling in this course will involve stringent tests and rigorous examinations over a tough route that crams almost every hill in Pretoria into one marathon. However, those who do graduate after 42.2 gruelling kilometres, know that they’ve earned a quality undergraduate degree – and are on the fast-track to honours at Comrades. The good news is that your tertiary education isn’t complete without a party or two – and this race offers festive tables as well as musicians and bands along the way to ensure that there is a bit of playtime amongst all the hill work. |
| Detailed Report | Tuks Marathon (Earning your undergraduate degree the hard way): https://runningmann.co.za/2019/03/17/tuks-marathon/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 75km (1h) but allow extra time for traffic. |
John Nugent Marathon (Sat 18 Feb): Confirmed
| Location | Upington, NC |
| Route Type | Double-lapper |
| Website | https://www.facebook.com/johnnugentmemorial/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 30 |
| Race Description | John Nugent was a prominent Upington optometrist who died of cancer 2014. He dedicated his life to eye-care in the region and his legacy is continued by his son with the John Nugent Marathon. All funds raised from the race are donated to the John Nugent Memorial Eye Care Foundation, a NPO that provides funding for Eye disease screening programs and funding for sight saving procedures. The two-lap route provides the best of Upington with stretches along the Orange River, vineyards, pecan orchards and scenic suburbs. Bring your all surface shoes because you’ll be running on farm roads, jeep tracks and tarmac. Although this is a flat course, there is a nasty heartbreak hill towards the end of each lap to make sure you earn your unique medal which is in the format of a pair of spectacles. This is officially the hardest marathon to get to in the country: A 9-hour+ drive from all South Africa’s major cities or a very expensive once-a-day flight on SA Airlink. However, if you want to say you’ve run all over South Africa you need to notch up a marathon in all 19 athletics provinces – and this is the perfect opportunity to do so in the North Western Cape region. |
| Detailed Report | John Nugent Marathon (Upington: The Final Frontier): https://runningmann.co.za/2019/04/07/john-nugent-marathon-upington/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 800km (8-9h drive) or very expensive 1h30 flight (over R6,000) |
Potties Marathon (Sat 18 Feb): Cancelled
| Location | Mokopane, Lim |
| Route Type | Double-lapper |
| Website | – |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 100 |
| Race Description | An interesting double-lapper (you don’t get too many of those) on a flat route that includes a bit of dirt road running along some game farms. If you like experiencing town and country on the same run this is a good one to do. I always thought this race was in Potchefstroom but it takes its name from the former name of Mokopane – Potgietersrus – which was the town’s name when the race started. |
| Detailed Report | Potties Marathon Photies (A Pictorial Report from the South African Bushveld): https://runningmann.co.za/2018/02/21/potties-marathon/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 270km (2h30) drive due north on the N1 |
Zabalaza Marathon (Sun 19 Feb): Unconfirmed
| Location | Cato Ridge, KZN |
| Route Type | Double-lapper |
| Website | – |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 30 |
| Race Description | According to the organiser this is fast, undulating, double-lap route. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 600km (6h) drive or 1h flight to Durban and 80km drive from King Shaka Airport. |
Cape Peninsula Marathon (Sun 19 Feb): Confirmed
| Location | Cape Town, WC |
| Route Type | Point-to-point |
| Website | https://www.topevents.co.za/event/cape-peninsula-marathon-and-half-marathon-2022/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 3000 |
| Race Description | A secinc point-to-point marathon from Green Point to Simon’s Town with plenty of running along the coastline. A fast, flat, easy marathon – unless the South Easter wind blows! |
| Detailed Report | Peninsula Marathon (Naval gazing in the Cape): https://runningmann.co.za/2022/03/18/peninsula-marathon/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | Fly to Cape Town; Green Point is 20km and Simon’s Town 45km from the airport. |
Groot Gat Marathon (Sun 19 Feb): Unconfirmed
| Location | Kimberley, NC |
| Route Type | Circular |
| Website | – |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 100 |
| Race Description | The race takes its name from what is claimed to be the deepest hole excavated by hand – Kimberley’s ‘Groot Gat’ (or Big Hole) – and the relatively easy circular route that takes one through the Big Hole complex. There is a tricky off-road section through a working quarry to negotiate before one heads back into Kimberley. Much of the marshalling is done with the assistance of the residents of the Yonder Home for Mentally Impaired – a really nice touch and a great reason to give your marshals a friendly greeting. The race is organised by one of the oldest running clubs in the country, Kimberley Pirates, who gave birth to the truant child resident in Greenside. A “Groot Gat” marathon t-shirt is something to be worn with pride (and gets one many admiring looks). |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 500km (5h) drive or 1h flight (approx R2,000 return) |
CDM Polokwane Marathon (Sat 25 Feb): Confirmed
| Location | Polokwane, Lim |
| Route Type | Circular |
| Website | https://polokwaneathleticclub.co.za |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 300 |
| Race Description | A fast and flat route around Limpopo’s capital city. The route isn’t going to win any beauty competitions but is a good option as a qualifier for those in South Africa’s northern outreaches. The race strives to be the premium marathon in the area with a total prize purse of R150,000. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 325km (3h) drive due north on the N1. |
Battlefields Marathon (Sat 25 Feb): Confirmed
| Location | Newcastle, KZN |
| Route Type | Out-and-back |
| Website | https://newcastleharriers.co.za/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 100 |
| Race Description | This is a hilly out-and-back route along the quiet D96 passed Fort Amiel (a garrison from the Anglo Boer which is now a national monument). Although the course is tough, the surrounding scenery is simply stunning – your legs might complain about the hills but your eyes will feast on the pristine Drakensburg views for the full 42.2 kilometres. Whilst this might not be the easist marathon on the calendar, it’s great preperation for Comrades – every single person who used the race for as their Comrades qualifier finished the race in 2022. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 300km (3h15 drive) south |
Old Mutual Insure Bielie Mielie Marathon (Sat 25 Feb): Confirmed
| Location | Reitz, FS |
| Route Type | Out-and-back |
| Website | http://www.bieliemielie.co.za/index.php |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 100 |
| Race Description | The people of Reitz have a bielie mielie and they know how to use it! Although the town of Reitz is small in size they are big on mielies – and have one of the largest maize silos in the southern hemisphere. The marathon forms part of the Bielie Mielie Festival – a long weekend full of festivities, sporting activities and ‘lietjies’ from the best Afrikaans talent in the industry. The out-and-back route is run over undulating country roads while competitors take in the atmosphere of the eastern Free State. If you like your mielies buttered on both sides, stick around after the race to experience some local culture at the festival. The energetic and competitive can take part in the ‘Boeresport-kompetisie’ later on Saturday afternoon together with your favourite local soap opera stars. Other activities include eiergooi (egg-tossing), mieliepit eet (competitive corn consumption), sakresies (sack races), trekkerband trek (tractor tyre pull) en baaldra (hay bale tossing). |
| Detailed Report | Bielie Mielie Marathon (Valentine’s Day in the Free State): https://runningmann.co.za/2020/03/21/bielie-mielie-marathon/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 215km (2h) drive south. |
TWK Assegaai Marathon (Sat 25 Feb): Confirmed
| Location | Piet Retief, Mpu |
| Route Type | Out-and-back |
| Website | https://www.facebook.com/AssegaaiMC/ or @assegaaimarathonclub on Instagram |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 200 |
| Race Description | An excellent race close to the Swaziland border. The route is really simple – you run all the way to the Assegaai River and then you turn around and run back again. The first 8km provides a gentle climb and then you have a long gentle decline before a final plummet to the river. This means that the Assegaai stabs you in the back with lots of climbing over the second half. Local legend has it that if you drink from the Assegaai river, it will forever be in your blood. Local common sense has it that if you drink from the Assegaai river, you will have a severe case of explosive diarrhoea. The motto of the organising club is “Laat waai, Assegaai,” which translates as “Let loose, Assegaai.” – one glass of unfiltered river water and you’ll definitely be letting loose all over the place! The race entry is worth is just to experience the Charka support table – undoubtedly the best table I’ve ever had the pleasure of frequenting. Tables are every 2km along the route and compete for prestigious annual trophies. |
| Detailed Report | Assegaai Marathon (Can You Judge A Marathon By The Shirt?): https://runningmann.co.za/2018/02/25/assegaai-marathon/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 330km (4h) drive along the N17 and N2. |
Cango Marathon (Sat 25 Feb): Confirmed
| Location | Oudtshoorn. WC |
| Route Type | Point-to-point |
| Website | https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086833024612 |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 1000 |
| Race Description | A downhill marathon from the famous Cango Caves to the Infantry School in Oudtshoorn. A fast qualifier amongst wonderful mountainous scenery and farmland – look out for large flocks of ostriches along the way to Oudtshoorn. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 1150km (11h+) drive. Recommend fly to George and 60km drive from there. |
Buffs Marathon (Sun 26 Feb): Confirmed
| Location | East London, EC |
| Route Type | Point-to-point |
| Website | https://www.buffaloroadrunners.co.za/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 1000 |
| Race Description | A fast, downhill marathon that starts near Macleantown at an altitude of 500m and drops you back to sea-level at the Buffs Club in East London. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 1,000km (10h) drive or 1h30 flight to East London (R1,000 – R2,000 return) and 50km (1h) drive. |
Ethekwini Best of Best Marathon (Sun 26 Feb): Confirmed
| Location | Durban, KZN |
| Route Type | Double-lapper |
| Website | http://www.bestofthebestmarathon.co.za |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 1000 |
| Race Description | A double-lap route from Kings Park Stadium towards Suncoast Casino including a section along the promenade. From there it’s over the river to Durban North and then back to Kings Park. This race is much better organised than the Durban City Marathon which follows a similar route. |
| Detailed Report | Best of the Best Marathon (Surviving Shark country): https://runningmann.co.za/2022/04/26/best-of-the-best-marathon/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 600km (6h) drive or 1h flight to Durban and 35km drive from King Shaka Airport. |
Phobians Pretoria Marathon (Sun 26 Feb): Confirmed
| Location | Pretoria, Gau |
| Route Type | Double-lapper |
| Website | https://pretoriamarathon.co.za/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 3000 |
| Race Description | This race in the nation’s capital is one of the tougher marathons out there. The double-lap route winds you up Waterkloof Ridge and to the top of Klapperkop Hill before murdering your quads with a rapid descent that takes you all the way into the beautiful grounds of Pretoria Boys’ High School. Although the final kilometre is a juicy downhill, the preceding four kilometres are a steady climb that will test your weary legs. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 75km (1h) but allow extra time for traffic. |
Capital City Marathon (Sun 26 Feb): Confirmed
| Location | Pietermaritzburg, KZN |
| Route Type | Circular |
| Website | https://capitalcity42.co.za/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 1000 |
| Race Description | Touted in its inaugural year (2020) as the Marathon of Choice, this is a relatively flat one-lap route around Kwazulu Natal’s capital city that starts in front of the iconic City Hall and finishes a short distance away at the Umsunduzi Athletics Stadium. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 500km (5h) drive or fly to Durban and 100km (1h) drive from King Shaka. |
Edenvale Marathon (Sun 26 Feb): Confirmed
| Location | Johannesburg, Gau |
| Route Type | Double-lapper |
| Website | https://randroadwarriors.co.za/edenvale-marathon/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 2000 |
| Race Description | This is your stock-standard fast-and-flat East Rand double-lapper. A well organised, low fuss community organised marathon with all proceeds going to local charities. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | Edenvale is 15km east of central Joburg with many access points. |
March
Bruintjieshoogte 50k Ultra (Sat 04 Mar): Cancelled
| Location | Somerset East, EC |
| Route Type | Out-and-back |
| Website | – |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 200 |
| Race Description | This is a quality 50km race surrounded by the beautiful Eastern Cape landscape. One of the real hidden gems on the race calendar. A race all runners should make the effort to run at least once. A 25km climb out of Somerset East to the top of the Bruintjieshoogte and then back again is the recipe for another great South African 50km ultra. The oldest ultra in the Eastern Cape and one I would recommend all runners add to their running CV. Top tip: Take some time to unwind afterwards in the awesome Addo Elephant National Park – and practice your game spotting skills along the route keeping a lookout for kudu, gemsbok and the majestic sable. |
| Detailed Report | Marathon Addict? Guilty As Charged! (My 100th Unique Marathon At Bruintjieshoogte): https://runningmann.co.za/2018/05/17/bruintjieshoogte-marathon/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 1,050km (11h) drive or a 1h30 flight (approx R1,500) and 200km (2h) drive to Somerset East.. |
Hemel & Aarde Marathon (Sat 04 Mar): Cancelled
| Location | Caledon-Hermanus, WC |
| Route Type | Point-to-point |
| Website | – |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 2000 |
| Race Description | This is s beautiful point-to-point route between Caledon and Hermanus. On paper this is an easy downhill marathon but in practice there are plenty of rolling hills along the way before you finally start descending towards the coastline. The good news for weary runner is that refreshment tables are every 2km from the 30km mark and the last 10km are “mostly downhill”. The Hemel and Aarde race is organised by running legend Wietse van der Westhuizen who promises to move heaven and earth to make is a great new runner-centric addition to the marathon calendar. This year the finish is at Hermanus High School which cuts out one of the early climbs and makes the route easier than the inaugural event in 2020. |
| Detailed Report | Hemel & Aarde Marathon (Leap year running): https://runningmann.co.za/2020/03/27/hemel-aarde-marathon/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | Fly to Cape Town; 100km (1h15) drive from the airport to Caledon or Hermanus |
VKB Surrender Hill Marathon (Sat 04 Mar): Confirmed
| Location | Clarens, FS |
| Route Type | Out-and-back |
| Website | www.bethlehemmarathonklub.co.za |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 100 |
| Race Description | One should always be wary of marathons with the word ‘hill’ in the title – the Surrender Hill Marathon enhances this reputation. It’s a gruelling out-and-back route that takes one over 1,900m above sea level whilst you enjoy the natural beauty of the Maluti Mountains. Surrender Hill was known as ‘Sleeping Beauty’ until 1900 when the Free State Boers surrendered to the British during the Angle Boer War. It is now a national heritage site and forms the focal point of the marathon. Saying that you’ve conquered Surrender Hill is must for all marathon runners. |
| Detailed Report | Surrender Hill Marathon (Overdosing on Maluti Muti): https://runningmann.co.za/2019/03/31/surrender-hill-marathon/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 300km (3h15 drive) south |
Powerade Marakele Marathon (Sat 04 Mar): Confirmed
| Location | Thabazimbi, Lim |
| Route Type | Out-and-back |
| Website | https://www.facebook.com/marakelemarathon/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 200 |
| Race Description | This was the favourite marathon I ran in 2017. It doesn’t get any better (or more South African) than running a marathon in an unfenced Big 5 game reserve. The Marakele National Park is nestled into the Waterberg and the race organisers ensure that you take time to enjoy your beautiful surroundings with one of the toughest climbs in the country to get to the turnaround point. Before heading back to the safety of base camp, take some time to enjoy the spectacular cliff faces. Whilst looking up, don’t be too concerned if vultures seem to be circling overhead and following you – the reserve is instrumental in the conservation of Cape Vultures with 800 breeding pairs (the most in the world). Armed rangers are positioned every few hundred metres to keep a close eye on proceedings and ensure the safety of the runners. Depending on your thrill-seeking levels, you may be lucky (or unlucky) enough to get a big 5 sighting on route – in 2012 runners had to be couriered around a pride of lions lazing in the road and some 2017 runners blamed their slower than expected times on the lethargic elephant bull who wandered across the route. If you do encounter a predator during your run the standard game ranger advice is, “Don’t worry, you don’t have to run faster than a lion. You just have to run faster than the guy next to you!” All proceeds go to the Marakele National park and its conservation projects. Each year the run themes itself around a different animal. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 250km (3h) – see how far the William Nicol/R511 goes north and the turn right to Thabazimbi. |
Diamond Marathon (Sat 04 Mar): Confirmed
| Location | Kimberley, NC |
| Route Type | Circular |
| Website | https://www.kimberleyharriers.co.za/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 100 |
| Race Description | Most humans learn walk when they are one years old. Kimberley Harriers celebrated their first birthday with a marathon over half a decade ago and they’ve now got the oldest marathon in the Northern Cape. I was fortunate to run the Golden Jubilee of the Diamond Marathon in 2020 (their 50th event). There are not many marathons on the planet that get to turn 50 and this may be the one with the smallest field. The route is fast and flat route with the friendly runners from Kimberley to keep you company. The races boast one of the longest standing men’s records in South Africa: 2:19:05 set 30 years ago by a very young Gert Thys who was running as a junior! |
| Detailed Report | Diamond Marathon (Roughing it amongst the diamonds): https://runningmann.co.za/2020/03/30/diamond-marathon-roughing-it-amongst-the-diamonds/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 500km (5h) drive or 1h flight (approx R2,000 return) |
Knysna Heads Marathon (Sat 04 Mar): Confirmed
| Location | Knysna, WC |
| Route Type | Out-and-back |
| Website | https://knysnamarathonclub.com/knysna-heads-marathon/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 300 |
| Race Description | Flat and beautiful don’t often go together but the Knysna Heads marathon gets full marks on both counts. The highest point on the route is just 30m above sea level. This is a tranquil tour around the Knysna Lagoon which hugs the water for all but 2.4 km of the entire route. |
| Detailed Report | Knysna Heads Marathon (The Return of the Jetty): https://runningmann.co.za/2019/05/01/knysna-heads-marathon/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 1,250km (12h) drive or 2h flight to George (R1,000 – R3,000 return) and 70km (1h) drive. |
Cape Gate Vaal Marathon (Sun 05 Mar): Confirmed
| Location | Vereeniging, Gau |
| Route Type | Double-lapper |
| Website | http://www.vaalmarathon.co.za/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 2000 |
| Race Description | For those who are scared of curves, this is as flat as South African marathons get. Bring a rose to throw on the lawn of the late crooner Bles Bridges – you never know, he might be your father! This is an immensely popular qualification marathon and a race many a runner has PBed on. The two-laps are as fast and flat with a very gradual climb over the first half of the lap. The second half includes the Three Rivers region (see if you can spot the Suikerbosch, Vaal and Klip Rivers). Although Vaal Athletic Club (also known as sideways Celtics for their vertical green and white striped vest) has just 49 members they pull in friends, family and the local community to pull off the biggest sporting event in the Vaal Triangle. The race gives back to the local community in kind with a portion of your entry going to local charities (and funds from previous race funds have been used to fix all the potholes on the route). There is a special medal on offer: An “Arthur Doyle” medal for all sub-3:15 finishers. Arthur is the lifelong President of the Vaal Athletic Club and is one of the founding fathers of the marathon. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 60km (45m) south but allow more time for raceday traffic. |
Benoni Northerns Marathon (Sun 05 Mar): Confirmed
| Location | Benoni, Gau |
| Route Type | Double-lapper |
| Website | https://bnac.co.za/bnacmarathon / https://www.facebook.com/benoninorthernsmarathon |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 3000 |
| Race Description | The route is a fast and flat double-lapper through Northmead, Rynfield and the beautiful Ebotse golf estate (for those who got their fill of Benoni earlier in the year at Johnson Crane, this route is completely different). There’s plenty of shade along the way making this an ideal route to test your legs and improve your seeding before Comrades. This year there is just a standard marathon and no ultra option. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | The start is 40km (30mins) east of central Joburg with many access points but allow for race day traffic. |
Tzaneen Tuffy Marathon (Sat 11 Mar): Confirmed
| Location | Tzaneen, Lim |
| Route Type | Circular |
| Website | https://www.facebook.com/TzaneenTuffy/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 100 |
| Race Description | If you can fly up these hills, Comrades will be a breeze! And if the hills don’t leave you breathless, the scenery will. This is as difficult as marathons get. The first 17km smash your quads as you skydive from an altitude 1,200m down to 650m. If you go out too fast expect a lot of turbulence over the rest of your journey. For those that avoid a crash landing into the lowveld, the next few kilometres provide a chance to level out… but then it’s time to fasten your seatbelts for a monster 600m climb over 10km that will test the aviation skills of even the strongest marathon runner. As long as the wheels haven’t come off, the last 3km are an easy downhill for a smooth landing back in Tzaneen. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 400km (4h30) along the N1 to Polokwane. |
Lake Umuzi Kosmos 3-in-1 Marathon (Sat 11 Mar): Confirmed
| Location | Secunda, Mpu |
| Route Type | Circular |
| Website | http://kosmos3in1.co.za/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 2000 |
| Race Description | A flat marathon where most of the participants stick around to run another half marathon at lunchtime and a further 10km in the evening for a 73.3km total. You can run all three or enter events individually. The race has superb refreshment tables hosted by the local community – so you’ll be well fed and supported over the course of the day (the Fats Cats running club were known as the Chubby Cats before they started running Kosmos). All races start and finish at the Lake Umuzi Kamp Oase – an excellent venue that provides plenty of entertainment options for the kids while mom and/or dad run. |
| Detailed Report | Kosmos 3-in-1 (Where A Marathon Is The Soft Option): https://runningmann.co.za/2018/03/18/kosmos-marathon/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 130km (1h30) drive east along the N17. |
Anco Ultra Ultra (Sat 11 Mar): Confirmed
| Location | Welkom, FS |
| Route Type | Triple-lapper |
| Website | https://goudveldmultisport.co.za/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 100 |
| Race Description | If you’re in Welkom and you’re bored (but I repeat myself). Three 16k laps around Welkom is great mental preperation for anything that life might throw at you! |
| Detailed Report | Anco Ultra (You know you’re addicted to running when…): https://runningmann.co.za/2020/04/07/anco-ultra-welkom/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 250km (2h30) drive from Joburg down the N1. |
Durban International Marathon (Sun 12 Mar): Confirmed
| Location | Duban, KZN |
| Route Type | Point-to-point |
| Website | https://durbanmarathon.co.za/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 1000 |
| Race Description | Point to point route that doubles as the SA champs. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 600km (6h) drive or 1h flight to Durban and 35km drive from King Shaka Airport. |
Swasap 52k Ultra (Sat 18 Mar): Confirmed
| Location | Bloemfontein, FS |
| Route Type | Circular |
| Website | http://bfnachilles.co.za/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 100 |
| Race Description | I am told this is a moderate route with some hills. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 400km (4h) drive due south on the N1. |
Om Die Dam 50k Ultra (Sat 18 Mar): Confirmed
| Location | Hartbeespoort, NW |
| Route Type | Circular |
| Website | http://www.omdiedamultra.co.za/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 4000 |
| Race Description | Like the name says, this ultra is one long lap around the Hartbeespoort Dam. The route is back to its traditional anti-clockwise direction in 2022 which means the classic climb of Saartjies Nek greets you at the 38km mark. This is a tough route with continual undulations.. Enjoy the spectacular views on offer as you run over the Hartbeespoort Dam wall early on but the real highlight of this race is Saartjies Nek at 38km. Legend has it that Saartjie was a wicked witch who now haunts the pass (making this a real “hek’s nek”). Saartjie is indeed a nasty nymph who will haunt and taunt the weary ultra runner as you slowly drag yourself to the top of the Nek. Take your time to appreciate the effort the support tables put into this section – the road is lined with replica witches who mock you with “mop messages” like “Saartjie sê goeiemore“, “Saartjie het jou” (Saartjie’s got you) and at the top “Saartjie sê sien jou volgende jaar” (Saarjie says see you next year). When I first ran the race, Saartjie could only speak Afrikaans but she has learnt a bit of English over the years – maybe she’ll also start speaking another of our 11 official languages in years to come! |
| Detailed Report | Om Die Dam: The Good, The Bad & The Ugly: https://runningmann.co.za/2018/03/27/om-die-dam-good-bad-ugly/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 80km (1h). Reduced events and entry numbers should make traffic better this year but in the past you had to leave by 3:30am to make the 6am start. Note from the organisers: “There will soon be updated detail directions from Gauteng to the venue on our website (since there are various routes available). Runners should familiarise them with the proposed routes and not use their GPSs only, since there will be road closures in Hartbeespoort on the morning of the race.” |
Langebaan Country Estate Weskus Marathon (Sat 18 Mar): Confirmed
| Location | Langebaan, WC |
| Route Type | Point-to-point |
| Website | https://www.weskusmarathon.co.za/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 1000 |
| Race Description | This is a stunner of a race run entirely through the West Coast National Park. You start on the beach to the crashing sounds of the Atlantic Ocean and head up and down the fynbos covered sand dunes whilst the tranquil turquoise waters of the Langebaan Lagoon (the largest of its kind in the world) keeps you company. Those worried about twisting an ankle (or getting their shoes dirty) need not fear, only the initial 2km are on (smooth) dirt road and the remainder on tar. As an added bonus the route is entirely traffic free, so you can really appreciate your surroundings. Watch out for Langebaan Country Estate beer table at the 36km mark – which acts a warm-up for the carnival-like atmosphere at the finish. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 2h flight to Cape Town and 150km (1h30) drive from the airport to Langebaan. |
City of Mbombela / Jock of the Bushveld Marathon (Sat 18 Mar): Confirmed
| Location | Barberton-Mbombela, Mpu |
| Route Type | Point-to-point |
| Website | https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086086102892 |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 300 |
| Race Description | This is a new point-to-point race from Barberton to Mbombela aimed at promoting tourism in the region. The course is undulating with an easy 5k downhill start before a long pull to the 15k mark. The big climb is just after the 22k mark for 6 kilometres. After that is mainly downhill to the finish. Note: The race will alternate each year so it will be from Mbombela to Barberton this year. More details on the route will be published in the March marathons article. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 350km (4h) east along the N4. |
Mokoro Village Race Marathon (Sat 18 Mar): Confirmed
| Location | Mankweng, Lim |
| Route Type | ? |
| Website | ? |
| Typical Finishers | N/A |
| Race Description | Nothing known about this marathon. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | ? |
Human Rights Real Gijimas Ultra Ultra (Sun 19 Mar): Confirmed
| Location | East London, EC |
| Route Type | Point-to-point |
| Website | https://www.facebook.com/groups/241175602960648/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 300 |
| Race Description | A unique and superb running experience through the Eastern Cape townships. Highly recommended for those that want something a little different. The Real Gijimas club was formed in Mdantsane township as a sporting outlet during the political turmoil of the 1980s. As such they are the oldest township running club in the country and organise an impressive array of races – including the Bridle Drift Half Marathon (the toughest of its kind in the province). The inaugural 50k ultra was held in 2018 and the second running of this point-to-point race through the rural Eastern Cape promises to become a highlight on the running calendar. Having run every 50k race in South Africa, I can confirm that this is the toughest. If you can sail through the final 11km of razor-sharp uphills into and around Mdantsane township you are in good shape. |
| Detailed Report | Real Gijimas Ultra (Every village needs an idiot): https://runningmann.co.za/2019/05/15/real-gijimas-ultra/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 1,000km (10h) drive or 1h30 flight to East London (R1,000 – R2,000 return) and 50km (45m) drive. |
South Coast 48k Ultra (Sun 19 Mar): Cancelled
| Location | Uvongo, KZN |
| Route Type | Circular |
| Website | http://www.southcoaststriders.co.za/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 300 |
| Race Description | This race gives you a five-course feast that covers the diversity of the South Coast. From the Ugu Sports and Leisure Centre you start with a series of demanding but beautiful rolling hills through rural Kwazulu Natal, after which you head into the bustling township of Gamalakhe and drop down to the coast at Uvongo. The exquisite coastal road to Margate is the easiest section of the route (and the year I ran it there was a whale basking in the bay). After soaking up sea-level serenity, you head back inland over several steep climbs that consume most of the second half of the course. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 700km (7h) drive or 1h flight to Durban and 170km (2h) drive from King Shaka Airport. |
Umgeni Water Marathon (Sun 19 Mar): Confirmed
| Location | Howick, KZN |
| Route Type | Double-lapper |
| Website | https://www.collegiansharriers.co.za/umgeni.htm |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 200 |
| Race Description | Replace the traffic, congestion and carbon monoxide of other locales with the thick Midlands air on a traffic-free marathon and celebrate Water Week with a marathon around the Midmar Dam. This is a beautiful but surprisingly tough route exploring the 3,000 hectare Midmar nature reserve. Enjoy a complimentary coffee at the start and the stunning scenery along the route. Top tip: Stay in one of the resort chalets which are a few hundred metres from the start and enjoy a weekend in the Midlands. |
| Detailed Report | Umgeni Water Marathon (One Dam Marathon After Another): https://runningmann.co.za/2018/04/07/umgeni-water-marathon/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 550km (5h30) drive down the N3 or fly to King Shaka and 115km (1h30) drive. |
Jackie Gibson Marathon (Sun 19 Mar): Confirmed
| Location | Johannesburg, Gau |
| Route Type | Double-lapper |
| Website | https://www.facebook.com/JackieGibsonMarathon/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 2000 |
| Race Description | This is the Texas Chainsaw Massacre of marathons – connoisseurs of pain, horror and gore will love it whilst the weak and squeamish will hate every minute (for the record I love this race). The race celebrates its 77th running in 2023. As such it is Johannesburg’s oldest race – and the oldest standard marathon in the country. A tough double-lapper that has so many hills that no one has bothered to name them. A great Comrades training run and an experience that epitomises what marathon running is all about – a gritty race, organised by people who love the sport, that gives your legs (and your mind) a great workout. Highly recommended for Gauteng runners. |
| Detailed Report | Jackie Gibson Marathon (Where The Hills Have No Name): https://runningmann.co.za/2018/05/08/jackie-gibson-marathon/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | The start is 15km south of central Joburg with many access points. |
West Rand Marathon (Sun 19 Mar): Unconfirmed
| Location | Randfontein, Gau |
| Route Type | ? |
| Website | ? |
| Typical Finishers | N/A |
| Race Description | I have made contact with the race organisers who confirmed that there will be a “43km ultra marathon” this year (in the past the event had marathon in the title but was only a 10km). Strangely this event is on the same date as the Jackie Gibson Marathon. I will make updates as these are available. |
| Detailed Report | JM Busha Peace Marathon (A Tale From The Tavern) [Not sure how close the route is to this once off event.]: https://runningmann.co.za/2018/06/01/jm-busha-peace-marathon/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | The start is 50km west of central Joburg. |
Goldi Standerton Marathon (Tue 21 Mar): Confirmed
| Location | Standerton, Mpu |
| Route Type | Out-and-back |
| Website | http://www.standertonmarathonclub.co.za/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 500 |
| Race Description | Celebrate your right to run a marathon on Human Rights Day in Standerton. This is your typical small mining/agricultural town marathon with energetic support tables lining the out-and-back route. This is a popular qualifying marathon with a fairly easy route along the R50 towards Leandra. In the past the R50 was a like a cross-country course in places – and your biggest risk was disappearing down a pothole – however, the road has recently been repaired so this year’s runners can enjoy a smooth run. For those that aren’t chasing a fast time, enjoy the thousands of cosmos flowers that are blooming at this time of the year. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 160km (2h) south east. |
Nelspruit MC 4-in-1 Marathon (Sat 25 Mar): Confirmed
| Location | Mbombela, Mpu |
| Route Type | Point-to-point |
| Website | https://nelspruitmarathonclub.com/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 500 |
| Race Description | This is the one of the fastest and easiest marathons on the calendar. Make sure you stock up on ice to treat your quads afterwards though! A point to point, downhill quadkiller that starts on the R37 towards Sabie and finishes at the Mbombela Stadium. Although the last few kilometres are similar to Kaapsehoop Marathon, this race drops you into Nelspruit/Mbombela via a different road. Take time to admire the views as you descend from the highveld to the lowveld – and enjoy the scents and colours of the local foliage and fauna. Note: There used to be a 50km and standard marathon option but in 2023 there is just a marathon. |
| Detailed Report | Uniwisp Fast 50 (The Fastest Ultra in Africa): https://runningmann.co.za/2018/03/14/uniwisp-fast-50/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 350km (4h) east along the N4. |
Hippo Richards Bay Marathon (Sat 25 Mar): Confirmed
| Location | Richards Bay, KZN |
| Route Type | Double-lapper |
| Website | – |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 200 |
| Race Description | Run the most easterly marathon in South Africa – and for those that like to get their run over and done with as early as possible this race starts at 4:30am. After a long absence, marathon running returned to Richards Bay with the ‘Hippo’ – a super flat double-lapper at sea-level through the suburbs of Richards Bay. Things can get hot and sweaty very quickly in Richards Bay so to compensate for the expected heat the race starts extra early and refreshment tables are extra frequent to prevent overheating. Full road closure on two of the main roads and partial road closure for the rest of the route. |
| Detailed Report | Hippo Marathon (Getting hot & sweaty in Richards Bay): https://runningmann.co.za/2019/03/24/hippo-marathon/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 600km (7h) drive or fly to Durban and 150km (1h30) drive from King Shaka along the N2. |
Sasol Sasolburg Marathon (Sat 25 Mar): Confirmed
| Location | Sasolburg, FS |
| Route Type | Double-lapper |
| Website | https://www.facebook.com/Sasolburg-Athletic-Club-122425144543541/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 1000 |
| Race Description | Obtuse, acute, right: Regardless of which angle you look at the Vaal Triangle from, you are in for a hot run through flat industrial landscapes. However, the people of the Vaal Triangle are proud of their towns, so much so that they all make you run around them twice. Sasolburg, founded in 1954 as a housing project for the local Sasol petroleum refinery (and the bottom point of the Vaal Triangle), is no exception: This is a fast and flat marathon that gives you a two-lap tour of the town. However, the race organisers have some mercy on their runners and ensure that there is plenty of shade along the way – and what the area lacks in natural beauty they make up for with some spectacular waterpoints. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 80km (1h) drive along the N1 or R59. |
Human Rights Marathon (Sat 25 Mar): Unconfirmed
| Location | Bloemfontein, FS |
| Route Type | ? |
| Website | ? |
| Typical Finishers | N/A |
| Race Description | Nothing known about this marathon. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | ? |
Durban City Marathon (Sun 26 Mar): Confirmed
| Location | Durban, KZN |
| Route Type | Double-lapper |
| Website | https://www.durbancitymarathon.co.za/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 1000 |
| Race Description | A flat two lap tour of Durban incorporating the city centre, promenade, harbour and point area. Runner Beware: Bring your own water – this race is regularly plagued by serious organisational issues. |
| Detailed Report | Durban City Marathon (Water, water everywhere but not a drop to drink): https://runningmann.co.za/2022/04/29/durban-city-marathon/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 600km (6h) drive or 1h flight to Durban and 35km drive from King Shaka Airport. |
April
Mall of the North Marathon (Sat 01 Apr): Confirmed
| Location | Polokwane, Lim |
| Route Type | Out-and-back |
| Website | www.polokwaneathleticclub.co.za |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 500 |
| Race Description | Polokwane races are normally hot and not particularly interesting. However, this race bucks the trend and is the best I’ve done in Limpopo’s largest city. An out and back route that takes you almost immediately from the mall parking lot into pristine African savannah and keeps you there for over 40km. |
| Detailed Report | Mall Of The North Marathon (The Pick of Polokwane): https://runningmann.co.za/2018/05/01/mall-of-the-north-marathon/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 325km (3h) drive due north on the N1. |
Highveld Marathon (Sat 01 Apr): Confirmed
| Location | Ermelo, Mpu |
| Route Type | Out-and-back |
| Website | – |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 300 |
| Race Description | Your stock, standard small town marathon through the Mpumalanga agricultural and mining town (and surrounding countryside) of Ermelo. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 210km (2h15) drive east on the N17. |
Potato Pride Wilge Marathon (Sat 01 Apr): Unconfirmed
| Location | Frankfort, FS |
| Route Type | Out-and-back |
| Website | ? |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 100 |
| Race Description | The is an out-and-back course with most of the route being run on good quality dirt road along the banks of the picturesque Wilge River. There’s a drop down to the river early on and a steep climb back into town at the end but, other than that, it’s flat and scenic. Be aware that running next to the river can be freezing cold until the sun warms things up. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 150km (1h30) drive south down the N3 |
Balwin Properties (formerly Dolphin Coast) Marathon (Sun 02 Apr): Confirmed
| Location | Durban, KZN |
| Route Type | Out-and-back |
| Website | https://dolphincoaststriders.co.za/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 3000 |
| Race Description | “Fast and beautiful” is a combination you’ll seldom find on South African marathon route descriptions – get to enjoy the best of both worlds at this marathon up and down the M4 Dolphin Coast highway. Enjoy great beach views on a fast course whilst the gentle sea breeze counteracts the Durban heat and humidity. Note: This race was previously known as the Dolphin Coast Marathon. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 600km (6h30) drive or fly to King Shaka and 20km (20m) drive. |
Irene Ultra 48k Ultra (Sun 02 Apr): Confirmed
| Location | Centurion, Gau |
| Route Type | Triple-lapper |
| Website | https://www.ireneultra.co.za |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 3000 |
| Race Description | This is one of only two ultras in Gauteng and is a low fuss, hassle-free Gauteng ultra that brands itself as “#THEQualifier for Comrades”. The race starts and finishes in the local agricultural grounds with the meat of the race run through the Irene and Midstream suburbs. The route has changed to a 3 x 16 km lapper to ensure the safety of the runners and has plenty of long, straight stretches for easy running. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | The start is 50km (45mins) north of central Joburg with many access points but allow for race day traffic. |
aQuelle Zone 48k (Sat 08 Apr): Confirmed
| Location | Johannesburg, Gau |
| Route Type | Double-lapper |
| Website | https://runzone.co.za/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 1000 |
| Race Description | TBC |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 10km north of the city centre |
Great East Marathon (Sat 08 Apr): Unconfirmed
| Location | Hazyview, Mpu |
| Route Type | Circular |
| Website | ? |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 30 |
| Race Description | I ran the inaugural event in 2019 when there were just 18 finishers and really enjoyed it. There are no major hills but there are constant undulations making this quite a difficult route (total elevation is 723m). The scenery is spectacular over this circular route in rural Mpumalanga on the doorstep of the Kruger National Park. |
| Detailed Report | Great East Marathon (The Kruger Park run): https://runningmann.co.za/2019/05/07/great-east-marathon/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 400km (4h30) drive east on the N4 past Mbombela. |
Galaxy Bingo Wolfpack Marathon (Sat 15 Apr): Confirmed
| Location | Tzaneen, Lim |
| Route Type | Circular |
| Website | https://www.facebook.com/Warriors-Wolfpack-Marathon-4-in-1-102960192094644 |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 30 |
| Race Description | The route starts with a picturesque ten kilometre out-and-back along the R36 from the Merensky School. Once back at the school, the remaining 32 kilometres are essentially a big loop around the Tzaneen Dam. The route is described by locals as being “Relatively flat.” However, this is term that must be heard with caution in this part of the world where you can rise and fall between the Lowveld and the Highveld during a parkrun. The Wolfpack Marathon is relatively flat compared to the other marathons in the area in the same way that Scarlett Johansson is relatively flat when compared with Dolly Parton. |
| Detailed Report | (The runt of the litter at) The Wolfpack Warriors Marathon: https://runningmann.co.za/2021/10/29/wolfpack-warriors-marathon-tzaneen/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 400km (4h30) drive mostly along the N1. |
Total Sports Two Oceans 56k Ultra (Sat 15 Apr): Confirmed
| Location | Cape Town, WC |
| Route Type | Circular |
| Website | https://www.twooceansmarathon.org.za/events/ultra-marathon / |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 9000 |
| Race Description | Enjoy 56 magnificent kilometres around the Cape Peninsula. The second largest ultra in the world and my own personal favourite (I’m looking forward to my 19th voyage in 2023). After a flat first half through Cape Town’s southern suburbs and alongside the Indian Ocean, you get to climb one of the most beautiful passes in the world, Chapman’s Peak Drive. A drop into Hout Bay gets you to the marathon mark and this is followed by 4km of extreme nastiness called Constantia Nek. The last 10km are mainly downhill with a few bumps along the way until you reach the best finish straight in the country at the University of Cape Town. |
| Detailed Report | Two Oceans (A Love Letter To My Favourite Ultra): https://runningmann.co.za/2018/04/25/two-oceans-ultra-love-letter/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | Fly to Cape Town; 20km drive from the airport to Newlands. |
Nquthu Marathon (Sun 16 Apr): Unconfirmed
| Location | Nquthu, KZN |
| Route Type | ? |
| Website | ? |
| Typical Finishers | N/A |
| Race Description | Nothing known about this marathon. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | ? |
TRACN4 Elands Marathon (Sat 22 Apr): Confirmed
| Location | Ngodwana, Mpu |
| Route Type | Point-to-point |
| Website | https://www.tracn4.co.za/#/trackeventsElandsMarathon |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 1000 |
| Race Description | This a point-to-point downhill flyer along a scenic route for those looking for an easy qualifier or to upgrade their Comrades seeding. The race sponsor also manages the road the marathon is run on – ensuring a safe and secure running experience with full road closures. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 260km (3h) drive east on the N12 and N4. |
Polokwane City Marathon (Sat 22 Apr): Confirmed
| Location | Polokwane, Lim |
| Route Type | Circular |
| Website | www.polokwaneathleticclub.co.za |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 300 |
| Race Description | Flat circular route around Polokwane City |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 325km (3h) drive due north on the N1. |
Kovsie Runners Marathon (Sat 22 Apr): Unconfirmed
| Location | Bloemfontein, FS |
| Route Type | ? |
| Website | ? |
| Typical Finishers | N/A |
| Race Description | Nothing known about this marathon. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 400km (4h) drive due south on the N1. |
Selati Pongola Sugar Cane Marathon (Sat 22 Apr): Unconfirmed
| Location | Pongola, KZN |
| Route Type | Double-lapper |
| Website | https://www.facebook.com/pongolaac/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 100 |
| Race Description | The route is flat and easy through the sugar cane fields of northern Kwazulu Natal. You can expect great hospitality, excellent support tables, a jam packed goodie bag and one of the best medals of any race (a 80mm “hanging sugarcane man”). You won’t often hear me saying, “This is a double-lap marathon worth travelling for.” but I am happy to make an exception for Pongola. |
| Detailed Report | Pongola Marathon (The Zululand Sugar Rush): https://runningmann.co.za/2019/07/22/pongola-marathon/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 425km (4h45) drive east along the N17 and N2. |
Tshwane North Ultra Ultra (Sat 22 Apr): Confirmed
| Location | Pretoria, Gau |
| Route Type | Circular |
| Website | https://www.facebook.com/Thecombatrun/ |
| Typical Finishers | N/A |
| Race Description | From the organisers, “Tshwane North Ultra (TNU) is a new initiative to host an official 50km and 21km road running event aiming at the streets of North of Tshwane on the vicinity of the Magalies Mountains. It passes through the beautiful landmarks of Pretoria North and West as it creates a circular map of the northern and southern Magaliesberg mountain range via Hornsnek road starting at Akasia Community Hall and going down to the bottom of Wonderboom and coming back to the finish via Berg Avenue. This initiative which is being put together as a collaborative effort between Atteridgeville Athletics Club, Addicted to Life Multisports & Lifestyle Club and Madoko Athletics Club was borne out of the need to support both elites and social runners in the Tshwane North area.” |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | ? |
Rising Sun Chatsworth Freedom 52k Ultra (Sun 23 Apr): Confirmed
| Location | Durban, KZN |
| Route Type | Circular |
| Website | http://chatsworthathletic.co.za/rising-sun-chatsworth-freedom-marathon/about-the-freedom-marathon/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 1000 |
| Race Description | Only the rash and reckless walk the streets of Chatsworth – but only the incredibly brave run 52km around her streets. This is a race that earns you serious street cred. The Chatsworth Freedom Ultra was started to commemorate the end of apartheid and dawn of democracy in South Africa – and has been going strong ever since. You get to cover almost every street in Chatsworth as you wind and grind up and down their undulating terrain. With long stretches along the Higginson Highway, this is a route that tests your mind and well as your legs – making this an ideal Comrades preparation run (Stephen Muzhingi has won the race twice and followed both victories up with a Comrades triumph). The route is something between circular and a double-lapper as there are several repeat sections. The highlight of the route comes towards the end – four shaded, scenic kilometres through the Silverglen Nature Reserve. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 600km (6h) drive or 1h flight to Durban and 55km drive from King Shaka Airport. |
Sedibeng Marathon (Thu 27 Apr): Confirmed
| Location | Vereeniging, Gau |
| Route Type | Circular |
| Website | None |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 500 |
| Race Description | Running a marathon in the Vaal Triangle for the views is like watching a porno for the storyline. This is a flat, single lap course amongst steel smelting plants, petro-chemical factories, coal fired power stations and electricity pylons. Vereeniging is all smoke and no mirrors but it does have its own charm – and I enjoyed running the inaugural event in 2019 and expect I’ll be back for more. |
| Detailed Report | Sedibeng Marathon (Getting down & dirty in the Vaal Triangle): https://runningmann.co.za/2020/04/26/sedibeng-marathon/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 65km (45m) south |
Outeniqua Marathon (Sat 29 Apr): Confirmed
| Location | George-Wilderness, WC |
| Route Type | Point-to-point |
| Website | https://www.facebook.com/groups/162468160447018/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 200 |
| Race Description | If this is not on your bucket list add it now. A superb small field marathon in the heart of the Garden Route. The route combines trail, tar and dirt road as you navigate the ancient roads cut into the Tsitsikamma forest between George and Wilderness. Expect hills, dams, lakes, lagoons, stunning sea views and indigenous forests. |
| Detailed Report | Outeniqua Marathon (The One I Almost Missed): https://runningmann.co.za/2018/05/26/outeniqua-marathon/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 1,200km (12h) drive or 2h flight to George (R1,000 – R3,000 return). |
North West N12 Ultra (Sat 29 Apr): Confirmed
| Location | Klerksdorp-Potch, NW |
| Route Type | Point-to-point |
| Website | https://www.nwn12ultra.co.za/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 500 |
| Race Description | Point to point ultra along the N12 from Klerksdorp to Potch. The inaugural event in 2022 had some organisational issues. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 170km (2h) drive along the N12. |
Titaniums Marathon Marathon (Sat 29 Apr): Confirmed
| Location | Bloemfontein, FS |
| Route Type | Double-lapper |
| Website | https://www.facebook.com/C2TitaniumsAC/ |
| Typical Finishers | N/A |
| Race Description | A new double-lap marathon is Bloemfontein. With a total elevation gain of 261m this looks like a fairly flat route. |
| Detailed Report | : |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 400km (4h) drive due south on the N1. |
Kuruman Marathon (Sat 29 Apr): Confirmed
| Heading | Kuruman Marathon (Sat 29 Apr): Confirmed |
| Race Date | Saturday 29 April 2023 |
| Location | Kuruman, NC |
| Route Type | ? |
| Website | www.facebook.com/Kuruman-Running-Club-285976032121266 |
| Typical Finishers | N/A |
| Race Description | Nothing known about this marathon. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 530km (6h) drive along the N14 |
Walker Bay Marathon (Sat 29 Apr): Confirmed
| Race Date | Saturday 29 April 2023 |
| Location | Hermanus, WC |
| Route Type | Circular |
| Website | https://walkerbayoutdoor.com/sports/run/ |
| Typical Finishers | N/A |
| Race Description | Nothing known about this marathon. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | Fly to Cape Town; 100km (1h15) drive from the airport to Caledon or Hermanus |
Prince Mangosuthu 52k Ultra (Sun 30 Apr): Confirmed
| Location | Nqutu-Dundee, KZN |
| Route Type | Point-to-point |
| Website | https://www.facebook.com/groups/823926617668517/user/100063701852974/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 300 |
| Race Description | A point-to-point ultra from Nqutu to Dundee in northern KZN. The first 18 kilometres are an easy downhill that drops one from around 1,400m to below 1,100m. This lulls one into a false sense of security until you hit the bottom of the Buffalo River Valley. From that point onward it’s hard work, with plenty of climbing as you bob up and down all the way to Dundee. |
| Detailed Report | Prince Mangosuthu Ultra (The Dundee double): https://runningmann.co.za/2019/09/08/prince-mangosuthu-ultra/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 370km (4h drive) south east |
Sol Plaatjie Memorial Marathon (Sun 30 Apr): Unconfirmed
| Location | Bethlehem, FS |
| Route Type | ? |
| Website | ? |
| Typical Finishers | N/A |
| Race Description | Nothing known about this marathon. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 270km (3h drive) south |
Township Marathon (Sun 30 Apr): Confirmed
| Location | Johannesburg, Gau |
| Route Type | Double-lapper |
| Website | http://www.thetownshipmarathon.org/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 500 |
| Race Description | I’ve not run the course since it became a double-lapper but understand that it is fast and flat with lots of community participation. The race promises a unique township vibe and post-race entertainment. The route takes in several points of interest and historic sites like Walter Sisulu Square where the Freedom Charter was signed in 1955. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | Eldorado Park is 20km south west of central Joburg with many access points. |
Seshego 50k Ultra (Sun 30 Apr): Confirmed
| Location | Polokwane, Lim |
| Route Type | Point-to-point |
| Website | https://www.seshegomarathon.org/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 300 |
| Race Description | A point to point ultra that starts on the R71 Mankweng to Polokwane. The first 22km takes you back towards Polokwane before veering left onto the N1 highway for an extended period of freeway running. You exit the N1 around the 34 kilometre mark on the southern outskirts of Polokwane. Seshego is on the north-western periphery of the city so you’ve got 16 kilometres through industrial areas and suburbs to conquer before you can earn your finish. |
| Detailed Report | Seshego Marathon (Signing out from Polokwane): https://runningmann.co.za/2022/06/18/seshego-marathon/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 325km (3h) drive due north on the N1. |
uMhlathuze Crocs Marathon (Sun 30 Apr): Confirmed
| Location | Empangeni, KZN |
| Route Type | Out-and-back |
| Website | https://www.umhlathuze-ac.co.za/crocs-rock/uac-race-events |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 200 |
| Race Description | By popular demand, the race is back to the traditional out-and-back route through the sugar cane fields. For the bipodal (who enjoy a bit of running in the rough), you get the best of both tar and trail on this course. The scenic route combines tar and off-road running over a course that will test your endurance. Northern Natal can be very hot, but the refreshment tables are always well stocked with ice-cold Coke and water. Marathon runners are ensured a balanced diet over the route with barrels of bananas (which grow like weeds in this part of the world) as well as potatoes and oranges. Note: This was formerly known as the Tronox Marathon. |
| Detailed Report | Tronox Marathon (The Empangeni sugar rush): https://runningmann.co.za/2022/08/07/tronox-marathon/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 600km (7h) drive or fly to Durban and 150km (1h30) drive from King Shaka along the N2. |
May
MiWay Wally Hayward Marathon (Mon 01 May): Confirmed
| Location | Centurion, Gau |
| Route Type | Double-lapper |
| Website | http://wally.co.za/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 4000 |
| Race Description | “The Wally” is named after the legendary Wally Hayward who won five Comrades from five attempts (1930, 50, 51, 53, 54) before returning as a 79-year old in 1998 (finishing in 9h44) and 1999 (10h50 and the oldest ever finisher). This is one of the most festive races on the calendar as Gauteng runners flock to Centurion to do some roadwork on Workers’ Day The two-lap route starts with some gentle climbs through leafy suburbs and finishes with easy downhills on wide open roads. As race sponsor, MiWay pull out all the stops to make this a memorable run. |
| Detailed Report | MiWay Wally Hayward Marathon (Can I be Frank with you?): https://runningmann.co.za/2019/08/10/wally-hayward-marathon/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | The start is 55km (45mins) north of central Joburg with many access points but allow for race day traffic. |
Gaterite Challenge Marathon (Mon 01 May): Unconfirmed
| Location | Verulam, KZN |
| Route Type | Circular |
| Website | http://www.verulamac.co.za/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 500 |
| Race Description | I ran this race a few years ago and accidentially booked accommodation in a whorehouse near the start. Although no whores entered my room (I was unaccompanied for the night), I remember the accommodation very clearly and not much about the marathon (it was not the most interesting route). Uber does not pickup passengers in Verulam so I ended up getting a lift back to the airport in a policevan – my father reckons I was “Ridden out of town by the cops.” I do need to write a blog about this some time… |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 600km (7h) drive or fly to Durban and 10km drive from King Shaka. |
Buffalo City Marathon (Mon 01 May): Confirmed
| Location | Berlin-East London, EC |
| Route Type | Point-to-point |
| Website | ? |
| Typical Finishers | N/A |
| Race Description | Nothing known about this marathon. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 1,000km (10h) drive or 1h30 flight to East London (R1,000 – R2,000 return) and 50km (1h) drive. |
Lowmed River to Spruit City Marathon (Mon 01 May): Unconfirmed
| Location | White River, Mpu |
| Route Type | ? |
| Website | ? |
| Typical Finishers | N/A |
| Race Description | Nothing known about this marathon. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | ? |
Forever Resorts Loskop 50k Ultra (Sat 06 May): Confirmed
| Location | Middelburg-Loskop Dam, Mpu |
| Route Type | Point-to-point |
| Website | http://www.loskopmarathon.co.za/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 3000 |
| Race Description | With over 3,500 finishers this is one of South Africa’s biggest, a 50km point-to-point route from Middelburg to the Loskop Dam on closed roads. With the start 1,500m above sea-level and the finish 1,000m, it’s a fast, downhill route – but there are some tricky sections: there is a gradual climb to 1,600m all the way to the half marathon mark and two nasty hills on the second half (Bugger’s and Varaday’s) will give you something to talk about while you cool you legs in the Forever Resort pool at the finish. The excellent support tables and organisation make Loskop a pleasure to run – and for those wanting to prep for the Comrades “down” run, this route is a perfect replica of what you can expect to face in June. And for the regulars there is a chance to shake the hand of an Olympic Marathon gold medallist – if you complete 10 Loskops, Josiah Thugwane is usually on duty to hand them out (he still holds the men’s record 2:44:03). |
| Detailed Report | Loskop Marathon (The one with a late start & a fast finish): https://runningmann.co.za/2019/05/19/loskop-marathon/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 160km (1h45) drive using N12 or N4. |
False Bay 50k Ultra (Sun 07 May): Confirmed
| Location | Kleinmond-Betty’s Bay, WC |
| Route Type | Point-to-point |
| Website | http://strandac.co.za/wp/valsbaai-50km/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 500 |
| Race Description | A point-to-point route from Kleinmond to Gordon’s Bay that hugs the Cape coastline along the R44 Claren’s Drive route. An ideal last long run before Comrades – and a great alternative for a Cape ultra for those not lucky enough to get a Two Oceans ballot entry. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 2h flight to Cape Town and 100km (1h20m) drive from the airport to Kleinmond. |
Harry Gwala District Marathon (Sun 14 May): Confirmed
| Location | Ixopo, KZN |
| Route Type | Point-to-point |
| Website | – |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 300 |
| Race Description | Nothing known about this marathon. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 600km (6h30). N3 to Pietermaritzburg and then head into the country or fly to King Shaka and 165km (2h) drive. |
Great Lake Marathon (Sat 27 May): Unconfirmed
| Location | Chrissiesmeer, Mpu |
| Route Type | Out-and-back |
| Website | – |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 100 |
| Race Description | This is a simple straight-line out-and-back route from Chrissiesmeer, an authentic one horse, 200 tractor town (most of the tractors belonging to Randall’s Ranch and Tractor Museum). On the way out there is a continual slow poison climb all the way to the eight kilometre mark, one speedbump between 15 and 17 kilometres and then, with the neighbouring town of Carolina in sight, a nasty little incline to the turnaround point. On the way home this translates as three kilometres of climbing to get to the 25k mark, which is shortly thereafter followed by a relentless seven kilometre pull to 34k. The good news is that you can cash in on your opening eight kilometre investment with a lovely long downhill finish. |
| Detailed Report | Great Lake Marathon (Top secret marathon running): https://runningmann.co.za/2020/02/20/great-lake-marathon/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 250km (3h) drive east |
June
Comrades Marathon (Sun 11 Jun): Confirmed
| Location | Pietermaritzburg-Durban, KZN |
| Route Type | Point-to-point |
| Website | https://comrades.com/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 16000 |
| Race Description | 90 very hilly kilometres between Pietermaritzburg and Durban. |
| Detailed Report | Comrades Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Run: https://runningmann.co.za/2018/08/24/comrades-strangelove-2018/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 600km (6h) drive or 1h flight to Durban and 35km drive from King Shaka Airport. |
Big 5 Marathon (Sat 17 Jun): Confirmed
| Location | Entabeni Reserve, Lim |
| Route Type | Circular |
| Website | https://big-five-marathon.com/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 100 |
| Race Description | TBC |
| Detailed Report | Big 5 Marathon (Entabeni Game Reserve): https://runningmann.co.za/2022/08/19/big-5-marathon-entabeni/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 350km (4h) north along the N1. |
July
Knysna Forest Marathon (Sat 08 Jul): Confirmed
| Location | Knysna, WC |
| Route Type | Point-to-point |
| Website | https://knysnamarathonclub.com/forest-marathon/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 500 |
| Race Description | The Garden Route is without doubt one of the most beautiful places in the world and this is one of the best marathons in the country. Go deep into the indigenous Knysna Forest, conquer some massive hills and shatter you quads on the crushing downhills before a flat finish around the lagoon. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 1,250km (12h) drive or 2h flight to George (R1,000 – R3,000 return) and 70km (1h) drive. |
Arthur Creswell Memorial 52k Ultra (Sat 08 Jul): Cancelled
| Location | Bergville-Ladysmith, KZN |
| Route Type | Point-to-point |
| Website | http://www.ladysmithathleticsclub.co.za/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 500 |
| Race Description | The race offers 52 countryside kilometres through northern Kwazulu Natal with enthusiastic support tables organised by the local community. Remember your warm top for the icy start in Bergville and your suntan lotion once the sun comes up – it’s a long, hot slog to Ladysmith. Those who enjoy a challenge (and a good view) will appreciate the stretch from 12 to 18km up Child’s Hill – the highest point on the route. Luckily the organisers leave the rest of this hill’s family out of it as you drop and undulate all the way home. To keep you on your toes, there is a tricky dirt road section towards the end of the route. The Bergville ultra features as the cornerstone of many KZN runner’s Comrades training plans. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 350km (3h30) drive south down the N3 |
Cape Town Festival 100k Ultra (Fri 14 Jul): Confirmed
| Location | Sea Point, Cape Town, WC |
| Route Type | Circuit |
| Website | https://www.facebook.com/capetownfestivalofrunning |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 500 |
| Race Description | “From the start the on the Sea Point Promenade, runners are treated to beautiful coastal views as they make their way towards the Sea Point Swimming Pool, then looping back towards the Lighthouse, where they turn to complete the loop at the Promenade.” |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | Fly to Cape Town; 20km drive from the airport to the Waterfront. |
Washie 100 miler Ultra (Fri 28 Jul): Confirmed
| Location | Cathcart-East London, EC |
| Route Type | Point-to-point |
| Website | https://www.washie100miler.co.za/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 100 |
| Race Description | The oldest road 100 miler in the world. The Washie is a right of passage for East London long distance runners. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | Fly to East London; 1h25 (130km) drive to Cathcart |
Beaufort West Kanniedood Marathon (Sat 29 Jul): Confirmed
| Location | Beaufort West, WC |
| Route Type | Out-and-back |
| Website | http://www.aswd.co.za/event/beaufort-west-marathon-2/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 30 |
| Race Description | Your chance to run a marathon in the Karoo Desert. This is a flat, out-and-back route that starts and finishes on Karoo National Park. One of the more difficult races to get to but it promises a fantastic experience once you are there. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 950km (9h) drive south along the N1 or fly to Cape Town and 450km (4h) drive. |
PPC Riebeek Bergmarathon (Sat 29 Jul): Confirmed
| Location | Riebeek Wes, WC |
| Route Type | Circular |
| Website | www.ppc.africa/za/strength-beyond/riebeek-bergmarathon |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 300 |
| Race Description | The race starts and finishes at the PPC Cement Factory to the contrasting backdrop of Dickensian industrial machinery and pristine vineyards. The race explores the local towns of Riebeek Wes and Riebeek Kasteel – two of the oldest in the country. All the while one admires the unspoilt mountains in the distance before getting more closely acquainted with the Kasteelberg, Porseleinberg and Bothmaskloofpas over the second two thirds of the race (the latter two providing monster climbs that give the Bergmarathon its name). Once into the countryside, the views are stunning. This is a course that liberally dishes out the rewards to her diligent runners and the wonderful vista of the Riebeek Valley from the top of the Bothmaskloofpas is worth the entry fee alone. |
| Detailed Report | PPC Riebeek Bergmarathon (a win-win-win Winelands scenario): https://runningmann.co.za/2018/09/15/riebeekbergmarathon/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | Fly to Cape Town; 100km drive from the airport to Riebeek Wes/Kasteel. |
The Icon’s Journey 103k Ultra (Sun 30 Jul): Confirmed
| Location | Clarkebury-Mthatha, EC |
| Route Type | Point-to-point |
| Website | https://www.theiconsjourneymarathon.com/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 50 |
| Race Description | From the race website, “The Icon’s Journey Marathon vision was inspired by President Nelson Mandela’s journey of growing up in the rural villages of the former Transkei homeland to becoming a Global Icon. In the physical event participants in South Africa’s longest 1 day running event have a unique opportunity to trace Madiba’s footprints from where he was born, grew up, went to school and is laid to rest. A unique heritage and tourism route where participants have an opportunity to also touch the birth places of some of South Africa’s Iconic freedom fighters namely Chris Hani, Walter Sisulu, Dr. A.B Xuma, Mama Albertina Sisulu, King Sabata Dalindyebo and General Bantu Holomisa.” |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | Expensive flight into Mthatha or Fly to East London & 230km (3h15) drive to Mthatha |
August
Amathole Marathon (Sun 06 Aug): Cancelled
| Location | Stutterheim-King Williams Town, EC |
| Route Type | Point-to-point |
| Website | N/A |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 300 |
| Race Description | After departing Stutterheim there are 24km hilly kilometres before enjoying many downhills (and a few undulations) to the finish in King William’s Town. This is the second oldest marathon in South Africa. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | Fly to East London; 100km (1h15) drive to Stutterheim |
Memel Ultra Ultra (Wed 09 Aug): Cancelled
| Location | Memel, FS-Newcastle, KZN |
| Route Type | Point-to-point |
| Website | https://www.memelwalk.co.za/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 100 |
| Race Description | A lowkey 51.2km race from Memel (the coldest town in the Free State) to Newcastle in Kwazulu Natal. The race is run along the along the historic Battlefields Route and provides breath-taking views once the early morning fog lifts. Expect great support tables and plenty of small-town hospitality along the way. Although the race starts over 1,700m above sea level and finishes around 1,200m, there is by no means an ‘easy ultra’. There are plenty of climbs along the way – and you’ll warm up quickly from your sub-zero start with a 17km climb to Botha’s Pass before dropping into Kwazulu Natal. |
| Detailed Report | Blood Buddy Ultra (The Legacy of a Schoolboy Dare): https://runningmann.co.za/2018/09/28/blood-buddy-ultra/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 300km (3h15 drive) south |
Wellington Marathon (Sat 12 Aug): Cancelled
| Location | Wellington, WC |
| Route Type | ? |
| Website | ? |
| Typical Finishers | N/A |
| Race Description | Nothing known about this marathon. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | Fly to Cape Town; 70km drive from the airport to Wellington. |
Dawn 2 Dusk Ultra (Fri 25 Aug): Confirmed
| Location | Pretoria, Gau |
| Route Type | Circuit |
| Website | http://www.akasiaathleticsclub.co.za/ |
| Typical Finishers | ? |
| Race Description | Circuit race for those that like that sort of thing. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 80km (1h) drive but allow extra time for congestion. |
Northridge Mall Marathon (Sat 26 Aug): Confirmed
| Location | Bloemfontein, FS |
| Route Type | Circular |
| Website | http://bloemachilles.co.za/races/ |
| Typical Finishers | N/A |
| Race Description | ? |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 400km (4h) drive due south on the N1. |
Red Star Marathon (Sat 26 Aug): Confirmed
| Location | Delmas, Mpu |
| Route Type | Circuit |
| Website | https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093076516720 |
| Typical Finishers | N/A |
| Race Description | The marathon is run on an actively used motorsport race track. Each lap is 4km and, 13 turns, will allowing you to perfect your cornering technique. The finish straight is a 800m allowing you to open the throttle and give it some gas. With just 12m of elevation per lap this looks to be a fast route. The facility offers secure parking in the facility grounds, Accommodation on site, Restaurant, Bar, Swimming pool, Kiddies Entertainment area, Ablutions and showers, Shop and Fuel Station on site. Route profile: www.redstarraceway.co.za/index_htm_files/Red Star Marathon_2.mp4 Want to optimise for speed? Here’s a track “ride through” on a bike (although runners will be going anti-clockwise): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=14bOIsaYZrg&t=4s |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 75km (1h) drive east on N12 |
Blouberg Marathon (Sun 27 Aug): Confirmed
| Location | Blouberg, WC |
| Route Type | Circular |
| Website | https://www.bloubergmarathon.co.za/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 1000 |
| Race Description | A flat, beautiful and scenic route along the Blouberg and Melkbos beach front. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | Fly to Cape Town; 40km drive |
September
Vaal River City Marathon (Sun 03 Sep): Confirmed
| Location | Vanderbijlpark, Gau |
| Route Type | Double-lapper |
| Website | http://www.vrcm.co.za/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 1000 |
| Race Description | Vanderbijlpark was the missing connection in the Vaal Triangle dot-to-dot marathon puzzle until the Vaal River City Marathon was added to the calendar in 2017 (the other dots being the well-established Sasolburg and Vaal Marathons). Despite the name, Vaal River City, you should not expect to see a river of any kind during the race and, depending on your definition of civilisation, it is also debatable whether you see a city either. Vanderbijlpark makes Benoni look like the French Riviera and the fast and flat double-lapper is unlikely to provide any visual distractions – but the runners are usually full of post-Comrades chatter so this is a great chance to greet some old friends and make some new ones. |
| Detailed Report | Vaal River City Marathon (Running circles around the Vaal Triangle): https://runningmann.co.za/2018/10/14/vaal-river-city-marathon/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 70km (1h) drive south with many access points |
Lowmed Tar and Trail Marathon (Sat 09 Sep): Half Marathon Only
| Location | ? |
| Route Type | ? |
| Website | ? |
| Typical Finishers | N/A |
| Race Description | Nothing known about this marathon. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | ? |
Great Kei Marathon (Sat 16 Sep): Confirmed
| Location | Kei Mouth, EC |
| Route Type | ? |
| Website | https://omac65.wixsite.com/running |
| Typical Finishers | N/A |
| Race Description | Nothing known about this marathon. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | Fly to East London; 100km (1h15) drive to Great Kei |
eMalahleni City Marathon (Sat 23 Sep): Cancelled
| Location | eMalahleni, Mpu |
| Route Type | Double-lapper |
| Website | ? |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 100 |
| Race Description | Nothing known about this marathon. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 140km (2h) east along the N12 |
Voet van Afrika Marathon (Sat 23 Sep): Confirmed
| Location | Bredasdorp, WC |
| Route Type | Point-to-point |
| Website | https://voetvanafrika.co.za/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 300 |
| Race Description | This is one that all real marathoners need to do at least once. The best summary I’ve heard of this route is, “The first half screws up your legs and the second half screws up your mind.” A unique route that takes you up and over the Soetmuisberg along farmland, gravel road, jeep tracks and mountain paths. After 25 kilometres surrounded by exquisite indigenous fynbos, there is a rude awakening as you are dumped onto the tar at Napier – and those who’ve counted the undulations to the finish at the Bredasdorp High School claim there are 16 hills over the last 17 kilometres. Whilst some races rebrand their catch phrase annually, the Voet has stuck with “The toughest race with the warmest heart!” for as long as I can remember (and having run 10 Voets I can confirm that this is not just a marketing slogan). |
| Detailed Report | Voet van Afrika Marathon (Scratching the seven-year itch): https://runningmann.co.za/2020/01/12/voet-van-afrika-marathon/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | Fly to Cape Town; 180km (2h) drive from the airport to Bredasdorp |
South Coast Marathon (Sun 24 Sep): Confirmed
| Location | Uvongo, KZN |
| Route Type | Circular |
| Website | http://www.southcoaststriders.co.za/ |
| Typical Finishers | N/A |
| Race Description | This race gives you a five-course feast that covers the diversity of the South Coast. From the Ugu Sports and Leisure Centre you start with a series of demanding but beautiful rolling hills through rural Kwazulu Natal, after which you head into the bustling township of Gamalakhe and drop down to the coast at Uvongo. The exquisite coastal road to Margate is the easiest section of the route (and the year I ran it there was a whale basking in the bay). After soaking up sea-level serenity, you head back inland over several steep climbs that consume most of the second half of the course. Note: This marathon replaces the 48k ultra that was run in the past. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 700km (7h) drive or 1h flight to Durban and 170km (2h) drive from King Shaka Airport. |
MEAC Spring Opener Marathon (Sun 24 Sep): Date Confirmed
| Location | Thohoyandou, Lim |
| Route Type | ? |
| Website | https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100071691005793 |
| Typical Finishers | N/A |
| Race Description | Nothing know about this marathon |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 550km (6h30) drive along the N1 and R81 |
Elliot Madeira Marathon (Sun 24 Sep): Confirmed
| Location | Mthatha, EC |
| Route Type | Point-to-point |
| Website | https://www.facebook.com/elliotmadeira.charityclub.9 |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 100 |
| Race Description | A point-to-point race from the countryside into the heart of Mthatha over an undulating route. There’s a festival-like atmosphere at the finish with plenty of entertainment for the adults and kids. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | Expensive flight into Mthatha or Fly to East London & 230km (3h15) drive to Mthatha |
Coaldust Circuit Race Ultra (Sat 30 Sep): Cancelled
| Location | eMalahleni, Mpu |
| Route Type | Circuit |
| Website | ? |
| Typical Finishers | N/A |
| Race Description | Circuit race for those that like that sort of thing. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 140km (1h30) drive along the N12 |
Mokopane Plaza 4-1 Marathon (Sat 30 Sep): Unconfirmed
| Location | Mokopane, Lim |
| Route Type | ? |
| Website | ? |
| Typical Finishers | N/A |
| Race Description | 0 |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | ? |
Laingsburg 56k Ultra (Sat 30 Sep): Confirmed
| Location | Laingsburg, WC |
| Route Type | Circular |
| Website | https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100051322436181 |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 50 |
| Race Description | Note: The ultra has been changed from 80 to 56km this year. Below description is from the 80. Run an awesome 80km in the heart of the Great Karoo. A one of kind race with 15km of tar and the rest on quiet gravel farm roads while you enjoy the peace, beauty and serenity of the Karoo Desert. The route starts at an altitude of 642m and slowly climbs to 922m at the 44km mark – the good news is that “it’s all downhill from there”. If you’re lucky, the natural phenomenon of the spring wild flowers will be in full bloom during your run. |
| Detailed Report | Karoo 80k Ultra (Flood Levelling-Up in Laingsburg): https://runningmann.co.za/2019/11/17/karoo-80k/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 1150km (11h) drive south along the N1 or fly to Cape Town and 265km (3h) drive / George and 230km (3h) drive. |
Barberton Makhonjwa Mountain Marathon (Sat 30 Sep): Confirmed
| Location | Bulembu Border-Barberton, Mpu |
| Route Type | Point-to-point |
| Website | https://www.facebook.com/BellasAthleticsClub |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 100 |
| Race Description | TBC |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 350km (4h) east along the N4. |
October
Shikhumba Filling Marathon (Sat 07 Oct): Confirmed
| Location | Shikhumba Village, Lim |
| Route Type | Out-and-back |
| Website | http://www.shikhumbamarathon.co.za/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 100 |
| Race Description | This marathon in the north-eastern extremities of Limpopo requires plenty of effort and logistical planning to get to the start line. However, once the gun fires the route is simplicity itself. You run straight along the road to Giyani for 21.1 kilometres, turn around and then run home. Other than a few untarred village roads, there are not even any intersections to distract the Shikhumba marathon runner. The scenery is your typical lowveld vista of thorny trees and dusty shrubbery whilst the route is genuinely gentle undulations with a total climbing elevation of 326m. There were a few curious villagers gawking at the crazy people running in the heat but the main spectators were free range chickens, goats, donkeys and cows. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 500km (5h30) drive north east |
Clarens Golden Gate Marathon (Sat 07 Oct): Cancelled
| Location | Clarens, FS |
| Route Type | Out-and-back |
| Website | N/A |
| Typical Finishers | 0 |
| Race Description | A hilly but beautiful out-and-back course through the stunning Golden Gate Highlands National Park (the whole route is on tar). This is the inaugural running of the event. |
| Detailed Report | Golden Gate Marathon (The National Park run): https://runningmann.co.za/2019/12/07/golden-gate-marathon/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 300km (3h15 drive) south |
![By Marco Schmidt [1] - Own work, CC BY-SA 2.5, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=1484911](https://runningmann.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Golden_Gate_MS2004_Bild1320.jpg)
Township to Township Marathon (Sun 08 Oct): Unconfirmed
| Location | Umlazi, KZN |
| Route Type | ? |
| Website | ? |
| Typical Finishers | N/A |
| Race Description | Nothing known about this marathon. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | ? |
Wasbank Marathon (Sun 08 Oct): Unconfirmed
| Location | Sigweje High School |
| Route Type | ? |
| Website | ? |
| Typical Finishers | N/A |
| Race Description | Nothing known about this marathon. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | ? |
Cape Town Marathon (Sun 15 Oct): Confirmed
| Location | Cape Town, WC |
| Route Type | Circular |
| Website | https://www.capetownmarathon.com/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 9000 |
| Race Description | For South Africans, this is your chance to experience a big city marathon without having to foot a big city travel bill. For international runners, this is your chance to plan a holiday in South Africa’s tourist mecca whilst enjoying a fantastic, world-class marathon experience. The Cape Town Marathon is Africa’s only IAAF Gold label status marathon and the super-speedy course boasts the fastest official marathon times run on South African soil. The race starts at one of Cape Town’s most popular tourist attractions, the V&A Waterfront, where 10,000 runners are released onto the Atlantic Seaboard. The early nerves are calmed by the cool sea breeze whilst the exuberant sounds of excited runner chit-chat harmonise to the beat of the crashing waves as one heads up Sea Point Promenade. From there it’s into the city, where a cosmopolitan mix of modern skyscrapers and iconic historical landmarks like the Mount Nelson Hotel, South African National Gallery, South African Holocaust Museum, St Mary’s Cathedral, Houses of Parliament, City Gardens, City Hall, District Six and the Castle of Good Hope provide a visual extravaganza whilst Signal Hill watches over your progress. Then it’s straight down Main Road, past Groote Schuur Hospital (where Dr. Chris Barnard performed the world’s first human to human heart transplant) and into the southern suburbs. Catch a glimpse of the hallowed turf of Newlands Cricket Ground as you circle around and start heading back towards the city centre. This area is home many top academic and sporting schools – and the route passes several of these outstanding institutions including the finest boys’ school in the country, Rondebosch. In the interests of gender neutrality, it’s appropriate to mention some of the great girls’ and co-ed schools passed along the route like Rustenberg, Westerford, San Souci, Groote Schuur and Bishops Diocesan College. Your journey back into the city centre is delayed via a quick detour around Rondebosch Common – providing a chance to appreciate some critically endangered biodiversity as you loop around one of the last surviving pockets of Cape Flats Sand Fynbos. The incredible panorama of Table Mountain, one of the seven natural wonders of the world, provides the backdrop for your journey home as the noise, support and entertainment steadily increases all the way back to the finish line at Green Point Stadium. |
| Detailed Report | Cape Town Marathon (Give trees a chance): https://runningmann.co.za/2021/09/11/cape-town-marathon-moving-forest/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | Fly to Cape Town; 20km drive from the airport to the Waterfront. |
Tony Viljoen Masters Marathon (Sun 15 Oct): Confirmed
| Location | Macleantown-Beacon Bay, EC |
| Route Type | Point-to-point |
| Website | https://www.facebook.com/bordermastersathletics/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 500 |
| Race Description | Tony Viljoen Masters Marathon is pure, unadulterated marathon running erotica. Nothing but feathers, tender caresses and light tickles; A gentle frolic as you tenderly work your way down from an altitude of 600m to a sea-level climax. The route follows the N6 for 95% of the race and there is absolutely no kink at all until the 40km mark when you veer into the suburbs. This marathon is light petting, PG-rated first base action all the way. There are no quad crushing downhills – just a long, gradual, tantric drop to home base (and a very soft landing) at Feathers in Beacon Bay. There are a couple of minor uphills along the way but nothing that will leave any marks or bruises the next day. No safe words required. This is a race that treats you well, is guaranteed to leave you with a smile on your face and will respect you the next morning. I make this the easiest marathon in the country. |
| Detailed Report | Tony Viljoen Masters Marathon (Pure unadulterated running erotica): https://runningmann.co.za/2019/10/13/tony-viljoen-masters-marathon/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | Fly to East London; 50km (45m) drive to Macleantown |
Fred Morrison Marathon (Sun 15 Oct): Half Marathon Only
| Location | Germiston, Gau |
| Route Type | ? |
| Website | ? |
| Typical Finishers | N/A |
| Race Description | Nothing known about this marathon. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | ? |
Great Kolomela Iron Ore Marathon (Sat 21 Oct): Unconfirmed
| Location | Postmasburg, NC |
| Route Type | ? |
| Website | ? |
| Typical Finishers | N/A |
| Race Description | Nothing known about this marathon. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 650km (7h) drive or 1h flight to Kimberley + 200km (2h) drive |
Letsgo Potch! Marathon (Sat 28 Oct): Confirmed
| Location | Potchefstroom, NW |
| Route Type | Out-and-back |
| Website | https://www.facebook.com/letsgopotch/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 50 |
| Race Description | ? |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 170km (2h) drive along the N12. |
Umzila Ka Tambo Marathon (Sat 28 Oct): Confirmed
| Location | Zikhuba Junction-Bizana, EC |
| Route Type | Point-to-point |
| Website | – |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 50 |
| Race Description | Nothing known about this marathon. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 800km (8h15) drive to Durban and then down the South Coast or fly to Durban and 220km (2h40) drive. |
Run 4 Cancer Ultra Marathon (Sat 28 Oct): Confirmed
| Race Date | Saturday 28 October 2023 |
| Location | Polokwane, Lim |
| Route Type | Point-to-point |
| Website | https://www.facebook.com/SARun4CancerUltraMarathon/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 300 |
| Race Description | Your entry includes a bus ticket to the start at Stevens Lumber Mills near Haenertsburg and follows the R71 all the way to the finish at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium. Proceeds from the run are used to create awareness and support those suffering with and affected by Cancer. |
| Detailed Report | Run4Cancer Ultra (Sex, Politics & Religion in Limpopo): https://runningmann.co.za/2020/01/26/run4cancer-ultra/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 325km (3h) drive due north on the N1. |
Goss & Balfe Sapphire Coast Marathon (Sun 29 Oct): Confirmed
| Location | Scottburgh-Amanzimtoti, KZN |
| Route Type | Point-to-point |
| Website | https://www.totiac.co.za/Events/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 1000 |
| Race Description | With a profile like the jaw of a ragged-tooth shark, this is 42 Kilometres of unrelenting undulations along Kwazulu Natal’s south coast from Scottburgh to Amanzimtoti. If the hills don’t get you the humidity will. |
| Detailed Report | Sapphire Coast Marathon (Delayed Planes, Delayed Trains & Marathon Running): https://runningmann.co.za/2018/12/02/sapphire-coast-marathon/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 600km (6h) drive or fly to Durban and 60km (40m) drive from King Shaka along the N2. |
November
Kaapsehoop Marathon (Sat 04 Nov): Confirmed
| Location | Kaapsehoop-Mbombela, Mpu |
| Route Type | Point-to-point |
| Website | https://www.uniwispmarathon.co.za/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 4000 |
| Race Description | A fast, downhill qualifier amongst the wild horses in the village of Kaapsehoop to the finish at the Mbombela Stadium. An easy route and excellent organisation have resulted in this becoming one of the biggest marathons in South Africa as many runners look to get a secure their Two Oceans and Comrades seedings before the running season concludes. |
| Detailed Report | Kaapsehoop Marathon (The Sub-3 Quest): https://runningmann.co.za/2021/11/03/kaapsehoop-marathon/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 350km (4h) east along the N4. |
Bonkolo Marathon (Sat 04 Nov): Confirmed
| Location | Queenstown, EC |
| Route Type | Circular |
| Website | https://www.facebook.com/events/669824644366136/?active_tab=discussion |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 100 |
| Race Description | A circular route from the Bonkolo Dam. Route description from organiser, “Marathon runners head out towards Aloe Grove and then meet up with the half marathon back at the Bonkolo Dam. Runners head back towards town into Blue Rise, around the Berry Dam and through parts of top town. Runners are faced with the mountain starting at 25km and taking them all the way to Sunnyside before they make their way back to the Bonkolo Dam via Hangklip Road, Kingsway and Livingstone Road. The never-ending Livingstone road towards the SPCA and the dam wall is arguably the most demanding section of the race. This is where a strong mind is needed to overcome the tiredness of the body, but the runners are soon rewarded with the sight of the finish at the Bonkolo Dam.” |
| Detailed Report | Bonkolo Marathon (Warming up for a World Cup win): https://runningmann.co.za/2020/05/02/bonkolo-marathon/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | Fly to East London; 200km (2h30) drive to Queenstown |
Soweto Marathon (Sun 05 Nov): Confirmed
| Location | Soweto, Gau |
| Route Type | Circular |
| Website | https://sowetomarathon.com/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 8000 |
| Race Description | The best way to join the mile-high club: Run at an altitude of just over 1,600m and endure over 600m of climbing along the way with most of the hard work crammed into the last half of the race. This tough marathon is the best way to tour Johannesburg’s South Western Townships. This is the one of the few single lap marathons in Gauteng and by far the best way to tour Soweto. Get out your guidebook and look for the eight landmarks along the way: Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital, Walter Sisulu Square, The Regina Mundi Catholic Church, Credo Mutwa Cultural Village, Morris Isaacson High School, June 16 Memorial Acre, Vilakazi Street and The Hector Pieterson Memorial. The event also offers a unique finish experience inside the iconic Calabash – which hosted the 2010 Soccer World Cup final. Crowd support is excellent as the local residents come out to cheer runners on. For overseas runners looking to tick off an African marathon with a unique ‘big city’ experience, this is the race I would recommend. |
| Detailed Report | Soweto Marathon (Ubuntu for the average middle-class white guy): https://runningmann.co.za/2017/11/12/soweto-marathon/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | The start is 25km south west of central Joburg with many access points. |
Jacaranda City Marathon (Sat 11 Nov): Confirmed
| Location | Pretoria, Gau |
| Route Type | Double-lapper |
| Website | https://www.sportsvendo.co.za/jacaranda-city-challenge |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 2000 |
| Race Description | Your chance to see purple rain in real life at the only Gauteng marathon north of the Jukskei in the second half of the year. A double-lapper timed to capture the capital city’s famous Jacaranda trees in full bloom. Flat by Tshwane standards (hilly by anywhere else’s standards). If purple is your favourite colour this is the race for you. The race is undergoing a rebirth with a completely new route. Here is the description from the race director, “The 42,2km will be a double lap race that includes “quick kilometres” where running/walking will be without strain, a couple of “slow poisons” where athletes will have to keep their focus on the job at hand and short steep climbs that will bring a challenge or two into the experience.” |
| Detailed Report | Jacaranda Marathon (Purple Rain in Pretoria): https://runningmann.co.za/2018/11/16/jacaranda-marathon/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 75km (1h) drive north |
Sani Stagger Marathon (Sat 11 Nov): Confirmed
| Location | Sani Pass, KZN |
| Route Type | Out-and-back |
| Website | http://www.sanistagger.co.za/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 200 |
| Race Description | Set amongst the Maloti Drakensberg World Heritage Site, this is one of the toughest but most scenic marathons in the country. The out-and-back route takes you from the foot of the iconic Sani Pass to the summit over a journey of 21 kilometres and a climb of 1,400m. The steady pull to the escapement culminates with the steepest section as a leg-shattering series a switchbacks lets you gaze down at the runners behind you before reaching the turnaround point just over the South African border post. Your reward along the way are brilliant views of the Drakensberg Mountains and, if you bring your passport, you can have a quick drink at the highest pub in Africa just over the Lesotho border (an altitude of 2,876m) before heading back down the old donkey pass. However, if you do forget your passport, there is a free Jack Black craft beer waiting for every finisher as they cross the line. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 550km (6h30) drive mostly along the N3. |
OFM Music Marathon (Sat 11 Nov): Cancelled
| Location | Bloemfontein, FS |
| Route Type | Out-and-back |
| Website | https://www.ofm.co.za/event/1203/music-marathon-2019 |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 200 |
| Race Description | Run around the Tempe Military Base before exploring Bloemfontein’s northern and eastern extremities while regular musical interludes keep you entertained. If you thought Bloemfontein was flat this marathon will change your perception. |
| Detailed Report | Music Marathon (Running in the Dead Centre of South Africa): https://runningmann.co.za/2018/12/16/music-marathon/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 400km (4h) drive due south on the N1. |
Cheetahs Mthatha Marathon (Sun 12 Nov): Confirmed
| Location | N2-Mthatha, EC |
| Route Type | Point-to-point |
| Website | – |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 300 |
| Race Description | New marathon starting on the 42km east along the N2 highway and running into Mthatha. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | Expensive flight into Mthatha or Fly to East London & 230km (3h15) drive to Mthatha |
The Magoebaskloof Plunge Marathon (Sat 18 Nov): Confirmed
| Location | Haenertsburg-Tzaneen, Lim |
| Route Type | Point-to-point |
| Website | – |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 300 |
| Race Description | Description from the organiser, “Race starts the historic town of Haenertsburg which nestles below the massive Iron Crown Mountain, a few minor straights and curves to the famous cemetery where many people picnic with sundowners and then down to the R71. Here you will follow a lovely undulating route, alongside plantations, Clearwater’s Cove Corner, Stanford College Dip, Blueberry Hill and then finally the top of Magoebaskloof Pass as you arrive at the Houtbosdorp turnoff. Follow the R71, with a few gentle bends and the descent becomes a little more interesting the pass leads from the highveld down the escarpment to the sub-tropical Lowveld, dropping about 600m over a distance of just 6km. Warriors Corner is probably the tightest as you charge headlong down the pass. Tree lined with amazing views down the valley towards Tzaneen. Once through the hairpin bends and the famous lookout point, where some may be tempted to stop for a selfie, you take the gentler corners downward towards the bottom of the Pass. A nice gentle level run and then a few sneaky little uphills for interest sake until you arrive at the Allesbeste Padstal. Quick right turn and down over the twin bridges, up onto the R36 for a moment and right into Anneke Avenue. Downhill all the way into Aqua Avenue past the Tzaneen Dam and the home straight into the Tzaneen Showgrounds. Magoebaskloof Pass is the 20th steepest pass in the country.” |
| Detailed Report | Magoeba Plunge Marathon (the Limpopo rollercoaster): https://runningmann.co.za/2020/02/25/magoeba-plunge-marathon/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 400km (4h30) drive mostly along the N1. |
Bluff Marathon (Sun 19 Nov): Confirmed
| Location | Durban, KZN |
| Route Type | Double-lapper |
| Website | https://www.facebook.com/bluffac/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 500 |
| Race Description | The double-lap route is known as one of the toughest in Durban. The race starts at the Bluff clubhouse before a scenic stroll along Marine Drive. The ocean views distract you from the hard work your legs are enduring. After rounding the outskirts of the Tara Road refinery you head back up Bluff Road for the second lap. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 600km (6h) drive or fly to Durban and 45km (40m) drive from King Shaka along the N2. |
Drakensburg Marathon (Sat 25 Nov): Confirmed
| Location | Bergville, KZN |
| Route Type | Out-and-back |
| Website | https://www.facebook.com/DrakensbergExtra/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 300 |
| Race Description | This marathon was formerly known as the Josiah Gumede Marathon. It is now and out-and-back from Bergville to the Woodstock Dam. It’s an attractive route that traverses through the beautiful rural Kwazulu Natal countryside, around the Woodstock Dam and past many villages, villagers and free-range livestock all to the backdrop of the majestic Drakensberg mountain range. |
| Detailed Report | Josiah Gumede Marathon (Escaping Black Friday in the Drakensberg): https://runningmann.co.za/2019/01/13/josiah-gumede-marathon/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 350km (3h) drive mostly along the N3. |
Die Vlakte Marathon (Sat 25 Nov): Confirmed
| Location | Heidelberg-Witsand, WC |
| Route Type | Point-to-point |
| Website | https://langebergathletics.co.za/vlakte-marathon/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 300 |
| Race Description | This is a lovely lowkey marathon from Heidelberg to the beach at Witsand in the Western Cape. Starting at 100m above sea-level, you get all your climbing done over the first 10km (and reach an altitude of 200m) before gently dropping down to the ocean at Witsand. Much of the route goes past farms with curious ostriches providing support. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 1,300km (13h) drive south or fly to Cape Town and 260km (3h) drive along the N2. |
Sportsmans Warehouse Winelands Marathon (Sat 25 Nov): Confirmed
| Location | Stellenbosch, WC |
| Route Type | Circular |
| Website | – |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 2000 |
| Race Description | Enjoy a marathon in and around the beautiful and historic town of Stellenbosch. This is the most famous wine growing region of South Africa and Helderberg Harriers deliver a Methode Cap Classique Marathon amongst the historic buildings and vineyards that characterise the region. The relatively flat circular route has enough undulations to keep life interesting and a special music and entertainment zone in the last ten kilometres will push you through to the finish at Eikestad Primary School grounds. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | Fly to Cape Town; 40km drive from the airport to the Stellenbosch. |
Mzansi AC 3-in-1 Marathon (Sat 25 Nov): Unconfirmed
| Location | Polokwane, Lim |
| Route Type | ? |
| Website | ? |
| Typical Finishers | N/A |
| Race Description | ? |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | ? |
Zone-2-Zone Marathon (Sat 25 Nov): Unconfirmed
| Location | ?, Lim |
| Route Type | ? |
| Website | ? |
| Typical Finishers | N/A |
| Race Description | ? |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | ? |
December
Prison to Prison Marathon (Sat 02 Dec): Confirmed
| Location | Worcester, WC |
| Route Type | Out-and-back |
| Website | N/A |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 300 |
| Race Description | This marathon, run through the largest wine growing region in the country is a great way to end the year. The race starts and finishes inside the grounds of the maximum security Brandvlei Prison near Worcester. The route begins with a tour of the prison grounds before heading along the Brandvlei (“Burning Marsh”) Dam – so called because of hot springs that cause smoke on the water every morning. The rest of the route passes picturesque vineyards and farms before heading back to prison along the dam. Although you are constantly surrounded by mountains, the route itself is fairly flat. |
| Detailed Report | Prison to Prison Marathon (The Breede Valley Jailbreak): https://runningmann.co.za/2019/02/02/prison-to-prison-marathon/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | Fly to Cape Town; 110km (1h15) drive from the airport to the Worcester. |
Nelson Mandela Bay 1City Marathon (Sat 02 Dec): Confirmed
| Location | Gqeberha, EC |
| Route Type | Circular |
| Website | www.epathletics.co.za |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 500 |
| Race Description | The first 18km are run in a loop with the half marathoners, after which there is a long out and back section, The highest point of the course is reached at the 25.5km mark and the total ascent/descent is 273m/274m respectively. For out of town runners, there is a bus service to and from Kings Beach to the start/finish. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | Fly to Gqeberha and 30km (30m) drive or 1,050km (11h) drive |
Mdantsane Marathon (Sat 09 Dec): Confirmed
| Location | Mdantsane, EC |
| Route Type | Circular |
| Website | https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090007369662&mibextid=b06tZ0 |
| Typical Finishers | N/A |
| Race Description | From the organizer, “The First 10km are run outside of Mdantsane to allow overview of Location area, then it will pass famous Mdantsane City Mall, Passing Mgxaji House (Famous Boxing Legends). The race will pass along entrance of Mdantsane, Yako Garage, going through Mdantsane Police Station, Ekoneni Butchery, Dr Rubusana College, Jeff Plac, passing Cecilia Makiwane. This race is 398m Elevation, it is a very hilly race with a lot of down hills, cramps will be a major factor. Around 30km the race is more flat and enjoyable, runners to be careful of the last hill to Sasol Garage. The Race covers most of our beautiful township and runners will enjoy the scenery as they receive support from the community. We will also pass on former IBF Boxer Zolani Tete House at NU 12, with the view of Egyton Bus Boycott and Massacre. 10km and 5KM races will start 45min later to allow traffic and marathon runners to clear, the shorter distances accommodate young athletes and 5km Fun Run for Families to enjoy this race also. All Walkers are also welcomed to participate on 10km and 5km Races. The total ascent/descent is 396m/398m respectively. For out of town runners, there is accommodation around Mdantsane and all vehicles to be parked inside the Stadium where the finish is.” |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | Fly to East London; 30km (45m) drive to Mdantsane or 1000km (10h) drive |
Madiba’s Last Route Marathon (Sat 16 Dec): Confirmed
| Location | Mthatha, EC |
| Route Type | Point-to-point |
| Website | http://www.heroesmarathon.co.za/ |
| Typical Finishers | +/- 300 |
| Race Description | Formerly Heroes Marathon. This is a friendly, relaxed, point-to-point race from Mthatha airport to Qunu (pronounced [ˈk͡ǃuːnu]) – which is where Nelson Mandela grew up and is buried. The race route traces some of the steps the great man walked in the past. The first part of the route is from the airport back into Mthatha town and then you have a brutal climb as you head out along the N2 towards Qunu. Although you’re running along the national road, there are plenty of traffic police present ensuring that the runners are safe and the drivers calm. |
| Detailed Report | Heroes Marathon, Mthatha (Back2Back Marathon Weekend): https://runningmann.co.za/2017/12/18/heroes-marathon-mthatha/ |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | Expensive flight into Mthatha or Fly to East London & 230km (3h15) drive to Mthatha |
Orcas Ultra Ultra (Sun 17 Dec): Unconfirmed
| Location | Durban, KZN |
| Route Type | ? |
| Website | ?` |
| Typical Finishers | N/A |
| Race Description | Nothing known about this marathon. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | ? |
Elias Resort Nzhelele Valley Marathon (Wed 27 Dec): Confirmed
| Location | Makhado, Lim |
| Route Type | ? |
| Website | https://www.facebook.com/groups/717944699654842 |
| Typical Finishers | 0 |
| Race Description | Nothing known about this marathon. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| How To Get There from Joburg? | 500km (5h30) drive north east |
Awesome- Love it 👏
Mandela Marathon from Pietermaritzburg to Howick, normally it was in the last week of August
Yeh, it was not on the fixture list so will add it if it does reappear on the caledar.
Lainsburg used to be 80k. I’ve run it twice, came in at 13th place the second time, and 2nd Vet. When did they change the distance?
This year is the first time they are doing a 56k instead of 80k (but the race has not taken place since Covid so glad they are back on the calendar).
Thank you Stuart 😇
Please share if you get a flyer for Umzila kaTambo marathon.