This article provides detailed information on all South Africa’s February 2025 marathons including race descriptions and recommendations. You can find the full 2025 marathon / ultra calendar here.
A summary of your choices is below:
There are 22 confirmed qualifier marathons in February (20 marathons and 2 ultras). Some great choices all around the country. My pick for an excellent marathon combined with an away weekend would be Assegaai on the eSwatini border (and you get to enjoy the Charka table, perhaps the best in the country, twice on the out-and-back route).
The most unique race is John Nugent in Upington (for several years this has been the only marathon in the ‘Northern Cape – West’ athletics province) where you can enjoy running along the lush Orange River and on the outskirts of the arid Kalahari Desert. Northern Cape marathons are a scarce commodity but the Meerkat Marathon provides an excellent on foot tour of some of Kimberley’s historic sites.
The oldest standard marathon in the country, Peninsula (part of the Balwin series), returns for a 57th edition. However, it appears that schooling, property and marathon entries are all in short supply in Cape Town – the event sold out very quickly last year. Balwin have really stepped up to support road running in South Africa and the good news is that you do have two other options to take part in the Balwin marathon series with the Pretoria and Jeppe Marathons. Jeppe, the oldest marathon in CGA, will be taking late entries this year and your entry fee includes all the bells and whistles including free race day photos.
The Aquelle Joburg North City Marathon also provides good value and is the cheapest marathon in Gauteng whilst Secunda, Klerksdorp, Township and Vaal are other flat double-lap options easily accessible to those in Gauteng.
KZN is spoilt for choice with Rolando Hillcrest, Richards Bay Minerals (a new race), Zabalaza and Capital City. The Free State has the Kloppers Marathon in Bloem and the triple-lap Anco ultra in Welkom for those that want to work on their mental strength.
There are some other good quality upcountry runs. Another good weekend away option is the City of Mbombela Marathon which runs from Barberton to Mbombela. Limpopo’s largest city sees the CDM Polokwane and Mapungubwe Marathons on offer.
If you missed out on a Balwin Peninsula entry but still want to run along the coast, then it’s best to head for the Eastern Cape. SA Home Loans Buffs is a downhill marathon and the easiest qualifier of the month. Gqeberha provides your second ultra option with the NMB Ultra that has evolved from the Runified event. This year the route has been changed to the old Bay Ultra course which provides many kilometers of exquisite coastal running.
Below are full details of each race as well as flyers, photos and route profiles (where available).
Click to enlarge or collapse sections.
February
Vodacom Meerkat Marathon (1-Feb): Confirmed
| Race Description | The flat 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/ |
| Race Date | Saturday 01 February 2025 |
| Location | Kimberley, NC |
| Start Venue | Windhoek Draught Park, Kimberley |
| Route Type | Double-lapper |
| Race Website | – |
| Contact Details | kbyroadrunners@gmail.com |
| Distance | 42 |
| Online Entries | https://secure.onreg.com/onreg2/front/step1.php?id=6875 |
| Pre-entries Close | Tuesday 28 January 2025 |
| Entry Fee | R305 |
| Included Extras | – |
| Late entries | Yes (No race day entries) |
| Title sponsor | Bayagro |
| Permanent Numbers | No |
| How to get there from Joburg? | 500km (5h) drive or 1h flight (approx R2,000 return) |
| Accommodation Options | Check out Google for B&B options |
| What else to do there? | Go digging for diamonds at the ‘Big Hole’ complex; Check out the historic battlefields as well as various memorials and museums; Have a beer at the Star of the West – the oldest pub in South Africa. There are also a few game viewing options within close driving distance. |
| Normal Finishers | +/- 100 |
| Which year was the race started? | 2016 |
| How many previous events have been held? | 8 |
| Cutoff time | 6h00 |
| First prize value | 2500 |
| Route Elevation (total climbing) | 266 |
Thru the Karoo Marathon (1-Feb): Cancelled
| Race Description | Nothing known about this marathon. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| Race Date | Saturday 01 February 2025 |
| Location | Graaff-Reinet, EC |
| Start Venue | ? |
| Route Type | ? |
| Race Website | ? |
| Contact Details | ? |
| Distance | 42 |
| Online Entries | ? |
| Pre-entries Close | ? |
| Entry Fee | ? |
| Included Extras | ? |
| Late entries | ? – |
| Title sponsor | None |
| Permanent Numbers | No |
| How to get there from Joburg? | Fly to Gqeberha and 10km (15m) drive or 1,050km (11h) drive |
| Accommodation Options | Check out Google for B&B and hotel options |
| What else to do there? | ? |
| Normal Finishers | N/A |
| Which year was the race started? | ? |
| How many previous events have been held? | N/A |
| Cutoff time | ? |
| First prize value | ? |
| Route Elevation (total climbing) | ? |
NMB Gqeberha Ultra (Sat 1 Feb): Confirmed
| Race Description | This is a rebranding of the Runified event with the route changing to that of the old Bay Ultra (which was one of my favourite races from 2018) – a lovely 50km route with plenty of climbing over the first half before you drop back to sea level and a 20km Marine Drive finish along pristine Eastern Cape coastline. Running in Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth) is always a treat – you’ll definitely get to experience the ‘Friendly City’ – but hopefully you’ll get a gentle sea-breeze and avoid experiencing the ‘Windy City’. |
| Detailed Report | Bay Ultra (See the Lighthouse at the End of an Ultra): https://runningmann.co.za/2018/02/16/bay-ultra/ |
| Race Date | Saturday 01 February 2025 |
| Location | Gqeberha, EC |
| Start Venue | Pollok Beach, Summerstrand |
| Route Type | Circular |
| Race Website | https://epathletics.co.za/ |
| Contact Details | irene.ve1650@gmail.com ; epamanager@epathletics.co.za |
| Distance | 50 |
| Online Entries | https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/event.aspx?itemid=1559907223 |
| Pre-entries Close | ? |
| Entry Fee | R300 |
| Included Extras | Shirt (first 200 entries) |
| Late entries | ? – |
| Title sponsor | None |
| Permanent Numbers | No |
| How to get there from Joburg? | Fly to Gqeberha and 10km (15m) drive or 1,050km (11h) drive |
| Accommodation Options | There are a number of great hotels along the promenade for various budgets including The Boardwalk Hotel and Casino, The Radisson Blu Hotel, The Garden Court Hotel and the Courtyard Hotel. There are also well priced B&B options a short drive from the beach. |
| What else to do there? | The Eastern Cape brands itself is ‘the adventure capital of South Africa’. Activities include big 5 game viewing, the longest zipline in SA, great blue flag beaches and sand boarding. Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth) has earned the nickname, ‘The Friendly City’ for its incredible hospitality. |
| Normal Finishers | +/- 500 |
| Which year was the race started? | 2021 |
| How many previous events have been held? | 4 |
| Cutoff time | 6h30 |
| First prize value | 10000 |
| Route Elevation (total climbing) | ? |
Bhekizizwe Joseph Shabalala Marathon (Sun 2 Feb): Not on calendar
Aquelle Joburg North City Marathon (2-Feb): Confirmed
| Race Description | Find you true north with RunZone AC’s excellent double lap route around Joburg’s shady northern suburbs. The undulating 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. This is also the cheapest marathon entry fee in Gauteng. |
| Detailed Report | Joburg North City Marathon (The new kid on the Block): https://runningmann.co.za/2022/02/23/joburg-north-city-marathon/ |
| Race Date | Sunday 02 February 2025 |
| Location | Johannesburg, Gau |
| Start Venue | Marks Park |
| Route Type | Double-lapper |
| Race Website | www.joburgnorthcitymarathon.co.za |
| Contact Details | events@runzone.co.za |
| Distance | 42 |
| Online Entries | https://secure.onreg.com/onreg2/front/step1.php?id=6726 |
| Pre-entries Close | Thursday 30 January 2025 |
| Entry Fee | R273 |
| Included Extras | – |
| Late entries | No – |
| Title sponsor | Aquelle |
| Permanent Numbers | Planned for future |
| How to get there from Joburg? | 10km north of the city centre |
| Accommodation Options | Check out Google for B&B and hotel options |
| What else to do there? | – |
| Normal Finishers | +/- 2000 |
| Which year was the race started? | 2022 |
| How many previous events have been held? | 3 |
| Cutoff time | 7h00 |
| First prize value | 1700 |
| Route Elevation (total climbing) | 372 |
City of Mbombela / Jock of the Bushveld Marathon (8-Feb): Confirmed
| 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. You run past several nature reserves so look out for giraffe, zebra, springbok and many other species of antelope. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| Race Date | Saturday 08 February 2025 |
| Location | Barberton-Mbombela, Mpu |
| Start Venue | R40 Barberton Road |
| Route Type | Point-to-point |
| Race Website | https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086086102892 |
| Contact Details | commarathonclub@gmail.com |
| Distance | 42 |
| Online Entries | https://www.entryninja.com/events/81059-jock-of-the-bushveld-4-in-1 |
| Pre-entries Close | Tuesday 04 February 2025 |
| Entry Fee | R378 |
| Included Extras | – |
| Late entries | Yes – |
| Title sponsor | None |
| Permanent Numbers | No |
| How to get there from Joburg? | 350km (4h) east along the N4. |
| Accommodation Options | There’s a numerous great hotels and backpackers within the proximity of the race starting point to name few:- Town Lodge Hotel, Road Lodge Hotel,Nelspruit Lodge, Nini Naninin Gusts House, The Capital, Mercure Hotel, Kwanyoni Lodge, Chilli Pepper, Stay Easy Hotel,Southern Sun, Sunset Vista,Thenjwas Sleep Over Lodge, Victorian Gust House, The Cycad Guest House and Sun1 Nelspruitnot forgeting the most amazing place Pumba Wild Life park & Accomodation (the home of all Cats that you can think off) |
| What else to do there? | Mbombela is the stepping stone to the world-famous Kruger National Park – self-drive or splash out on a private lodge; Various Tourist attractions around town including Lowveld Botanical Garden, Mafunyane Waterpark, Makhonjwa Mountain, Sudwala Curves, Three Rondavels, Gods Window, Bourke’s Luck Pot Holes, Mac-Mac Pools, Pilgrim’s Rest and Lone Creek Falls. |
| Normal Finishers | +/- 300 |
| Which year was the race started? | 2022 |
| How many previous events have been held? | 3 |
| Cutoff time | 6h30 |
| First prize value | 10000 |
| Route Elevation (total climbing) | 520 |
Kloppers Marathon (8-Feb): Confirmed
| 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 over 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 | Kloppers Marathon (and overcoming my Afrikaans angst): https://runningmann.co.za/2024/03/30/kloppers-marathon/ |
| Race Date | Saturday 08 February 2025 |
| Location | Bloemfontein, FS |
| Start Venue | Bloemfontein Achilles Sports Centre, Att Horak Avenue |
| Route Type | Circular |
| Race Website | https://bloemachilles.co.za/races/kloppers-marathon/ |
| Contact Details | info@bloemachilles.co.za |
| Distance | 42 |
| Online Entries | https://evententry.co.za/events/2025-4/ |
| Pre-entries Close | Wednesday 05 February 2025 |
| Entry Fee | R250 |
| Included Extras | – |
| Late entries | Yes (No race day entries) |
| Title sponsor | Kloppers www.kloppers.co.za |
| Permanent Numbers | No |
| How to get there from Joburg? | 400km (4h) drive due south on the N1. |
| Accommodation Options | Check out Google for B&B and hotel options |
| What else to do there? | https://www.bloemfonteintourism.co.za/ |
| Normal Finishers | +/- 200 |
| Which year was the race started? | 1991 |
| How many previous events have been held? | 33 |
| Cutoff time | 5h00 |
| First prize value | 3000 |
| Route Elevation (total climbing) | 271 |
Mapungubwe Marathon (8-Feb): Confirmed
| Race Description | The Mapungubwe Marathon gets its name from the ancient heritage of the local people. The Kingdom of Mapungubwe was a medieval state that existed from about 1030 to 1290 and preceded the Kingdom of Great Zimbabwe. The Mapungubwe civilisation provided the origins of the Sotho-Tswana, Shona and Venda peoples. It comprises two out-and-back sections with the second being much harder and hillier than the first. Overall a very pleasant run that takes you out into the countryside. |
| Detailed Report | Mapungubwe Marathon (off with their heads): https://runningmann.co.za/2024/05/14/mapungubwe-marathon-off-with-their-heads/ |
| Race Date | Saturday 08 February 2025 |
| Location | Polokwane, Lim |
| Start Venue | Polokwane Cricket Grounds |
| Route Type | Out-and-back |
| Race Website | – |
| Contact Details | sisonkerunningclub@gmail.com |
| Distance | 42 |
| Online Entries | https://secure.onreg.com/onreg2/front/step1.php?id=6888 |
| Pre-entries Close | Friday 07 February 2025 |
| Entry Fee | R326 |
| Included Extras | Shirt |
| Late entries | Yes (No race day entries) |
| Title sponsor | None |
| Permanent Numbers | No |
| How to get there from Joburg? | 325km (3h) drive due north on the N1. |
| Accommodation Options | Check out Google for B&B and hotel options |
| What else to do there? | http://polokwanetourism.co.za/ |
| Normal Finishers | +/- 100 |
| Which year was the race started? | 2024 |
| How many previous events have been held? | 1 |
| Cutoff time | None |
| First prize value | 5000 |
| Route Elevation (total climbing) | ? |
Aurum Klerksdorp Marathon (9-Feb): Confirmed
| 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/ |
| Race Date | Sunday 09 February 2025 |
| Location | Klerksdorp, NW |
| Start Venue | Hoerskool Wesvalia, Klerksdorp |
| Route Type | Double-lapper |
| Race Website | https://klerksdorpmarathonclub.com / FB Page: https://www.facebook.com/klerksdorpmarathon/ |
| Contact Details | klerksdorpmarathon@gmail.com |
| Distance | 42 |
| Online Entries | https://www.entryninja.com/events/81046-klerksdorp-marathon-2025 |
| Pre-entries Close | Tuesday 04 February 2025 |
| Entry Fee | R200 |
| Included Extras | – |
| Late entries | Yes (R50 extra for late entries; no race day entries) |
| Title sponsor | The Aurum Institute https://www.auruminstitute.org/ |
| Permanent Numbers | No |
| How to get there from Joburg? | 170km (2h) drive along the N12. |
| Accommodation Options | Recommended Options: Bateleur Guesthouse (Special rate and 2pm checkout for athletes) — Petro White, 0787938338 / www.bateleurgh.co.za / bateleurguesthouse@lantic.net St Josephs — Helma Cloete, 083 421 2298 / StJosephs@webmail.co.za Readman Lodge — Maryna Moll, 082 458 0677 / mmoll@lantic.net |
| What else to do there? | The Thaba Tswene http://thabatshwene.co.za/ and Bona Bona Game Lodges http://www.bonabona.co.za/ are a short drive from Klerksdorp for game drives, spa treatments and dining options. There are also plenty of food, drink and entertainment options around town: Matlosana Mall http://www.matlosanamall.co/ / Rio Hotel and Casino https://www.riocasino.co.za/ / Garden Bridge Lifestyle Centre http://gardenbridgelifestyle.simplesite.com/ / Live music https://www.facebook.com/pg/stageatN12/events/?ref=page_intern |
| Normal Finishers | +/- 200 |
| Which year was the race started? | 1981 |
| How many previous events have been held? | ? |
| Cutoff time | 6h00 |
| First prize value | 2000 |
| Route Elevation (total climbing) | 286 |
Balwin Sport Jeppe Marathon (9-Feb): Confirmed
| Race Description | One of the highlights on the Joburg running calendar is back as part of the Balwin Sport marathon series.to give Joburg runners the opportunity to hurtle around Bedfordview and Edenvale. 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 | -: – |
| Race Date | Sunday 09 February 2025 |
| Location | Johannesburg, Gau |
| Start Venue | Saheti School Senderwood |
| Route Type | Double-lapper |
| Race Website | https://jeppemarathon.co.za/ |
| Contact Details | info@theroc.co.za |
| Distance | 42 |
| Online Entries | https://racepass.com/za/races/jeppe-marathon |
| Pre-entries Close | Monday 03 February 2025 |
| Entry Fee | R412 |
| Included Extras | Shirt (first 4000 entrants); Goodie Bag; Photos |
| Late entries | No – |
| Title sponsor | Balwin Properties |
| Permanent Numbers | No |
| How to get there from Joburg? | 11km from central Jhb but race day traffic is very congested so allow extra time. |
| Accommodation Options | Check out Google for B&B and hotel options |
| What else to do there? | Enjoy the post-race activities and atmosphere at one of the best finish venues in the country. |
| Normal Finishers | +/- 2000 |
| Which year was the race started? | ? |
| How many previous events have been held? | ? |
| Cutoff time | 6h00 |
| First prize value | 5000 |
| Route Elevation (total climbing) | 399 |
Rolando Hillcrest Marathon (9-Feb): Confirmed
| 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/ |
| Race Date | Sunday 09 February 2025 |
| Location | Hillcrest, KZN |
| Start Venue | Central Hillcrest |
| Route Type | Double-lapper |
| Race Website | http://hillcrestvillagers.co.za/ |
| Contact Details | secretary@hillcrestvillagers.co.za |
| Distance | 42 |
| Online Entries | https://racepass.com/za/races/the-hillcrest-marathon/checkout?bookingId=1CAE9 |
| Pre-entries Close | ? |
| Entry Fee | R380 |
| Included Extras | ? |
| Late entries | No (R20 off for early bird entries) |
| Title sponsor | Rolando |
| Permanent Numbers | No |
| How to get there from Joburg? | 550km (5h30) drive or 1h flight to Durban and 60km drive from King Shaka Airport. |
| Accommodation Options | www.warrens.co.za / www.eagleslandingbnb.co.za / www.yorkhousebnb.co.za / www.rivendell.co.za / www.valleylodge.net |
| What else to do there? | In the immediate vicinity there are great tourist options like Phezulu Safari Park, Tala Private Game Reserve, 1000 Hills Tourist Route, Shongweni Farmers Market, Umgeni Steam Railway, Inanda Dam, Krantzkloof Nature Reserve, Giba Gorge MTB and Trail Run Park and Restaurant, Shongweni and 1,000 Hills Park Runs |
| Normal Finishers | +/- 1000 |
| Which year was the race started? | ? |
| How many previous events have been held? | ? |
| Cutoff time | ? |
| First prize value | ? |
| Route Elevation (total climbing) | 599 |
Sasol Secunda Marathon (15-Feb): Confirmed
| 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 | -: – |
| Race Date | Saturday 15 February 2025 |
| Location | Secunda, Mpu |
| Start Venue | Sasol Recreation Club, Nelson Mandela Drive, Secunda |
| Route Type | Double-lapper |
| Race Website | – |
| Contact Details | admin@sasolmarathonclub.co.za |
| Distance | 42 |
| Online Entries | https://www.entryninja.com/events/81391-sasol-secunda |
| Pre-entries Close | Monday 10 February 2025 |
| Entry Fee | R350 |
| Included Extras | Shirt (first 300 entries) |
| Late entries | Yes (R20 extra for late entries) |
| Title sponsor | Sasol https://www.sasol.com/ |
| Permanent Numbers | No |
| How to get there from Joburg? | 130km (1h30) drive east along the N17. |
| Accommodation Options | Check out Google for B&B options |
| What else to do there? | Spend the afternoon enjoying activities and water sports on and along the Vaal River. |
| Normal Finishers | +/- 500 |
| Which year was the race started? | 1980 |
| How many previous events have been held? | 43 |
| Cutoff time | 6h00 |
| First prize value | 3300 |
| Route Elevation (total climbing) | 353 |
John Nugent Marathon (15-Feb): Confirmed
| 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/ |
| Race Date | Saturday 15 February 2025 |
| Location | Upington, NC |
| Start Venue | Desert Palace Casino, Upington |
| Route Type | Double-lapper |
| Race Website | https://www.facebook.com/johnnugentmemorial/ |
| Contact Details | russellnugent@me.com |
| Distance | 42 |
| Online Entries | https://www.entryninja.com/events/81204-john-nugent-memorial-races |
| Pre-entries Close | ? |
| Entry Fee | R250 |
| Included Extras | – |
| Late entries | ? (?) |
| Title sponsor | None |
| Permanent Numbers | No |
| How to get there from Joburg? | 800km (8-9h drive) or very expensive 1h30 flight (over R6,000) |
| Accommodation Options | Stay at the start: Desert Palace Hotel https://www.desertpalace.co.za/ or check out Google for B&B options |
| What else to do there? | The race is sponsored and hosted by the Desert Palace Hotel and Casino which offers plenty of on-site entertainment. Other activities in Upington include sampling the local wines at Orange River Cellars followed by a sunset cruise on the Orange River. The spectacular Augrabies Waterfalls (and national park) are just 120km away. |
| Normal Finishers | +/- 30 |
| Which year was the race started? | 2016 |
| How many previous events have been held? | 8 |
| Cutoff time | ? |
| First prize value | ? |
| Route Elevation (total climbing) | 268 |
CDM Polokwane Marathon (15-Feb): Confirmed
| 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 | -: – |
| Race Date | Saturday 15 February 2025 |
| Location | Polokwane, Lim |
| Start Venue | Rugby B & C fields Polokwane |
| Route Type | Circular |
| Race Website | https://polokwaneathleticclub.co.za |
| Contact Details | polokwaneac4@gmail.com |
| Distance | 42 |
| Online Entries | https://secure.onreg.com/onreg2/front/step1.php?id=6861 |
| Pre-entries Close | Tuesday 11 February 2025 |
| Entry Fee | R326 |
| Included Extras | Shirt (first 1,000 entries) |
| Late entries | Yes (No race day entries) |
| Title sponsor | Capricorn District Municipality https://www.cdm.org.za/ |
| Permanent Numbers | No |
| How to get there from Joburg? | 325km (3h) drive due north on the N1. |
| Accommodation Options | Check out Google for B&B and hotel options |
| What else to do there? | http://polokwanetourism.co.za/ |
| Normal Finishers | +/- 300 |
| Which year was the race started? | 2017 |
| How many previous events have been held? | 6 |
| Cutoff time | ? |
| First prize value | 11200 |
| Route Elevation (total climbing) | 423 |
Richards Bay Minerals AC Marathon (15-Feb): Confirmed
| Race Description | Nothing known about this marathon. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| Race Date | Saturday 15 February 2025 |
| Location | Richards Bay, KZN |
| Start Venue | Richards Bay Sports Complex |
| Route Type | ? |
| Race Website | – |
| Contact Details | racemanager@runzone.co.za ; events@runzone.co.za |
| Distance | 42 |
| Online Entries | https://secure.onreg.com/onreg2/front/step1.php?id=6878 |
| Pre-entries Close | Wednesday 12 February 2025 |
| Entry Fee | R379 |
| Included Extras | Shirt (first 1,000 entries) |
| Late entries | Yes (No race day entries) |
| Title sponsor | None |
| Permanent Numbers | No |
| How to get there from Joburg? | 600km (7h) drive or fly to Durban and 150km (1h30) drive from King Shaka along the N2. |
| Accommodation Options | Check out Google for B&B and hotel options |
| What else to do there? | Richards Bay is a small fishing town – either catch your own supper or enjoy the catch of day with a sundowner at one of the local restaurants whilst overlooking the Indian Ocean. Harbour cruises are available throughout the day and the adventurous might want to explore one of the many game reserves and national heritage sites (like St. Lucia and Hluhluwe Imfolozi Game Park) that are all within an hour’s drive. |
| Normal Finishers | N/A |
| Which year was the race started? | 2025 |
| How many previous events have been held? | 0 |
| Cutoff time | 7h00 |
| First prize value | 3000 |
| Route Elevation (total climbing) | ? |
Zabalaza Marathon (16-Feb): Confirmed
| Race Description | According to the organiser this is a fast, undulating, double-lap route. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| Race Date | Sunday 16 February 2025 |
| Location | Cato Ridge, KZN |
| Start Venue | Cato Ridge Country Club |
| Route Type | Double-lapper |
| Race Website | – |
| Contact Details | nonjabulo2.ndlovu@gmail.com |
| Distance | 42 |
| Online Entries | https://www.webtickets.co.za/v2/event.aspx?itemid=1560721608 |
| Pre-entries Close | Wednesday 12 February 2025 |
| Entry Fee | R380 |
| Included Extras | Shirt (first 300 entries) |
| Late entries | Yes – |
| Title sponsor | None |
| Permanent Numbers | No |
| How to get there from Joburg? | 600km (6h) drive or 1h flight to Durban and 80km drive from King Shaka Airport. |
| Accommodation Options | Check out Google for B&B and hotel options |
| What else to do there? | Plenty of tourist options in and around Durban: http://visitdurban.travel/ |
| Normal Finishers | +/- 30 |
| Which year was the race started? | 2022 |
| How many previous events have been held? | 2 |
| Cutoff time | ? |
| First prize value | 3500 |
| Route Elevation (total climbing) | ? |
Balwin Sport Peninsula Marathon (16-Feb): Confirmed
| Race Description | A scenic 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/ |
| Race Date | Sunday 16 February 2025 |
| Location | Cape Town, WC |
| Start Venue | Green Point-Simon’s Town |
| Route Type | Point-to-point |
| Race Website | https://celticharriers.co.za/our-events/balwin-sport-peninsula-marathon/ |
| Contact Details | info@celticharriers.co.za |
| Distance | 42 |
| Online Entries | https://secure.onreg.com/onreg2/front/step1.php?id=6689 |
| Pre-entries Close | Saturday 08 February 2025 |
| Entry Fee | R390 |
| Included Extras | Shirt (first 2000 entrants), goodie bag, Lindsey Parry 8-week training program, free photos |
| Late entries | No – |
| Title sponsor | Balwin Properties |
| Permanent Numbers | Yes (10th finish) |
| How to get there from Joburg? | Fly to Cape Town; Green Point is 20km and Simon’s Town 45km from the airport. |
| Accommodation Options | Check out Google for B&B and hotel options |
| What else to do there? | Apart from the plethora of Cape Town sight-seeing options, the finish venue in Simon’s Town provides the opportunity go for a swim with the Penguins at Boulders Beach (and ice your legs in the Atlantic Ocean) – or go further offshore to watch southern right whales from the comfort of a boat or great white sharks from an underwater cage. Simon’s Town also has a number of museums including the South African Naval Museum. |
| Normal Finishers | +/- 3000 |
| Which year was the race started? | 1964 |
| How many previous events have been held? | 56 |
| Cutoff time | 6h00 |
| First prize value | 12000 |
| Route Elevation (total climbing) | 224 |
TWK Assegaai Marathon (22-Feb): Confirmed
| 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/ |
| Race Date | Saturday 22 February 2025 |
| Location | Piet Retief, Mpu |
| Start Venue | Piet Retief Rugby Club |
| Route Type | Out-and-back |
| Race Website | https://www.facebook.com/AssegaaiMC/ or @assegaaimarathonclub on Instagram |
| Contact Details | ilsevdl@ymail.com |
| Distance | 42 |
| Online Entries | https://www.entryninja.com/events/81297-twk-assegaai-3-in-1 |
| Pre-entries Close | Friday 14 February 2025 |
| Entry Fee | R250 |
| Included Extras | ? |
| Late entries | Yes (R50 extra for late entries) |
| Title sponsor | TWK www.twkagri.com/ |
| Permanent Numbers | No |
| How to get there from Joburg? | 330km (4h) drive along the N17 and N2. |
| Accommodation Options | www.booking.com offers quite a number of reputable Piet Retief guest houses travelling runners can book for the weekend. |
| What else to do there? | http://www.mpumalanga.com/plan-your-trip/information-offices/grass-wetlands/piet-retief |
| Normal Finishers | +/- 200 |
| Which year was the race started? | 1988 |
| How many previous events have been held? | 35 |
| Cutoff time | 6h00 |
| First prize value | 1550 |
| Route Elevation (total climbing) | 482 |
Land of Legends Marathon (22-Feb): Date Confirmed
| Race Description | Nothing known about this marathon. |
| Detailed Report | -: – |
| Race Date | Saturday 22 February 2025 |
| Location | Thohoyandou, Limpopo |
| Start Venue | Thavhani Mall, Thohoyandou |
| Route Type | ? |
| Race Website | Saturday 00 January 1900 |
| Contact Details | tshikovhi43@gmail.com |
| Distance | 42 |
| Online Entries | ? |
| Pre-entries Close | ? |
| Entry Fee | ? |
| Included Extras | ? |
| Late entries | ? – |
| Title sponsor | None |
| Permanent Numbers | No |
| How to get there from Joburg? | Saturday 00 January 1900 |
| Accommodation Options | Saturday 00 January 1900 |
| What else to do there? | Saturday 00 January 1900 |
| Normal Finishers | N/A |
| Which year was the race started? | ? |
| How many previous events have been held? | N/A |
| Cutoff time | ? |
| First prize value | ? |
| Route Elevation (total climbing) | ? |
Anco Ultra Ultra (22-Feb): Confirmed
| Race Description | If you’re in Welkom and you’re bored (but I repeat myself). Three 16k laps around Welkom is great mental preparation for anything that life might throw at you! For those that want to work on their mental game and get a flat easy qualifier over the 48k distance, this is an ideal opportunity. |
| Detailed Report | Anco Ultra (You know you’re addicted to running when…): https://runningmann.co.za/2020/04/07/anco-ultra-welkom/ |
| Race Date | Saturday 22 February 2025 |
| Location | Welkom, FS |
| Start Venue | Welkom Swimming Pool |
| Route Type | Triple-lapper |
| Race Website | https://goudveldmultisport.co.za/ |
| Contact Details | bedeliaoase@gmail.com |
| Distance | 48 |
| Online Entries | N/A |
| Pre-entries Close | Thursday 20 February 2025 |
| Entry Fee | R290 |
| Included Extras | – |
| Late entries | Yes – |
| Title sponsor | ANCO Engineering http://www.ancoeng.co.za/ |
| Permanent Numbers | No |
| How to get there from Joburg? | 250km (2h30) drive from Joburg down the N1. |
| Accommodation Options | Recommended by the organiser: Captain’s Cabin Guest House (057) 352 5128 Rover’s Club (057) 352 7947 Heimat Guesthouse (057) 6300173 Giardino 082 417 2755 Stnville Inn Hotel (057) 353 2452 |
| What else to do there? | Welkom has a Metro Cinama at the STRIP, Goldfield Mall with plenty of resturants for a lovely evening. It is a Friendly City with lots of circles. |
| Normal Finishers | +/- 100 |
| Which year was the race started? | 2016 |
| How many previous events have been held? | 9 |
| Cutoff time | 5h50 |
| First prize value | 500 |
| Route Elevation (total climbing) | 292 |
Cape Gate Vaal Marathon (23-Feb): Confirmed
| 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 | -: – |
| Race Date | Sunday 23 February 2025 |
| Location | Vereeniging, Gau |
| Start Venue | Dick Fourie Stadium, Klipriver Drive, Three Rivers, Vereeniging |
| Route Type | Double-lapper |
| Race Website | http://www.vaalmarathon.co.za/ |
| Contact Details | admin@vaalmarathon.co.za |
| Distance | 42 |
| Online Entries | https://secure.onreg.com/onreg2/front/step1.php?id=6741 |
| Pre-entries Close | Wednesday 12 February 2025 |
| Entry Fee | R347 |
| Included Extras | – |
| Late entries | No – |
| Title sponsor | Cape Gate www.capegate.co.za/ (this is the 26th year they have sponsored the race!) |
| Permanent Numbers | Yes (10th finish) |
| How to get there from Joburg? | 60km (45m) south but allow more time for raceday traffic. |
| Accommodation Options | Accommodation Riviera on Vaal Resort: R950 per room per night including breakfast (This can be either double or single occupancy.) (Child Rate: R120 per child under 12 Sharing with 2 x Adults. – Subject to availability of Family rooms.) Please note that these rates are valid for the nights of the 4th , 5th and 6th of March 2022 only. We are not holding a specific allocation for athletes, it is on a first come basis and subject to availability. Rooms can be booked by e-mail: gnc@rovresort.co.za – Rate Code: CGVM22 On a Friday Evening we have a Dinner Theatre at the Hotel, which includes a Show Ticket and a 2 x Course Dinner (See poster attached) . Normal Price is R385,- pp Special price for athletes staying with us: R300 pp. Sponsored Prize for the Event: The Riviera Hotel will also offer the following Prize on a lucky draw from race entries: 2 Night stay for a Family of 4 at the Riviera on Vaal Hotel including Breakfast & 4 Pitch and Putt Tickets. |
| What else to do there? | Enjoy an afternoon at the Vaal Dam or check out https://www.vaalmeander.co.za for other options. |
| Normal Finishers | +/- 2000 |
| Which year was the race started? | 1975 |
| How many previous events have been held? | 49 |
| Cutoff time | 5h45 |
| First prize value | 1500 |
| Route Elevation (total climbing) | 159 |
SA Home Loans Buffs Marathon (23-Feb): Confirmed
| 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 | -: – |
| Race Date | Sunday 23 February 2025 |
| Location | East London, EC |
| Start Venue | N6 Mcleantown – Buffs club |
| Route Type | Point-to-point |
| Race Website | https://www.buffaloroadrunners.co.za/ |
| Contact Details | buffs@liveadventure.co.za |
| Distance | 42 |
| Online Entries | https://buffsmarathon.co.za/ |
| Pre-entries Close | Sunday 16 February 2025 |
| Entry Fee | R340 |
| Included Extras | Shirt (first 500 entries) |
| Late entries | No – |
| Title sponsor | SA Home Loans |
| Permanent Numbers | Yes (10th finish) |
| 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. |
| Accommodation Options | Stay at one of the beachfront hotels (Windsor Cabanas, Regent, ICC, Osner, Garden Court) or book a room at one of the many B&Bin the area. |
| What else to do there? | Explore the local beaches – good for swimming, surfing, fishing or just relaxing; Some excellent private game reserves are closeby to see Africa’s big game by land as well as whales and sharks by boat. Check out https://www.eastlondon.org.za/tourism.html for more. |
| Normal Finishers | +/- 1000 |
| Which year was the race started? | 1974 |
| How many previous events have been held? | 50 |
| Cutoff time | 6h00 |
| First prize value | 1000 |
| Route Elevation (total climbing) | 317 |
Balwin Sport Pretoria Marathon (23-Feb): Confirmed
| 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 | -: – |
| Race Date | Sunday 23 February 2025 |
| Location | Pretoria, Gau |
| Start Venue | Pretoria High School Old Boys Club, Hofmeyr Park 378 Queens Crescent, Lynnwood |
| Route Type | Double-lapper |
| Race Website | https://phobians.co.za/ |
| Contact Details | info@theroc.co.za ; info@pretoriamarathon.co.za |
| Distance | 42 |
| Online Entries | https://secure.onreg.com/onreg2/front/step1.php?id=6709 |
| Pre-entries Close | Monday 17 February 2025 |
| Entry Fee | R485 |
| Included Extras | Shirt (first 3000 entrants) |
| Late entries | No – |
| Title sponsor | Balwin Properties |
| Permanent Numbers | No |
| How to get there from Joburg? | 75km (1h) but allow extra time for traffic. |
| Accommodation Options | Check out Google for B&B and hotel options |
| What else to do there? | http://www.tshwanetourism.com/ |
| Normal Finishers | +/- 3000 |
| Which year was the race started? | ? |
| How many previous events have been held? | ? |
| Cutoff time | 5h45 |
| First prize value | 10000 |
| Route Elevation (total climbing) | 653 |
Capital City Marathon (23-Feb): Confirmed
| 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 | Capital City Marathon (humans versus humidity): https://runningmann.co.za/2024/04/17/capital-city-marathon/ |
| Race Date | Sunday 23 February 2025 |
| Location | Pietermaritzburg, KZN |
| Start Venue | Pietermaritzburg City Hall |
| Route Type | Double-lapper |
| Race Website | https://capitalcity42.co.za/ |
| Contact Details | racedirector@capitalcity42.co.za |
| Distance | 42 |
| Online Entries | https://www.entryninja.com/events/81101-capital-city-marathon |
| Pre-entries Close | Sunday 16 February 2025 |
| Entry Fee | R390 |
| Included Extras | Shirt (pre-entries) |
| Late entries | Yes (R40 extra for late entries) |
| Title sponsor | None |
| Permanent Numbers | Planned for future |
| How to get there from Joburg? | 500km (5h) drive or fly to Durban and 100km (1h) drive from King Shaka. |
| Accommodation Options | Check out Google for B&B and hotel options |
| What else to do there? | Plenty to do in Pietermaritzburg – check out http://www.pmbtourism.co.za / or spend some time in the magnificent Midlands. https://midlandsmeander.co.za/ |
| Normal Finishers | +/- 1000 |
| Which year was the race started? | 2020 |
| How many previous events have been held? | 4 |
| Cutoff time | 6h00 |
| First prize value | 12000 |
| Route Elevation (total climbing) | 410 |
Legends Township Marathon (23-Feb): Confirmed
| 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 | -: – |
| Race Date | Sunday 23 February 2025 |
| Location | Johannesburg, Gau |
| Start Venue | Eldorado Park Stadium. Cuming Road, Eldorado Park |
| Route Type | Double-lapper |
| Race Website | https://www.facebook.com/TownshipMarathon/ |
| Contact Details | townshipmarathon@gmail.com |
| Distance | 42 |
| Online Entries | https://secure.onreg.com/onreg2/front/step1.php?id=6791 |
| Pre-entries Close | Thursday 20 February 2025 |
| Entry Fee | R485 |
| Included Extras | Shirt (first 1500 entries) |
| Late entries | Yes – |
| Title sponsor | None |
| Permanent Numbers | No |
| How to get there from Joburg? | Eldorado Park is 20km south west of central Joburg with many access points. |
| Accommodation Options | Soak up the township vibe by booking a room at the “Soweto Hotel” in Kliptown (where the Freedom Charter was signed / 3km from the race venue). |
| What else to do there? | Book yourself onto a township tour or explore the many famous and significant sites in the vicinity like Vilakazi Street and the Hector Pietersen Memorial Museum. |
| Normal Finishers | +/- 500 |
| Which year was the race started? | ? |
| How many previous events have been held? | 27 |
| Cutoff time | 6h00 |
| First prize value | 5000 |
| Route Elevation (total climbing) | 322 |
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That’s a great photo Running Mann, with the runner making a circle with his hand inside the sun. Did you take it yourself?
Yes, I took it at last year’s Mapungubwe Marathon in Polokwane – just a lucky shot!
Thank you very much for your selfless contribution to running. I appreciate reading your articles and analysis.