By Adnaan Mohamed
The pulse of the Mother City’s running scene beats strongest far from the elite start line, in the clubs and communities that shape every stride taken across its roads. With the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon (SCTM) pursuing Abbott World Marathon Major status, adidas has placed the spotlight on the network of runners who have turned the sport into a city-wide movement.
From the Sea Point promenade to the streets of Khayelitsha and the shaded routes of Constantia, running has grown into a shared culture. Clubs such as Running Late Club, adidas Runners Cape Town, VOB Running Club and Khayelitsha Athletics Club have become central to that rise, offering structure, support and a sense of belonging.
adidas Runners Cape Town captain Drew Ngcaba said the impact of community extended beyond performance.
“adidas Runners saved my life. When I was recovering from knee surgery, I couldn’t run, I couldn’t train and I was in a dark place. But the community kept me going. Serving the community kept me going. That’s what it means to me,” said Ngcaba.
He added that the growth of the sport in Cape Town has been rapid.
“Running in the last few years has become a must-do. Races sell out within hours. It’s not just about elites anymore; brands like adidas create spaces where everyone can experience running. It elevates the whole city.”
At VOB Running Club, captain Elydia de Monk (pictured below) has witnessed the marathon’s evolution over more than a decade.
“Years ago, it was just another marathon. Now it’s exhilarating, there’s so much excitement. You see international runners and familiar faces on the route and it’s grown into something incredibly special for our city,” she said.
De Monk said the club’s focus remained on participation and milestones.
“My highlight is helping members run their first marathon, their first half and their first ultra. Crossing the finish line with them, that’s special. It’s about being part of someone’s first.”
In Khayelitsha, running has become a platform for identity and opportunity. Khayelitsha Athletics Club captain Siphiwo Melani (pictured below) said the sport offered more than physical benefits.
“When you’re outside, you think running is just waking up and running. Then you discover the community behind it, the organisation and structure. It gave me purpose and a sense of belonging,” said Melani.
He recalled a defining moment during the marathon.
“There was a young girl on the side of the road cheering. She didn’t know me, she just saw the Khayelitsha vest. That’s when I realised this is bigger than me. Khayelitsha is not a jungle. There are good things happening here. When thousands of people come to run here, it makes me proud. We are rewriting the story.”
Collaboration among clubs has also increased, with groups training together and supporting each other’s events as participation numbers continue to climb.
As Cape Town strengthens its bid for global marathon recognition, it is these communities that remain the foundation, carrying the city’s ambitions one step at a time.
