The 2025 race’s cancellation meant that the city’s second evaluation could not be completed, but AbbottWMM has thrown its full support behind organisers and sponsors for prioritising safety.
SCTM by Diwan Krige
“We fully support the decision to cancel the 2025 event in the interests of runners, volunteers and staff,”AbbottWMM said, also applauding title sponsor Sanlam for offering to fund entries for all 2025 participants in 2026 or 2027.
AbbottWMM CEO Dawna Stone praised the local team:
“I’d like to thank race director Clark Gardner and his team for their brave actions under pressure. We look forward to being back in Cape Town next May to see both the runners and the race cross that finish line.”
Race organiser Clark Gardner called the development a milestone moment:
“We’re ecstatic that, should we pass stage 2 in 2026, all finishers will receive an Abbott World Marathon Majors star. It’s a huge step toward becoming Africa’s first Major, and we can’t wait to celebrate it with our incredible running community.”
SCTM by Diwan Krige
The 2026 race, taking place on May 24, will also host the AbbottWMM Marathon Tours & Travel Age Group World Championships, whose finishers will likewise receive provisional stars.
Ballot entries open on November 6, setting the stage for what could be a historic year for Cape Town, and for African marathon running.
In a cruel twist of fate that left thousands adrift, the 2025 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon was called off before dawn on Sunday, sunk not by human error, but by gale-force winds that tore through the city overnight like a rogue wave smashing a fragile pier.
Adnaan Mohamed – Interview with eNCA after shock cancellation of Sanlam Cape Town Marathon
At 4:45am, race organisers pulled the plug on the 42.2km spectacle after hurricane-strength gusts ripped through Green Point, toppling scaffolding, mangling tents, and whipping banners into what looked like seaweed tossed by a storm tide
By 5am, runners’ phones buzzed with the devastating message: “Race cancelled.”
For the 24,000 athletes who had trained for months with some already limbering up at the start line, it felt like being swept under by an unexpected breaker just metres from shore.
“A Bigger Force Had the Final Say”
Clark Gardner Photo: Tobias Ginsberg
“The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon is devastated at the cancellation of our very special event,” said Clark Gardner, CEO of the marathon.
“We have worked for months on planning for all scenarios and conditions, but ultimately a bigger force had the final say, and we are so sorry for the situation.
“We wish to thank our participants, sponsors and stakeholders for their ongoing support and understanding.”
Safety First Amid the Storm
As winds howled across the city, the Joint Operations Committee (JOC) including theCity’s Disaster Risk Management, SAPS, medical teams, and safety officials convened emergency meetings. The consensus was as clear as still water: the race could not go on.
“The route is unsafe, as the wind is constantly gusting in Woodstock, and the infrastructure at the start and finish venue has been compromised,” said Colonel Christo Engelbrecht of SAPS.
“It’s unsafe for runners and pedestrians in that whole area, and that’s why the race has had to be cancelled. It was a collective decision made by the whole team.”
Even elite runners took the blow with grace. Gerda Steyn, South Africa’s marathon queen, believes it’s important that runners respect the decision of the race organisers.
“There is not a lot that we can do about this. It’s unfortunate that it has happened and of course it’s a disappointment, but we as SA runners are resilient and are built in a way that we can process this in a positive way.
“People can still celebrate the fact that we are still healthy and can still enjoy the day. I believe now is the time just to look at the positives and not dwell too much on the what ifs”
Runners Left High and Dry
Not everyone, however, was ready to float quietly away. Long-time participant Garlen Fredericks, who has run the race for a decade, vented online:
“This smells like sabotage. This is like getting the bride to church on time and then you cancel the wedding. We are deeply disappointed as runners.”
“Wind, what wind? My first reaction was that it’s fake news. People want to run. We are in utter shock and disbelief. Don’t tell me it’s God.
“How is Cape Town supposed to get World Abbott Marathon Major Status as a race? We live with danger every day. Surely all the mitigations were in place?”
A City Weathering the Blow
Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis, himself a champion of the marathon’s World Marathon Major ambitions, acknowledged the heartbreak but defended the call:
“All the runners must be disappointed, as are we all. But I’m grateful to the event organisers for taking a decision with runners’ safety in mind after heavy winds blew down some race infrastructure this morning.
“The City is committed to hosting events of the highest global standards, and that includes sometimes making difficult calls like this one.”
Refunds and Carryovers
SCTM initially confirmed the race’s no-refund policyremains in effect.
However, on Sunday afternoon,title sponsor Sanlam announced that it will be offering every 2025 marathon entrant a sponsored entry for either May 2026 or 2027.
This offer will be extended to all 2025 marathon entrants, regardless of whether the race succeeds in its bid to become Africa’s first Abbott World Marathon Majors event.
A Dream Blown Off Course
SCTM wind damage on the route Photo: Supplied
What was meant to be a celebration of endurance and unity turned into a storm-tossed shipwreck of emotion, organisers standing firm at the helm, and runners left stranded, their medals and milestones swept away by a force no one could tame.
For now, Cape Town’s dream of World Marathon Major status remains afloat but battered. This is a sober reminder that even the best-laid race plans are at the mercy of the elements.
The next edition of the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon is planned for May 2026, when organisers and runners alike will hope for calmer seas.
With two start lines in Green Point and a dazzling cast of global talent, the 2025 edition promises a race painted in speed, pride, and possibility.
“This is the best and strongest field the African continent has ever seen,” said Clark Gardner, CEO of the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon.
“With eight Platinum Label and 10 Gold Label athletes, they will help us bring the first Abbott World Marathon Majors race to Africa. Given the quality of this field, I think race records could tumble again, as they did in 2024.”
Gardner added, “We’re proud to host this event, but we also carry the responsibility to develop running across Africa. You can see that in our South African lineup — all capable of sub-2:10. This is part of our journey toward global recognition.”
A Festival of Running
Before the marathoners hit the road, Saturday’s Peace Trail and Peace Run events will set the tone for a weekend-long running festival. From the 43km mountain challenge at dawn to the family-friendly 5km, more than 41,000 runners will take part across road and trail. Chip timing and staggered wave starts will keep every stride smooth and safe.
Men’s Race: Fire on the Asphalt
The men’s field looks set to ignite. Kenya’s Ronald Korir (2:04:22) and Bethwell Chumba Kibet (2:04:37) bring serious pace, but South Africa’s Elroy Gelant, fresh off a 2:05:36 national record in Hamburg, could light up the home straight.
Elroy Gelant by Tobias Gingsberg
“I’ve grown and matured as a runner,” said Gelant.
“When I first ran Cape Town, I had a 2:12. Now I’m at 2:05, and I think I’ve reached the stage where I really understand and love the marathon. When that happens, things start to come together.”
Other challengers include Othmane El Goumri (Morocco), Asefa Boki Kebebe (Ethiopia), Justus Kangogo (Kenya), and Lesotho’s Tebello Ramakongoana, who will act as pacemaker before chasing glory himself.
Veteran star Stephen Mokoka, a three-time champion, is chasing a fairytale fourth title. “This is my fifth Cape Town Marathon. I’ve won three and finished second once. I’m hoping I can repeat history,” he smiled.
Three-time winner of the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon, Stephen Mokoka, is hoping to add a fourth win in five starts. Photo Tobias Ginsberg
Women’s Race: Speed Meets Grace
The women’s race is equally electrifying. Kenya’s Winfridah Moraa Moseti (2:16:56) and Angela Tanui (2:17:57) bring major marathon pedigree, while Ethiopia’s Meseret Belete and the 2015 World Champion, Mare Dibaba, are ready to test their mettle.
Flying the flag for South Africa, Gerda Steyn returns with pride in her stride. “It’s an honour to line up in a great South African race against such a high-quality field,” she said. “The crowd carried me in 2021, and I can’t wait to feel that again.”
“adidas takes immense pride in partnering with some of the world’s best athletes, including Justus Kangogo, Angela Tanui, Gerda Steyn, and Adam Lipschitz. We’re thrilled they’ll be part of this landmark race,” said Tom Brown, Senior Brand Director at adidas.
Wheelchair Division: Wheels of Fire
The men’s and women’s wheelchair champions return for another showdown. Sho Watanabe (Japan) and Michelle Wheeler (USA) will defend their titles against fierce challengers, including Geert Schipper (Netherlands).
“I’ll face this race as a challenger, not just a defending champion,” said Watanabe. Schipper added with a grin, “I’m going fast from the gun — I’m a big guy, so I can’t wait for a sprint!”
Wheeler added, “It feels like coming home. The volunteers and crowds make Cape Town special — I’m looking forward to that again.”
Prize Money & Incentives
Top finishers will share a massive R4.5 million prize purse, with winners taking home US$25,000 each and bonuses for course or national records. The first South African man and woman will pocket R25,000 each, while age-group and local category prizes ensure everyone has something to chase.
Watch It Live
Fans can catch every stride of the 2025 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon live on SuperSport from 05:50 to 11:00, with international coverage beamed across multiple continents.
