By Adnaan Mohamed
The Mother City’s streets are ready to thunder this Sunday, 19 October, as the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon takes a decisive stride toward Abbott World Marathon Majors glory in 2026.
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.

“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.

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.
For more information, visit the official website: www.capetownmarathon.com
Media enquiries: [email protected]