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Record prize money, history on the line at 99th Comrades Marathon

Adnaan MohamedComrades Marathon, News, PreviewLeave a Comment on Record prize money, history on the line at 99th Comrades Marathon
By Adnaan Mohamed

The 99th edition of the Comrades Marathon has all the ingredients of a classic.

Defending champions Tete Dijana and Gerda Steyn return to lead a star-studded elite field on Sunday as 21,677 runners tackle the 85.777km Up Run from Durban City Hall to Hollywoodbets Scottsville Racecourse in Pietermaritzburg.

With nearly all of last year’s top-10 finishers back on the start line and a record prize purse on offer, the race is poised to deliver another compelling chapter in the history of South Africa’s most iconic ultra-marathon.

The only absentee among the top 20 men and women from the 2025 race is women’s runner-up Alexandra Morozova, leaving an elite field packed with proven performers and ambitious challengers.

Race director Sue Forge expects another fiercely contested battle.

“All the signs are that this should be another thrilling race, not just in terms of proven gold medallists, but also with the addition of a number of very fast marathoners and ultra-marathoners from both South Africa and abroad, including world-class 100km competitors. We’re looking forward to seeing who claims the podium spots and a share of the biggest prize purse in the history of the Comrades Marathon.”

The elite athletes will compete for a share of R8.21 million, including incentives and bonuses, with both the men’s and women’s winners earning R925,000.

“We have made sure that the top contenders in the 2026 edition of the Comrades Marathon have 8.2 million reasons to give everything they have on the route from Durban to Pietermaritzburg,” Forge said.

“This race has always produced world-class performances, and this considerable prize purse reflects the status of both the race and the elite field we have running this year.”

Dijana targets rare company

Tete Dijana Photo: Tobias Ginsberg/CMA

Dijana arrives as the man to beat.

The three-time champion claimed victories in 2022, 2023 and 2025, yet has never won an Up Run. A victory on Sunday would not only complete that collection, it would move him level with four-time winner Alan Robb and into a tie for third on the all-time men’s winners list.

Standing in his way is Dutch rival Piet Wiersma, winner of the most recent Up Run in 2024 and runner-up to Dijana in both 2023 and 2025.

Their rivalry has become one of the defining storylines of modern Comrades racing and could once again shape the outcome.

Three-time champion Bongmusa Mthembu also has history within reach. The veteran owns 11 gold medals and sits level with Bruce Fordyce on that list. Another gold medal would move him alongside Alan Robb with a record 12.

The men’s field is strengthened further by former winners Edward Mothibi and David Gatebe, while Nikolai Volkov, Joseph Manyedi, Alex Milne, Gordon Lesetedi and Vasilii Korytkin all return after gold-medal performances in 2025.

Several newcomers add intrigue.

South African hopeful George Kusche has attracted considerable support after finishing 12th last year, while Onalenna Khonkhobe’s impressive performances over the past 12 months have elevated him into podium discussions.

Internationally, much attention will focus on World 100km champion Aleksandr Sorokin, American record-holder Charles Lawrence and French 100km specialist Guillaume Ruel.

Steyn eyes fifth crown

Gerda Steyn Photo: Tobias Ginsberg/CMA

If Dijana is chasing history, Steyn is pursuing legacy.

The South African star has dominated women’s ultra-distance running in recent years and arrives full of confidence after securing a seventh consecutive Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon title.

Having won Comrades in 2019, 2023, 2024 and 2025, Steyn stands one victory away from becoming only the second woman in history to reach five wins.

Only eight-time champion Elena Nurgalieva has won more.

Yet the women’s race appears deeper than ever.

Kenyan Shelmith Muriuki impressed with third place on debut last year and is widely viewed as a serious contender. Irvette van Zyl enters the race after breaking the Loskop 50km course record, while Dominika Stelmach, Carla Molinaro, Caitriona Jennings, Courtney Olsen, Jenet Mbhele and Melissah Gibson all return after earning gold medals in 2025.

Adele Broodryk’s return adds further quality after she missed last year’s race, while Galaletsang Mekgoe and Jenna Challenor will be eager to force their way back into the gold-medal positions.

Zimbabwean debutant Nobukhosi Tshuma is another athlete generating interest after finishing third at this year’s Two Oceans Marathon.

Strongest field in years

The elite men’s field consists of 97 athletes, while 34 women have earned elite status.

Together they form one of the strongest line-ups assembled for the race in recent years.

For Dijana and Steyn, Sunday offers an opportunity to strengthen already impressive legacies. For the chasing pack, it presents a chance to alter the narrative.

By late afternoon in Pietermaritzburg, the 99th Comrades Marathon will have produced new heroes, fresh storylines and perhaps another piece of history on South Africa’s most famous road.

Sea of Pink, Stories of Strength: Cancer Survivors Inspire at Totalsports Women’s Race

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By Adnaan Mohamed

The countdown to the 2026 Totalsports Women’s Race has begun, and while thousands will toe the start line in Durban, Cape Town and Johannesburg this August, some participants are already carrying victories far greater than any finish medal.

For cancer survivors such as Selina Govender, Rayghanah Cassiem and Ntokozo Dludla, every kilometre covered is a declaration of resilience. Their stories form part of the beating heart of an event that continues to blend fitness, friendship and fundraising through its partnership with PinkDrive.

Set to take place on three consecutive Sundays in August, the race has become a moving mosaic of courage, where the famous sea of pink flows through city streets like a river of hope.

Govender, from Merebank in Durban, was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer with widespread bone metastasis in August 2021 at the age of 37. What followed was a marathon few could imagine: a mastectomy, lymph node removal, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, bone-strengthening infusions and ongoing endocrine therapy.

Selina Govender Photo: Supplied

“Almost five years later, my scans remain clear. I continue with endocrine therapy and bone infusions. Cancer taught me that we can’t always control what life throws at us, but we can control how we rise above it. Pay attention to your body. Listen to the small signs. Never skip your check-ups and, above all, never lose hope,” said Govender.

A regular participant since 2017, she will once again line up for the 10km event in Durban.

“I walk due to no longer being able to run. The movement helps with circulation and supports keeping my bones strong and the rest of my body healthy. The Totalsports Women’s Race is a powerful celebration of women that focuses on health and charity. It is a ‘must-do’ event for women in South Africa, offering a fun, well-organised, and meaningful experience that blends healthy living with a powerful message of empowerment. I’m always in awe of the atmosphere, especially the ‘sea of pink’ and camaraderie among participants. Not forgetting the amazing views along the route, which remind us just how beautiful Durban is.”

In Cape Town, Cassiem’s journey reads like a script that repeatedly refused to follow its expected ending. Diagnosed with breast cancer during Women’s Month in 2005 at age 46 and given five years to live, she has now spent more than two decades proving predictions can sometimes stumble while determination keeps running.

Rayghanah Cassiem Photo: Supplied

“Being given a second chance at life changed everything for me,” said Cassiem. “Before my diagnosis, I was simply existing as a mother and wife. Afterward, I truly started living, appreciating life’s simple blessings and embracing new challenges. I took up hiking, dragon boat paddling, and road running, things I never imagined I would do.”

Her journey later included a recurrence that advanced to stage 4 disease.

“At 50, I experienced a recurrence of breast cancer in my sternum, which took me to Stage 4. I was told it was advanced and incurable, instead of giving up, it strengthened my resolve to live fully.”

Today she volunteers in cancer care outreach programmes, carrying hope like a relay baton.

“Today, I dedicate my time to outreach programmes at cancer care homes, using my journey to inspire and give hope. Cancer has taught me not to take a single day for granted. I have participated in the Totalsports Women’s Race for many years. It has become a special part of my journey. Reconnecting with familiar faces and the shared sense of purpose is incredibly uplifting. Sport helps me cope with the challenges of cancer and supports my physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. It reminds me that my body is still strong and capable.”

Johannesburg entrant Dludla knows the emotional turbulence that arrives with a diagnosis.

“It was an overwhelming experience, fear and confusion all came rushing at once. The unknown was the hardest part,” she admitted.

“The journey was not easy: doctor’s appointments, tests, and treatment. It felt like my life revolved around hospitals and waiting rooms. My support system became my anchor, and family, friends, and even strangers showed me kindness and love in ways I will never forget. They reminded me that I am not alone in this fight.”

Her message to fellow patients is simple.

“Cancer can feel overwhelming when you think too far ahead. My advice is to focus on getting through one appointment, one treatment, and one moment at a time.”

For Nikki Crous, Head of Marketing at Totalsports, these stories embody the race’s deeper purpose.

“The Totalsports Women’s Race is built on the strength, courage, and resilience of women like Selina, Rayghanah, and Ntokozo, whose stories continue to inspire and unite us. This event is far more than a race, it is a powerful platform for awareness, connection, and hope. Through our partnership with PinkDrive, we are reminded of the importance of early detection, ongoing education, and support, while celebrating the incredible spirit of women who continue to show up, push forward, and uplift one another in the face of adversity.”

As race day approaches, the roads of Durban, Cape Town and Johannesburg are preparing for more than a running event. They are preparing to host thousands of footsteps carrying stories of survival, strength and stubborn hope. In a world that often sprints past life’s important lessons, these women are setting the pace.

Visit PinkDrive and Totalsports Women’s Race for further information.

Gerda Steyn eyes another slice of Comrades history

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Adnaan Mohamed

Four-time Comrades Marathon champion Gerda Steyn says her preparations for this year’s race are on track as she targets a fifth title and potentially another record-breaking performance in the iconic ultra-marathon on 14 June.

The South African star is currently completing her final training block in the French Alps ahead of the 99th edition of the race, where she will once again start as the overwhelming favourite in the women’s field.

Steyn has dominated ultra-distance running in South Africa over the past decade, building a remarkable record that includes four Comrades victories and an unprecedented seven consecutive Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon titles.

The Hollywood Athletics Club athlete arrives at Comrades fresh from another commanding display at Two Oceans in April, where she claimed her seventh straight crown in 3:27:43.

Her achievements at Comrades have been equally impressive.

Steyn won her first title in 2019 in an Up Run record of 5:58:53, becoming the first woman to break the six-hour barrier on the route. She added victories in 2023, 2024 and 2025 and currently holds both the Down Run record of 5:44:54, set in 2023, and the Up Run record of 5:49:46, established a year later.

This year’s race could present another opportunity for a fast time.

The official distance for the 2026 Up Run from Durban to Pietermaritzburg is 85.777km, making it the shortest Up Run in recent history and potentially opening the door for new records.

Steyn, however, remains focused on preparation rather than predictions.

“I’m really excited to line up for the Comrades Marathon again this year,” she said.

“My training so far has gone really, really well. Of course, it’s still ongoing, but all is going according to plan, especially after the Two Oceans Ultra Marathon earlier in April.”

With the route heading inland to Pietermaritzburg, Steyn has tailored her training to meet the specific demands of the Up Run.

“This year with it being an uprun, my training is also specifically tailored in making sure that I am strong on the uphills but also of course it’s a fast race.

“Even though it’s almost 90 kilometres, the pace is still fast, so I’m trying to work on all areas to be 100% ready for race day.”

Nine-time Comrades winner Bruce Fordyce believes Steyn’s accomplishments have already secured her place among the greats of South African distance running.

“Gerda has redefined what women can achieve at Comrades and Two Oceans. Her records, consistency and professionalism place her among the greatest ultra-distance runners South Africa has ever produced,” Fordyce said.

“To hold both Comrades records and dominate Two Oceans year after year is extraordinary. She has raised the standard for everybody.”

Fordyce also highlighted Steyn’s ability to perform under pressure on the biggest stages.

“What stands out is the way she races with confidence and composure. She makes world-class performances look effortless, and that’s the mark of a truly exceptional athlete.”

This year’s race will also be Steyn’s second Comrades appearance in Hollywood Athletics Club colours.

“I’m really excited to line up for my second Comrades Marathon in the Hollywood Athletics purple colors,” she said.

“So that will also be really exciting to share the roads with so many other teammates and club mates. It’s going to be a very special day, so all the best from my side to everyone lining up this year.”

Having already rewritten large sections of the Comrades record book, Steyn heads into the 2026 race with another opportunity to strengthen her legacy. The title remains the primary target, though on a shortened Up Run route, the clock may once again become her biggest rival.

Fastest marathon on African soil run in Cape Town

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By Adnaan Mohamed

The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon delivered a landmark moment for African road running on Sunday as Ethiopia’s Mohamed Esa produced the fastest marathon ever run on African soil in a record-shattering performance through the streets of the Mother City.

Esa stormed to victory in 2:04:55, obliterating the previous course record of 2:08:16 set by fellow Ethiopian Abdisa Tola in 2024.

Mohamed Esa of Ethiopia won the 2026 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon in a new course record 2:04:55, which is the fastest time ever run on African soil. Image: Fahwaaz Cornelius

His time also eclipsed the previous fastest marathon run on the continent, the 2:06:32 recorded by Morocco’s Hicham Laqouahi in 2020, while establishing a new South African All-Comers record.

The performance strengthened the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon growing bid to become Africa’s first Abbott World Marathon Majors, placing it alongside iconic marathons in London, New York, Berlin and Tokyo.

One of the key requirements for Major status is a world-class elite and wheelchair field. The 2026 edition delivered exactly that and the athletes responded by rewriting the record books.

Esa arrived in Cape Town with the quickest season-best in the field after clocking 2:04:49 in the 2025 Chicago Marathon, and delivered on that form with a decisive late surge.

He broke away from a leading pack of four inside the final three kilometres before pulling clear again in the closing stages.

The depth of the elite field underlined the quality of the race, with the first 10 runners all finishing quicker than the previous course record.

“To be honest, I was not thinking about the course record today, because my target was to win the race in my African homeland,” said Esa.

“So the win was the priority, and I was not targeting the course record, but I am really happy that I could do both today.”

Fellow Ethiopian Yihunilign Adane finished second in 2:04:59, while Kenya’s Kalipus Lomwai completed the podium in 2:05:06.

South African veteran Stephen Mokoka was the leading local athlete in 13th place in 2:10:48.

He was followed by Matlakala Bennet Seloyi, who clocked a personal best 2:12:17, while debutant Anthony Timoteus impressed with 2:13:04 in his first marathon.

Kenyan legend Eliud Kipchoge finished 16th in 2:13:29.

The Ethiopian later waited at the finish line to welcome fellow runners home, including marathon great Eliud Kipchoge, who finished 16th in 2:13:29.

“Eliud is my role model, and I love and respect him so much,” Esa said.

“I wanted to show the world that we are the same family of African runners.”

In the women’s race, Ethiopia completed a clean sweep of the podium positions.

The top 3 women in the 2026 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon, from left, Mestawut Fikir (Ethiopia, second), Dera Dida Yami (Ethiopia, winner), and Waganesh Amare (Kenya, third). Image: Fahwaaz Cornelius

Dera Dida Yami claimed victory in 2:23:18, narrowly missing the course record of 2:22:22 set by South Africa’s Glenrose Xaba in 2024.

“I came here to win the race and that was my goal,” Dida said.

“But I’ll be very happy to come back here and try to break the course record next year.”

She also revealed that Tamirat Tola already plans to race in Cape Town next year after missing this year’s event following his London Marathon campaign.

Mestawut Fikir crossed second in 2:23:46, with Waganesh Amare third in 2:23:57.

Former women’s world champion Edna Kiplagat finished fifth in 2:25:44 at the age of 46.

South Africa’s top finisher was Mia Morrison, who placed 15th in 2:49:52.

WHEELCHAIR RECORDS SHATTERED

The wheelchair races also produced two course records.

Great Britain’s David Weir won the men’s race in 1:30:20 to better the previous mark of 1:32:09 set in 2023.

“The atmosphere was amazing with the crowd, and the weather was good as well,” said Weir.

“I didn’t plan to go for the record today, it was one of those things.”

David Weir
Manuela Schär

Switzerland’s Manuela Schär dominated the women’s race in 1:43:25, smashing the previous course record of 1:52:58.

“I’ve done all the Majors around the world, and this is definitely one of my favourites,” Schär said.

“The crowd was amazing, and then the view… you have the ocean and Table Mountain. It was beautiful.”

The latest edition of the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon comes at a crucial stage in the event’s bid to become part of the Abbott World Marathon Majors series, strengthening its growing reputation as Africa’s leading marathon.

Kipchoge, Ethiopian stars headline record chase at Cape Town Marathon

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By Adnaan Mohamed

The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon is poised for a potentially historic Sunday as one of the deepest elite fields ever assembled on African soil prepares to attack the record books beneath Table Mountain.

The 32nd edition of the race has attracted 27,000 marathon runners and a combined total of 44,500 participants across the weekend’s events, while the elite field carries enough firepower to threaten both course records.

In the men’s race, 13 athletes have already run faster than the current course mark of 2:08:16 set by Abdisa Tola in 2024. Ten of them have dipped beneath that time within the last year.

Leading the charge is marathon icon Eliud Kipchoge, the two-time Olympic champion and former world record-holder, whose personal best of 2:01:09 makes him the fastest athlete in the field historically.

Although now 41, Kipchoge remains a formidable contender after clocking 2:05:25 in London last year.

Ethiopia’s Mohamed Esa enters with arguably the sharpest recent form after posting 2:04:49 in Chicago in 2025, while Israel’s Maru Teferi arrives with a personal best of 2:04:44.

Mohamed Esa

Kenya’s Benard Kipkurui Biwott and Justus Kangogo, alongside Ethiopians Yihunilign Adane, Mulugeta Asefa Uma and Boki Kebede Asefa, add further depth to a field packed with sub-2:06 runners.

Another major contender is Adane Gebre Kebede, who won in Cape Town in 2023 and finished runner-up in 2024. His recent 2:06:16 in Houston suggests he could again feature prominently.

South Africa’s hopes will largely rest with three-time champion Stephen Mokoka, alongside Desmond Mokgobu, Bennet Seloyi and debutant Anthony Timoteus.

The women’s race also promises fireworks.

South African star Glenrose Xaba set the course record of 2:22:22 in 2024, producing the fastest women’s marathon ever run on African soil. This year’s elite lineup includes five women who have already run faster than 2:20.

Ethiopian trio Ruti Aga, Dera Dida and Mestawat Fikir are expected to spearhead the challenge. Aga owns a 2:18:09 best, while Dida and Fikir have clocked 2:18:32 and 2:18:48 respectively.

Edna Kiplagat

Experienced campaigners Lonah Salpeter and Edna Kiplagat add further quality to the field. Salpeter remains the fastest woman in the race historically with her 2:17:45 Tokyo victory in 2020, while two-time world champion Kiplagat continues to compete at elite level at 47.

“We have assembled the best marathon elite and wheelchair fields the African continent has ever seen, led by the best marathon runner of all time, Eliud Kipchoge,” said Clark Gardner.

“With so many starters who have run faster times than our course records, we feel confident that the record books will need updating after this year’s race.”

The race also represents another significant milestone in Cape Town’s bid to become Africa’s first Abbott World Marathon Majors event, alongside marathons in New York, Boston, Berlin, Chicago, Tokyo, Sydney and London.

Featured Photo Credit: Kevin Peters

adidas brings record-breaking Pro Evo 3 marathon shoe to Cape Town

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adidas is bringing its highly sought-after Adizero Adios Pro Evo 3 to South Africa for the first time, with limited pairs set to be available at the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon Expo from 21 to 23 May.

The racing shoe, regarded as the fastest and lightest marathon shoe produced by adidas, sold out within minutes during its international release and has become one of the most talked-about innovations in long-distance running.

Designed as adidas’ first official sub-2-hour marathon shoe, the Pro Evo 3 was developed to push the limits of speed and efficiency, carrying runners forward like a surge through the final stretch of a marathon.

“Our goal was two digits on the scale, with better performance than we’ve ever had,” said Stephan Scholten, adidas Vice President of Product.

The shoe weighs under 100 grams and features adidas’ latest Lightstrike Pro Evo foam, which is nearly 50% lighter than previous versions. adidas said the 39mm stack height is designed to maximise cushioning, propulsion and energy return.

At the centre of the shoe is the new ENERGYRIM technology, a carbon-integrated system developed to improve stability and energy transfer while maintaining a lightweight structure.

The upper has been engineered using inspiration from kitesurfing sail technology to create a near weightless feel, while strategically placed Continental™ rubber on the outsole provides traction at high speeds.

“To have the Pro Evo 3 available in South Africa at such a major moment for local running is incredibly special,” said Tom Brown, Senior Brand Director at adidas South Africa.

“This shoe represents the future of marathon racing, and bringing it to the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon Expo gives local runners the chance to experience one of the most advanced performance innovations in the sport right now.”

WATCH | Sebastian Sawe speaks after historic sub-2 hour record rout at London Marathon

The launch follows a string of headline performances by adidas athletes on the global stage. Sabastian Sawe and Yomif Kejelcha both ran sub-2-hour marathons at the London Marathon, clocking 1:59.30 and 1:59.41 respectively. Tigist Assefa also set a women-only marathon world record of 2:15.41.

The Adizero Adios Pro Evo 3 will retail for R9 999, while the Hyperboost Edge, which will also launch at the expo, is priced at R4 499.

More information is available at adidas South Africa

Durban 10K ups the stakes with massive prize incentives for 2026

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By Adnaan Mohamed

The 2026 Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K is set to raise the pace and the pressure, with organisers unveiling a lucrative prize structure aimed at attracting elite performances on one of South Africa’s fastest road running courses.

The race, which celebrates its ninth anniversary on 12 July, forms part of the five-leg Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series that carries a combined prize purse of R1.686 million this year.

Each event on the series calendar offers total prize money of R337 200, with R267 200 allocated to the men’s and women’s open categories. Winners in Durban will earn R33 000, while second and third place finishers take home R24 000 and R21 000 respectively.

Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K by Geoff Redman

An additional R70 000 per event has been set aside for age category athletes, including juniors and runners over 40.

Organisers have also introduced substantial incentives for South African athletes capable of producing world-class times.

In the men’s race, athletes who break 27 minutes stand to earn a R300 000 bonus, while women who run faster than 30:20 will receive the same reward. A new South African record will carry an added R50 000 incentive.

Further bonuses will reward consistency across the series, with athletes earning extra payouts for repeated sub-28-minute performances in the men’s division and sub-32:08 performances in the women’s race.

Michael Meyer, race founder said the incentives are designed to reward excellence and elevate the standard of local road running.

“An impressive prize purse is a key pillar of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series, as it not only plays a vital role in attracting a competitive elite field and motivating everyday runners to push beyond their limits and deliver personal best performances, but also serves as a welcomed and deserved reward for athletes who put in the hard work and commitment to excel,” Meyer said.

“With Durban’s fast, flat course, this is the one event where quick times, personal bests, and record-breaking performances are always on the cards. Durban never disappoints. We look forward to witnessing world-class racing at its best on South African soil.”

The race starts on Masabalala Yengwa Avenue and finishes at Sunkist Lawns on the Durban Promenade.

More information is available at RUN YOUR CITY Series

adidas launches official Cape Town Marathon range as Major ambition gathers pace

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By Adnaan Mohamed

The countdown to the 2026 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon has accelerated with adidas unveiling its official race merchandise collection ahead of the event’s latest push toward Abbott World Marathon Major status.

Inspired by Cape Town’s running culture and coastal identity, the range blends performance apparel with bold African-inspired design. The collection features Dusky Petrol and Lucid Aquamarine colourways, complemented by gold detailing symbolising the marathon’s growing global ambition.

The range includes technical race jackets, training T-shirts, caps, visors and the latest version of the adizero Boston 13 running shoe.

The Boston 13 features adidas’ Lightstrike Pro midsole and energy rod system, alongside a uniquely African print design created specifically for the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon.

The collection is available online and at selected adidas stores nationwide.

“Every year the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon takes a stride forward with regards to its scale and stature. This race is unique as it is distinctly African symbol of community, culture, and world-class running,” said Tom Brown.

“This collection allows runners and supporters alike to celebrate this special moment as Cape Town continues its push toward becoming Africa’s first Abbott World Marathon Major.”

As part of the build-up to race weekend, adidas will also host a marathon activation at the historic Union Castle Building square at the V&A Waterfront from 16 to 24 May.

The pop-up hub will stock official marathon merchandise and serve as a gathering point for runners through a series of daily events and community activities.

Among the scheduled events are long runs, recovery sessions, taper runs and shakeout runs, alongside product customisation opportunities. A DHL Stormers signing session is also planned for 19 May.

Runners preparing for race weekend will also have access to pre-race hair and nail services, while finishers can return with their medals for free engraving after the event.

The activation is aimed at creating a race-week atmosphere for local and international runners visiting Cape Town ahead of one of Africa’s flagship road running events.

Cape Town 10K set to blaze as elite stars line up for city showdown

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By Adnaan Mohamed

The Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES Cape Town 10K is shaping into a race that could leave scorch marks on the Mother City’s streets this weekend, with elite athletes targeting fast times, national bragging rights and a slice of history.

The women’s race has emerged as the main attraction with the elusive sub-30 minute barrier firmly in sight for the first time on South African soil.

Kenya’s Faith Cherono enters as the quickest athlete in the field with a personal best of 30:06 and is expected to drive an aggressive pace from the opening kilometre. Fellow Kenyan Jackline Rotich also arrives with proven pedigree and should add further pressure at the front.

South African attention, though, will centre on Glenrose Xaba and Tayla Kavanagh in a contest carrying the feel of a championship prize fight.

Xaba has become the country’s dominant road runner in recent seasons, producing performances as smooth and relentless as a train gathering speed downhill. Kavanagh has rapidly climbed the ranks and continues to show the fearless racing instincts needed to survive a brutal pace on a fast course.

“Cape Town is known for quick times and strong competition,” said Xaba. “When the field moves hard from the start, everyone gets pulled into the race.”

Kavanagh believes the race could deliver something special.

“A sub-30 has been hanging in the air for years,” she said. “This field has the athletes capable of chasing that mark.”

The men’s race also carries serious firepower.

Kenyan speedster Felix Kibet Masai leads the entries with a lightning-fast 27:24 personal best and will start among the favourites alongside South African veteran Stephen Mokoka, whose experience and tactical awareness remain among the sharpest in the domestic road running scene.

Kabelo Mulaudzi, Tanzania’s Jummanne Ngoya and a powerful local contingent including Bongelani Mkhwanazi and Chris Mhlanga should ensure the pace remains fierce throughout.

Mokoka expects an uncompromising race from the gun.

“When athletes with these personal bests line up together, the pace naturally becomes aggressive,” he said. “You need to be ready for every move.”

With cool rainy, coastal conditions expected, deep international fields and national stars eager to seize the spotlight, Cape Town’s roads are set to become a high-speed theatre for one of the most anticipated races on the local calendar.

See full list of male and female elite contenders below:

Sanlam Cape Town Marathon assembles strongest elite field in race history

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By Adnaan Mohamed

The 2026 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon is set to deliver one of the strongest elite fields ever assembled on African soil when the race takes place in the Mother City on Sunday, 24 May.

As the event continues its push for Abbott World Marathon Majors status, organisers have secured a line-up featuring Olympic champions, world title holders, seasoned marathon winners and some of the fastest athletes in the world.

Four-time Olympian Stephen Mokoka will return to familiar territory as he targets a fourth Sanlam Cape Town Marathon title. The Hollywood Athletics Club veteran remains one of South Africa’s most accomplished distance runners and returns to a course where he has already built a formidable legacy.

Mokoka owns a marathon best of 2:06:42 and a half marathon personal best of 59:36, credentials that keep him firmly among the leading contenders despite the depth of the field.

The biggest attraction is set to be Kenyan superstar Eliud Kipchoge, who has confirmed his participation in what will be his first marathon on African soil.

The double Olympic champion will begin an ambitious global campaign in Cape Town, aiming to run marathons across all seven continents over the next two years. The initiative will raise funds for the Eliud Kipchoge Foundation, which focuses on environmental preservation and education projects.

Israel’s Maru Teferi enters the race with the fastest personal best in the men’s field at 2:04:44. He will face strong opposition from a group of sub-2:06 runners that includes Kenya’s Bernard Biwott (2:05:25) and Justus Kangogo (2:05:57), along with Ethiopians Yihunilign Adane (2:05:33), Mulugeta Asefa Uma (2:05:33) and Boki Kebede Asefa (2:05:40).

South African interest in the men’s race will also centre on Desmond Mokgobu and Nadeel Wildschutt, both holders of sub-2:10 marathon performances. Wildschutt’s brother, Adriaan, will take on pacing duties for the elite men’s race.

Thabang Mosiako will be chasing a breakthrough sub-2:10 performance, while former South African 10km record holder Precious Mashele and former national trail representative Kane Reilly are both set to make their marathon debuts.

The women’s field is equally impressive, led by Israel’s Lonah Salpeter, who boasts a personal best of 2:17:45.

Ethiopia’s Ruti Aga, Dera Dida and Mestawat Fikir bring extensive international marathon experience, while Bahrain’s Desi Jisa Mokonin and Ethiopia’s Waganesh Mekasha add further quality to the contest.

Veteran Kenyan star Edna Kiplagat, a two-time world champion, remains one of the standout names in the field at the age of 47. Zimbabwe-born Fortunate Chidzivo and UK-born Emma Pallant-Browne, now based in South Africa, will also attract local support.

The wheelchair race will feature British great David Weir and Swiss multiple major winner Manuela Schär.

With world-class depth across both elite races, the 2026 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon is positioning itself among the leading marathons on the international calendar.