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Sanlam Cape Town Marathon apologises to disappointed runners

Adnaan MohamedNewsLeave a Comment on Sanlam Cape Town Marathon apologises to disappointed runners
By Adnaan Mohamed

Mother Nature Pulls the Plug

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 the City’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.”

Respect the Decision says Gerda Steyn

Gerda Steyn Photo: Tobias Ginsberg

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 policy remains 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.

Hendricks and Kavanagh Storm to Back-to-Back SCTM 10km Peace Run Titles

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By Adnaan Mohamed

Deon-Lee Hendricks and Tayla Kavanagh successfully defended their Sanlam 10k Peace Run titles in spectacular fashion at the 2025 edition of the race on Saturday morning.

As part of the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon weekend, the sold-out 10km field of 11,000 runners, along with another 3,500 in the 5km Peace Run, turned the Mother City’s streets into a blur of motion, colour, and courage.

Hendricks significantly Improves previous time

For Hendricks, the Athletics Academy star, it was a triumph of rhythm and resilience. Clocking 29:27, the 28-year-old from Cloetesville near Stellenbosch, not only defended his crown but also shaved more than 20 seconds off his winning time from last year.

“This is such a high-profile race, so winning it twice in a row is really a blessing,” said Hendricks, catching his breath after the finish.

“We had to start slower because of the wind, doing over 15 minutes for the first half and under 14 for the second. I came here to give it my all to defend my title, so I’m blessed.”

Potchefstroom track talent Luan Munnik took second in 29:39, followed by Bruce-Lynn Damons of TymeBank Langa in 29:55.

The men’s top three in the 2025 Peace Run 10km, Deon-Lee Hendricks, Luan Munnik and Bruce-Lynn Damons. Photo: Johann Minnaar

“This was my first time here, and what a crazy experience, It’s nothing like being on the track,” said Munnik.

“The first five kays were tactical, but then Bruce-Lynn pushed the pace, and Deon-Lee and I went to the front. He got away in the last mile, but it was great to race with such competitive guys.”

Kavanagh Runs into the Record Books

In the women’s race, Tayla Kavanagh of Hollywood Athletics blazed to an electrifying 31:37, a 16-second personal best and the fastest 10km by a South African woman in 2025.

The Durban dynamo now moves up to 11th on the all-time SA list, with only legends like Glenrose Xaba, Elana Meyer and Colleen De Reuck ahead of her.

“Today I really wanted to go for the win again,” said Kavanagh, glowing with satisfaction.

“Last year was such a great race, and I had a lot of fun again. I think the more fun you have, the faster you run. Even though it was windy, I focused on my plan, to run hard, and I’m super happy with the way I executed it.”

Helping her stay on pace was Olympian Ryan Mphahlele, her official pacesetter and former teammate from the 2023 World Road Running Championships in Latvia.

“Fortunately, I had Ryan to help me,” she added. “I was able to stick to him and run the time my form said I could.”

Behind her, Carina Viljoen claimed silver in 33:02, with Irvette van Zyl third in 33:29, ahead of Kyla Jacobs and Cian Oldknow.

The women’s top three in the 2025 Peace Run 10km, Tayla Kavanagh, Carina Viljoen and Irvette Van Zyl. Photo: Johann Minnaar

Viljoen, gracious in defeat, praised Kavanagh’s masterclass:

“Luckily, I heard what Tayla was aiming for today, so I knew I had to let her do her thing and just focus on my own race. I really had fun and I’m happy with another second place here.”

Peace Run 10km Results

Men:

  1. Deon-Lee Hendricks (Athletics Academy) – 29:27
  2. Luan Munnik (Potch Track) – 29:39
  3. Bruce-Lynn Damons (TymeBank Langa) – 29:55
  4. Angelo Booysen (Correctional Services) – 29:59
  5. Dylan van der Merwe (Boxer) – 30:15

Women:

  1. Tayla Kavanagh (Hollywood) – 31:37
  2. Carina Viljoen (Temp) – 33:02
  3. Irvette van Zyl (Hollywood) – 33:29
  4. Kyla Jacobs (Boxer) – 33:57
  5. Cian Oldknow (Hollywood) – 34:35

Peace Run 5km Highlights

Men: Nicolas Sebolai (SA) – 15:27
Women: Laura Antonia Rehberg (Germany) – 19:38

Full Peace Run 10km Results

adidas runs with Purpose at the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon

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By Adnaan Mohamed

As runners lace up for the 2025 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon, adidas is urging them to do more than chase finish lines, it’s inviting them to run for change.

At this year’s Marathon Expo at DHL Stadium, adidas is unveiling its official Sanlam Cape Town Marathon collection.

It’s featherlight, fast, and fashioned for champions chasing the clock. The range including race tees, singlets, jackets, and the new Adizero Boston 13 shoes. is “built for athletes chasing limits and breaking records,” the brand says.

Beating the Odds, One Bead at a Time

But this year, adidas is adding something even more meaningful to the starting line: purpose, threaded bead by bead.

Handmade limited-edition beaded bracelets

Two limited-edition beaded bracelets, designed in the marathon’s official hues will be on sale, with 100% of proceeds going to the Kolisi Foundation to support gender equity and GBV survivor programmes.

Each bracelet is handmade by survivors of gender-based violence at the Saartjie Baartman Centre for Women & Children in Manenberg, in collaboration with Cape Town jewellery brand Black Betty Design.

“Sport has the power to unite and inspire, but it also has the responsibility to drive change,” said Tom Brown, Senior Brand Director at adidas South Africa.

“By wearing this bracelet on race day, every runner and supporter becomes part of a movement to combat GBV in South Africa.”

Each bracelet carries a story as rich as the marathon itself. The limited-edition design weaves Red Turquoise, symbolising courage and empowerment, with Fossil Stone, a marker of endurance and transformation.

The race-colour version blends Yellow Agate, for positivity and clarity, with Blue Turquoise, the stone of balance and healing.

Like marathoners pounding the road with grit and grace, every bead is a testament to resilience. It’s a small, shining step in a greater race for dignity and equality.

So as the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon Expo opens from 16–18 October at DHL Stadium, adidas invites runners to gear up, not only in style, but in solidarity.

The official marathon range and bracelets will be available exclusively at the adidas stand, select stores, adidas.co.za, and the adidas app.

PRASA on track for Sanlam Cape Town Marathon

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Fan train, park-and-ride and extra services to keep the Mother City moving on race day

By Adnaan Mohamed

Cape Town’s streets will throb with rhythm and resilience on Sunday, 19 October 2025, when the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon (SCTM) hits full stride. And PRASA Western Cape will be right in the race powering up special trains to carry the city’s energy, fans and athletes alike.

Like a well-oiled relay team, PRASA will run extra special event services on the Northern, Southern and Cape Flats lines, ensuring no supporter misses a step.

The star of the show? A “fan train” gliding between Cape Town and Claremont. It will be like a moving grandstand where spectators can cheer from the carriages as the race unfolds along Victoria Road, Main Road, Palmyra Road, Campground Road and Liesbeek Parkway. This rolling cheer squad will match the runners stride for stride.

The plan? Cut congestion, curb parking stress, and give Cape Town’s running faithful a smooth, affordable ride to the action.

Tickets will be available ahead of time at the DHL Stadium Expo in Green Point from 16–18 October. On race day, special event timetables will be displayed at stations and online, ensuring seamless travel to key vantage points.

Commuters and fans can grab their tickets ahead of time at the DHL Stadium expo in Green Point from 16–18 October. On race day, special event timetables will be displayed at stations and online, ensuring seamless travel to key vantage points. Trains will operate at regular intervals with timetables posted online and at all stations.

To beat the gridlock, PRASA has turned key stops into Park-and-Ride hubs. On the Southern Line, Kenilworth, Heathfield, Lakeside and Fish Hoek offer safe options; while the Northern Line opens its doors at Vasco, Tygerberg, Bellville, Kuils River, Eerste Rivier, Strand, Brackenfell and Kraaifontein.

Beyond the logistics, the campaign is about connection, celebration, and community spirit.

“We are proud to be part of this iconic event that celebrates fitness, unity, and the beauty of Cape Town,” said Raymond Maseko, PRASA Western Cape Regional Manager.

“The activation at New Market Street in Woodstock showcases our service while bringing the ‘gees’ to runners and supporters.”

As the Mother City braces for its grand race, PRASA isn’t just keeping the wheels turning, it’s helping carry the soul of the marathon, full steam to the finish line.

RACE-DAY RAIL PLAN

Date: Sunday, 19 October 2025
Lines: Northern, Southern & Cape Flats
Special Feature: “Fan Train” – Cape Town ↔ Claremont
Tickets: Available at DHL Stadium Expo (16–18 Oct)
Timetables: Stations & PRASA social media platforms
Park & Ride:

  • Southern Line: Kenilworth, Heathfield, Lakeside, Fish Hoek
  • Northern Line: Vasco, Tygerberg, Bellville, Kuils River, Eerste Rivier, Strand, Brackenfell, Kraaifontein
    Benefits: Easy access, reduced congestion, affordable & safe travel

Pics: Courtesy of SCTM

GET YOUR SPECTATOR GUIDE HERE:

Steyn sharpens, Mosiako shines at Joburg 10K

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By Adnaan Mohamed

Johannesburg’s streets turned into a purple battleground on Saturday as South Africa’s finest lined up against East African pace at the Hollywoodbets Joburg 10K.

Elite start of the Hollywoodbets Joburg 10K Photo: Adnaan Mohamed

The second edition of the well-organised race started and finished at the historic Wanderers Club. The popular 10km and 5km sold-out event attracted a whopping 8000 participants, who enjoyed the warm, windless, conditions over a challenging hilly route through the streets of Illovo and Sandton.

Kenya’s Frida Ndinda claimed the women’s crown in 35:18. The 24-year-old Kenyan just managed to hold off off the fast finishing 35-year-old South African ultra-marathon queen, Gerda Steyn, who clocked 35:52 for second. Tuks youngster Karabo Mailula, 23, completed the podium in 36:12.

For Steyn, a four-time Comrades and six-time Two Oceans Marathon champion, the Joburg10K was less about silverware and more about sharpening speed ahead of next month’s Sanlam Cape Town Marathon.

“The race went off so fast, I decided to hold back early,” she said.

“I worked my way through, got into second, and could see the leader, but ran out of road. I’m very happy with how strong I felt.”

The men’s race was a very different story. Thabang Mosiako, South Africa’s half-marathon champion, blasted from the gun and never looked back, storming to victory in 29:45.

National marathon champion Bennet Seloyi (30:00) was second, with the evergreen Stephen Mokoka (30:04) in third.

Thabang Mosiako Photo: Hollywood AC

“I told myself I’m going from the start,” Mosiako said.

“With guys like Stephen, you can’t wait … this madala doesn’t want to get old. Breaking 30 here was a surprise, but it shows my shape is coming back.”

For Steyn, it was a steady tune-up. For Mosiako, a statement of intent. And for Joburg, another reminder that the city’s streets remain a proving ground for champions.

Male

View All Male

Pos Name Time
1 Thabang MOSIAKO 00:29:44
2 Bennett SELOYI 00:29:59
3 Stephen MOKOKA 00:30:03
4 Namakoe NKHASI 00:30:09
5 Chris MHLANGA 00:30:25
6 Simon SIBEKO 00:30:32
7 Tsietse SELLO 00:30:33
8 Pakiso MTHEMBU 00:30:35
9 Lebenya NKOKA 00:30:37
10 Cwenga NOSE 00:30:43

Female

View All Female

Pos Name Time
1 Fridah NDINDA 00:35:17
2 Gerda STEYN 00:35:51
3 Karaboá MAILULA 00:36:11
4 Dikeledi MAJARA 00:36:31
5 Cacisile SOSIBO 00:37:06
6 Nobukhosi TSHUMA 00:38:32
7 Rutendo NYAHORA 00:39:03
8 Melinda JANSEN VAN VUUREN 00:39:09
9 Ntsoaki MOLAHLOEÁ 00:39:14
10 Melissa JANSEN VAN VUUREN 00:40:03

FULL HOLLYWOODBETS JOBURG 10K 2025 RESULTS

Around 8000 participants painted the streets of Sandton, Illovo and Melrose purple at the Hollywoodbets Joburg 10K Photo: Adnaan Mohamed

Sanlam Cape Town Marathon Elite Line-Up Revealed at 50 Day Mark

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By Adnaan Mohamed

The clock is ticking and the countdown boards are flashing with just 50 days to go before the 2025 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon.

Africa’s premier marathon is shifting gears and hitting full stride, sprinting towards Abbott World Marathon Majors glory. And this year’s start line promises to be stacked like never before.

On Thursday, 28 August, the organisers unveiled the headline stars of the fourteenth edition, with 6 platinum and 8 gold-status athletes set to lace up on Sunday, 19 October. For the sold-out field of 24,000 runners, the stage is set for a showdown worthy of the Mother City’s streets.

Double Olympian Caster Semenya shares her thoughts on Sanlam Cape Town Marathon becoming an Abbott World Marathon Major:

Running Towards Greatness

“With the help of our partners, the City of Cape Town, and the citizens of the Mother City, we achieved an unconditional pass for Stage 1 of our Abbott World Marathon Majors candidacy in 2024,” said Clark Gardner, CEO of the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon.

Like a runner finding an extra gear in the final kilometre, Gardner underlined the event’s growing momentum:

“In 2025, we are undertaking Stage 2 and to that end have secured the best elite marathon field in the race’s history.

“Where London and New York vie to be the biggest marathons in the world, we believe the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon can be the best.

“Our beautiful route, the dedication of our sponsors and partners, and the enthusiasm of the city’s runners and residents are key to achieving this feat.”

Elite Showdowns at the Front of the Pack

The elite field is as sharp as the tip of a racing spike.

In the men’s race, Ronald Korit (Kenya, PB 2:04:22) arrives as the fastest man in the field, shadowed by compatriot Bethwel Chumba Kibet (2:04:37). South Africa’s new marathon record-holder Elroy Gelant (2:05:36) is breathing down their necks, just four seconds ahead of Ethiopia’s Boki Kebede Asefa.

All will have their sights on the 2024 course record of 2:08:16, set by Abdisa Tola.This mark is now in serious danger of being left behind like a fading pacesetter.

The women’s race has its own drama scripted. Leading the charge is South Africa’s Gerda Steyn, the undisputed queen of local ultra-running.

“I’m so excited and so honoured to announce that I will be lining up for the 2025 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon,” Steyn said with a smile.

“I can’t wait for the 19th of October! And most of all to share the beautiful route with thousands and thousands of my fellow runners.

“The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon has always been close to my heart, and the last time I ran this race was in 2021.

“I can still remember crossing the finish line that day. I felt so proud that we have such an amazing race here on South African soil.”

She will face an all-star peloton including Kenya’s Winfridah Moseti (2:16:56) and Angela Tanui (2:17:57), as well as Ethiopia’s Mare Dibaba (2:19:59). South Africa’s Glenrose Xaba, who dethroned Steyn’s course record in 2024, will not be back to defend her title.

Sanlam’s Meaningful Impact

Sanlam’s backing goes beyond the water tables and medals.

“What began as a sponsorship in 2014 has grown into a strategic partnership aimed at positioning the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon as Africa’s first and only World Marathon Major,” said Shadi Chauke, Group Executive for Corporate Affairs and Sustainability at Sanlam.

“As a Pan-African organisation, we are deeply committed to unlocking the continent’s potential and creating meaningful impact that extends well beyond the finish line.”

Already, 62 fundraising champions have raised nearly R200,000 for 18 charities via the GivenGain portal. Chauke added:

“Through partnerships with the Caster Semenya Foundation, CANSA, and WWF South Africa, we are advancing youth sports development, health, and environmental sustainability. We invite every runner to turn their race into a force for good through GivenGain.”  

Final Kick to the Finish

With the field set, the excitement building, and the countdown clock ticking, the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon is running full tilt towards history. Africa’s best will battle for glory, while thousands more will chase their own finish-line dreams.

adidas, too, is leaving footprints bigger than its shoes.

“For adidas, our role as technical partner goes beyond supplying kit; it’s about supporting the culture of running in Africa,” said Tom Brown, Senior Brand Director at adidas.

‘Run For Africa’ is central to that vision, rewarding runners who start and finish the marathon in adidas shoes with a R2,000 adidas voucher, and building pride in this community.

adidas has created a limited-edition Cape Town Marathon Boston 13 shoe to commemorate the 2025 race. Photo by adidas.

“The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon shows what’s possible when innovation meets purpose, from the race tee to the limited-edition Cape Town Marathon Boston 13. Every touchpoint is about leaving a legacy for runners well beyond the finish line.”

The Mother City is ready. The runners are ready. And the race is just 50 days away.