Running News Daily

The streets of the Mother City became the stage for one of the greatest marathon performances ever seen on African soil as Mohamed Esa stormed to a sensational victory at the 2026 Cape Town Marathon in a breathtaking 2:04:55.

In a race that will be remembered for years to come, Esa not only shattered the course record but also produced the fastest marathon ever run in Africa, delivering a performance that instantly elevated the Cape Town Marathon into global athletics history.

From the opening kilometres, the pace was relentless. Cool temperatures, calm winds, and near-perfect racing conditions created the ideal setting for something extraordinary. The elite field responded with fearless intent, pushing the tempo through the streets of Cape Town as spectators lined the route in anticipation of history.

When the race entered its decisive final stages, Esa found another level. The Ethiopian star surged clear in the closing moments to cross the line in a staggering 2:04:55, igniting celebrations across the finish area and sending shockwaves through the marathon world.

Yet the drama did not end there.

Just four seconds later, fellow Ethiopian Yihunilign Adane charged home in 2:04:59, while Kenya’s Kalipus Lomwai completed the podium in 2:05:06. Remarkably, only 11 seconds separated the top three finishers after more than two hours of racing — one of the tightest and fastest podium finishes the continent has ever witnessed.

Top 10 Finishers – 2026 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon

1. Huseyidin Mohamed Esa — Ethiopia — 2:04:55 (Course Record)

2. Yihunilign Adane — Ethiopia — 2:04:59

3. Kalipus Lomwai — Kenya — 2:05:06

4. Leonard Langat — Kenya — 2:05:26

5. Jemal Yimer — Ethiopia — 2:05:48

6. Mulugeta Uma — Ethiopia — 2:06:19

7. Maru Teferi — Israel — 2:06:46

8. Abebaw Dessie Muniye — Ethiopia — 2:06:57

9. Benard Kipkurui Biwott — Kenya — 2:07:34

10. Justus Kipkogei Kangogo — Kenya — 2:07:42

The performance marked a defining moment not only for the athletes involved, but also for the Cape Town Marathon itself, which continues its ambitious journey toward becoming Africa’s first World Marathon Major. With crowds roaring through the city streets and elite athletes producing world-class times, the event delivered a statement to the global running community.

While the historic marks remain subject to official confirmation, the atmosphere in Cape Town already told the story. Records fell, barriers were broken, and African marathon running entered a new chapter.

For one unforgettable morning in the Mother City, history was no longer a dream — it became reality.

At 46, Edna Kiplagat continues to redefine the boundaries of endurance and excellence. The two-time world champion is set to headline the women’s race at the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon 2026 on May 24, bringing experience, resilience, and a legacy that still commands global respect.

Kiplagat’s return to a major international marathon stage is more than symbolic—it is competitive. With a personal best of 2:19:50, she remains firmly within reach of the world’s elite, and her tactical intelligence often proves decisive in championship-style races. In Cape Town, however, she will face a formidable lineup hungry for victory.

Among the leading contenders is Israel’s record-breaking star Lonah Salpeter, who boasts a blistering personal best of 2:17:45. Known for her aggressive racing style and consistency, Salpeter enters as one of the favourites. Ethiopia’s Ruti Aga (2:18:09) adds further depth, bringing proven pedigree from major marathon podiums around the world.

The Ethiopian contingent remains particularly strong, with athletes like Dera Dida (2:18:32) and Mestawut Fikir (2:18:48) both capable of dictating pace and breaking the field apart. Waganesh Mekasha (2:20:26) rounds out a competitive group that promises a fast and tactical contest on race day.

Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Cape Town, this year’s race is shaping up to be one of the most compelling women’s marathons of the season. It is a clash of generations, styles, and ambitions—where seasoned greatness meets rising dominance.

For Kiplagat, the story goes beyond times and titles. It is about longevity, passion, and the relentless pursuit of excellence long after many have stepped away. And as the starting gun fires on May 24, all eyes will be on whether the Kenyan legend can once again rise above a world-class field and script yet another remarkable chapter in her storied career.