Running News Daily

Marathon icon Eliud Kipchoge has thrown his full support behind Cape Town’s ambitious campaign to become Africa’s first-ever Abbott World Marathon Major, describing the bid as a transformational moment for distance running across the continent. He is set to participate in Sanlam Cape Town marathon on May 24th, 2026.

The two-time Olympic marathon champion arrived in Cape Town as part of his global marathon tour spanning seven continents, but his presence in South Africa carried far deeper significance than a ceremonial visit. For Kipchoge, the possibility of an African city joining the prestigious World Marathon Majors series represents a long-overdue recognition of the continent that has shaped the modern era of distance running.

Speaking passionately about the vision behind the bid, Kipchoge emphasized that Africa has supplied generations of world-class runners, inspired millions through athletics, and consistently dominated the marathon scene, yet has never hosted one of the sport’s most celebrated marathon events.

He believes Cape Town now has the opportunity to change that narrative forever.

The Abbott World Marathon Majors currently features some of the most iconic races in global athletics, including events in Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, Sydney and New York City. Cape Town’s inclusion would mark a historic breakthrough, positioning Africa at the center of elite marathon racing while opening new pathways for athletes, tourism, investment, and sporting development across the continent.

Kipchoge described the bid as more than just a race application, calling it a movement capable of inspiring an entirely new generation of African runners. According to the Kenyan legend, bringing a Major marathon to African soil would give young athletes tangible proof that the sport’s biggest stages are no longer distant dreams located overseas, but opportunities that can exist at home.

The marathon great also praised Cape Town’s scenery, culture, and growing international reputation as key strengths in the city’s campaign. With its breathtaking coastal routes, iconic landmarks, and passionate running community, Cape Town has increasingly emerged as one of the world’s most attractive long-distance racing destinations.

For many within global athletics, Kipchoge’s endorsement adds enormous credibility to the bid.

Few voices carry greater influence in marathon running than the Kenyan superstar, whose career has redefined human endurance. Beyond his Olympic triumphs and major marathon victories, Kipchoge became the first man in history to run a marathon in under two hours during the groundbreaking INEOS 1:59 Challenge — a feat that elevated him beyond sport and into global sporting folklore.

His support now places additional international attention on Cape Town’s push to make history.

Should the bid succeed, it would represent a monumental victory not only for South Africa, but for the entire African athletics community. It would finally bring one of marathon running’s highest honors to the continent that has produced countless champions and reshaped the global identity of endurance racing for decades.

As Kipchoge continues his journey across the seven continents, his message from Cape Town remains powerful and unmistakable: Africa’s time on marathon running’s grandest stage may finally have arrived.

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.

Marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge has confirmed that he will line up at the start of the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon on May 24, in Cape Town, South Africa marking the beginning of a remarkable new chapter in his storied career.

The Kenyan icon, widely regarded as one of the greatest marathon runners in history, revealed that the South African race will serve as the first step in an ambitious challenge: completing marathons on all seven continents within the next two years. The plan adds yet another dimension to the legacy of the 11-time champion across the Abbott World Marathon Majors, a circuit where Kipchoge has built an extraordinary reputation through consistency, discipline, and historic victories.

Cape Town’s rapidly rising marathon has been pushing for global recognition and possible inclusion among the World Marathon Majors, and Kipchoge’s participation immediately elevates the race’s international profile. His presence is expected to draw worldwide attention, deepen elite competition, and inspire thousands of runners who will gather along the scenic streets beneath Table Mountain.

Sharing the news with his followers, Kipchoge also reflected on the emotional significance of beginning the journey on African soil. In a message posted on his social media page, he wrote:

“Africa is where my journey as a runner began and where the foundation of my success is deeply rooted. To start this World Tour on my own continent is very special. It is about celebrating the strength of African running and inspiring the next generation. To run my first ever marathon in Africa is something that holds a lot of meaning for me. @capetownmarathon, I can’t wait.”

For Kipchoge, the moment carries more than competitive ambition—it represents a full-circle return to the continent that shaped his career and philosophy. After years of conquering the world’s biggest marathons, the Kenyan champion now begins a new global mission that blends competition with inspiration.

When the starting gun sounds in Cape Town on May 24, it will not simply mark another race for one of the sport’s greatest figures. Instead, it will signal the first stride of a bold seven-continent quest—one that continues to prove that even for Eliud Kipchoge, the journey of running is always moving forward. 

The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon has recently made significant strides in its journey to join the international Abbott World Marathon Majors (AbbottWMM) series after the 2024 edition met the criteria set out by the AbbottWMM team.

Cape Town will now proceed to the second stage of the candidacy process in its attempt to join the series when it stages its next marathon on October 19, 2025. If it is successful, the race would join the Majors in 2026. This follows the recent addition of the TCS Sydney Marathon, which was announced as the seventh Abbott World Marathon Major event and will take place as a Major on August 31, 2025.

Current AbbottWMM events are: Tokyo Marathon, Boston Marathon, TCS London Marathon, BMW-Berlin Marathon, Bank of America Chicago Marathon, TCS New York City Marathon and most recently the TCS Sydney Marathon.

“Cape Town has continued its impressive progress since joining the candidacy process, and we are thrilled that it has now met all of our criteria for the first time,” said AbbottWMM CEO, Dawna Stone.

“We know how much the city, the country and the whole continent want the race to become Africa’s first Major, and they have taken a great step in the right direction.”

Behind the scenes, Infront’s partnership with the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon, which got under way in 2021, has helped to support the event’s application.

Hans-Peter Zurbruegg, Senior Vice President Active Lifestyle at Infront, said “Meeting the AbbottWMM criteria in 2024 for the first time reflects a true milestone on the journey to making our vision of the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon becoming part of the AbbottWMM Series as Africa’s first Major a reality.

“Sanlam Cape Town marathon will capture the imaginations of a global running community with its unique African spirit and the unlimited touristic offers that the area of Cape and South Africa as a country has to offer.

“This milestone is the result of the enormous efforts made by the local Cape Town marathon team, and the close partnership with all stakeholders involved that all share the same vision and want to shape the future of running, putting Cape Town as a city and Africa as a continent onto the world map of running.”

The next Sanlam Cape Town Marathon, Africa’s only World Athletics Gold Label marathon, will take place on Sunday, October 19, 2025. As one of the continent’s most prestigious marathons, it offers participants a scenic route through Cape Town’s landmarks, showcasing its scenery and cultural heritage.

In 2024, the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon achieved a milestone by successfully passing stage one of the rigorous Abbott World Marathon Majors (AbbottWMM) evaluation process. It now sets its sights on passing stage 2 in 2025, as it strives to become Africa’s first Major.

The marathon weekend also features a range of events, including the 10km and 5km Peace Runs and the 44km Trail Marathon, 22km Trail, and 11km Trail on Saturday, October 18, 2025. These events cater to runners of all abilities, whether on the road or trail.

The official expo, where participants can collect their race packs and explore various running products, will be held at the DHL Stadium fon October 16-18 October 2025.

With the support of our title sponsor Sanlam, alongside partners such as adidas and the City of Cape Town, the event continues to attract top-tier athletes and running enthusiasts from around the world.

There was delight for South Africa as Glenrose Xaba shattered the National and Sanlam Cape Town Marathon records, on marathon debut; on Sunday, 20 October. The current South African 5 000 and 10 000 meter, as well as the 10 kilometer road record holder, clocked an impressive time of 2 hours, 22 minutes, and 22 seconds, to shave 1 minute and 40 seconds off the course record (2 hours, 24 minutes, and 2 seconds) as well as a further second off Gerda Steyn’s previous best marathon time for a South African (2 hours, 24 minutes, and 3 seconds).

The 2024 men’s champion, Abdisa Tola also broke the course record – though his impressive feat was somewhat overshadowed by the South African Air Force Gripen fly over which Xaba’s performance received.

Xaba was joined on the start line by 16 800 fellow starters as well as the deepest ever field assembled for a marathon on African soil. Sadly, the Cape Doctor, as the Mother City’s prevailing summer south easterly wind is known, did not get the memo. The rest of the city pulled together though and the crowds countered the winds with raucous cheers along the route. Their applause, the support of the City of Cape Town local government, and the new record times will all aid the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon’s cause in its bid to become an Abbott World Marathon Majors event in the coming years.

The goal of Abbott World Marathon Majors status, in 2026, may still be on the horizon but Xaba’s dreams came true on the blue carpet in the shadow of the DHL Stadium. She and her fellow elite women had started fast, with the pace setters maintaining a tempo better than the record pace. Fellow South African pre-race favorite, Cian Oldknow, opted not to go with the pace makers and was out of contention for a podium place early in the piece.

One by one the women dropped from the group, but Xaba and Mare Dibaba Hurssa, in particular, ensured the pace never eased off. It was a surprise when the defending champion, Tsige Haileslase, was distanced near the 30 kilometre mark. This was the first sure sign that records would tumble.

Coming into the final 10 kilometers only Kenyna’s Pascalia Chepkogei remained in contention with the South African and the 2015 World Marathon Champion. After stretching their legs on the downwind gallop through Sea Point the top three turned for home with 4 kilometers to go. This U-turn meant they would run the closing kilometers into a headwind, which suited the powerful style of Xaba. She distanced Chepkogei and finally Dibaba Hurssa, to enter the finishing straight alone.

Soaking up the applause, Xaba crossed the line with both the South African and Sanlam Cape Town Marathon records comfortably secured. “I didn’t want to say before the race, but my goal had been the course record,” Xaba smiled. “I didn’t want to put extra pressure on myself. Even if I had finished in 2:26 I would have been happy, because this was my first marathon. But I’m honestly shocked to have broken the course and national record. I’m humbled to have taken Gerda [Steyn]’s South African record.”

Reflecting not only upon her rival’s stellar debut but also on Ruth Chepngetich’s World Record breaking run in Chicago, the week before, Dibaba Hurssa said: “The women’s marathon is getting really, really, fast. I hope that this generation will keep setting faster times and that the generation to come are inspired by them to run even quicker.”

“I was feeling really strong and my training had made me very relaxed coming into the race,” Xaba noted. “From kilometers 5 to 25 I felt good, the first 21 kilometers were basically a tempo run for me. Then for a bit until the 33 kilometer mark I had to stay strong, focused, and brave because I dropped off the front group slightly. Once I worked my way back, I felt good again and was able to push to the finish.”

“I want to thank my manager, my coaches, and my team at Caster Semenya Training Group!” the 2024 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon champion concluded.

Xaba’s margin of victory was 15 seconds over Dibaba Hurssa. Chepkogei was third, 28 seconds off Xaba’s winning time. Viola Chepngeno and Emmah Cheruto Ndiwa, both of Kenya, completed the top five places. Oldknow finished thirteenth, 20 minutes down.

In the men’s race the battle for victory went into the final kilometers too. It had seemed from early in race that the battle for victory would be fierce, but only a fast second half ensured that the course record was broken. Having set the previous best men’s time in 2018 Stephen Mokaka was the chief pace maker for the 2024 race.

He took a strong lead group through the first 25 kilometers in 1:16:47 before the attacks splintered the field. South African favorite, Melikhaya Frans was the first to surge as they passed through Observatory. His move pulled five Ethiopians clear, these included the eventual winner as well as Gaddisa Tafa Dekeba, Mitku Tafa Dekeba, Adeladlew Mamo Gebreyohannes, and Adane Kebede Gebre.

Over the next 5 kilometers the men from the mountainous nation worked Frans out of the lead group and then whittled it down to just Mitku Tafa Dekeba, the defending champion Kebede Gebre, and Tola. “Once we passed the 33 kilometer mark I knew the three of us would be battling for victory,” Mitku Tafa Dekeba reflected. “At that point I was happy it would be an Ethiopian 1, 2, and 3.”

Mitku Tafa Dekeba was the first of the three to suffer as they rounded the final bend and began the headwind slog along Beach Road in Sea Point towards the Green Point finish line. This left Kebede Gebre and Tola in a two-way tussle for the title. Striding into the wind the younger Tola brother, whose elder brother Tamirat Tola was crowned Olympic Marathon Champion in Paris, was able to dig deep and surge clear.

With the win secured Tola was able to enjoy the finish line and celebrate his new course record. Crossing the line in 2 hours, 8 minutes and 16 seconds the 24 year old did enough to shave 15 seconds off Mokaka’s six year old benchmark. Kebede Gebre had to be content with second, 16 seconds back. Mitku Tafa Dekeba completed the all-Ethiopian podium ahead of Edward Konana Koonyo, of Kenya. Frans was the first South African home in fifth.

“I earned what I trained really hard for today,” Tola acknowledged. “A lot of hard work went into this run. It was a beautiful race and I’ll certainly be back to defend my title.”

Running seasons don’t come as brilliant as the ones both Cian Oldknow and Glenrose Xaba had, do they? And it could well get better for them at the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon tomorrow (Sunday).

National champions in the marathon and half marathon respectively, the two athletes have run like the wind in 2024 as they broke personal barriers even they probably did not think possible.

Such are the rewards for talented individuals who refuse to rest on their laurels just because they are gifted but instead work hard at improving themselves that the duo have arguably sparkled the brightest of all road running athletes in South Africa this year.

Oldknow, who runs in the purple and yellow colours of the Hollywood Athletics Club, made her full marathon debut in Seville back in February where she ran a scintillating 2:25:08 – the second fastest time by a South African female. Most impressive about that run was Ms PB’s consistent splits, an illustration of her calmness under pressure as she stuck to her race plan like a seasoned campaigner.

Proof that Oldknow was good for the 42.195km distance was further provided when she clinched the national title at the Durban International Marathon with a solid 2:29:46. She put the cherry on top of her marathon debut season by being the first South African to finish the race at the Paris Olympics, Oldknow crossing the line ahead of seasoned campaigners Irvette van Zyl and Gerda Steyn.

Xaba, meanwhile, dominated the 10km scene this year with the clincher of her season being that she won the Spar Grand Prix Series. The popular women’s series has been the preserve of foreign runners for the last six years with Ethiopian Tadu Nare dominant after Namibia’s Helalia Johannes won it twice.

The Boxer Athletic Clubs starlet was actually the last local runner to win the Series back in 2018. Perhaps more telling of the kind of season Xaba had is the fact she broke Elana Meyer’s two-decade long 10km record. Add to that the fact she retained her national half marathon title and you begin to understand just why 2024 will go down as an episode in Xaba’s glittering career never to be forgotten.

And it is about to get even more memorable as Xaba makes that long-awaited graduation to the full marathon in Cape Town tomorrow.

How she will measure up against Oldknow who has already shown herself to be a superb marathoner is the main attraction of the popular Mother City race, as it continues its quest to be included on the World’s Abbotts Major Marathons.

Certain to spice up the Xaba/Oldknow ‘duel’ is the fact that the organisers have dangled a US$5000 carrot for the South African marathon record. Oldknow has already shown she has it in her to unseat Gerda Steyn as the fastest marathoner in the land with that brilliant time of hers in Seville. What we don’t know is how Xaba can do in the longer distance.

But she has been hard at work preparing for this race and while she has said she is looking to have a memorably fun debut, such is her competitiveness that you can bet on Xaba running a pretty fast time.

The two of them will be helped in their quest to break the national record by the stellar women’s field of top class internationals they will be racing against.

Tsige Haileselassie, who won with a personal best of 2:24:17 last year is back to defend her title and that can only mean a fast women’s race.

Who between Oldknow and Xaba will be able to keep up with her is what makes tomorrow’s race such an exciting prospect. Whichever way it goes though, the two starlets are each sure to chalk up 2024 as a fantastic season.

Shanghai International Marathon joins Sydney and Cape Town as candidates to become the seventh world major.

On Thursday, Abbott World Marathon Majors (AbbottWMM) announced that China’s Shanghai Marathon will be the newest race to join the majors candidacy process. Shanghai replaces the (previously nominated) Chengdu Marathon, joining the TCS Sydney Marathon and the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon in a bid to become the seventh marathon major.

This announcement marks the beginning of Abbott WMM’s multi-year evaluation process for Shanghai. To become a WMM, the race must meet specific criteria for participation, organization, certification, sustainability and legacy for two consecutive years over the next three years.

If successful, Shanghai will join an elite group of races—Tokyo Marathon, Boston Marathon, TCS London Marathon, BMW-Berlin Marathon, Bank of America Chicago Marathon, and TCS New York City Marathon—as a new member of the prestigious AbbottWMM series, as early as 2027.

AbbottWMM’s decision to potentially expand into China reflects its aim to explore and grow in one of the biggest and fastest-growing running markets worldwide.

AbbottWMM CEO Dawna Stone said in a press release, “This presents an exciting opportunity to expand our impact into Asia and further our mission to create, grow, and support opportunities for all to discover the power of the marathon community.”

For more than a decade, the Shanghai International Marathon, held in late November since 1996, has been categorized as a Platinum Label Road Race by World Athletics. 

The course is flat and fast, and showcases the city’s most scenic and iconic landmarks. Last year, the Shanghai Marathon weekend attracted more than 30,000 participants across all distances. The 2024 Shanghai Marathon will take place on Sunday, Dec. 1.

Glenrose Xaba is not putting any pressure on herself as she prepares to make her highly anticipated 42km debut at the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon next month.

Xaba again showed her superb form over the weekend, winning the Spar Grand Prix 10km race in Gqeberha in 31:22.

She was just 10 seconds outside the SA record (31:12) which she set at the Absa Run Your City race in Durban in July.

Running from the front in excellent conditions, Xaba shook off a strong field to extend her Grand Prix series lead, with 18-year-old Ethiopian athlete Diniya Abaraya finishing second in 31:33 and Tadu Nare taking third spot in 31:48, one week after winning the Mpumalanga Marathon.

Her latest victory added to a long list of wins picked up by Xaba this season, including the national 5,000m and 10,000m titles on the track and the SA 10km and 21km titles on the road.

Though it had been a long year for the 29-year-old athlete, Xaba was all set to make her maiden appearance over the classic 42km distance in the Mother City on 20 October.

“My long runs have gone well and I’ve been able to adjust in training,” Xaba said,

 

“I know it’s a big step for me but I’m very excited to try something new.”

Assessing her marathon potential

The field in Cape Town also includes Cian Oldknow, who set a personal best of 2:25:08 in February, and with a local battle on the cards, Gerda Steyn’s SA marathon record (2:24:03) might be in danger.

Xaba, however, insisted she was not concerned about challenging Steyn’s record in her first attempt at the marathon distance. Instead, she hoped to give herself an indication of whether it might be worth making a more permanent step up in distance.

“The national record is not my focus. If it comes, I will be happy to achieve that, but it’s not my focus,” she said.

 

“I want to try a marathon and see what time I will be able to achieve in future, and see if I’m strong in the marathon or if I need to focus on 10km and 21km.”

Former World Marathon record holder Dennis Kimetto will spearhead an attempt on the Cape Town Marathon course record when he lines up on October 20.

The current course record in the men’s race is 2:08:32 set by 2016 Africa  10,000m silver medallist, Stephen Mokoka during his triumph in 2018.

This year’s edition has drawn a massive 21,000 participants, with race director Barry Van Blerk highlighting the impressive elite field assembled for the men's race.

“This year’s Sanlam Cape Town Marathon boasts the strongest elite line-up ever seen on African soil. With a substantial prize pool, we anticipate fierce competition and if conditions allow, course records will likely fall,” Van Blerk remarked.

Kimetto set a world record during the 2014 Berlin Marathon after clocking 2:02:57, to become the first man to crack the 2:03 barrier.

His record stood for four years before two-time Olympic marathon champion Eliud Kipchoge shattered it during the 2018 Berlin race when he clocked 2:01:39.

Kimetto brings a wealth of experience to the field including triumph from the 2013 Chicago Marathon (2:03:45), ahead of compatriots Emmanuel Kipchirchir (2:03:52) and Sammy Kitwara (2:05:16).

He also holds wins from the 2012 Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon (1:00:40), 2012 Berlin Half Marathon (59:14) and 2013 Tokyo Marathon (2:06:50).

Kimetto is a runner-up from the 2012 Berlin Marathon, where he clocked 2:04:16, behind Geoffrey Mutai (2:04:15). However, he will face tough competition from defending champion Adane Kebede of Ethiopia.

Kebede clocked 2:11:28 to win last year’s race, edging out Mokoka (2:11:33) and Bernard Kipkorir (2:11:51).

The Ethiopian finished third at last year’s Rabat Marathon clocking 2:09:44, behind Yassine El Allami (2:09:27) and Mustapha Houdadi (2:09:34).

Also in the race is 2019 world champion Lelisa Desisa. The Ethiopian claimed the 2019 world title in a time of 2:10:40, edging out Mosinet Geremew (2:10:44) and Amos Kipruto (2:10:51).

He is also a silver medallist from the 2013 edition in Moscow (2:10:12) behind Uganda’s Stephen Kiprotich (2:09:51).

His resume also includes triumphs from the 2018 New York Marathon (2:05:59) as well as two Boston Marathon titles 2013 (2:10:22) and 2015 (2:09:17).

Desisa is also a runner-up twice at the Boston Marathon thus —2019 (2:07:59) and 2016 (2:13:32) as well as the 2014 New York Marathon (2:11:06).

A prize pool of Sh6.5 million ($50,000) has been set for the podium finishers with the champions bagging Sh3.3 million ($25,000). Second and third-place finishers will receive Sh1.9 million ($15,000) and Sh1.3 million ($10,000) respectively.

The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon has sold out a record 21,000 participants for the 2024 event, thanks to the popularity of the #YouDoCount campaign. This success strengthens the marathon’s position as the foremost marathon on the African continent, as it pursues the renowned Abbott World Marathon Majors (AWMM) classification. The amazing support of both the local and worldwide running communities has been instrumental in reaching this milestone,  Cape {town} Etc reports.

This year’s marathon promises to be one of the most exciting in the event’s history, with the strongest elite field ever assembled on African territory. This exceptional field offers an astonishing amount of awards, including 

2 Gold World Champion Medals

1 Silver World Champion Medal

Olympic Bronze Marathon Medal

1 All African Games Gold Medal

13 Abbott World Marathon Majors Medals, 5 of which are gold

1 World Record Holder

10 World Athletics Gold Label Elites

The stakes are bigger than ever, with a $50,000 prize fund available to the top podium finishers. The men’s and women’s marathon champions will each get $25,000, with the second and third place finishers receiving $15,000 and $10,000, respectively.

Barry Van Blerk, Race Director of the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon, expressed his excitement:‘This year’s Sanlam Cape Town Marathon is set to showcase the best marathon elite field ever assembled on African soil. With a prize pool to match, we expect an extraordinary level of competition, and, weather permitting, the course records will undoubtedly be challenged.

All eyes will be on South African competitors Glenrose Xaba and Cian Oldknow, who both hope to make history. Xaba, in her marathon debut, has previously established herself by breaking Elana Meyer’s 23-year-old 10 km record and dominating numerous distances, including 5,000m, 10,000m, and 10km. As she progresses to the marathon distance, Xaba’s development will pose a substantial challenge to veteran marathoners.

Cian Oldknow’s marathon PB of 2:25:08, set at the Seville Marathon in February of this year, is the second best time by a South African. At the Durban International Marathon in April, Oldknow finished in 2:29:46, making him the SA Marathon Champion. She is on a mission to break South Africa’s women’s marathon record, which could pit her against Xaba. With both competitors at the height of their abilities, the race will be nothing short of amazing.

Tsige Haileslase (Ethiopia) and Adane Kebede Gebre (Ethiopia), who won the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon in 2023, will return to defend their crowns. Haileslase, who ran a personal best of 2:24:17 last year, is back and determined to win consecutive races. Gebre, a force to be reckoned with in the men’s race, will have stiff opposition as he seeks straight victories against this year’s strong field.

‘There’s no doubt that African runners dominate in the sport, and as a proudly Pan-African group, it is only fitting that we ensure the rest of the continent is able to unite in Cape Town to run Africa’s only Abbott World Marathon Majors candidacy race,’ shares Karl Socikwa – Group Executive of Market Development and Sustainability at Sanlam, the event’s title sponsor. ‘We have extended invitations to athletics bodies across our 27 markets in an attempt to identify promising top marathon runners. Our commitment to unlocking Africa’s untapped talent will see 25 athletes from countries such as Mali, Namibia, Botswana and more, compete with confidence on a world stage on African soil.’

In addition to the extraordinary competitive field, race organisers have worked closely with the City of Cape Town to ensure a safe and seamless experience for both runners and spectators. JP Smith, Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, praised the collaboration, stating, ‘The City’s Events Coordination Committee has been working diligently behind the scenes with race management, mapping out all the logistical plans for a safe and secure route for the marathon. All of our safety and security personnel are preparing to provide a smooth and excellent platform for this elite field of athletes to chase their personal bests. We are looking forward to providing the Cape Town experience for an elite field of athletes.’

Defending champion Stephen Mokoka claimed a third win in the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon, a World Athletics Elite Label road race, while Meseret Dinke broke the race record to win the women’s event on Sunday (16).

Multiple South African champion Mokoka broke the tape in 2:09:59, two seconds faster than his winning 2:10:01 last year and the fourth-fastest winning time in the race’s history. Second place went to Ethiopian Derseh Kindie in 2:11:27, with his compatriot Dagnachew Adere outsprinting Kenya’s Raymond Kipchumba Choge to take third place, 2:11:55 to 2:11:56.

“This was a tough, tough course,” said Mokoka. “Normally at 25km you start enjoying a marathon, but at 28km today, we climbed that hill in District Six and it got really hard for a while, but overall I really enjoyed the race.”

Mokoka ran a world 50km record of 2:40:13 in Gqeberha in March, a record that CJ Albertson took to 2:38:43 eight days ago. Asked what his Cape Town Marathon win means, Mokoka added: “I am delighted to win in Cape Town for a third time. I have won races overseas, too, but this is still special. Records are meant to be broken, but titles stay forever, and this win means more to me than just running a fast time. It’s also about the memories of our runs.”

In the women’s race, Dinke of Ethiopia took top honours in 2:24:04, smashing the 2:25:44 event record run in 2021 by Lydia Simiyu and also improving her personal best of 2:25:12. Second over the line was Tecla Kirongo in 2:27:57, also setting a PB, with her Kenyan compatriot Judith Cherono taking third in 2:30:34.

“I enjoyed the race thoroughly, but unfortunately I had to do it by myself,” said Dinke. “When you run by yourself it is so difficult to control your pacing, but I managed. If everything had been perfect, I had hoped to run a 2:20 or 2:21. The course was a little tougher than other international races, but I was running within myself, and felt confident that I could keep a consistent pace until the end.”

Leading results

Women

1 Meseret Dinke (ETH) 2:24:04

2 Tecla Kirongo (KEN) 2:27:57

3 Judith Cherono (KEN) 2:30:34

4 Zinashwork Yenew (ETH) 2:34:03

5 Webalem Bazanew (ETH) 2:34:24

Men

1 Stephen Mokoka (RSA) 2:09:59

2 Derseh Kindie (ETH) 2:11:27

3 Dagnachew Adera (ETH) 2:11:55

4 Raymond Kipchumba Choge (KEN) 2:11:56

5 Samuel Moloi (RSA) 2:14:39.

Milano Marathon champion Titus Kipruto and the 2019 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon Celestine Chepchirchir have confirmed participation in the Amsterdam Marathon on October 16.

Chepchirchir will be Kenya’s sole representative in the women’s field and she is bound to face stiff competition from top Ethiopian athletes. Chepchirchir is the fastest in the field with a personal best time of 2:20:10 which she ran at this year’s Seoul Marathon to place fourth.

Ethiopians Azmera Gebru, Gebeyanesh Ayele, Sintayehu Tilahun and the 2016 Olympic 10,000m champion Almaz Ayana will also be in the race for top honours. Gebru has a PB of 2:20:48 which she attained when she placed third at the 2019 Amsterdam Marathon.

Ayele and Tilahun have respective PB times of 2:21:22 and 2:22:19 respectively. Ayana will be debuting in the distance after dominating track and half marathon.

Bahrain’s Rose Chelimo is also one of the athletes to watch. Chelimo is the 2017 world marathon champion and also the 2016 Seoul Marathon champion.

The men’s strong field has attracted the 2014 Zurich Marathon champion Lemi Berhanu, Tsegay Getachew and Adeladlew Mamo, all from Ethiopia. Berhanu has a personal best time of  2:04:33, a time he ran to place second at the 2016 Dubai Standard Chartered Marathon.

Getachew kicked off his season with a win at the Riyadh Marathon in 2:06:27 and has a personal best time of 2:05:11. Mamo, who has a PB of  2:05:12 ran to place second at this year’s Zurich Seville Marathon.

Kipruto is the fourth fastest in the field with a personal best time of 2:05:05. Other Kenyans in the field include Cybrian Kotut (2:04:47), Laban Korir (2:05:54), Josphat Boit (2:07:20) and debutants Charles Mneria, Victor Chumo and Bernard Soi.

The Bank of America Chicago Marathon announced today the return of its defending champions as the event continues to build on its comeback to global racing. Ruth Chepngetich (KEN), Seifu Tura (ETH), Tatyana McFadden (USA) and Daniel Romanchuk (USA) will be at the helm of this year’s elite field with a strong contingency of the world’s best athletes vying to dethrone them. The stage will be set for a fierce competition up front, highlighting Chicago’s long tradition of record chases, fast times, and gripping finishes.

“We’re thrilled to welcome our defending champions back to Grant Park this fall,” said Carey Pinkowski, Executive Race Director of the Bank of America Chicago Marathon. “Chicago has a storied history of head-to-head competitions, world records and some of the best elite racing in marathon running. This year’s competition, which also includes American half marathon record holder Emily Sisson and American half marathon champion Conner Mantz making his debut, is going to bring much energy and enthusiasm to fans and spectators. We are ready for October 9.”

Defending Champions Return

Chepngetich, the 2019 World Marathon champion and the fourth fastest woman in the history of marathon running, started on a world record pace at the 2021 Bank of America Chicago Marathon, dropping her pacer eight miles in while racing against the clock. She decelerated over the second half of the course but had enough to take the crown in 2:22:31. Chepngetich, who is self-coached, kicked off her 2022 season with a win and a course record at the Nagoya Marathon (2:17:18). She recently dropped out the of the World Championships Women’s Marathon due to health issues but is ready to take to the streets of Chicago and defend her title.

Unlike the fast pace set by Chepngetich, Tura ran a controlled strategic race last fall in the elite men’s race, waiting until 38K to pull ahead and win the biggest race of his career so far. Tura, who holds a 2:04:29 personal best, clocked 2:06:12 to win last year. His 2022 season includes a personal best in the half marathon, 58:36, and a second place finish in the Paris Marathon. Following last year’s victory, Tura noted that he was not prepared for warm weather, but that he was “determined to fight to the very end.” Tura’s determination may make him just the fifth man in Chicago’s history to win twice in a row.

In the wheelchair competition, McFadden, whose nine titles make her the most decorated athlete in Bank of America Chicago Marathon history, returns to contend for her 10th win. McFadden boasts 20 Paralympic medals, including eight gold medals, 24 World Marathon Major wins, including four consecutive Grand Slams (first place in Boston, Chicago, New York City and London in the same year) and has broken six world records in track and field.

Romanchuk, a two-time Paralympian, completed the Bank of America Chicago Marathon hat trick with a victory last fall and returns to pursue a fourth title. Romanchuk rose to the top of road racing in 2018 and his campaign continues today. At the 2020 Paralympic Games, he took home a gold on the track and a bronze in the marathon.

Sisson and Mantz Headline Strong American Field

The Bank of America Chicago Marathon has a long history of welcoming America’s best runners across its finish line, stretching back to Joan Benoit Samuelson setting the American record en route to her victory in 1985. Khalid Khannouchi dominated at the turn of the century with four victories, including both world and American records, Deena Kastor clutched the win in 2005, and Galen Rupp stole the show in 2017. Last October saw five American men and seven American women finish in the top 10, a feat that highlights the strength of U.S. distance running. This year’s field includes several top American runners, including Emily Sisson and Conner Mantz.

Sisson, a six-time national champion and the American half marathon record holder (1:07:11), could put the American Marathon record (2:19:12) in jeopardy as she races to break the tape in Chicago. Sisson stands out as one of the most dominant American women on the track and the roads, making her Olympic debut in the 10,000m at the Tokyo Olympics and her marathon debut in 2019 in London. Sisson ran the fastest ever marathon debut by an American on a record eligible course (2:23:08), and she set an Olympic trials record in the 10,000m on the track (31:09) in 2021, breaking a record that stood for 17 years. This October marks Sisson’s first appearance in the Bank of America Chicago Marathon.

Mantz, known for his front-running style and capacity to handle pain (referred to as the “Mantz pain chamber”), made a splash on the collegiate level, winning the NCAA Division I Cross Country championships in 2020 and 2021, and earning his first U.S. title in the half marathon in 2021. Mantz’s time in the half marathon, 1:00:55, ranks him ninth on the all-time American list of half marathon performances. Mantz, an exciting newcomer to welcome to the marathon distance, could conquer the American marathon debut record, 2:07:56, set in 2019. Mantz is coached by 1994 Chicago Marathon runner-up, Ed Eyestone.

The Elite Fields

In addition to Sisson, Celestine Chepchirchir (KEN), Vivian Kiplagat (KEN) and Haven Hailu (ETH) are among some of this year’s elite women hoping to prevent a repeat victory from Chepngetich. Chepchirchir, winner of the 2019 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon, enters this year’s race fresh off a personal best, 2:20:10, set at the Seoul International Marathon. The Bank of America Chicago Marathon marks her Abbott World Marathon Major (AbbottWMM) debut. Kiplagat, winner of the 2022 Milan Marathon in a personal best, 2:20:18, ran valiantly in Chicago last year, attempting to stay on Chepngetich’s heels before fading to fifth place. Like Chepchirchir, Hailu will be making her first appearance in an AbbottWMM. Hailu made her marathon debut in 2020, set a personal best, 2:20:19, in 2021 to take third in Amsterdam, and claimed her first marathon victory in Rotterdam this past April.

Laura Thweatt (USA), Sarah Sellers (USA) and Sara Vaughn (USA) lead a strong delegation of American women. Thweatt holds a marathon personal best of 2:25:38, and finished eighth in both Chicago (2019) and New York (2021). Sellers initially turned heads in 2018 when she finished second in the Boston Marathon while running from the open field. Sellers smashed her PR to finish second at this spring’s Grandma’s Marathon in 2:25:43. Vaughn, a versatile runner who started her career on the track as a 1500m runner, made her marathon debut in 2021, winning the California International Marathon in 2:26:53. Vaughn’s time stands out as the fifth fastest debut ever by an American woman.

The women’s field also includes Diane Nukuri (USA), Ursula Sanchez (MEX), Carrie Verdon (USA) and local favorite Kristen Heckert (USA).

In the men’s competition, Tura will be chased to the line by compatriots Herpasa Negasa (ETH), Dawit Wolde (ETH), Asrar Abderehman (ETH), Ugandan Olympian Stephen Kissa and Kenyan Benson Kipruto.

Negasa had a career breakthrough in 2019 when he subtracted nearly six minutes from his marathon PR in Dubai to run 2:03:40. He comes to Chicago after a strong second place performance in Seoul, clocking 2:04:49. Wolde initially made a name for himself as a junior competitor on the track. His transition to the roads started in 2014, and he boasts a marathon personal best of 2:04:27, set in 2021 to finish third in Rotterdam. Abderehman made headlines in February when he broke the course record at the Zurich Seville Marathon, taking three minutes off his PR to run 2:04:43. Chicago marks his first appearance in an AbbottWMM.

Kissa, a 2020 Olympian in the 10,000m, stands out as an exciting athlete to watch. He brings years of track speed to the road, recently debuting in the marathon in 2:04:48. In addition to the Olympic Games, he also represented Uganda at the World Championships Half Marathon. The Chicago Marathon marks his first time racing in the United States and his first time racing in an AbbottWMM. Kipruto’s 2:05:13 personal best may not be the fastest in the field, but he has performed well at the marathon distance, winning the Boston and Prague Marathons in 2021 and finishing third in Boston this April. He also finished seventh in London in 2020 and won the Toronto Marathon in 2018.

The men’s field also includes sixth place finisher in 2021 and local elite Colin Mickow, Hiroto Fujimagari (JPN), John Korir (KEN), Frank Lara (USA) and making his debut, Patrick Tiernan (AUS).

Three-time Pune Half Marathon champion Daniel Muindi is eyeing his first marathon win at the eighth Sanlam Cape Town Marathon slated October 17 in South Africa.

The local non-bank finance solutions provider Sanlam Kenya announced sponsoring 18 runners this year up from three in 2019.

Speaking on Tuesday in Nairobi, 27-year-old Muindi exuded confidence about being on the podium in the only gold label marathon in Africa after finishing second as a rabbit in 2019.

“My target is to win and improve my personal best to 2:07 from 2:09:25 I registered at the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon when I finished behind my compatriot Edwin Koech. I have been training for four months and I’m in great shape for the race. I know it’s going to be a very competitive race, but I promise to bring wonderful results,” said Muindi while receiving the national flag from the Sanlam Kenya Group CEO Nyamemba Tumbo on Tuesday.

Muindi, who has bagged half marathon titles in Pila, Warsaw and Wroclaw in Poland before, leaves the country on Wednesday.

All other runners from Kenya sponsored by Sanlam are scheduled to fly to Cape Town on Friday morning.

Tumbo noted that other runners were sorting out their travel documents. All runners are required to be fully vaccinated for coronavirus.

He affirmed the company’s commitment towards nurturing sporting talent in the country and enabling the growth of promising athletic careers.

“Kenya is known as the home of champion athletes, and Sanlam Kenya is proud to have these elite athletes representing our beloved country at the eighth edition of the Sanlam Cape Town marathon. We recognise the wholesome power of sports in enabling the progress of society. It supports livelihoods and nurtures talent. This is our promise as Sanlam Kenya, to be the partner to help you get through life. We strive to ensure that we innovate our products and services to serve you throughout all the stages of your life,” he added.

Other members of the Kenyan contingent to the eighth Sanlam Cape Town Marathon are William Yegon, Alex Saekwo, Cosmas Kyeva, Robert Chemosin, Joseph Kachapi, Kenneth Korir, Reuben Kemboi, Eliud Kiptanui, Samwel Maswai, Jonathan Chesoo, Emmanuel Ngatuny, Stella Jepkosgei, Esther Macharia, Chelagat Elizabeth, Joyce Jemutai, Lydia Simiyu, and Lucy Karimi.

Top-three finishers will pocket Sh1.4 million, Sh740,000 and Sh370,000 respectively.

In 2019, Sanlam Kenya sponsored Victor Onditi, Kennedy Ochieng’ and Lorin Otieno.

Tumbo revealed that the Kenyan team are fully-sponsored by the corporate which will cater for their air tickets, accommodation, running gear, meals and an accompanying physiotherapist.

The national team will receive their Covid-19 tests in a 48-hour window before the race.

The marathon will also include two new trail runs of 46km and 22km as well as three virtual runs of 5km, 10km and 21km.

The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon has officially been confirmed as an Abbott World Marathon Majors (AbbottWMM) candidate race - the first marathon in Africa to be nominated.

The announcement marks the commencement of a multi-year evaluation process conducted by AbbottWMM.

In order to become a Major, the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon will be required to meet certain criteria for three years and if successful, will join an elite group of races - Tokyo Marathon, Boston Marathon, Virgin Money London Marathon, BMW-BERLIN Marathon, Bank of America Chicago Marathon and TCS New York City Marathon - as a new member of the prestigious Abbott World Marathon Majors in 2025.

“We have always believed that the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon could be Africa’s first Abbott World Marathon Major, so becoming a candidate race is a tremendous honour”, said Sanlam Cape Town Marathon Chairman, Francois Pienaar at the announcement event at Cape Town Stadium.

“It acknowledges the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon as a global event that has consistently delivered a top quality world-class race, and one that continuously innovates and creates world-first initiatives like the immersive audio experience during the 2020 virtual race.

“Becoming an Abbott World Marathon Major would be like hosting a world championship event every single year, and achieving this status would be a tremendous boost for the city, country and continent. Africa is home to the best marathon runners in the world and we hope they will get the opportunity to run an Abbott World Marathon Major on home turf in the coming years.”

Headline sponsor Sanlam is celebrating its eighth sponsorship year and is equally thrilled at the prospect of the event becoming a jewel in the AbbottWMM crown.

Sydney Mbhele, Chief Executive of Sanlam Brand, says: “This is our eighth year as headline sponsor of the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon and we have always believed deeply in the vision for this race – to become Africa’s first Abbott World Marathon Major. Africa is our home, this is our race and we are absolutely committed to investing in the potential of this wonderful continent. Our purpose is to help people across Africa live with confidence and this race is the perfect way to foster the growth of Africa’s economy, and to showcase our people’s unparalleled potential.  Creating a lasting legacy for generations to come is a vision and dream we share with all our partners.

“And now we are celebrating coming a step closer. The collective confidence that the continent will garner from hosting an event of this stature will deliver value in many ways, enabling us to benefit economically and socially from a world-class event. We extend our sincerest congratulations to all of our partners who have worked tirelessly to elevate the event to this level. We have no doubt that in just three short years, we will tick all the boxes and have the honour of hosting the continent’s first major on home soil.”

Cape Town is a port city on the tip of South Africa’s southwest coast that is overlooked by the world-renowned Table Mountain, an official New7Wonder of Nature. It is consistently rated as one of the world’s most beautiful cities and most popular tourist destinations - renowned for its exquisite natural beauty, sweeping vistas, beaches, family friendly activities and some of the best restaurants in the world.

Cape Town Executive Mayor Dan Plato said that this candidacy means a lot for Cape Town, South Africa and Africa, and will further solidify the Mother City’s reputation as a sports capital. “We are proud to be the host of SA and Africa’s first Abbott World Marathon Majors Candidate and wholeheartedly support the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon in the coming years.

“We know that these evaluation years will already offer a tremendous economic boost for Cape Town and its residents, and expect an annual influx of approximately 10,000 international athletes and their supporters in the coming years - especially once the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon earns Abbott World Marathon Major status. We can’t wait to welcome more recreational and elite marathoners to Cape Town; it’s time to show the world how we run a marathon to the African beat.”

Pienaar noted that the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon already meets many of the requirements set by the Abbott World Marathon Majors, and that continued enhancements will be made to the race. This also includes a new strategic partnership with Infront, the media and marketing specialists who will join the event on this exciting journey, noted Pienaar. “We are pulling out all the stops to achieve these goals, and are excited to receive the support from our runners, spectators, sponsors and the City to make this dream a reality.”

Hans-Peter Zurbruegg, Senior Vice President Personal & Corporate Fitness at Infront, said: “We are happy to become a shareholder of the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon and we fully buy into the ambition to reach AbbottWMM status by 2025. This is exciting news for the city of Cape Town, South Africa and Africa. Our direct involvement forms part of our growing ambition to further enter the African market and will both strengthen our relationship with the AbbottWMM as well as support future business opportunities.”

Added James Moloi, President of Athletics South Africa: "This is an important step in the history of road-running in the country and Africa as a whole. It will be a significant recognition which would elevate the race to another prestigious level.”

Tim Hadzima, Executive Director, Abbott World Marathon Majors said, “The Abbott World Marathon Majors are delighted to welcome the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon into the candidate process from 2022. This presents an exciting opportunity to expand our impact into Africa and further our mission to create, grow and support opportunities for all to discover the power of the marathon community. We look forward to working closely with the team in Cape Town as we start this journey together!”

It was also announced that adidas South Africa will be partnering with the Cape Town Marathon from 2022 and looks forward to supporting the race during its candidacy period as it strives to become the first World Marathon Major on the African continent.

The organizers of the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon have confirmed that the planning for the event is full steam ahead and that the plans have seen a major overhaul to ensure the safety of all participants.

“Following extensive consultations and detailed review with the City of Cape Town, Athletics South Africa and National Government, we developed and presented an extensive COVID-19 Risk Mitigation Plan for the event, and received their full support to go ahead with our planning of a safe and enjoyable race on October 17,” confirms Renee Jordaan, Sanlam Cape Town Marathon Race Director.

The risk mitigation plan includes several adjustments to this year’s event format.

Marathon entries will be limited to 12,000 runners only.

The Start will move from Beach Road to Fritz Sonnenberg Road, with participants joining their start batches on the Cape Town Stadium Forecourt.

A staggered start will see runners setting off in seeded batched groups, allowing for ample social distancing, between 06h15 and 06h50.

Seeding will be based on past race results, not limited to the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon.

Runners’ finishing time will be calculated from mat-to-mat and not gun-to-mat.

The final cut-off is still six-and-a-half hours, and will be based on the last group of runners starting the race.

In order to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission, all runners and crew will undergo COVID-19 Antigen testing in the 72 hours prior to the race. Testing will be compulsory regardless of vaccination status, and free of charge. Runners will be tested at Cape Town Stadium before entering the Expo space to collect their race numbers. Antigen test results will be available within 15 minutes.

“Due to COVID restrictions, we are sadly required to cancel the 5km and 10km Peace Runs, but the good news is that these events will take place in virtual format, and runners can run the Peace Runs along their favorite running routes, no matter where they are. The all-new 46km Cape Town Trail Marathon and 22km Trail Run will still go ahead on October 16,” says Sanlam Cape Town Marathon General Manager, Barry van Blerk.

The 5km & 10km Virtual Peace Runs will be free of charge. Runners can simply enter via www.capetownmarathon.com to receive App Download instructions. All 5km and 10km Peace Run entrants will receive a refund, and an email with detailed instructions will be sent to all affected runners.

Says Sanlam Cape Town Marathon Chairman, Francois Pienaar: “After a trying 18 months, we are grateful for the support from our major stakeholders that allows us to work towards staging Africa’s only World Athletics Gold Label marathon and the ASA Marathon Champs. The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon attracts thousands of athletes from across SA, Africa and the globe, and has a significant economic impact on the city. Africa is our home. This is our Race. And we can’t wait to welcome all our runners to Cape Town in October.”

Runners still hoping to be part of the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon must hurry, as the revised entry limits mean that the marathon field is already 50% full, and it is expected that the remaining entries will be snapped up fast. The 22km Trail Run is sold out, with limited entries still available for the Trail Marathon. Visit www.capetownmarathon.com for more information and to enter.

The Sanlam Cape Town Virtual Marathon, which also includes the 5km and 10km Peace Runs and newly-added half marathon, takes place on 18 October 2020.

Race organizers and running enthusiasts are getting ready for a race with a difference, as the 100-day countdown to the Sanlam Cape Town Virtual Marathon commences on 10 July.

Much has happened since the launch of the virtual event and subsequent cancellation of the traditional race due to COVID-19. And while Sanlam Cape Town Marathon participants may miss out on the spectacle and celebration offered by the road event, the virtual race promises to take all the iconic elements of Cape Town’s favorite marathon to its global participant base through the race’s custom-built and feature-packed app.

Sanlam Cape Town Marathon chairperson, Francois Pienaar, said that it was a privilege to host the first virtual race of its kind in the world.

"We are already in the spotlight as the only race on the African continent to enjoy the prestigious World Athletics Gold Label Status, so I am really proud that the world’s first truly immersive virtual marathon comes from South Africa and Africa.

"I am also thrilled to confirm that world champ, multiple Olympian, gold medalist and world record holder, Sir Mo Farah, will race in the 10km Virtual Peace Run in the UK. His participation is a huge boost for the virtual race and shows that anyone can run the Sanlam Cape Town Virtual Marathon, no matter where you are," he said.

In a virtual media briefing held on Thursday, Farah said that he was looking forward to the event.

“We are all in this together, it's not just one country or one person so we just have to stay positive and keep the body ticking. It’s important for everyone running that they give it their best because there is a lot that goes into running, so just make the most of it and believe in the training you’ve done and the goal that you’ve set," he said.

"The challenges of 2020 became the catalyst for innovation and we are 100 days away from hosting a virtual race the world hasn’t seen before," added Sanlam Cape Town Marathon race director, Renee Jordaan.

"This year, runners from across the globe can experience the magic of the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon without having to travel, while the dynamic surround sound feature within the app will allow participants to listen to the unique sounds of the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon route while treading the familiar ground of their chosen race route," she said.

The Sanlam Cape Town Virtual Marathon, which also includes the 5km and 10km Peace Runs and newly-added half marathon, takes place on 18 October 2020.

Athletics South Africa president Aleck Skhosana announced that the 2020 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon had officially been called off.

“Cancelling this year’s edition of the Cape Town Marathon was a difficult decision to make because it is also home to the ASA Marathon Championships.

“This is the only World Athletics Gold Label marathon in Africa and it’s an influential nation-builder with a massive economic impact.

“We know that it will come as a great disappointment to thousands of runners who were looking forward to the race.

“However, the decision had to prioritise the health and safety of all involved,” Skhosana said.

Cape Town Marathon chair Francois Pienaar said the decision was a disappointment but ultimately necessary.

“The decision did not come easy, but was one that had to be made after exhausting all our options.

“The reality is that we cannot risk the health and well-being of our participants, volunteers, supporters and stakeholders,” he said.

All entrants will have the option to receive a full refund. Alternatively, race director Renee Jordaan said entrants could choose to donate their fees to charity.

“All donated entry fees will be distributed between the Peninsula School Feeding Association and Community Chest of the Western Cape to support the increased social needs during the pandemic,” Jordaan said.

The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon race organizers are adding a virtual version of the iconic city marathon to its existing range of events.

It is still too early to predict whether the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon will be staged in its original format on 18 October. The race organizers remain in close contact with Athletics South Africa and all relevant role players as the months progress.

The virtual race will offer an interactive and immersive race experience for runners by superimposing the race route on top of streets, open spaces and gardens, complete with live tracking, distance markers, and push messages with information about key landmarks as they are passed.

The creation of this virtual race will allow athletes to compete in the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon on 18 October from anywhere in the world, starting between 06.00–10.00 local time, wherever they are.

The race will be available through the Sanlam Cape Town Virtual Marathon app, an integrated digital platform that will launch soon.

The app will track participants as if they are running the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon route no matter where they are in the world – making this a virtual race like no other.

While the 5km and 10km Peace Runs will also be presented in Virtual Race format on 17 and 18 October respectively, there will not be a Virtual Race option for the 2020 Trail Runs.

Entries for the Virtual Race have opened via Webtickets. Athletes who have already entered the 2020 race will be able to transfer to the Virtual Race. Entrants will receive an official race number, and all finishers will receive a digital medal and certificate.

The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon race organisers are adding a virtual version of the iconic city marathon to its existing bouquet of events.

The virtual marathon will offer an interactive and immersive race experience for athletes across the globe by superimposing the race route on top of streets, open spaces and gardens, complete with live tracking, distance markers, and push messages with information about key landmarks as they are passed.

The creation of this virtual race will allow athletes to compete in the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon on October 18 from anywhere in the world, starting at 6.30am local time, wherever they are.

The race will be available through the Sanlam Cape Town Virtual Marathon app, an integrated digital platform that will launch in the coming weeks.

“We are excited to introduce this digital offering.

“The app will track participants as if they are running the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon route, whether they find themselves in New York, Naples or Knysna, making this a virtual race like no other.

“I am certain that having a race on the horizon will give athletes a tangible goal to work towards, and the extra motivation needed to maintain their training within the parameters of the lockdown levels they may find themselves in,” said marathon chairperson, Francois Pienaar.

As it is still too early to predict whether the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon will be staged in its original format on October 18, the race organisers remain in close contact with Athletics South Africa and all relevant roleplayers as the months progress.

“While this is a significant challenge, it’s also the perfect time to be innovative, which is why we have reached out to and gained support from our sponsors, partners and stakeholders to bring the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon to our global marathon family, no matter where they are,” added Pienaar.

Western Province Athletics president Jakes Jacobs has called the introduction of the virtual marathon an example of how race organisers can find creative solutions to the challenges they may face.

In this uncertain time, we believe the way forward is to be responsible and prioritise the safety of all participants and stakeholders.

The Cape Town Marathon has, for the fourth consecutive year, been recognized by World Athletics as worthy recipients of their prestigious Gold Label Status.

“We are once again proud, honored, and humbled to be the only World Athletics Gold Label Status marathon on the African continent, and one of only a select group of marathons in the world to have received this status. This achievement reflects the dedication and commitment of our team, the beauty of our city, the unconditional support of our partners and the incredible spirit of Capetonians who engage with runners from all over the world,” comments race director Janet Welham.

In order to achieve Gold Label Status, a full set of requirements need to be complied with, implemented and measured by World Athletics. They include commitment from the country, the city (which needs to be a desirable destination), a race that is a world class event of the highest standards, a quota of international elite athletes and stringent anti-doping requirements.

Cape Town has been re-awarded Gold Label status along with the most highly regarded cities in the world including Paris, Sydney and Prague.

Olympian long-distance runner and race ambassador Elana van Zyl-Meyer says: “The aim of the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon has always been to be recognized as one of the top marathons in the world. Gold Label status simply reinforces our commitment to constantly improve the race experience of all runners. Once again in 2020 we have the opportunity to bring the world’s top runners to Cape Town. But the celebration of running is about so much more than the elite field.

The Cape Town Marathon offers far more than a world-class race; it provides the platform for sustainable and lasting change through our Run4Change Legacy Program. This program supports and raises awareness for sustainability, peace, health, development, charities and various communities, all runners, spectators, partners and friends now have the opportunity to really get involved and run for more than just themselves.”

Sydney Mbhele, Chief Executive of Sanlam Brand, adds: "As a business, Sanlam has always existed to enable financial resilience and prosperity. Our substantial growth across Africa (we're now in 34 countries) demonstrates our consistent commitment to investing in the diverse people of the continent. Partnering with Africa’s one and only Gold Label Status marathon is, therefore, something we are extremely proud of. It aligns with our values as an organization because the marathon's status provides us with numerous opportunities to affect positive change. Our decision to renew our support for the marathon for another three years, after six years of sponsorship, has been an easy one."

City of Cape Town Executive Mayor, Dan Plato says: “The City of Cape Town focuses on continuously putting improved measures in place to enable world class events as these translate into more benefits for the economy and job creation for our residents. The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon’s growth over the years, attracting elite and international athletes, has been impressive and this Gold Label status is an indication of the race’s global appeal. As the City administration, we are committed to working with the race organizer to provide the necessary support to further elevate the marathon’s status to compete with the best in the world.”

Jakes Jacobs, President of Western Province Athletics, one of the event’s key partners, adds: “This accolade reinforces the fact that the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon is one of the best races in the world, on par with many of the other prestigious marathons in the world. We are extremely proud to have a race of this level on home soil.”

The annual Sanlam Cape Town Marathon, held on September 14 and 15, 2019, is running for a good cause.

The marathon’s official beneficiary is the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA), and will have a number of initiatives to raise awareness and funds.

“One in four people in South Africa is affected by cancer. Cancer does not discriminate against age, race or gender. Nor against income. And, as running is one of the most accessible sporting codes for all, we have the responsibility to highlight the illness to make more people aware of how to lower their risk,” says Sydney Mbhele, Chief Executive of Brand at Sanlam.

This year, organisers have introduced a new campaign. Runners and fans are encouraged to join the Sanlam Cancer Crew for CANSA and fundraise, sponsor runners, or donate directly by visiting GivenGain.com or SCTM-gees.co.za.

“Sanlam and CANSA have been taking hands in the fight against cancer for over 27 years. This year, the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon opens up the opportunity for runners to make a difference and run for good as they take on this race for those affected by cancer. 

We promote regular exercise and physical activity which plays a major role in leading a healthy balanced lifestyle and can lower your cancer risk,” says Maria Scholtz, CANSA’s Head of Sustainability.

A free cancer testing service with a FotoFinder Dermoscope screening specifically for skin cancer will also be available at the Expo.

The Sanlam Cape Town marathon is one of the biggest races in the country. It forms part of the weekend-long running festival that also includes two Peace Trail runs and a 5km peace run. The marathon is also the only climate-neutral marathon in the world.

This year, 13 500 runners from over 80 countries are expected to take part in the marathon. A total of 25 000 runners will cover all distances.

The Boxer Athletic runner is realistic enough, however, to not put himself under the pressure of wanting to replace his mentor as champion of Africa’s only IAAF Gold Label Status race.

“Of course I want to do well in Cape Town and I got some great advice from Stephen which I intend to heed. He told me to merely strive for a local podium finish as my time to be champion will come in the next two years.”

Mulaudzi finished 15th overall last year and was the fourth South African home when Mokoka blitzed the field to set a new course record.

“I rate Stephen very highly, I look up to him and Benedict Moeng as my mentors - they have a lot of marathon experience and I want to emulate their successes,” he said.

Mulaudzi knows that the race is likely to be just as fast if not faster than last year given the calibre of athletes on the start list and has set himself the goal of running a better time than he did on his debut.

“It was the first time I ran the race last year and I did 2:18:50 and my aim is obviously to better than this time around.

“And we know that there are top athletes who will be coming to Cape Town with some great PBs, the likes of the Peter Some, who has a 2:05 and Rarifu Kimku, who has ran a 2:06.

“They are both from Kenya and we all know their reputations as great runners.”

Unlike last year when he went to the race over-trained, the 26-year-old believes he has paced himself very well and will get to the start line fresh and ready to fire.

“I was tired last year because I went to Cape Town straight after the Cross Country Championships.

“Also I had not done enough mileage for the race like I did this time around.

“Stephen has been monitoring my training and he helped me rectify the mileage issue. So I am in good shape and I am hoping to pace myself well,” he added.

Unlike the majority of South Africans who will mainly be using the race as an Olympic qualifier, the man from Ramahantsha village in Makhado, Limpopo will not have Tokyo on his mind as he pounds the streets of the Mother City.

“It is a dream of every athlete to represent his country in the Olympics but for me that is not the focus. Of course if it happens it will be my biggest achievement and I would be delighted.”

He goes into the race on the back of a pretty good year that has seen him clock some PBs.

“I set my new PB in 10km in Morocco although I was in position 10. I went on to set my new PB in the Half Marathon at Port Elizabeth of 62:03.”

With that kind of time in the 21.1km, Mulaudzi clearly has it in him to realise his goal of being among the top South African finishers in Cape Town on Sunday.

Lebogang Phalula believes Tokyo is calling and she knows that Cape Town is her best way to answer.

“Cape Town Marathon is my ticket,” said the one half of South Africa’s famous road running twin sisters.

A good run at the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon on September 15 will help Phalula realise what she believes is every athlete’s dream - Olympic participation.

The IAAF Gold Label marathon also doubles up as the Athletic South Africa Marathon Championships and Phalula, her twin Lebo, and the other local women, need to run a sub-2:30 time to book a spot on Team SA for Tokyo 2020.

“The Olympics is the ultimate in sport. We all dream to participate in and to be part of the Games. I know I want to go to Tokyo next year and my sister also shares the same dream. We want to be part of the marathon team that will represent the country at the Olympics.”

Lebo concurred: “We have been working very hard in training with coach JP (Van der Merwe, the former Olympian) preparing for Sanlam. We hope that everything goes according to plan on race day so we can qualify for the Olympics.”

The time required for the Phalula twins to go to Tokyo will require serious effort on their part in Cape Town.

Lebogang has a 2:38:00 from the 2016 edition while Lebo ran a 2:38:55 in 2015.

They both missed last year’s edition. Lebogang was injured and admits it was hard not being part of those traversing the Mother City in the chase for a medal in Africa’s only Gold Label Status race.

“I did not run it last year because of a calf injury I had. It was not easy to watch on TV because I really wanted to be a part of it But that is all in the past and I am happy now that all is going well, I have no injuries. I am ready to take on the most famous race in Africa.”

Lebo is high on confidence too: “I was in position 14 in Pietermaritzburg (leg of the Spar Grand Prix Series). I am ranked in the 13 position which is not that bad on points for Spar Series. So I have the belief I will do well in Cape Town.”

Lebogang meanwhile says it is a blessing that they can run such a high standard race in their own backyard.

“Opportunities to go overseas and run gold label races like this one or even the majors are very rare. A lot of athletes in Africa do not get that chance. This is one of a kind race for us as African athletes, a gold label status race in our country. So now that the chance is presented to us right here in our home, we need to grab it.”

While Stephen Mokoka won last year’s Sanlam Cape Town Marathon in record time, the men’s top 10 was once again dominated by east Africans.

Apart from Mokoka, two other South Africans - Benedict Moeng (sixth) and Desmond Mokgobu (10th) - made the top 10.

With the race organisers expecting more international elite athletes for this year’s race taking place on September 15, it would appear the challenge for South Africans to dominate will be all the more tougher.

The organisers are hosting a ‘50 Days To Go’ Countdown event in the Mother City next Wednesday where they are set to announce "the finest elite marathon field ever assembled on African soil".

Expectations are that Mokoka will be back to defend the title he won in fantastic style. Mokoka, participating in a local event for the first time in years, lived up to his star billing when he got home in a fast time of 2:08:31.

But Mokgobu is going to miss this one out as he will be racing the Doha Marathon around that time while Moeng is likely to participate. Mokgobu’s teammate Pharson Magagane, who finished 21st last year will be back in the race.

An interesting participant this year will be Impala’s TK Moshwetsi who came to the fore during the Comrades Marathon. New to the scene, Moshwetsi surprised most when he held the lead in the ultra two and a half hours into the race and looked to be doing well and seemed strong only to stop after the halfway mark at Drummond.

According to his coach Dave Adams, Moshwetsi was never at Comrades to race or even complete it but was rather using it as preparation for the Cape Town Marathon.

No doubt this year’s race will be a hotly-contested affair what with the organisers also looking to impress the IAAF in their application to have the race upgraded from Gold Label Status to Platinum.

There must be less painful ways of acknowledging a 40th birthday than running the 62,926 steps it takes an average woman to complete a marathon.

But that’s how Bonani Zuke – one of Fedhealth’s “Dream Chasers” participating in the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon – has chosen to “celebrate” the milestone. “I could have thrown a party but you can throw a party anytime,” she says.

“A party might have made everyone happy but this is for me as an individual. There’s a sense of achievement once you cross the line, so for me it’s not a painful way to celebrate.”

Bonani’s birthday run at the Cape Town Marathon forms part of the Fedhealth Dream Chasers project. Dream Chasers is SA’s hottest new reality web series, featuring the trials and tribulations of three everyday South Africans pursuing their fitness dreams by running the 10km race, the 12km trail run or the 42.2km distance. The contestants receive expert coaching, nutritional advice and gear to bolster their efforts.

In addition, all Fedhealth members receive free entry to compete in the Cape Town Marathon.

The mother of two’s 40th falls on September 15, which is coincidentally the same day the marathon will be run.

Not exactly a novice – she first began running four years ago to lose weight after the birth of her daughter Zimkhitha – Bonani is hoping to drop her time of six hours and five minutes from her maiden marathon (the Soweto Marathon) by more than half an hour.

Like most people turning 40, she is in two minds about how she feels: “I’ve got mixed feelings about it. I’m happy that I’m still alive but I’ve also got pressure from the things I wanted to achieve that I haven’t yet, so I’m a bit anxious about how I’m going to achieve them.”

Well, 42.2km is about long enough to work most of that out.

This year’s Sanlam Cape Town Marathon will be under close scrutiny by the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF), as the annual event aims to better its already-strong participant and spectator appeal by applying for the federation’s new Platinum Label status. 

The marathon, which takes place on Sunday 15 September, is currently the only IAAF Gold Label-status marathon in Africa.

“When you run in an IAAF Road Race Label event, you get to experience an event run on truly world-class best-practice principles,” says Olympian long-distance runner and race ambassador Elana van Zyl-Meyer.

“Not only does an IAAF Road Race Label event offer an excellent runner, spectator and media experience, it also yields great benefits for the development of the sport and helps fight the scourge of doping in sport.”

The new IAAF Platinum Label will be granted from 2020 to races meeting a full set of new requirements and regulations.

These range from the inclusion of a quota of international elite athletes, validation of the course, and photo-finish devices, through well-staffed refreshment stations and sound electronic-timing data-processing and results reporting, to sufficient medical services and local and international television-broadcast support.

With international support for the South African springtime festival of running quickly ramping up, organisers of the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon will this year need to increase marathon entries and further extend its international reach to 12.5% from the 82 countries represented last year.

This year's Sanlam Cape Town Marathon will be under close scrutiny by the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) as the annual event aims to better its already strong participant and spectator appeal in its pursuit of the federation's new Platinum Label status.

The marathon, which takes place on September 15, is currently the only IAAF Gold Label status marathon in Africa.

"When you run in an IAAF road race label event, you get to experience an event run on truly world-class best practice principles," said race ambassador Elana van Zyl-Meyer.

"Not only does an IAAF road race label offer an excellent runner, spectator and media experience, it also yields great benefits for the development of the sport and helps fight the scourge of doping in sport."

The new IAAF Platinum Label status would be granted from January 2020 to races meeting a full set of new requirements and regulations.

These range from the inclusion of a quota of international elite athletes, validation of the course and photo-finish devices.

The organisers of the Sanlam Marathon will need to increase this year's marathon entries and further extend its international reach to 12.5% from 82 countries.

"Our aim has always been to become a member of the newly formed IAAF Platinum Label status marathons and there's little reason to believe that an African city marathon can't be added to this family of world-class city marathons," concluded Van Zyl-Meyer.

Comrades veteran Maurice Rosen, 65, a financial officer says it was the feelings and emotions he felt in 1979 when he crossed the finish line after 89km that keeps him coming back every year.

“It's just that feeling at the end when you cross that finish line.

"Probably 95% of Comrades is the actual training and you put so much training into it and it is such a special day. I just want to get to the finish line,” he said.

Rosen said he had finished every Comrades he had entered, and he also enjoyed taking part in the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon and the Two Oceans Marathon.

The early riser said he starts training for the marathon a few months before Comrades by doing smaller weekend marathons in and around Joburg, and the intensity of his training picked up about three months before Comrades.

Over a five-month period, Rosen said, he runs about 2000km (1240 miles) in total.

He added there was a 10-week period before the marathon which was crucial for training, and he “buckles down.”

However, the week before the gruelling event he spends most of his time resting.

“It's difficult to train, but I think that it would be more difficult to sit in front of the television and try and watch it. I would say to myself that 'I just want to be there, I have got to be there',” he said.

Rosen ran Comrades for the first time in 1979 and has run every year except 1984 when he was studying. 

The Kenyan contingent in the 2018 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon set for this Sunday in South Africa. Other Kenyan runners in the event include Albert Korir, Kipsang Kipkemoi, Rotich Nicholas and Kacherian Philemon. Korir, won the 2017 Vienna Marathon win, in a sub 2 hours and 09 minutes time while Kipsang Kipkemoi boasts a best time of 2 hours 08 minutes and 26 seconds from the Sevilla Marathon in 2017. Over 22 000 runners from all over the world will take part in this year’s race.  

You would expect Xolisa Tyali to be anticipating the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon with some trepidation. After all Xolisa is just fresh from an Achilles tendon injury that saw him fail to finish the Rotterdam Marathon earlier this year. And last year he failed in his quest to win the race. Add to that the fact that this year’s race promises to be even more competitive with local marathon king Stephen Mokoka and last year’s pace-setter Desmond Mokgobu in the running, and Tyali should be a little scared. Fear, however, is not a part of Tyali’s make up and as he anticipated Africa’s only IAAF Gold Label Status marathon, the man from Tsolo in the Eastern Cape was brimming with confidence and in no doubt he will improve on his time. And then there’s the inspiration he gets from his coach, the legendary former New York Marathon champion Hendrik Ramaala. “He motivates me to work even harder just because he is a champion. He is connected internationally and organises for us to participate in those top races all over the world. It really is a blessing to work with a running icon like him.  

An impressive line-up of “golden” athletes, the commitment of ASA to host the national championships in Cape Town and a revival of the Captain’s Challenge were features of the 50-day launch of the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon at a city hotel on Wednesday. While Mokoka remains the fastest in the field, boasting a marathon best of 2:07:40, he will be up against a number of talented young African runners bent on following in the footsteps of twice champion, Ethiopian Asefa Negewu, who placed 7th in the London Marathon after winning Cape Town in 2016. Notwithstanding its many other selling points, elite athletes running fast marathon times in Cape Town was the primary reason for the Cape Town Marathon receiving IAAF gold label status within just three years and the participation of IAAF gold-status athletes each year are an essential part of the retention of this status.