Running has become an increasingly popular sport in South Africa, with more and more people taking to the streets and trails to challenge themselves and stay fit. From road races to trail runs, South Africa offers a range of running events throughout the year. Here are some of the largest and most popular running events in the country:
1. Comrades Marathon
Distance: Approximately 90 kilometers
Average number of runners: 25,000
Cost of entry: R600 – R2,000
Location: KwaZulu-Natal (Durban to Pietermaritzburg)
The Comrades Marathon is arguably South Africa’s most famous running event. Held annually between Durban and Pietermaritzburg in KwaZulu-Natal, the race covers a distance of approximately 90 kilometers and attracts runners from all over the world. The Comrades Marathon is one of the oldest ultramarathons in the world, having been first run in 1921.
2. Two Oceans Marathon
Distance: 56 kilometres
Average number of runners: 26,000
Cost of entry: R200 – R1,250
Location: Cape Town
The Two Oceans Marathon is a 56-kilometer road race that takes place in Cape Town every year. The race is known for its scenic route, which takes runners around the Cape Peninsula and along the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. The Two Oceans Marathon is one of the largest road races in South Africa, attracting over 20,000 runners each year.
3. Old Mutual Soweto Marathon
Distance: 42.2 kilometers
Average number of runners: 40,000
Cost of entry: R120 – R350
Location: Johannesburg (Soweto)
The Old Mutual Soweto Marathon is a road race that takes runners through the streets of Johannesburg’s Soweto township. The race covers a distance of 42.2 kilometers and is one of the largest marathons in South Africa, attracting thousands of runners each year.
4. Cape Town Marathon
Distance: 42.2 kilometers
Average number of runners: 23,000
Cost of entry: R120 – R1,000
Location: Cape Town
The Cape Town Marathon is a popular road race that takes place in Cape Town every year. The race covers a distance of 42.2 kilometers and attracts runners from all over the world. The route takes runners through some of Cape Town’s most iconic landmarks, including the V&A Waterfront, the Castle of Good Hope, and Table Mountain.
5. Washie 100
Distance: 161 kilometers
Average number of runners: 100
Cost of entry: R1,800 – R2,300
Location: Eastern Cape (Port Alfred to East London)
The Washie 100 is an ultramarathon that takes runners along a 161-kilometer route from Port Alfred to East London in the Eastern Cape. The race is known for its challenging terrain, which includes steep climbs and descents, and is one of the oldest ultramarathons in South Africa, having been first run in 1977.
These are just a few of the largest and most popular running events in South Africa. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just starting out, there’s a race in South Africa that’s perfect for you.