Latest news with #SanlamCapeTownMarathon
Time Out
10-07-2025
- Sport
- Time Out
Cape Town Marathon sold out! Here's what you need to know
Cape Town's marathon dreams just hit another milestone. The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon has officially sold out its 24,000 marathon entries for 2025 — the third year running — putting the city on the cusp of becoming Africa's first Abbott World Marathon Major. Achieving this status would place the city's marathon among the six most prestigious road races in the world, alongside iconic events in New York, London, Berlin, Boston, Chicago, and Tokyo. 'This is more than just a sell-out,' says Sanlam Cape Town Marathon CEO Clark Gardner. 'It's a statement: Africa is ready to take its place on the global stage.' With the race locked in for Sunday, 19 October 2025, the pressure is on to deliver a seamless event and tick the final box for Major status in 2026 — a move that could bring more than 20,000 international visitors to the Mother City every year. Africa is already on the map for producing world-class runners - recognition for hosting them is long overdue. Now more than ever the spotlight's on more than just the runners, as Cape Town's streets come alive for everyone. So if you're not racing, you can still be part of the action. Spectator's Guide: How to Catch the Action Consider these best viewing spots, but you can cheer from any point along the race route, which features 15 dedicated refreshment stations strategically placed throughout the city. You won't want to miss the high energy and epic crowd support along the city's most scenic streets. Here's where to position yourself on the day: Early birds can catch the elite athletes at the start (first wave sets off at 6 am). Beach Road, Sea Point Promenade Prime spot for cheering with a sea view — plus easy access to coffee shops for those sunrise flat whites. Kloof Street & Orange Street, Gardens Join the morning buzz near iconic Table Mountain views and grab brunch while you wait. A relaxed, family-friendly spot with wide open space and great visibility. Pack a picnic blanket and enjoy the community atmosphere. High-energy community zones with music and vibrant local support. Bring your vuvuzela. Grab your spot in the stands and witness the emotion at the finish line. Expect live commentary, food trucks, and good vibes. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sanlam Cape Town Marathon (@capetownmarathon) Road Closures Roads across the city will be closed from early Sunday morning. Check the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon website for the whole map and plan. Walk, cycle, or use MyCiTi to get around. Events All Weekend Missed your entry to the main race? Entries for the 5km and 10km Peace Runs remain open until 26 September 2025 or until they sell out - as do entries for the popular trail events (11km, 22km, and 43km). There is also the Marathon Expo for all things related to running. Saturday, 18 October: Catch the Peace Runs (5km & 10km) and Trail Runs (11km, 22km, 43km) at the same start/finish hub in Green Point. Family-friendly and festive. Marathon Expo: 16-18 October. Held at CTICC, the expo is open to runners and the public. Expect merch, sponsor activations, and athlete meet-and-greets. One Step from Making History All eyes are on Cape Town this October — and every runner, spectator, and supporter plays a part. If the city delivers a world-class event in 2025, it could make history as Africa's first World Marathon Major in 2026. So whether you're lacing up, lining the streets and cheering from the sidelines, this city-wide celebration belongs to all of us. Be part of something big? See you on the streets!
IOL News
14-06-2025
- Health
- IOL News
From cancer treatment to marathon triumph: Dr Naven Naidoo's inspiring journey
It was a tick off the bucket list for cancer survivor Dr Naven Naidoo when he completed the ultimate human race, the Comrades Marathon. Naidoo, an orthopedic surgeon from Umhlanga, was diagnosed with colon cancer in 2014. He underwent surgery and chemotherapy treatment. Now cancer free, he ran the iconic race on Sunday, June 8, and supported the Childhood Cancer Foundation (CHOC) charity. Naidoo joined over 22 000 runners who set off from Pietermaritzburg City Hall on a gruelling 89.98km run to People's Park in Durban in the 98th running of the world famous Comrades Marathon. "After my cancer treatment I focused on my work. My wife is very much into health and fitness. I did Park Runs every week, but nothing long distance. Running the Comrades is something I always wanted to do. In October last year I completed the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon with a qualifying time for the Comrades. "In November I started training for Comrades and participated in three more long distance marathons in preparation for Comrades," he said.
The Citizen
08-06-2025
- Sport
- The Citizen
Local runner chasing marathon greatness
From the quiet village of Nkidikitlana near Mokopane in Limpopo to the bustling streets of Tembisa, Somara Stephen Mashamaite has turned his love for running into a lifelong passion. What began as a school activity grew into a journey marked by medals, discipline and personal growth. Somara took his first running strides in Grade Eight during school sporting events. 'I enjoyed it but only took it seriously when I moved to Gauteng in 2003,' he shared. ALSO READ: Eldos athlete celebrated for Comrades victory Back then, he ran 10km and 21km races purely by instinct and without a watch or timing device. 'I ran by feel,' he added. His turning point occurred in 2013 when he completed his first ultra-marathon, the 50 km City to City race from Pretoria to Johannesburg, in a time of 04:40:00. That impressive performance earned him a spot in the prestigious Comrades Marathon the following year. After completing the Wally Hayward Marathon in 03:06:00, two experienced runners, Avhasei Makananisa and Collen Ferreira, recognised his potential and encouraged him to pursue ultra-distance running more seriously. Now based in Tembisa, Somara trains diligently. ALSO READ: Eldorado Park athletes get ready for Comrades Marathon He joins the TFG Group for 5km speed sessions every Wednesday and, on rest days, clocks 21km. On weekends, his long runs often stretch up to 35km. 'I like group training because I learn a lot from others,' he said. 'We motivate each other, and that helps me improve.' One of Somara's proudest achievements came in 2016 when he earned his first Comrades silver medal, finishing in 07:20:37. Another career highlight was a personal best of 02:46:00 at the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon in 2023. But not every race went according to plan. ALSO READ: Hundred years of female participation in the Comrades Marathon One of his most challenging moments was the 2019 Comrades Marathon, where he missed the silver medal cut-off by just two minutes, finishing in 7:32:28. 'That two minutes really hurt me,' he admitted. Fortunately, injuries have not been a major obstacle. For Somara, running has been a teacher. 'It's taught me discipline, how to work with others and how to be patient,' he said, skills that have shaped his athletic and personal life. Though not formally part of any charity or community initiative, he firmly believes in collective effort. He credits his family, friends, colleagues and the Hollywood Athletics Club for their ongoing support, with a special shoutout to clubmate Peter Moloto. ALSO READ: Local runner reigns supreme at 2024 Soweto Marathon Balancing work, training and family life takes planning, but with the encouragement of those around him, he makes it work. His advice for new runners is simple: 'Join a running group to stay motivated. Don't run alone.' Somara's favourite routes include Olifantsfontein Road to the R101 and Pretoria Road to the Irene Mall. When he needs an energy boost, he turns up the classic tune Shosholoza. 'It lifts my spirits and keeps me going,' he said. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading! Stay in the know. Download the Caxton Local News Network App Stay in the know. Download the Caxton Local News Network App here
The Citizen
07-06-2025
- The Citizen
Cops on the run! Hundreds of police officers to tackle tomorrow's Comrades Marathon
A cop chase of a different kind is expected tomorrow when 437 SAPS members pursue their personal bests in the 98th Comrades Marathon, highlighting not only athletic endurance but also the organisation's commitment to health, wellness and resilience. The group includes 66 female and 371 male officers from across all nine provinces. Their participation marks a notable increase from the 356 officers who competed in 2024, reflecting a growing culture of fitness within SAPS ranks. National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola has thrown his support behind the participants, commending their dedication and reinforcing SAPS's focus on human capital development through wellness initiatives. 'Their involvement underscores the values of perseverance, unity and discipline that define both the SAPS and the spirit of the Comrades Marathon,' says Masemola. The 89km 'down run' from Pietermaritzburg to Durban will see over 22 000 runners take part, with SAPS runners proudly flying the organisation's flag as ambassadors of health and community engagement. Combining science, service and sport to serve the community Constable Anna Mapheto (26), stationed at SAPS Lephalale in Limpopo, serves at the Community Service Centre — the first point of contact for the public. She plays a vital role in handling complaints, opening case dockets and responding to emergencies, while also supporting crime victims and fostering trust within the community. Mapheto began her policing career after being appointed on October 3, 2022. She completed her training at SAPS Academy in Umtata and was placed as a student constable at SAPS Polokwane before being permanently stationed at Lephalale on January 3, 2024. In addition to her law enforcement duties, Mapheto holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Molecular and Life Sciences from the University of Limpopo (2021) and is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Forensic Sciences at the University of South Africa. She is passionate about using scientific methods to solve crimes and aspires to join the SAPS Forensic Science Laboratories. A dedicated long-distance runner, she competes for the SAPS Limpopo Marathon Club. She sees physical fitness as essential to mental strength and resilience in the demanding police environment. 'As a police official, with this physically demanding job and high-stress environment, running marathons keeps me physically and mentally fit to cope in the field of policing. I encourage my colleagues to stay active, as it boosts their health, relieves stress and strengthens both body and mind, thus helping to build healthier, safer and secure communities,' says Mapheto. In 2023, she placed second in both the Maroela Marathon's 10km women's open category and the SAPS national women's open 10km at the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon. She also completed the 42.2km marathon and participated in the 50km Ultra Marathon the same year. Inspired by service and resilience Seventy-two SAPS marathon runners from KZN will line up in Pietermaritzburg tomorrow, 14 of who will tackle the race for the first time. One of the first-time participants is Constable Lindanokuhle Sakhile Mdunge, a community service centre officer based at Ladysmith Police Station. Mdunge joined SAPS in 2022 after earning both a diploma and BTech in policing from the Tshwane University of Technology. He underwent intensive training at SAPS Academy Umthatha and now serves his community with commitment and compassion. Although new to the Comrades, the 31-year-old is no stranger to challenging long-distance races. He qualified for the Comrades with an impressive 3:10 finish at the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon. He also completed the demanding 52km Nquthu to Dundee Ultra Marathon, which gave him the confidence to push further. A personal highlight was completing the 72km Mpumalanga Cosmo 3 in1 Marathon — an achievement that propelled him towards the Comrades down run. Unlike many newcomers who idolise international runners, Mdunge finds his inspiration closer to home. He credits fellow police officer Constable Nqabayesizwe Zulu, stationed at SAPS Gauteng provincial headquarters, as his role model. 'He has been running the Comrades Marathon for over five years, and he is the one who motivated me. I am looking forward to the race, and running in the colours of my beloved organisation will encourage me not to give up. The race takes place in the month dedicated to the youth in South Africa, and as such I will do my best to show the tenacity of the youth in our country, the bravery of all young people in the SAPS, and show the world that police in South Africa are resilient,' says Mdunge. While some may approach their first Comrades with caution, Mdunge already has long-term goals. His sights are set on earning a green number — a recognition awarded to runners who complete 10 Comrades Marathons. For him, it's more than a race; it's the start of a dream come true.
The Citizen
02-05-2025
- Sport
- The Citizen
Mmotlana and Westner win inaugural MNS Attorneys Carnival City Marathon
Modderbee Prison warder Lesiba Mmotlana and Benoni Northerns Athletic Club (BNAC) runner Alexandra Westner emerged victorious in the men's and women's 42.2km races at the inaugural MNS Attorneys Carnival City Marathon on May 1. Mmotlana clinched the men's race ahead of Lucky Morajane and Happy Vuyo, while Westner beat Pertonella Khumalo and Sheree Rogers to the women's title. Men's race The Correctional Services RC runner was overwhelmed with emotions when talking to the media after his victory, saying that it was his first-ever marathon victory. 'It's my first time winning a race. Thanks to Ben Maluleka for pacing me in the first lap. I missed good times in marathons last year. I was on a program to achieve six consecutive sub-three-hour marathons. I achieved it today. That's why I'm emotional,' he said. ALSO READ: Runners give Carnival City Marathon route a thumbs up The athlete led the men's race early on but realised at the halfway point that he was in the lead. He ran the first 13km in 50:05, before covering the next 21km in 01:24:44. He then ran the remaining 8km in 38:09, eventually breaking the tape in 02:52:57, shattering his marathon record of 02:55:32 achieved at last year's Sanlam Cape Town Marathon by 02:35. 'I'm so excited. I'm now looking forward to the Comrades. I hope to achieve a back-to-back silver medal,' said Mmotlana. Morajane was 04:08 off the pace after finishing second in 02:57:05 and Vuyo completed the top three 19 seconds after the Team Eish runner. Women's race Victory was the furthest thing on Westner's mind when she stood at the starting line. She was targeting a Comrades Marathon C seeding and maintained an average pace of 05:08min/km in the first half of the double-lapper race. She breezed through the first 13km in 01:06:23 in third place before taking the lead and completing the next 21km in 01:47:54. Westner increased her pace to 5:09min/km in the last 8km to eventually breast the tape in 03:38:58. 'I'm extremely happy. The first place is honestly a bonus. I was going for my Comrades C seeding. A win makes my heart happy. It was a good race, well-organised and it had such a good vive at the water stations,' she said. The runner-up Khumalo of Run Zone crossed the line in 03:41:05, while the Boksburg Athletic Club's (BAC) Sheree Rogers finished 14 seconds behind in 03:41:19. Half-marathon Kabelo Mwahla and Deneke Snyman clocked 01:10:32 and 01:37:29, respectively, to win the men's and women's 21.1km races. Qhubeka AC's Mwahla beat the BAC's Maphuti Majetja, who clocked 01:10:36 for second place, and Desmond Makola (01:17:13) to the title. Alberton Athletic Club's Snyman finished 01:44 ahead of runner-up Claudia Figueira of Bedfordview Athletic Club, with Figueira's teammate, Veronica Warmington, third in 01:43:00. Tshiamo Sedumedi, the MD of the headline sponsor, MNS Attorneys, expressed gratitude to the over 1 800 runners who participated in the race. 'Kudos to Mamepe Striders and the MNS team that put this together. It was well-organised. It was our first race. We were test driving. We'll go back to the drawing board to see what else can be done to improve the race. The intention is to have this partnership with Mamepe for as long as possible,' he said. ALSO READ: In Pictures: BNAC Marathon a winner for the community! At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
