Mzansi has been glowing since ten medals were won by local athletes at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. This month, those of us who yearn to follow in the footsteps of Wayde van Niekirk and Caster Semenya won’t have to travel too far in order to try and achieve that goal.
The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon takes place in September, and its various events offer a chance for professional athletes and social runners to experience the Mother City in all its natural splendour.
The Sanlam Marathon was first held in 2007 and has gradually turned into a prestigious international event. It is now endorsed by Francois Pienaar, former captain of the Springboks, and Elana Meyer, long-distance runner and Olympic silver medallist in the 1992 women’s 10 000m.
The event takes place this year from Saturday 17 to Sunday 18 September, and is comprised of five races. There are the 12km and 22km Peace Trail runs, and the 4.2km Peace Fun Run, all taking place on the Saturday; and the 10km Peace Run on the Sunday.
Then there is the main event, the Marathon 42.2km, open to 7 000 runners and wheelchair racers of 20 years and older. This is the only marathon in Africa awarded a Silver Label by the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF).
This year’s goal is to elevate the marathon to Gold Label status, which is why the event and its participants need as much support as possible. Spectators are welcome to use the free bus routes, which will take them to various points where they can watch and support the runners.
OF NOTE
When Sunday 18 September at 7.00 am
Where Corner of Granger Bay Boulevard and Beach Road to Green Point A Track, Fritz Sonnenberg Road
Cost Free for spectators
Contact +27 87 700 8264, www.capetownmarathon.com
Photography courtesy Cape Town Marathon and Sanlam Cape Town Marathon