Gauteng runners support Sanlam Cape Town marathon

A NUMBER of long-distance runners from Gauteng have supported the Sanlam Cape Town marathon since its inception a few years ago.

This year will be no exception as the athletes are already hard at training for Africa’s only IAAF Gold Label-status marathon.

Ninety percent of the marathon’s total entries for last year were South African runners, of which just under half fell outside the host province of the Western Cape. International interest in the marathon is also exceptionally high, with more than 82 countries being represented at the 2018 event.

“Its route undoubtedly is what’s attracting people and its low altitude coupled with a flat and fast course offers a record-breaking opportunity for professional and novice runners alike,” said race ambassador and Olympian Elana van Zyl-Meyer.

The marathon will take place on September 15, when Cape Town normally experiences cool, clear, wind-free weather. The 42.2km marathon is the pinnacle of a series of running events that attract major interest. This year’s weekend festival of running kicks off on Saturday with the 22km and 12km Peace trail runs and a 5km Peace run. On Sunday the iconic 42.2km city marathon takes place, and for those who aren’t quite ready to undertake a full marathon, there’s the option of a 10km Peace run.

“The route’s beauty comes alive in its people too,” said race director Janet Welham.

“Because of the vibrant nature of the marathon and the many residential suburbs it moves through, it holds significant entertainment value for surrounding communities. Last year, 17 water stations were manned by over 600 volunteers; 20 bands and DJs performed at the stations, involving over 20 charities and 10 athletic clubs. There were additionally four large and 10 smaller spectator zones and 45 activations took place along the route too. A diverse mix of Cape Town’s people packed the sidewalks and our title sponsor graciously ran a ‘gees’ competition, offering R500 000 in prize money for the best dressed and most entertaining. The response we received was phenomenal.”

A crucial part of the public participation on the route and from the sidewalks is the social causes the marathon supports through its Run4Change legacy programme. Last year more than 50 charities used the marathon to raise more than R2.5-million.

Entries have opened at www.capetownmarathon.com

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