Sanlam Cape Town Marathon goes for gold
Total prize money of R1.6 million as organisers plan on 20 000 entries
The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon has been awarded the coveted Silver Label status by the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) -the first marathon on the continent to be awarded this classification.
The 2015 marathon will be held over the weekend of September 19 and 20 and entries will open on March 1.
The IAAF made the decision to award the Silver Label status just six months after financial services group Sanlam became the official headline sponsor, in partnership with Western Province Athletics (WPA), ASEM Running and the City of Cape Town.
Marathon brand ambassador, Elana Meyer, added: “The Silver Label status puts the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon on the race calendar for the top tier international runners in 2015. We are excited to be planning a spectator orientated event over the Heritage Day weekend.”
The marathon brings together a range of runners, from social joggers to elite athletes in a festival of running through the streets of the Mother City. Last year’s event attracted more than 12 500 runners from 53 countries, including 29 elite runners. Organisers are hoping that this year’s event will draw over 20 000 entries across all events.
The classic 42.2km marathon takes centre-stage during an action-packed spring weekend that also includes a 10km Peace Run, a 4.2 km Community Fun Run, and a 22km and 11km Peace Trail run.
The marathon route has been designed to offer runners a view of the city’s natural and cultural attractions from the course.
The route takes runners past some of the city’s most recognisable landmarks, including the pristine Liesbeek River, the Rondebosch Common, the Newlands Cricket Grounds, Groote Schuur, the University of Cape Town, District Six, the Castle of Good Hope, the Cape Town City Hall, the Houses of Parliament, the City Gardens, St Georges Cathedral, Greenmarket Square and the Nederduitse Kerk to mention but a few. The seven-hour marathon cut-off time has been designed to accommodate slower runners.
The route reflects the diversity and heritage of Cape Town and is perfect for serious athletes and for first-timers who want to finish their inaugural marathon in the beautiful city environment of Cape Town.
Entries will close on September 5 or when the maximum entry limit has been reached. No late entries will be accepted.
