Sanlam Cape Town Marathon
Cape Town's marathon is South Africa's biggest global marathon candidate, with a city course, heavy demand, tight entry windows, and African prestige.
Quick facts
- City course built on major-event logistics rather than a small local loop.
- Carries a World Athletics label and open World Marathon Majors ambitions.
- Demand is heavy and entry windows are tight.
- Late May on the Cape can be mild, but coastal wind and rain are both realistic.
About the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon
Cape Town's marathon has global visibility and World Marathon Majors ambitions, making the May edition one of the most important African marathons to track.
Course
The road course is built around Cape Town's city setting, with major-event logistics and scenery rather than a small local loop.
Race-day weather
Late May can be mild but variable, with coastal wind and rain possible. Runners should be ready for changing conditions around the city.
Past Sanlam Cape Town Marathon dates and results
| Year | Date | Status | Results |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | Sunday, May 24, 2026 | Completed | Open results |
| 2024 | Sunday, October 20, 2024 | Completed | Open results |
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Sanlam Cape Town Marathon FAQ
When is the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon?
We're waiting for the finalized date for the 2027 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon. The most recent running was on Sunday, May 24, 2026.
Is Sanlam Cape Town Marathon a Boston qualifier?
Yes. Sanlam Cape Town Marathon is a Boston Marathon qualifier. To use the result, you must run the certified full-marathon course within the qualifying window and meet the current standard for your age and gender. Meeting the standard lets you apply but does not guarantee entry, and net-downhill courses can receive a time adjustment under current B.A.A. rules. Review the Boston qualifying times and downhill-course rules, or browse upcoming Boston qualifier marathons.
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