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Annual Running Events & Races in Cape Town 2018 | Road, Trail & Fun Run Calendar 

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Annual Running Events & Races in Cape Town 2018 | Road, Trail & Fun Run Calendar
Your comprehensive race calendar to running events in and around Cape Town. From iconic road runs and breathtaking trail runs to fun runs and walks.
Title Image

Annual Running Events & Races in Cape Town 2018 | Road, Trail & Fun Run Calendar

Your comprehensive race calendar to running events in and around Cape Town. From iconic road runs and breathtaking trail runs to fun runs and walks.
Title Image
Annual Running Events & Races in Cape Town 2018 | Road, Trail & Fun Run Calendar
Your comprehensive race calendar to running events in and around Cape Town. From iconic road runs and breathtaking trail runs to fun runs and walks.

We know how much Capetonians love running. They are often seen out and about, through rain or shine, clocking up some miles as they traverse the tarmac or mountain trails.

We’ve compiled a comprehensive guide of the road runs, trail runs, fun runs and walks in and around Cape Town.

Don’t forget to check what’s happening in Cape Town Today
Quick JumpJanuaryCape Summer Trail SeriesFebruary27 for Freedom 2018 March Old Mutual Two Oceans MarathonSPAR Women’s ChallengeTwo Oceans Trail RunSpier Night Trail Run SeriesDaredevil Run Cape TownTwo Oceans International Friendship RunApril Merrell Night Run SeriesMerrell Autumn Night Run SeriesMay FNB Cape Town 12 ONERUNJonkershoek Mountain ChallengeNight Nation RunJuneDon Lock Memorial RunThe Beast Trail RunSalomon Bastille Train Run July Cape Town Festival of RunningMomentum Knysna Forest MarathonCape Winter Trail SeriesHout Bay Trail ChallengeThe Featherbed Trail RunAugustTotalsports Women’s Day 10kmMcKenna & Scott Pinelands Athletics Club Race Merrell Whale of the TrailBlisters for BreadSeptember Sanlam Cape Town MarathonTable Mountain ChallengeMerrell Spring Night Run SeriesSanlam Cape Town Marathon Peace Trail RunLa Capra Goat Fun 5km La Capra Goat RunOctober 12th Annual Capegate Clicks Charity RunThe Cederberg TraverseThe Otter African TrailThe Dassie and RockRatOUTsurance KFM Gun Run NovemberThree Peaks ChallengeColor Run Cape TownDecember Other Popular Event Resources DirtopiaWildrunnerParkrun Cape Town

January

Kick start the New Year with a bang! Take a look at some of the hottest races taking place in and around Cape Town in January.

Cape Summer Trail Series

There are four races in the Cape Summer Trail Series which is held from the 14 January 2018 till 25 February 2018.

Never stop exploring @wildrunnerza

Complete three out of the four short or long course in order to automatically compete in the Challenge or Championship and receive your medal. Alternatively, take part in any of the races and have fun!

February

Take a look at the best running races and events happening in Cape Town in February. We'll keep adding to this list, so stay tuned!

27 for Freedom 2018

All the events start in front of the statue of Nelson Mandela at the beginning of his `walk to freedom‘ and progress through a scenic route that passes the Madiba House. The 27 km route continues through the adjacent wine farms to finish on the sports arena near the entrance. But 27 for Freedom is more than a running event. It is an experience everyone should participate in at least once in their life time.

Run for freedom@ebberabie2

It is a historic, yet fun-filled, family day of reflection, celebration and nation building for the tens of thousands that will participate from across the sports, social, business and political landscape. It contributes directly to the preservation and promotion of the Nelson Mandela legacy and the historic `right of passage’ that his walk to freedom represent to current and future generations of South Africans and all freedom loving people.

  • Distance: 5km, 10km, 27km
  • Cost: TBC
  • When: 10 Feb, 06:30am
  • Where: Victor Verster Prison
  • More Info: Website

March

Still trying to fill up your 2018 running calendar? Take a look at what March has on offer.

Old Mutual Two Oceans Marathon

In its 46 years, the Old Mutual Two Oceans Marathon has grown into one of the most beautiful sporting events in the world.

one of the most beautiful sporting events@2oceansmarathon

Taking place on Easter Saturday every year, it attracts 11 000 runners to the ultra marathon and 16 000 runners to the half marathon.

The entries have already closed for the ultra marathon, however, if you are interested in taking part in the half marathon event, there is a ballot system in place. See the race page if you are interested.

The event also hosts an annual expo which offers a look at at the hottest running trends, apparel and supplements.

  • Distance: 56km (ultra) and 21km (half)
  • Cost: R460, R195 (prices vary depending on your country of origin)
  • When: Easter Sunday, 31 March 2018 @ 06:30
  • Where: Outside SA Breweries, Main Road, Newlands
  • More Info: Old Mutual Two Oceans Marathon

SPAR Women’s Challenge

The SPAR Women’s Challenge will see over 21 000 women crossing the finish line in their Cape Town leg on Sunday, 25 March 2018.

run along the scenic promenade and surroundsSPAR Western Cape

Participants can choose between between running or walking the 10km or 5km routes along the scenic Sea Point promenade and Green Point surrounds. If you’re wanting to enter the 2018 event, watch this space for updates.

  • Distance: 10km, 5km
  • Cost: R100
  • When: 25 March 2018
  • Where: Bellville Stadium
  • More Info: SPAR Women’s Challenge website

Two Oceans Trail Run

Explore the forests above UCT and its stunning vistas with the Old Mutual Two Oceans Trail Run.

explore the mountains and their stunning vistas@kanereilly1

The short and long courses begin on UCT grounds and will see runners traversing the lower slopes of Devil’s Peak and the surrounding forests. The race is open to runners of all calibres.

The challenging routes will push runners with technical descents and steep ascents. There is a list of compulsory equipment needed for the trail runs.

Runners will be required to display the compulsory kit listed below at the start.

Compulsory kit for the 12km run:

  1. Water – Carry at least 1 litre (we recommend a hydration pack)
  2. Food – Energy Bar/ sandwich/ banana
  3. A cell phone charged with the organiser’s number in a Ziplock bag. (021 937 0324 – emergencies only)
  4. Windbreaker and disposable poncho OR waterproof jacket with sealed seams
  5. Race number, pinned to your shirt
  6. Your RaceTec timing chip, laced onto one of your shoes. The chip must be registered in your name and not belong to someone else.
  7. Sunblock and a hat are recommended.
The right shoes could mean the difference between a good run and a great one@stellamarialuna

Compulsory kit for the 24km run:

  1. Water – Carry at least 2 litres (we recommend a hydration pack)
  2. Food – Energy Bar/ sandwich/ banana
  3. A cell phone charged with organiser’s number in Ziplock bag. (021 937 0324 – emergencies only)
  4. Windbreaker and disposable poncho OR waterproof jacket with sealed seams
  5. Space blanket and whistle
  6. Sunblock and hat
  7. Race number, pinned to your shirt
  8. Your RaceTec timing chip, laced onto one of your shoes. The chip must be registered in your name and not belong to someone else.
  • Distance: 24km, 12km
  • Cost: R840, R685
  • When: 30 March 2018
  • Where: Above UCT
  • More Info: Two Oceans Trail Run

Spier Night Trail Run Series

This night trail series consists of 3 runs held over 3 consecutive weeks. Each event will be held on a different route to keep things interesting for those entering the entire series. It's the perfect event for novices on the trail or avid trail runners looking to improve their time.

Get those kicks dirty

There are only 300 runners allowed per event, so make sure you get your entries ASAP. You'll get 20% discount if you enter all 3 events, all events offer a 4km and 8km route. There will also be fantastic spot prizes at each event; Spier wine, Hoghouse Craft beer, Extreme Lights head torches and more.

  • Distance: 4km & 8km
  • Cost: 8km - R100; 4km - R60 for pre-entries. (R20 extra on the day)
  • When: Registration at 5:00 pm. Race starts at 6:45pm
    • Night Trail #1 - 9 March 2018
    • Night Trail #2 - 14 March 2018
    • Night Trail #3 - 21 March 2018
  • Where: Spier Estate, Stellenbosch
  • More info: Website
  • Tickets: Here

Daredevil Run Cape Town

Become part of the ballsiest run of the year! The Daredevil Run has become a countrywide phenomenon, and for a good reason.

the ballsiest run of the year@daredevil_run

The race highlights the importance of raising awareness around testicular cancer and the power of collective action through a daring, fun, liberating and unique experience.

Sign up for the 2018 run, get yourself checked and join the ranks of brave men who are helping to run cancer out of town!

All the funds raised from entries will go towards awareness programmes and cancer screening countrywide. The more Daredevils that take to the streets, the bigger the impact will be.

  • Distance: 5km
  • Cost: R150
  • When: 16 March 2018
  • Where: Greenpoint Salesian Football Club
  • More Info: Daredevil Run

Two Oceans International Friendship Run

Entrants can look forward to a scenic 5.6km run or walk meandering through the City of Cape Town.

runners unite in the marathon spirit@2oceansmarathon

Forming part of the Old Mutual Two Oceans Marathon weekend, the International Friendship Run happens on Good Friday morning.

Pass some of the city’s most famous landmarks including the Sea Point Promenade, Cape Town Stadium, Mouille Point Lighthouse and Green Point Park.

Runners from all corners of the globe come together, united in the marathon spirit, and jog with their countries flags.

  • Distance: 5.6km run/walk
  • Cost: R35
  • When: 09:30 am - 30 March 2018
  • Where: Cape Town Stadium, Sea Point Promenade, Green Point Park and Mouille Point Lighthouse
  • More Info: Website

April

We've sourced the most popular runs happening in April this year, but keep checking back for updates on this page.

Merrell Night Run Series

The Merrell Night Run Series takes place on the scenic grounds of Groot and Klein Constantia.

traverse the scenic grounds of klein & groot constantia@grant_solo

It is split into the Merrell Autumn Night Run Series (April) and the Merrell Spring Night Run Series (September).

Merrell Autumn Night Run Series

Runners will be treated to some night time fun amongst the historic vineyards of Groot and Klein Constantia with a warm, festive post-race vibe at Simon’s or Jonkershuis restaurants.

You'll also be treated to a complimentary bottle of Groot Constantia Wine just for finishing the race.

  • Distance: 3 run series (8km, 5.5km)
  • Cost: 5.5km - R160 ; 8km - R190. Enter for all three and get a 10% discount
  • When: 4th, 11th, 18th April 2018. Registration opens at 5:30pm
  • Where: Simons Restaurant, Groot Constantia
  • More Info: Merrell Night Run series website

May

May it be your best month yet! Take a look at what running events you can get stuck into this May!

FNB Cape Town 12 ONERUN

The FNB Cape Town 12 ONERUN 2017 was a roaring success. Entries for the 2018 event open in January 2018.

finish in cape town's cbd@nickleft

The route will take you from Woodridge Island, Milnerton to the finish line on Bree Street in the Cape Town CBD.

  • Distance: 12km
  • Cost: TBA
  • When: 20 May 2018 (entries open Jan 2018)
  • Where: Start - Milnerton , Finish - Bree Street, CBD
  • More Info: FNB Cape Town 12 ONERUN website

Jonkershoek Mountain Challenge

The Jonkershoek Valley is without a doubt one of the most beautiful mountain scenes in the Western Cape. Massive turrets and cliffs of orange-faced quartzite hold fortress over a collection of rambling mountain streams and waterfalls.

Breathtaking views at Jonkershoek Nature Reserve@officialvieews

It’s so magnificent that it’s impossible to ignore, the essence of the place seeping under your skin into the fabric of your senses. The Wildrunner team have strung together what is arguably one of the most incredible mountain trail running challenges on the calendar.

  • Distance: 38km, 24km, 11km
  • Cost: TBC
  • When: 19 May 2018
  • Where: Jonkershoek Nature Reserve, Stellenbosch
  • More info: Website

Night Nation Run

The Night Nation Run is the world’s first running music festival. The Cape Town edition of the Night Nation Run 2017 took place on 13 May 2017.

run past dj stages on the illuminated course @nightnationrun

The 5km route is filled with live music, lasers, and lights. The route takes you through an illuminated course, past DJ stages to finish at an electrifying after party at the main stage.

Let the music carry you while walk, run, dance or even skip your way through this vibrant adventure.

  • Distance: 5km
  • Cost: TBA
  • When: May (Dates tbc)
  • Where: TBA
  • More Info: Night Nation Run website

June

June is looking pretty impressive, especially for avid trail runners looking to test their limits.

Don Lock Memorial Run

The Don Lock Memorial Run took place on 25 June 2017 at the Villager’s Football Club. The Don Lock 8km has been around for over half a century, with it being run for the 60th time this year.

the don lock has been run for over half a centuryPinelands Athletic Club

The 15km race is a relatively new event, this year was the fourth year it has been run. Stay tuned for more information about this year’s race!

  • Distance: 15km, 8km
  • Cost: TBA
  • When: June (Dates TBC)
  • Where: Villagers Rugby Club, Lansdowne Road, Claremont
  • More Info: Don Lock Memorial Run website

The Beast Trail Run

The Beast caters especially towards seasoned, fit trail runners, offering entrants 50km of spectacular scenery within the Table Mountain National Park. This is without a doubt the toughest 50kms in South Africa, hence the name!

A tough traverse up the Table@grantdlm

The race is also a UTMB qualifier!

  • Distance: 50km
  • Cost: R595
  • When: 07:45 - 10 June 2018
  • Where: The Newlands Picnic site
  • More info: Website

Salomon Bastille Train Run

This is another one of those races that isn't for the faint-hearted or novice trail runner. Some would even go as far to say that is in in fact a wildrness adventure for which you NEED to be prepared!

Run, and never stop! @totalkaos_studio

This run sells out every year but numbers are limited so get on it ASAP! You are assured of a wild time, wet feet and sore legs.

The Bastille Festival in the Main Street is a vibrant mix of good food and wine, to celebrate with, after your run.

  • Distance: 50km
  • Cost: (Shirt incl) – R 895; (No shirt) – R 595
  • When: 06:30 - 14 June 2018
  • Where: 'Old Bells Lodge’ on the edge of the Berg River dam
  • More info: Website

July

The start of the second half of the year will be greeted by some of the finest running events Cape Town has to offer. Take your pick.

Cape Town Festival of Running

With the mammoth ultra 100km race, the mini-ultra 50km race and the 5 x 5km relay race, there is something for everyone!

there's a race for everyone@fuadesack

The Cape Town Festival of Running 2017 took place on the 22 and 23 July 2017. 2018 will be the 20th year of the event.

If you’re keen to test your limits in 2018, watch this space for updated race details.

Momentum Knysna Forest Marathon

The Momentum Knysna Forest Marathon is a highlight of South Africa’s running calendar. The route is truly scenic with most of the run taking place in the forest.

the scenic route makes its way through the forest @myphotocorner_sports

Whether you decide to complete the full (42km) or the half (21km) marathon, participants are guaranteed stunning views of the Knysna lagoon and Knysna Heads to motivate them as they head towards the finish line.

Last year’s event took place on Saturday, 15 July 2017. The Momentum Knysna Forest Marathon 2018 will take place on 7 July 2018. Stay tuned for more details!

  • Distance: 42km, 21km
  • Cost: TBA
  • When: 7 July 2018
  • Where: Knysna
  • More Info: Momentum Knysna Forest Marathon website

Cape Winter Trail Series

The first race of the Cape Winter Trail Series takes place on the beautiful trails at Paul Cluver Wine Estate which are normally open only to mountain bikers. The route will take runners through a river valley scattered with wooden bridges and climbs revealing the stunning views of the Elgin Valley.

The second race is set to be the toughest route in the Series. Runners will head to the top of the Tygerberg Nature Reserve by way of a gradual climb from the start. Expect magnificent views of Table Mountain before descending steeply to the finish. This event will start from the Platteklip side of Tygerberg Nature Reserve.

enjoy stunning views from the trailTrail Series

The third race will see runners climbing steps and running over large boulders at Paarl Rock to the summit of Paarl Mountain before descending their way to the finish.

The final race of the Series combines the mountains and stunning views of the ocean. Runners will take a rocky single track along the shore which leads into an intense climb up the mountain and a technical descent to the finish line. This is definitely the most technical of the four.

  • Distance: Solo (43km), split up (5-9km Challenge, 10-16km Championship, +20km XL)
  • Cost: Short course - R110, Long course - R140, All 4 races: Short - R400, Long - R600
  • When: 23 July 2017 (1/4), 30 July (2/4), 6 Aug (3/4), 12 Aug (4/4)
  • Where: Paul Cluver Estate (1/4), Tygerberg Nature Reserve (2/4), Taal Monument & Paarl mountain (3/4), Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve (4/4)
  • More Info: Cape Winter Trail Series

Hout Bay Trail Challenge

The Hout Bay Trail Challenge is one of the toughest trail runs South Africa has to offer. Prepare to have your endurance, fitness, strength and technique tested right up until the finish line.

one of SA's toughest trail runs@runningthecape

Enter individually or as a team of three with each member doing one leg. The route circumnavigates the mountains around Hout Bay. The trail is roughly 40km with an excess of 2500m climbing. This trail demands to be taken seriously.

There are only 250 entries available for the race. If you are unsuccessful entering the 2017 event you can put your name on the waiting list.

  • Distance: +- 40km (can be divided into 3 sections)
  • Cost: TBC
  • When: Saturday, 28 July 2018
  • Where: Hout Bay
  • More Info: Hout Bay Trail Challenge website

The Featherbed Trail Run

The Featherbed Trail Run forms part of the Pick n Pay Knysna Oyster Festival.

a tough but beautiful trail@foreverfasterae

It was nicknamed the “Phoenix Run 2017” in light of the devastating fires which ravaged the Eden region, causing many inhabitants of Knysna to lose their homes and belongings.

There are three runs to choose from on the day. The recently added Great White (21km), the Coelacanth (15km) and the Seahorse (11km).

  • Distance: Great White (21km), Coelacanth (15km), Seahorse Trail Run (11km)
  • Cost: TBA
  • When: July (Dates TBC)
  • Where: Start - Buffalo Bay Main Beach, Finish - Cruise Cafe, Knysna
  • More Info: Website

August

From fun runs to intense trail races, August is looking pretty good! Take a look at what's on the cards.

Totalsports Women’s Day 10km

The Totalsports Women’s Race aims to raise awareness around the prevention and treatment of breast cancer.

celebrate women's day in styleWomen's Race

In celebration of National Women’s Day this August, push your limits against top runners or set your own pace and show everyone what can be achieved through sheer determination.

Choose between the 10km or 5km races and join other South African women in raising awareness around breast cancer. Entries include an exclusive NIKE t-shirt to all entrants, a finisher’s bracelet and a timing chip.

McKenna & Scott Pinelands Athletics Club Race

The McKenna & Scott Pinelands 10km takes places around the first weekend of August every year.

push for a personal best@lyle_hartzenberg23

The route is flat and meanders through the streets of Pinelands and the surrounding areas. It is the ideal race to push for a personal best. Walkers are welcome to join but there is a time limit of 1.5 hours.

  • Distance: 10km, 5km
  • Cost: R50 (licensed) / R80 (unlicensed), R25
  • When: August (Dates TBC)
  • Where: Lower oval (off Forest Drive)
  • More Info: Website

Merrell Whale of the Trail

One day a year South Africa’s iconic 5 day Whale Trail hiking route offers runners the challenge to tackle the 53km trail with its 1900m elevation.

breathtaking views and sandy stretches of beach@whaleoftrail

Expect endless breathtaking views, technical rocky ridges, mountain fynbos and sandy stretches of beach. Please note that no deviations from the hiking trail will be allowed. There will be two water tables and various checkpoints on the route.

Entry includes:

  1. Permit and unique opportunity to run this trail
  2. CapeNature fee for De Hoop Reserve and the trail
  3. Paramedic support with 4×4 vehicles (excludes helicopter evacuation, or any hospitalization transport, which will be at the athlete’s cost)
  4. Tog bag
  5. Transfers to and from race venue to start and finish points
  6. Water tables with food on the route
  7. Friday night briefing dinner
  8. Saturday night prize giving dinner
  9. Meal at finish
  10. Complimentary leg massage at finish
  11. Finisher’s medal
Nothing compares to the feeling of accomplishment when you finish a race@mntrunnerevents
  • Distance: 53km
  • Cost: R3200
  • When: 18 August, 2018
  • Where: Potberg Nature Reserve to Koppie Alleen in De Hoop Nature Reserve
  • More Info: Merrell Whale of the Trail

Blisters for Bread

The PSFA is hosting their 50th annual Blisters for Bread Charity Family Fun Walk. The entry cost for this fundraising event will help feed 20 underprivileged hungry school children for an entire day.

start line at green point cricket clubPeninsula School Feeding Association (PSFA)

The event will start at Green Point Cricket Club and consists of two routes which follow the Sea Point Promenade, a 5km and 10km walk. All entrants will receive a medal.

X Factor winners FOUR will be there to bring the walkers home as they cross the finish line at Green Point Cricket Stadium. Stalls will be selling food and refreshments on the day.

Race entries are limited to 13 000 participants. There will be navy blue t-shirts on sale for R80 for walkers.

  • Distance: 10km, 5km
  • Cost: TBC
  • When: August 2017 (Date TBC)
  • Where: Greenpoint Cricket Club
  • More Info: Blisters for Bread

September

Spring is the perfect time to get outside and shack off that winter cold. Take your pick of running events happening around Cape Town this September.

Sanlam Cape Town Marathon

The first Sanlam Cape Town Marathon was run in 2007 with a small group of competitors. It has since grown into a prestigious event attracting running enthusiasts ranging from running elites to social runners.

experience the natural beauty of cape town@alineeletrica

The route offers the chance to take in the spectacular natural beauty of Cape Town’s mountains and sea as well as the city’s other superb attractions.

The 42.2km route is wheelchair-friendly, with the 6.5 hour cut-off time accommodating the social runner. The marathon sees 10 000 runners pushing their limits.

  • Distance: 42.2km (marathon) and 10km peace run/walk
  • Cost: R255 (licensed) / R320 (unlicensed)
  • When: 23 September 2018
  • Where: V&A Waterfront
  • More Info: Sanlam Cape Town Marathon

Table Mountain Challenge

The Table Mountain Challenge is one of the most popular and sought after races on the trail running calendar.

one of the most popular and sought after races@christiaangrey

Choose between doing the full 43km solo or being a part of a duo. There are different categories you can enter which will affect the distance and price of your race.

Running categories:

  • Solo: 44km – R595
  • Lite: Leg 2 (22km) – R395
  • Duo Team (2) – R790
  • Athlete 1: Leg 1 (21km)
  • Athlete 2: Leg 2 (22km)

Don’t be fooled by the fact the racing ground neighbours the city of Cape Town. There is a list of compulsory equipment needed by all runners in order to take part in the race. Please make sure you have all of the equipment otherwise you will not be allowed to race.

Compulsory equipment:

  1. Water – Carry at least 1.5L
  2. Food – Energy Bar/ Sandwich/ Banana.
  3. Fully charged cellphone (072 924 2371 – emergencies only)
  4. Windbreaker is compulsory. Waterproof jacket is compulsory if rain is expected. NO EXCUSES!
  5. Space Blanket
The table mountain challenge boasts some of the best views of the city below@totalkaos_studio
  • Distance: 21km - 55km (depends on category)
  • Cost: R395 - R790 (depends on category)
  • When: 2 September 2018
  • Where: Jan van Riebeek Sports Field, De Hoop Avenue, Cape Town
  • More Info: Table Mountain Challenge

Merrell Spring Night Run Series

Expect the same and more from the Merrell Spring Night Run Series 2018. The dates for the three runs are: 8, 12 and 19 September 2018. Entries will open in May so stay tuned for more race details.

The entry includes a complimentary bottle of Groot Constantia Wine at the finish. Entries are limited to 300 entries per night.

  • Distance: 3 run series (8km, 5.5km)
  • Cost: TBC
  • When: 8, 12, 19 September 2018
  • Where: Jonkershuis Restaurant, Groot Constantia, Cape Town
  • More Info: Merrell Night Run Series website

Sanlam Cape Town Marathon Peace Trail Run

The 22km and 12km Peace Trail Runs combine the sights of Cape Town’s vibrant urban environment with the superb surrounding natural beauty of the trails of Lion’s Head and Signal Hill.

enjoy stunning views of the atlantic oceanCape Town Marathon

Enjoy stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean from Lion’s Head before descending to the finish at Green Point Stadium.

Entries for the 22km and 12km Peace Trail Runs have closed except for voucher entries.

  • Distance: 22km, 12km
  • Cost: R485, R295 (includes entry to SANParks)
  • When: Saturday, 22 September 2018
  • Where: Green Point
  • More Info: Website

La Capra Goat Fun 5km

Taking place on the scenic Fairview Wine and Cheese Estate, the La Capra Goat Run offers routes of 5km, 8km, 15km and 28km. The 5km run is suitable for the less serious runner and walkers.

the scenic fairview wine and cheese estate@lacaprawine

The route welcomes moms and prams but dogs are not allowed to join. This year’s event will benefit Boland Autism, Sunfield Home, Paarl Hospice and Paarl Mountain Nature Reserve.

  • Distance: 5km
  • Cost: TBC
  • When: September (Date TBC)
  • Where: Fairview Wine and Cheese, Paarl, Western Cape
  • More Info: Website

La Capra Goat Run

The 8km, 15km and 28km La Capra Goat Run routes negotiate the slopes and top regions of Paarl Mountain, with rewarding views guaranteed.

negotiate the slopes and top regions of paarl mountain@lacaprawine

The 28km caters for the serious and fast runner. Only 100 entries are available for the 28km race. The 15km and 8km events are limited to 750 runners in total.

This year’s event will benefit Boland Autism, Sunfield Home, Paarl Hospice and Paarl Mountain Nature Reserve.

  • Distance: 8km, 15km & 28km
  • Cost: TBC
  • When: September (Dates TBC)
  • Where: Fairview Wine and Cheese, Paarl, Western Cape
  • More Info: Website

October

October is a firm favourite on the annual running calendar! Take a look at the events below to see what all the fuss is about.

12th Annual Capegate Clicks Charity Run

This event usually welcomes in the long summer days after a long cold Cape Town winter. And with the warmer mornings and longer days, we see more and more runners, walkers and strollers out and about enjoying the sun. 

Run for a cause

Unleash your outdoor spirit with friends and family in October at the 13th Annual Capegate Clicks Charity Run in aid of The Clicks Helping Hand Trust. With a 5km, 10km and newly added 21km, there really is no excuse to miss this one.

Join over 3,000 runners and walkers for a fun morning for a great cause. Pets, prams and large groups are welcome to enter the 5km fun run and walkers are also invited to complete the 10km event.

Goodie bags and medals will be given to the first 3,000 people to cross the finish line, and for those wanting to really stand out from the crowd, prizes for Best Dressed will also be on offer!

  • Distance: 5km, 10km, 21km
  • Cost: TBC
  • When: October (Dates TBC)
  • Where: Capegate Shopping Centre, Cape Town
  • More Info: Website

The Cederberg Traverse

You will run, stumble and crawl through all the iconic Cederberg highlights and visit remote valleys and kloofs that few have ever seen.

run, stumble and crawl to sanddriftEnergy Events

You need to be able to look after yourself – Bear Grylls gnawing on scorpions!The 100km non-stop Traverse! Cape Nature have confirmed that a significant portion of trails along the Cederberg route remains closed.

Cape Nature have confirmed that a significant portion of trails along the Cederberg route remains closed. Wolfberg to Crystal Pools is not available.

The price of an entry ticket includes:

  1. Camping at Sanddrif
  2. Sunday brunch feast
  3. Nature conservation fees
  4. Race Garments
  5. Race Buff
  6. Race snacks and water at CP, Sneeuberg Hut.
runners Silhouettes@romychev
  • Distance:100km (30hours to complete) 44km (14hours to complete)
  • Cost: TBC
  • When: 13 October 2018, 100km - 5am, 44km - 6pm
  • Where: Cederberg (from Algeria to Sandrift via Sneeuberg Hut)
  • More Info: The Cederberg Traverse

The Otter African Trail

The Otter Trail is one of South Africa’s most popular and beautiful trails.

follow the garden route's pristine coastline@otterafricantrailrun

It is a 5 day hiking trail that follows the pristine coast along the Garden Route between Storms River and Natures Valley.

Once a year Magnetic South hosts a race worthy of a spot on your bucket list where South Africa’s running elite and a few international competitors race the 42km technically challenging route. This race is definitely something to aspire to doing and is split into two events.

The Otter Run, which has an 8 hour cut-off, and the Otter Challenge which has a cut-off of 11 hours. There are 3 cut off points en route where participants failing to arrive on time will be removed from the course.

  • Distance: 42km
  • Cost: R4600 - Otter Challenge, R4900 - Otter Run
  • When: 17 & 18 October - Otter Challenge, 19 & 20 October - Otter Run
  • Where: The Otter Trail, Garden Route
  • More Info: The Otter African Trail website

The Dassie and RockRat

Meet the shorter, faster but still technical and tough, 10km Dassie and 6km Dassie RockRat trails.

Run through riverbeds, up steep climbs and over pebbles, rocks and roots. It'll prove to be worth every step as you race your way through pristine indigenous forests and past stunning views of the ocean and river mouth.

This run is perfect if you're not quite ready for the Otter, if you didn't manage to get an Otter entry or you just love the trails!

  • Distance: Dassie 10km, RockRat 6km
  • Cost: Dassie - R220, RockRat - R180
  • When: 20 October 2018
  • Where: Natures Valley
  • More info: The Otter African Trail website

OUTsurance KFM Gun Run

The OUTsurance KFM Gun Run 2018 is back for their 26th year. We advise that you secure your entry early so you don’t miss out!

the gun run is a popular one@alizapinenaar

There are also 21.1km and 10km routes if you’re looking to push your yourself.

The 5km start is 500m further along Beach Road than the start for the 21km and 10km.
  • Distance: 5km, 10km, 21km
  • Cost: TBC
  • When: October (Date TBC)
  • Where: Beach Road, Mouille Point
  • More Info: Website

November

As the year draws to a close, it's the perfect time to complete those resolutions to you back in January - go on, do a Three Peaks Challenge why don't you?

Three Peaks Challenge

The Three Peaks Challenge is a popular run so there is a long waiting list for entries. The run is limited to 150 people.

ascending Devil's peak@quaniet

The challenge, first completed in 1897, starts from 108 Long Street with runners ascending Devil’s Peak, Table Mountain (via Platteklip to Maclear’s Beacon) and Lion’s Head. Runners need to return to Greenmarket Square after each peak.

  • Distance: +- 50km
  • Cost: TBC
  • When: 3 November 2018
  • Where: 108 Long Street, Cape Town
  • More Info: Three Peaks Challenge website

Color Run Cape Town

Founded in 2011, the Color Run is the world’s first 5km colour run. Since its inception it has become one of the world’s largest running series. This year sees The Superhero Tour well on its way!

the world's most colourful race@zaana_zaza

Your ticket gets you:

  • Retro 80s headband
  • 2017 Superhero Tour official runners t-shirt
  • R150 coupon for Takealot.com
  • Bag of colour powder
  • Temporary happy tattoo x 2
  • Entry to the Finish Festival

Due to an issue with date confirmation, the organisers are awaiting for a new date from the Cape Town City Council. We recommend you sign up as a VIP in order to get all the info first.

  • Distance: 5km
  • Cost: TBA
  • When: November (Dates TBC)
  • Where: TBA
  • More Info: Color Run Cape Town website

December

We're on the look out for big running events taking place in December 2018. So stay tuned if you're looking to make this festive season an active one!

Other Popular Event Resources

Dirtopia

Dirtopia is an outdoor, off-road event & trail construction company. The HQ is based at Dirtopia Trail Centre on Delvera farm 10km from Stellenbosch where we sell permits for the marked trails. They host regular events around Cape Town - some of the best if you ask us.

Take a look at their events here: Website

Wildrunner

Wildrunner is a specialist in trail running sports management & marketing, with particular strengths in wilderness event operations. They strive to be the best at what we do whilst maintaining fair, consistent and honest communications along every step of the way.

Take a look at the events listed here: Website

Parkrun Cape Town

Parkruns are free weekly timed 5km events. They are a great way to help you train and beat your personal best. There are no prizes, it’s just you against the clock.

just you against the clock@parkrunsa

Here are some parkrun locations:

  • Greenpoint parkrun page
  • Constantia Greenbelt parkrun page
  • Century City parkrun page
  • Bellville parkrun page
  • Big Bay parkrun page
  • Rondebosch Common parkrun page
  • Stellenbosch parkrun page
  • Franschhoek parkrun page
  • Somerset West parkrun page
  • Fish Hoek parkrun page
  • Durbanville parkrun page

There are many more locations. If you're looking for a parkrun in your area. Have a look at their website.

  • Distance: 5km
  • Cost: Free
  • When: 08:00
  • Where: Several locations (check map)
  • More Info: Parkrun website

Cape Town is a haven of awesome routes to run. Whether you’re novice or a trail beaten pro, a road runner or an avid trail lover, enter one of the races near you and join in the community spirit as you encourage, push and race your way to the finish line.

Our vision at Vibescout is to provide the most relevant, current, and comprehensive information.

If you feel we've missed something amazing or have any suggestions regarding our system, we would love to hear from you! Contact: info (at) vibescout.com

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