With final preparations concluded, the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) has announced that 7,000 athletes are set to take to the streets, competing across the classic 42.2km marathon distance and the popular 10km run. The event once again integrates the Athletics South Africa (ASA) Marathon Championships, ensuring that the battle for national titles is as intense as the pursuit of international glory.
“The growth of this event has been remarkable, and we are incredibly proud to announce that we are ready to host our biggest field yet.
With 7,000 athletes set to compete across the marathon and 10km distances, Durban will be alive with an energy that only road running can generate. We have worked tirelessly to ensure a world-class experience for every participant, from our elite professionals to our social runners, on a course designed for fast times.”
Steve Mkasi, Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee
The 2026 elite field is one of the most formidable ever assembled in the city. The men’s category features a heavy contingent of East African powerhouses, led by Ethiopia’s Melesa Solomon Kibret, who carries a blistering personal best of 2:10:26.
He will be challenged by Zimbabwe’s Ngonidzashe Ncube (2:11:46) and a deep pack of international talent including Roba Gebre Yadete, Desta Utura Gedo, and Tadesse Haile Nigussie, alongside Kenyan specialists Hosea Kiplagat Chemunyan and Joseph Koech.
The women’s race promises equal drama, headlined by Ethiopia’s Alemitu Ajema Lema (2:31:36) and Zewudinesh Hurisa Degefa (2:33:09).
They face a stern international test from a talented Kenyan duo in Caren Chelagat and Jacinta Chepkoech, as well as Ethiopia’s Siftolina Daba Chemeda. These international stars will share the road with South Africa’s finest, including 2023 champion Annie Bothma, who seeks to reclaim her crown in the colors of KwaZulu-Natal Athletics.
Beyond the elite battle, the race remains a critical fixture for the broader running community, serving as a primary Comrades Marathon qualifier. With a R80,000 winner’s prize on the line and a total purse rewarding the top five finishers in the open category, the stakes have never been higher.
The city of Durban is ready. The athletes are primed. On Sunday, the pulse of the city hits the ground running.