The 2025 Durban International Marathon crowned new champions as Kenya’s Felix Kiprotich and Ethiopia’s Emane Seifu Hayile claimed victory in a thrilling display of endurance and strategy.
The Durban route was fantastic—fast and well-organized. Winning here means so much to me.
Felix Kiprotich (39, Kenya), Mens Winner, Durban International Marathon 2025
Under cool and calm conditions—perfect for racing—thousands of runners took to the streets in the event’s fifth edition, which boasted a R350,000 prize pool, with the men’s and women’s winners each earning R75,000.
Men’s Race: Kiprotich Conquers Solo Challenge
Felix Kiprotich (39, Kenya) broke away from the lead bunch at the 20km mark and held off a late charge from Zimbabwe’s Godwin Katakura (2:11:02) and Blessing Waison (2:11:51) to win in 2:10:45. Kiprotich who last topped the podium back in 2022 at the Annecy Marathon in France praised the course and expressed pride in his hard-fought victory.
“The Durban route was fantastic—fast and well-organized. Winning here means so much to me,” said Kiprotich.
“I believed I could have challenged the course record, but I was running alone for so long, I had to focus on maintaining my pace.”
Women’s Race: Hayile dominates in a classy performance
50km World record holder, Ethiopia’s Emane Seifu Hayile (27) outlasted Namibia’s Alina Armas (2:32:34) , in a gripping duel, pulling away at 37km to win in 2:31:45—the first Ethiopian woman to claim the title. Zimbabwe’s Fortunate Chidzivo (2:33:30) rounded out the podium.
10km Showcases Local Talent
South Africa’s Jobo Khathoane (28:58) and Tayla Kavanagh (34:20) dominated the 10km on a fast flat route.
Race Organizers Celebrate Success
Steve Mkasi, Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee, “This year’s marathon was a testament to Durban’s spirit. The elite fields delivered world-class performances, while our amateur runners brought great passion. Together, they made our fifth edition the best yet.”
“We are grateful to our key commercial partners, their support has helped grow this race in a short space of time. The future looks bright and I believe this race will only grow from strength to strength,” Mkasi added.
Men
- Felix Kiprotich, (KEN) 2:10:45
- Godwin Katakura,(ZIM) 2:11:02
- Blessing Waison, (ZIM) 2:11:51
Women
- Emane Seifu Hayile, (ETH) 2:31:45
- Alina Armas, (NAM) 2:32:34
- Fortunate Chidzivo, (ZIM) 2:33:30