DailySun
Durban – Sapphire Coast Tourism, in partnership with the Amanzimtoti Athletics Club, is excited to announce the return of the Sapphire Coast Marathon.
Registration is now open for participants wishing to join the marathon set for Sunday, 26 October 2025.
Runners are encouraged to take advantage of the Early Bird Entries for this Comrades Qualifier, which will be available until 6 October 2025.
Regarding this highly anticipated marathon, Dore Uys from Amanzimtoti Athletics Club stated: “This annual event attracts athletes from across the nation as an initial qualifier for the Comrades Marathon, providing both runners and visitors the opportunity to experience the beauty and hospitality of our magnificent Sapphire Coast.”
Uys further added: “We are thrilled to announce that this year, R5 from each entry will be donated to The Jona Vaughan Home, a charitable organization.”
Founded in 1984 in Amanzimtoti, The Jona Vaughan Home provides 24-hour care and shelter to individuals with mental and physical disabilities from various economic and cultural backgrounds, with over 31% of its residents being abandoned or orphaned.
The funds raised from the Sapphire Coast Marathon will play a crucial role in supporting the needs of every resident.
Romy Wenzel from Sapphire Coast Tourism, a supporter of the marathon, highlighted the goal of making this the largest event ever.
“The Sapphire Coast Marathon is an essential preparation event for Comrades, while also celebrating our community. This year’s contributions to The Jona Vaughan Home symbolize our dedication,” Wenzel expressed.
Sapphire Coast Marathon Details:
Date: Sunday, 26 October 2025
Venue: Amanzimtoti Athletics Club, 1 Riverside Road, Amanzimtoti
Online Entry: www.eventtiming.co.za
Early Bird Entries Close: 6 October 2025
Late Online Entries Close: 21 October 2025
Race Routes: Visit Sapphire Coast Marathon 2025 on Racepass or Facebook
Enquiries: toti.ac.racedirector@gmail.com | 079 467 6457
*Free T-shirts to the first 1,500 ONLINE entries only. Medals will be awarded to all finishers.
10km Race
Starts: 6am
Entry fee: R220
Late entry fee: R250
Temp licence: R100
21.1km Race
Starts: 5:30am
Entry fee: R260
Late entry fee: R290
Temp licence: R110
42.2km Race
Starts: 5:30am
Entry fee: R400
Late entry fee: R430
Late Entries and Race Pack Collection Details
Venue: Amanzimtoti Athletics Club, 1 Riverside Road, Amanzimtoti
Friday, 24 October 2025 | 4pm to 7pm
Saturday, 25 October 2025 | 10am to 4pm
Sunday, 26 October 2025 | From 4:30am
*No entries will be accepted on race day
Don’t Miss These Upcoming Sapphire Coast Events
The Sapphire Coast is alive with events! Aside from the Sapphire Coast Marathon, be sure to mark your calendars for these exciting activities:
1. Beach Clean-Up by Clean Surf Project
Date: Saturday, 20 September 2025
Venue: Umbogintwini Beach | Amanzimtoti Country Club, 1 Golf Course Road, Athlone Park
Contact: 083 733 6468 | 082 802 3353 | cleansurfproject@gmail.com
Bring: Gloves, sunscreen, hat, shoes, water, friends & family. Refuse bags will be provided.
2. eKasi 4×4 Picnic Experience
Date: Saturday, 4 October 2025
Venue: Coastal Beach Resort, Umgababa
Contact: 079 795 2777 | 072 173 9373
Details: Enjoy thrilling gravel off-road adventures in 4×4, 2×4, and SUV vehicles.
3. 2025 Scottburgh MTB & Trail Running Challenge
Date: Sunday, 12 October 2025
Venue: Hosted by Crocworld Conservation Centre
Details: A part of the KZNMTB Super Classic Series
Contact: events@wardevents.co.za
Discover More Sapphire Coast Must-Try Experiences
Participating in the marathon is just the beginning! Runners and spectators can explore a multitude of activities and attractions that the Sapphire Coast has to offer:
- Amanzimtoti Main Beach: A beloved destination featuring golden sands, exciting slides at Splash Water World, and a lively promenade filled with restaurants, takeaways, and local artisans showcasing unique crafts.
- Aliwal Shoal Adventures: Charter a boat for exceptional deep-sea fishing, scuba diving, snorkeling, or shark cage diving at this renowned dive location.
- Horseback Beach Rides: Enjoy the experience of riding along the beach, with guides available for all skill levels.
- Illovo River Escapes: Perfect for water sports, fishing, birdwatching, and picnicking amid tranquil surroundings.
- Crocworld Conservation Centre: A must-visit for wildlife lovers, featuring interactive exhibits and live demonstrations.
- Unique Traveller Experience: Experience coastal quad biking at Coastal Beach Resort, Umgababa.
- World-Class Golfing: Tee off at Umkomaas Golf Club or Amanzimtoti Country Club, and relax with refreshments afterward.
- Nature Trails & Waterfalls: Discover breathtaking hikes, birdwatching paths, and the stunning Nungwane Waterfalls in Umbululu, accessible by foot, horseback, mountain bike, or 4×4.
- Accommodation for Every Traveller: From luxurious five-star hotels and B&Bs to cozy guesthouses, self-catering units, and beachside camping spots, there’s an ideal stay for everyone.
