Photo kylefromthenorth™️ / Unsplash
- Half
Nelson Mandela
Nelson Mandela Half Marathon
Flat: Strand Street to the Grand Parade, Robben Island on the horizon.
Next edition
2027 · Date TBA · expected Oct 2027
Where
🇿🇦 Cape Town, South Africa
Community
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2027 edition
Next up
Race day
TBA
Date TBA · expected Oct 2027
- Distance
- Half Marathon
- Course
- Flat
- Climb
- 50 m
- Entry
- —
About
The race
The inaugural Nelson Mandela Marathon is a deeply meaningful global event launched in partnership with the Nelson Mandela Foundation and Golazo. Rooted in values and purpose rather than just competition, the race takes participants on a journey through the heart of Cape Town, starting on Strand Street and finishing at the historic Grand Parade. The sweeping coastal route passes through spaces shaped by South Africa's history and long walk to freedom, with Robben Island constantly visible on the horizon. Incorporating the popular Slave Route Challenge, the event marks the beginning of a broader global running series, with all profits donated directly to the Nelson Mandela Foundation.
Before you go
Pro tips
Racing it
- 01
Flat, So Run Even
The half marathon has only about 50 metres of total climb, so there are no real hills to bank energy for. Settle into goal pace early and hold it rather than saving something for later.
From the elevation profile
- 02
Two Different Ends
This is a point-to-point course: start on Strand Street, finish at the Grand Parade. Arrange transport to the start beforehand and agree on a meeting spot at the finish.
From the layout
- 03
Keep Robben Island in View
The route sweeps along the coast with Robben Island visible on the horizon for much of it. Use it as a steady landmark to keep your bearings and your rhythm.
From the description
- 04
First Running
This is the inaugural edition, so crowd size and on-course support are untested. Pace off your own watch and feel rather than waiting for crowd energy to carry you.
From the description
- 05
Historic City Stretch
The course passes through spaces tied to South Africa's history and absorbs the Slave Route Challenge route. Expect narrow, historic city streets and stay alert at the turns.
From the description
In Cape Town
Race-Day Roads
The start and finish both sit in the city center, where streets close for the race. Walk or take a rideshare, and allow extra time for detours.
Where to Watch
The Grand Parade finish, in front of City Hall, is the natural place to see runners come in, while the flat city-center streets give easy early viewing.
After the Finish
Cape Town's center puts the Company's Garden, Greenmarket Square and the V&A Waterfront within a short walk, good for a slow recovery stroll and a meal.
Written by AI from the course data and the race's description; city tips are general knowledge. Check race-day details with the organizer.
Every year
Editions
Ballot, charity and tour places
Getting in
First come, first served
Registration is now open; register via the organiser's registration page
Club membership
For the 42km and 21km runs you need a club membership and valid 2026 ASA licence, or buy a temporary day licence (R105 for 42km, R95 for 21km)