Discover the best marathon races within 50 miles of Johannesburg
The Soweto Marathon, known as 'The People’s Race', is one of South Africa’s most celebrated and culturally significant marathons. It takes place annually in Johannesburg, traversing the historic township of Soweto and drawing thousands of runners from across the country and beyond. The event is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, community support, and its route, which highlights key heritage sites central to South Africa’s history and struggle for freedom.[9][3][16]
The aQuelle Zone 3 Marathon is a prominent annual road marathon held in Johannesburg, South Africa. Organized by the Run Zone Athletics Club, the event is recognized as a qualifier for both the Two Oceans and Comrades Marathons, attracting a diverse field of runners from across the region and beyond. The race is known for its well-organized logistics, community-driven atmosphere, and scenic urban route through Emmarentia and surrounding suburbs.[1][2][3]
The Johannesburg City Marathon is a prominent road marathon held annually in Johannesburg, South Africa. Organized by the Johannesburg Harriers Athletics Club, the event is recognized as a Comrades Marathon qualifier and attracts a diverse field of both local and international runners. The race offers a scenic yet challenging route through the city, making it a key fixture on the South African running calendar[1][4][6].
The Johnson Crane Hire Marathon is a major annual road marathon held in Benoni, Gauteng, South Africa. Hosted by the Benoni Harriers Running Club, it is recognized as one of the largest January running events in the country and attracts thousands of participants each year. The event is well-regarded for its organization, festive atmosphere, and generous participant amenities, making it a popular choice for both seasoned and first-time marathoners[1][2][3].
The MadMac Marathon is a uniquely themed road marathon held annually in Meyerton, South Africa, organized by Meyerton Athletics Club. Known for its clown and circus motif, the event offers a fun, accessible, and welcoming experience for runners of all levels, and serves as an early qualifier for major South African ultras like Comrades and Two Oceans.[1][2]
The MiWay Wally Hayward Marathon is a premier annual road running event held in Centurion, South Africa. Named after one of the country's legendary athletes, it attracts thousands of runners each year and is recognized as one of South Africa's largest marathons. The event features a festive atmosphere, a well-organized race experience, and is a highlight of the local running calendar.[5][10]
The Jacaranda City Challenge is Pretoria’s signature city marathon and is recognized as one of the most prestigious road running events in Gauteng. The event is held annually in November, when Pretoria’s iconic Jacaranda trees are in full bloom, providing a scenic and vibrant backdrop for runners. The marathon is organized by Faranani Athletics Club and has been a staple of the South African running calendar for over 25 years[1][2][6].
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