Ideal Conditions and Great Organising Result in Record Turnout at Sapphire Coast Marathon

The 2025 Sapphire Coast Marathon, held in Amanzimtoti on Sunday, 26 October, proved to be one of the biggest editions yet, attracting a record 2,011 entries across all race categories. Crossing the finish line first in the men’s marathon was Brino Chidzungu in a time of 02:28:05, while Erika Bondesio claimed victory in the women’s marathon with a time of 03:38:39.

Organised by Amanzimtoti Athletics Club and supported by Sapphire Coast Tourism, this year’s event - a Comrades Marathon and Two Oceans qualifier, and the official KZN Athletics 42.2km Championship – saw some of South Africa’s top runners take to the scenic coastal route, including well-known local personality, Schalk Bezuidenhout (check his race video HERE).

According to Dore Uys of the Amanzimtoti Athletics Club, the 2025 event exceeded all expectations: “The conditions were, against all odds, really ideal! It was overcast, not too hot, and the humidity was low – perfect running weather. We’ve received loads of positive feedback, and the community was incredibly supportive.

“It was a great milestone for the event with a high number of entries and a smooth, well-organised race. The addition of the livestream meant that friends and family could share in the experience, and the KZN Athletics Championship ran seamlessly. The elevation was a challenge, but that’s what makes the Sapphire Coast Marathon unique, and it was great to see so many first-time runners taking it on.”

Adding to the excitement, Romy Wenzel of Sapphire Coast Tourism, who also won the 21.1km women’s race, said: “It was a lovely morning with pleasant running conditions. The race once again provided an excellent platform to showcase the stunning coastal suburbs that make up the Sapphire Coast region. It’s such a special event for both locals and visitors.”

Sapphire Coast Marathon 2025 Results

42.2km Women’s Race

1st place: Erika Bondesio (03:38:39)

2nd place: Megan Chettleburgh (03:47:28)

3rd place: Robyn Mar (03:51:52)

42.2km Men’s Race

1st place: Brino Chidzungu (02:28:05)

2nd place: Siyabonga Maguleka (02:30:11)

3rd place: Thabani Ngcobo (02:41:50)

21.1km Women’s Race

1st place: Romy Wenzel (01:34:10)

2nd place: Tayla van Rooyen (01:44:21)

3rd place: Nontobeko Simamane (01:50:21)

21.1km Men’s Race

1st place: Victor Lapit (01:08:28)

2nd place: Lindokuhle Chiliza (01:08:38)

3rd place: Mziwenkosi Mjaja (01:09:33)

10km Women’s Race

1st place: Courtney van Wyngaard (00:42:31)

2nd place: Precious Duma (00:48:62)

3rd place: Talitha Schuch (00:54:00)

10km Men’s Race

1st place: Lindelani Mjwara (00:29:18)

2nd place: Mdumiseni Moto (00:29:55)

3rd place: Simphiwe Zulu (00:30:13)

For full race results, visit: https://results.finishtime.co.za/results.aspx?CId=35&RId=5466

Sapphire Coast Tourism and the Amanzimtoti Athletics Club, extended their thanks to all event sponsors and partners for their invaluable contributions to this year’s marathon. Main sponsors – Proconics, Galleria, Suzuki, Coca-Cola, KZNA, and DvH Attorneys. Spot prize sponsors Infinity Gym, Lords and Legends, Beloved Long Runs, Funky Pants, Natalia Resort, and AfriSam, and goodie partner, Canway. Appreciation also goes to Mac’s Motorcycle Club for motorbike support, water table hosts, and the many local vendors who helped create an unforgettable race-day atmosphere.

Festive fun on the Sapphire Coast

With the 2025 Sapphire Coast Marathon marking another milestone for the region, there’s plenty more action to come over the festive holiday season.

Visitors can look forward to sun-soaked beach days, family fun at Splash Water World, and world-class diving and fishing adventures at the renowned Aliwal Shoal. The area also offers horseback beach rides, nature trails and waterfalls, and unforgettable wildlife encounters at Crocworld Conservation Centre.

Whether it’s relaxation, outdoor adventure, or coastal dining along Amanzimtoti’s scenic promenade, the Sapphire Coast promises an unforgettable festive break for every kind of traveller.

For more information about the Sapphire Coast, visit www.sapphirecoasttourism.co.za or the Sapphire Coast Tourism Facebook or Instagram page.