Sanlam Cape Town Marathon Candidacy Club 2026–2028
The first edition of the marathon in Cape Town took place in 1994, organized by the Celtic Harriers running club. In 1996, the winner was Josia Thugwane, who a few months later won the Olympic gold medal in Atlanta, which already at that time elevated the prestige of the event. In 2007, the current version of the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon was established, and since then it has been continuously developing.
Cape Town Marathon is constantly striving to become the first African marathon included in the prestigious Abbott World Marathon Majors (AWMM) series. As part of this process, the organizers have announced the creation of the Candidacy Club – an exclusive initiative aimed at runners who have supported the marathon during the qualifying years. This is a unique opportunity for those who have been part of this historic journey to gain priority access to the race in the 2026, 2027, or 2028 editions.
Guaranteed Access for Loyal Participants
The Candidacy Club is a response to the growing interest in the marathon and a reward for those who have been with the event during its key AWMM qualifying years. Participants who completed the marathon in 2022, 2023, 2024, or 2025 can count on special privileges.
Who Can Join the Candidacy Club?
• International runners: If you completed the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon (42.2 km) at least once between 2022 and 2025, you are entitled to priority registration for one of the races in 2026, 2027, or 2028.
• South African runners: If you completed this marathon at least twice between 2022 and 2025, you also qualify for priority registration for a chosen edition in 2026–2028.
The number of spots is limited and the “first come, first served” rule applies – registration for the Candidacy Club opens from November 6–12, 2025.
How to Qualify for the Candidacy Club in 2025?
If you do not yet meet the requirements, you have one last chance during this year’s edition! Registration for the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon 2025 is open until September 27, 2025, or until all spots are filled. Due to high demand, it is worth acting quickly to not miss the opportunity to join the elite Candidacy Club.
Participation Conditions and the Future of the Program
It is important to remember that the launch of the Candidacy Club and all associated benefits depend on the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon successfully passing the second stage of the AWMM assessment in 2025. Details regarding the general ballot and the registration process for subsequent years will be announced later this year.
Why Be Part of the Candidacy Club?
Joining the Candidacy Club is not only a guarantee of priority entry but also the chance to build a unique community of runners who together are making African marathon history. Club members can expect additional benefits, such as dedicated materials, early access to event information, or special marathon-related souvenirs. It is also an opportunity to make international friendships and exchange experiences with runners from around the world who share the same passion and ambitions.
Sanlam Cape Town Marathon – More Than a Race
The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon is not just a sporting challenge, but also a social movement that has the chance to go down in history as Africa’s first Major. Every step and every finish line brings the organizers and participants closer to this goal. It is a unique opportunity to be part of something great and to create a new chapter in global running together.
Discover the World of the Greatest Marathons – World Marathon Majors Category
If you are fascinated by the world’s greatest marathons, be sure to visit the World Marathon Majors category on WorldMarathoner.com. There you will find analyses, reports, and tips about all the Majors races, as well as inspiration for your own sporting challenges. It is the perfect place for every marathoner who dreams of earning the “crown” of the world’s biggest races.
Read More About the Historic Moment for the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon
Want to learn how the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon is changing the history of long-distance running in Africa? Check out the article “Sanlam Cape Town Marathon – A New Era for the Abbott World Marathon Majors”. You’ll discover the behind-the-scenes efforts to achieve Majors status, organizational challenges, and the emotions accompanying this unique initiative.
Summary
Sanlam Cape Town Marathon Candidacy Club 2026–2028 is a unique opportunity for loyal runners to become part of history and gain priority access to future editions of one of the most important marathons in the world. Don’t wait – join the elite and run for your dreams!
