Sanlam Cape Town Marathon Cancelled Due to Severe Winds:
In a heartbreaking blow to thousands of athletes, the 2025 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon was abruptly cancelled on Sunday morning, 19 October 2025, due to dangerous wind conditions that damaged race infrastructure overnight. Organisers prioritised safety, but the decision has left participants reeling, especially with the confirmation of a strict no-refund policy. Runners who invested months of training and significant costs are now voicing their disappointment, while some took to impromptu alternatives to salvage the day.
The event, expected to draw over 24,000 entrants including elite competitors, was called off just hours before the start. Cape Town’s “Cape Doctor” winds, gusting up to 120km/h, uprooted tents, fencing, and scaffolding at the Green Point race village, making the route unsafe. While safety was paramount, the no-refund stance has amplified frustrations, with calls for organisers to reconsider given the unforeseen circumstances.
Overnight Chaos: Winds Destroy Infrastructure and Force Cancellation
The trouble escalated late Saturday as north-westerly gales battered the Western Cape, with forecasts warning of continued severe weather. By early Sunday, the start/finish area near the V&A Waterfront was in disarray, with marquees blown over and debris posing hazards.
Emergency meetings at 4:45am involving the organising team, City of Cape Town’s Disaster Risk Management, Safety & Security, medical services, and SAPS led to the 5am cancellation. “The route is unsafe, as the wind is constantly gusting in Woodstock, and the infrastructure at the start and finish venue has been compromised,” explained Colonel Christo Engelbrecht from SAPS.
Organisers had contingency plans but deemed even a delayed start too risky. CEO Clark Gardner expressed deep regret: “We have worked for months on planning for all scenarios and conditions, but ultimately a bigger force had the final say, and we are so sorry for the situation.”
No Refund Policy Sparks Outrage Amid Runner Disappointment
In a follow-up message to participants, organisers confirmed their strict no-refund policy as per entry conditions. “As per the entry conditions listed on the entry form and website, we regret that our no refund policy stands,” the statement read. Entries will not carry over to 2026, adding to the sting for those who paid fees ranging from R400 for the 10km to R1,200 for the full marathon, plus travel and accommodation costs.
Reactions poured in online, with many expressing “tears and sadness.” One runner tweeted: “Absolutely gutted! Trained for months, flew in from Joburg – now no race and no refund?” Another shared: “It’s unbelievable that the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon has been cancelled due to bad weather. I was so ready to scatter it.”
International athletes faced extra hardship, with some like Ethiopia’s Addisu Gobena losing out on potential records. Social media buzzed with frustration, but also understanding for the safety call. “Heartbroken, but better safe than sorry,” one participant noted.
City Officials Offer Sympathy as Cleanup Begins
Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis voiced disappointment but supported the decision: “The City is committed to hosting events of the highest global standards, and that includes sometimes managing difficult calls like this one.” He commended the organising team and extended commiserations to runners.
Safety and Security MMC JP Smith echoed this: “The City of Cape Town extends appreciation to the event organising team, volunteers, service providers, and all those who dedicated countless hours to making this event possible. We would also like to extend commiseration to the thousands of runners who trained for months to be part of this iconic and historic race. We understand the immense effort, anticipation, and emotion that go into an event of this scale and share in the collective disappointment felt across the running community.”
City crews are now clearing debris, with winds also causing power outages and fallen trees across areas.
Runners Make a Plan: Impromptu Runs and Calls for Alternatives
True to South African spirit, some athletes refused to let the day go to waste. Groups gathered for unofficial runs along the Sea Point promenade, sharing videos of windy jogs and group cheers. “The CT Marathon Has Been Cancelled… But SA Still Make a Plan!” one post captioned, highlighting the resilience.
Organisers mentioned possible virtual alternatives but ruled out rescheduling for 2025. The event is now set for May 2026, with hopes for milder weather.
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