16 Oct Expo Sets the Pace for Sanlam Cape Town Marathon Weekend
By Adnaan Mohamed
Experience the energy of Africa’s premier running weekend at the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon Expo 2025. Explore local brands, adidas gear, Sanlam’s Journey to Confidence, and the road toward becoming Africa’s first World Marathon Major.
The Marathon Weekend Begins at DHL Stadium
Participants entering the SCTM Expo at the DHL Stadium Photo: SCTM
The countdown is over. The rhythm of thousands of running shoes is about to take over Cape Town as the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon Expo opens its doors at the DHL Stadium, marking the heartbeat of Africa’s biggest running weekend.
From Thursday 16 October to Saturday 18 October, more than 41,000 runners, families, and supporters will stream through the stadium for race pack collection, live activations, and a showcase of the marathon’s uniquely African identity.
Africa’s Major Marathon Dream
Now in phase two of its Abbott World Marathon Majors candidacy, the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon is on track to join the world’s most prestigious races — New York, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, Tokyo, and Sydney.
“As runners enter our space, they’ll be reminded of our shared vision and rallying call, African Champions Unite, as we continue our journey toward becoming Africa’s first Major,” says Shadi Chauke, Group Executive: Corporate Affairs and Sustainability at Sanlam.
Chauke explains that the Expo reflects Sanlam’s Journey to Confidence, featuring four interactive Confidence Stations that show how small steps build lasting strength — physically, financially, and emotionally.
“The Expo reflects our purpose as a brand: to help people live with confidence and celebrate the everyday champions who remind us that true confidence lies in the courage to keep moving forward.”
A Stadium of Stories and Local Spirit
Runners joining the gees of the SCTM Expo Photo: Johann MinnaarUnlike any other marathon expo in the world, Cape Town’s edition unfolds inside a stadium, just metres from the start and finish lines. It’s a dynamic hub pulsing with anticipation and local pride.
“We’ve placed a big focus on local vendors and brands,” says Clark Gardner, CEO of the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon.
“One of our goals is to channel money back into the South African economy — and there really will be something for everybody at this Expo.”
Local Flair Highlights
- A breathtaking Fynbos installation by Leon Kluge and Tristan Woudberg (Chelsea Flower Show gold medallists), sponsored by the Grootbos Foundation.
- The Cape Town Marathon Shop, showcasing South African brands that make a difference:
- Sexy Socks – donates a pair of school socks for every pair sold.
- Lalela Scarf – supports arts education for children in under-resourced communities.
- Malvern Shekede Wire Work, Ntsete Family Beaders, and Thungelimpilo Embroiders – each crafting unique stories through their art.
Each brand at the Expo reflects the marathon’s ethos that running, like community, is about uplifting others stride by stride.
adidas Brings World-Class Energy
The official apparel partner adidas adds global shine to the Expo with performance technology and bold design.
“We are incredibly excited to be part of the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon Expo, which offers runners a truly world-class registration and shopping experience,” says Tom Brown, Senior Brand Director at adidas.
The adidas zone includes:
- The Cape Town Marathon Boston 13 shoe with the race route printed on its insole.
- A full range of official event merchandise — from high-performance technical wear to lifestyle apparel.
- A customisation area for personalising gear.
- Interactive photo booths perfect for pre-race selfies.
SCTM Race Route Photo: Johann Minnaar
The Starting Line of Something Bigger
The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon Expo isn’t just a pre-race errand — it’s the ignition spark for Africa’s premier running weekend.
As runners, fans, and families fill the stadium with excitement, one thing is certain: the road to becoming Africa’s first World Marathon Major begins here, step by confident step.
“True confidence,” Chauke says, “lies in the courage to keep moving forward.”
Race Pack Collection & Expo Hours
No late or race-day collections will be permitted.
Expo Dates & Times:
- Thursday, 16 October: 09h00 – 19h00
- Friday, 17 October: 09h00 – 19h00
- Saturday, 18 October: 09h00 – 17h00
Important Notes:
- Peace Run and Trail Run participants must collect packs before Saturday morning.
- Saturday’s session is for Marathon collection only.
- Bring your email or WhatsApp race confirmation (with race number).
- When collecting for others, each runner’s individual confirmation is required — no lists accepted.
Official Race Info & FAQs
Contact Media Team
