07 Feb Runners set for the 55th running of the iconic Peninsula Marathon
Celtic Harriers is proud to host the 55th running of the Cape Peninsula Marathon and Half Marathon on Sunday 19 February 2023.
The iconic race started way back in 1964 by Celtic Harrier’s legend, the late Alex Jones, which saw 19 runners finish in its first year, making this race the oldest marathon in the Western Cape.
This year, over 4 500 runners will line up in both the marathon (42.2 km) and half (21.1km) and make its way down from Green Point and Bergvliet respectively towards the finish at the Naval Base in Simon’s Town.
Alex Jones was the founder of the Peninsula Marathon Pic: Supplied
Billed as Africa’s fastest marathon, the Cape Peninsula marathon is a popular choice for runners hoping to qualify for the 56km Two Oceans and 90km Comrades ultra marathons.
Although Celtic Harriers have always been the host club, this year will be the first time in many years that the club will be organising the race. It was outsourced to an event management company previously.
New Race director, Glenn Muller says his philosophy is to take the race back to its iconic status and enhance the runners’ experience.
“My vision when planning the race was to view it through the lens of the runner to ensure an unforgettable experience along this magnificent route,” says Muller.
According to Muller the City of Cape Town’s Traffic Department has commended Celtic Harriers for arranging busses to transport runners back to their respective starts through its partnership with Golden Arrow.
“Because Peninsula is a point to point race that starts in Green Point and finishes in Simons Town, the challenge for participants has always been how to get back to the start. That is why we decided to explore the bus option. “Already over 700 runners have purchased bus tickets. This not only makes it convenient for runners, but it also alleviates traffic congestion especially in Simon’s Town,” explained Muller.
Celtic Harriers urges the public to come out in their numbers to cheer the runners along the route.
The marathon starts at 05h15 in Main road, Green Point and the half marathon starts at 07h00 in Children’s Way, Bergvliet.
Entries are open on the Entry Ninja platform and close on 09 February 2023. Click here to enter: Cape Peninsula Marathon and Half Marathon 2023 | Entry Ninja – the best outdoor, fitness and sporting event entries in your area.
No late entries will be taken on the day.
