BNAC Marathon

Location: Benoni, Gauteng
Country: South Africa
Website: https://bnac.co.za/bnacmarathon
2025 Marathon Date: 13/04/2025
2026 Marathon Date: 12/04/2026
Winning Time 2025: 2:29:29
% Sub-3s: 2–5%
# Sub-3s: 10–49
Total Runners: 1k–3k

The BNAC Marathon is held each autumn in Benoni, a city located in Gauteng province near Johannesburg. Organised by the Benoni Northerns Athletic Club, the event offers a club-driven alternative to South Africa’s major commercial marathons, with a focus on efficient logistics and a course designed for strong pacing.

The route is a double-lap loop through the relatively flat streets of Benoni. It weaves through a mix of residential neighbourhoods, parkland, and light commercial zones, using wide roads with manageable turns. While the elevation profile isn’t perfectly flat, the gradients are modest and evenly spread, helping runners maintain rhythm throughout.

April in Benoni tends to offer cool and dry running conditions, with typical start-line temperatures between 8–12°C. Humidity is low, and the area generally sees little rainfall during this part of the year. These conditions contribute to the marathon’s suitability for fast running, particularly for well-prepared amateur athletes targeting a specific goal time.

The BNAC Marathon has long been a favourite among serious club runners in Gauteng. Its timing makes it a natural lead-in to the country’s ultra season, and it is often used as a Comrades qualifier. However, the race also caters well to marathoners in their own right, with a supportive environment and well-organised aid stations at regular intervals.

Crowd support is modest but friendly, in keeping with the local feel of the event. There is a strong volunteer presence from the host club, and runners can expect an efficient start, clear course markings, and a low-key but focused atmosphere.

For sub-3 runners looking for a fast marathon in South Africa without the complexity or crowding of big-city events, the BNAC Marathon stands out. Its measured course, favourable climate, and committed local organisation make it a reliable choice for athletes chasing sharp times or tuning up for longer races later in the season.