Cape Gate Vaal Marathon

Location: Vereeniging
Country: South Africa
Website: http://www.vaalmarathon.co.za
2025 Marathon Date: 23/02/2025
2026 Marathon Date: 22/02/2026
Winning Time 2025: 2:30:25
% Sub-3s: 1–2%
# Sub-3s: 10–49
Total Runners: 1k–3k

The Cape Gate Vaal Marathon takes place each February in Vereeniging, an industrial city in Gauteng Province, South Africa. Positioned as a qualifier for major ultras such as Comrades and Two Oceans, the Vaal Marathon has earned a steady reputation among local club runners for its flat layout, reliable organisation and early-season timing.

The course consists of two identical laps, starting and finishing at the Dick Fourie Stadium. It passes through quiet suburbs and along sections of the Vaal River, with long straight stretches and few turns. The terrain is mostly flat, with minor undulations that are unlikely to disrupt rhythm. While scenic highlights are limited, the course is designed for pacing efficiency and appeals to runners who prefer simplicity over spectacle.

February weather in Vereeniging is typically warm and dry. Race mornings usually begin in the mid-teens Celsius, rising quickly toward the mid-20s by late morning. Humidity is manageable, and wind is rarely a major factor. The course’s early start and lack of shade in later stages make hydration planning essential.

Organisation is consistent and runner-focused. The event includes multiple distance options, and marathon runners benefit from clear signage, well-positioned water tables and reliable on-course marshals. The stadium-based start and finish area is compact and provides good facilities and parking.

Spectator support is limited, as much of the course winds through quiet residential zones. However, local running clubs play a key role in marshalling and support, contributing to a strong sense of community involvement. The event draws a committed field of amateur athletes, many of whom use it as a time trial or training milestone.

The Cape Gate Vaal Marathon is not an obvious destination race, but it offers sub-3 hopefuls a pragmatic, focused racing environment. Its flat terrain, minimal congestion and no-frills atmosphere make it a solid choice for experienced runners aiming to execute a well-controlled effort under warm but predictable conditions.