Durban International Marathon

Location: Durban
Country: South Africa
Website: https://durbanmarathon.co.za/
2025 Marathon Date: 04/05/2025
2026 Marathon Date: 03/05/2026
Winning Time 2025: 02:10:41
% Sub-3s: 5–10%
# Sub-3s: 100–499
Total Runners: 1k–3k

The Durban International Marathon is a relatively new addition to the South African racing calendar but has quickly earned a reputation as a fast and professionally organised event. Held in May on the coastal roads of Durban, it serves both elite competition and serious amateur runners seeking PBs under favourable conditions.

The course is flat and fast, designed as a loop with minimal turns, wide tarmac roads, and few rhythm disruptions. The route runs through Durban’s central and northern suburbs, occasionally paralleling the coastline. Though not especially scenic, it is built for pace and efficiency. For sub-3 runners, the design supports even pacing and clear visual targets.

Durban’s May weather is one of the race’s strong points. With an early morning start and average temperatures in the mid-teens Celsius, the conditions are often ideal—cool enough for hard effort but warm enough to avoid cold-weather complications. The coastal setting does occasionally introduce wind, but it is rarely a dominant factor.

Crowd support is modest, with most spectators gathering at start, finish, and key intersections. However, the field includes a large proportion of competitive runners, particularly from local clubs, which adds energy and momentum throughout the race.

Aid stations are regular and efficient, offering hydration and basic support. Organisationally, the race runs smoothly, thanks to road closures and collaboration with local authorities. The start and finish logistics are compact and easy to navigate.

The Durban International Marathon is well-suited to sub-3 runners looking for a focused, time-oriented race without distractions. Its growing status means strong fields and increasing recognition, and the South African road running community adds depth and enthusiasm to the event.

For those willing to travel or already based in southern Africa, Durban offers a fast, fair, and quietly impressive spring marathon option.