Winelands Marathon

Location: Helderberg

Country:  South Africa
Website:  https://www.topevents.co.za/event/sportsmans-warehouse-winelands-marathon-2025/
2025 Marathon Date:  29/11/2025
2026 Marathon Date:  TBC
Winning Time 2025: 2:23:08

% Sub-3s:  2-5%
# Sub-3s:  10-49
Total Runners: 1-3k

The Winelands Marathon is an annual road race held in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa, and is known for its scenic but challenging out-and-back course through the Cape Winelands. First established in 1978, it is one of the oldest and largest marathons in the region and serves as a popular qualifying event for major South African races such as the Two Oceans and Comrades marathons.

The race begins at Eikestad Primary School on Doornbosch Road in the Krigeville area of Stellenbosch and typically finishes on a nearby field associated with the school precinct. From the start, runners head out of central Stellenbosch and make their way toward Somerset West, moving along public roads lined with vineyards and surrounded by mountain scenery characteristic of the region. The course continues toward the R44, where long stretches on the Strand Road double carriageway lead to the turning point near the Steynsrust flyover. After the turnaround, runners retrace their steps back toward Stellenbosch for the return leg.

Although the scenery is widely praised, the course is known for being hilly and physically demanding. It features a series of rolling climbs, with the most challenging sections appearing in the later stages of the marathon. Activity trackers commonly record around 357 meters of elevation gain over the full 42.2 km distance, reinforcing its reputation as a tough but rewarding route. The out-and-back format also exposes runners to changing winds, which can add to the difficulty.

The event includes several race options in addition to the marathon, such as a half marathon, 10 km, and 5 km run, making it accessible to a broad range of participants. Organised by the Helderberg Harriers running club, the race has a strong community foundation and a long-standing presence in the Western Cape running calendar.

The Winelands Marathon also carries a poignant memorial dimension. It is run in honour of Johan Augustyn, the Helderberg Harriers chairman in 2000, and his son Charl, who died in a road incident while placing kilometre marker boards along the route. This history adds emotional significance to an already notable event, contributing to its enduring appeal among runners across South Africa and abroad.