Kimberley counts down to major marathon debut

KIMBERLEY is counting down the days to a historic moment as the city prepares to host the inaugural Diamond and Dorings Kimberley Big Hole Marathon on Saturday, November 22. With preparations now at an advanced stage, excitement is sweeping across the province ahead of what is set to become one of South Africa’s landmark road running events.

Already, close to 2,300 athletes have entered the race, which is officially recognised as a qualifier for both the Comrades Marathon and the Two Oceans Marathon. For Kimberley, this marks a major breakthrough: a world-class road race rooted in the Northern Cape, drawing national attention while bolstering local pride.

Boost for the local economy

Organisers have placed strong emphasis on supporting the city’s economy. In a deliberate effort to empower local businesses, two-thirds of all race-related goods and services have been sourced in Kimberley.

From catering and logistics to technical support and event infrastructure, local suppliers are directly benefiting from the influx of activity. This approach not only strengthens Kimberley’s business community but also ensures that the marathon contributes meaningfully to job creation and future economic growth.

Route, readiness and safety: Everything on track

All operational aspects of the marathon are progressing smoothly. The race route has been fully certified, and crews are completing the final stretch of readiness and maintenance work to guarantee a safe, smooth, and enjoyable event for both athletes and spectators.

Approximately 30 water points will be placed strategically along the course to keep runners hydrated throughout the 42.2km.

Safety remains a key priority. A robust security plan, enhanced police visibility, and well-co-ordinated crowd management structures will ensure world-class safety standards across the marathon footprint.

Four-day Marathon Expo sets the tone

Festivities kick off on Tuesday, November 18, when the doors open to the Marathon Expo at the Mittah Seperepere Convention Centre. The Expo will be the heartbeat of the marathon’s build-up, hosting:

• Race pack collection
• Exhibitions and athlete services
• Registrations for the 5km, 10km and 21km races
• Sponsor activations and athlete meet and greets

The Expo will run for four days, energising the city and drawing in thousands of visitors ahead of race day.

Elite field promises high-level competition

The inaugural edition of the Diamond and Dorings Marathon has attracted a world-class elite field, featuring celebrated long-distance stars from across Africa.

Men’s Elite Field:

• Tete Dijana (South Africa) – 2025 Comrades Marathon champion
• Onalenna Khonkhobe (South Africa)
• Lucky Mohale (South Africa)
• Joel Mmone (South Africa)
• Namakoe Nkhasie (Lesotho)
• Daniel Paulus (Namibia)
• Jesaja Matheus (Namibia)
• Ndahangwanasho Nghilyeendele (Namibia)
• Kimberley’s very own local favourite: Arthur Jantjies

Women’s Elite Field:

• Dikeledi Majara (Lesotho)
• Meseret Biru Fita (Ethiopia)
• Siftolina Daba Chemenda (Ethiopia)

The presence of these elite athletes is expected to elevate the race’s competitiveness while inspiring local runners of all levels.

Prize purse reflects the event’s ambition

The marathon boasts an impressive prize purse.

• R200,000 for the men’s and women’s marathon winners
• R70,000 for second place
• R30,000 for third place

Prize money is allocated to the top 10 finishers of the marathon, with additional rewards for front-runners in the 5km, 10km, and 21km races.

Importantly, an extra R50,000 incentive is reserved for the first Northern Cape male and female marathon finishers affiliated with Athletics Griqualand West or the North West Cape Federation.

Road use and traffic advisory

Residents and motorists are advised to plan ahead, as several key intersections on the race route will be affected. While full road closures are not expected, traffic officials will man busy points to ensure smooth flow and maximum safety for athletes.

Affected roads include Oliver Road, Landbou Road, the R31 to Barkly West, Green Street, Sechowareng, Hulana Road, Seleke Street, Barkly Road, Cecil Sussman Road, Phakamile Mabija Road, Hull Street (Boshoff Road), and Long Street.

Organisers urge the public to exercise patience and, wherever possible, join the festivities by stepping outside to cheer runners on. Kimberley’s renowned hospitality is expected to create a vibrant and supportive race day atmosphere.

Nationwide broadcast

For those unable to attend in person, the Diamond and Dorings Kimberley Big Hole Marathon will be broadcast live on SABC Sport from 5am to 10am, allowing viewers across the country to witness this historic first edition.

A new tradition begins

As Kimberley prepares to welcome athletes, spectators, and visitors from across South Africa and beyond, the inaugural Diamond and Dorings Road Race signals the start of something truly special.

With elite competition, economic upliftment, community engagement, and national visibility, the Big Hole Marathon is set to become a proud Northern Cape tradition for years to come.