A look back: How much of a success was the Diamond and Dorings Big Hole Marathon?

ONE WEEK on, and Kimberley is starting to settle into its normal summer groove after the city hosted the first ever Diamond and Dorings Big Hole Marathon, aptly dubbed “Follow the Sun”.

There are fewer runner seen on our streets these days, with the preparations for the marathon a thing of the past. But one can be sure that plans are already in place to make a comeback in 2026, and race; not only that, but race and set a better time for the run.

Runners will remember the cool 5.30am start at the Sol Plaatje University Central Campus, which saw more than 2,500 athletes and casual runners lining up to compete across the 5-, 10-, 21-, and 42-kilometre distances.

The atmosphere at the start line was charged with excitement. Early risers, some still shaking off sleep, enthusiastically snapped selfies and group photos, capturing memories before the race began. The excitement was palpable, with runners exchanging last-minute tips and encouragement while the city slowly woke to the sound of shoes hitting pavement.

Cyclists rode alongside the runners on the route, cheering and motivating friends and family, creating a lively sense of camaraderie that extended beyond the race itself.

The race had created something festive in the city, and the feeling seemingly hasn't worn off, with diligent clean-up efforts still ongoing all over Kimberley.

There is no way that athletes will forget how the Kimberley sun did not hold back, with morning temperatures quickly climbing into the mid-20s Celsius, adding an extra challenge for participants.

But despite the heat, runners pushed forward with determination, many inspired by the prospect of prize money.

We cannot afford to let it slip too easily from our memories how, as participants approached the finish line, the festive vibe reached its peak. Family, friends, and supporters cheered passionately, capturing finish-line moments on their smart devices.

The sense of community was unmistakable, with runners greeted by applause, high-fives, and the joyous relief of crossing the line. Live entertainment kept spirits high, ensuring that both finishers and spectators enjoyed the celebration. Music, laughter, and the buzz of achievement created an atmosphere that was part sporting event, part street festival.

It's clear, judging from the excitement, this race will be back in 2026.

Organisers hailed the marathon as a resounding success. From the early morning excitement at Sol Plaatje University to the sun-drenched streets of Kimberley and the jubilant finish line, the Diamond and Dorings Big Hole Marathon set a high bar for future events. Whether running for prize money, qualification, or simply the thrill of participation, athletes and spectators alike left with memories of a day where Kimberley truly followed the sun.

But did the festive vibe, and the positive energy filter through the entire city?  The DFA spoke to Nocci and some residents to get an insight into a wider lens on the Diamond and Dorings Big Hole Marathon and it's impact on Kimberley.

Kimberley's businesses react

It became clear that, alongside the excitement and celebration, the event also sparked a range of reactions within the local business community. The DFA spoke to the CEO of Nocci, Sharon Steyn, who shared feedback received from local businesses and vendors following the marathon.

According to Steyn, the responses were mixed. Some businesses expressed frustration, saying the event felt poorly coordinated, with suppliers left waiting for confirmation until the last minute and then asked to step in “on number 99”.

Others reported no noticeable increase in business activity over the race weekend.

Steyn stressed that she could only reflect the views of the businesses that contacted her directly, and could not speak for those that did not provide feedback. Still, she noted that several business owners questioned whether the millions spent on hosting the marathon might have been better invested in Kimberley’s deteriorating infrastructure.

“Many businesses felt that before the city spends large sums on events, the basics should be in place,” Steyn said. “Government should first clean up the city before welcoming visitors. Otherwise people will leave and talk about what a dump the city is.

"If the city’s infrastructure is on par, hosting a marathon will be great, but the money made should benefit Kimberley’s people and the city.”

Residents speak out

Residents echoed these concerns.

Some pointed out that the city was able to clean the streets along the race route ahead of the marathon, but the same level of maintenance is not visible day to day. “The streets were spotless because people had to run there,” one resident said.

“Why can’t our streets be cleaned every day? Why only when there’s a big event?”

Steyn believes the city must give visitors a reason to return. “Kimberley needs to be clean, potholes need to be fixed, and infrastructure repairs must be a priority. Otherwise the decay of the city will overshadow any event being held here.”

A few athletes also raised concerns, saying the prize-giving ceremony dragged on far too long, leaving them waiting in the sweltering heat for the premier to arrive.

Despite the criticism, Steyn expressed appreciation for the collaboration shown by the Premier, Wildeklawer and the Hartsfees teams.

She said Nocci is optimistic about the potential long-term benefits this partnership could bring to the Diamond City.

So though not everyone will enjoy the seemingly negative comments, the value of getting more viewpoints can only benefit the city of Kimberley in the long run, potentially making the 2026 race something truly exceptional. We all look forward to that.