We knew this year’s event was going to be special when the 21.1km Half Marathon sold out in just one day, the fastest sellout in Gun Run history. A remarkable 8,902 runners secured their entries almost immediately, setting the tone for a record-breaking weekend.
In total, 20,154 runners took part across all events, more than 1,400 compared to last year, proving that the OUTsurance Gun Run remains one of Cape Town’s most popular road running weekends.
A Half Marathon for the history books
The elite race certainly lived up to the hype.
Before the start, Adam Lipschitz made it clear that he was chasing more than just the win. He had his sights set on the course record and delivered in spectacular fashion, crossing the line in 1:02:21 to claim victory and rewrite the record books.
Defending champion and previous record holder Khoarahlane Joseph Seutloali pushed him all the way, finishing second in 1:02:53, while Tsépo Ramashamole completed the men's podium in 1:03:13.
In the women's race, Irvette van Zyl returned to the OUTsurance Gun Run Half Marathon for the first time in seven years and made an immediate impact. She secured the win in 1:14:03, finishing almost three minutes ahead of former champion Busisiwe Chamane (1:17:24). Fortunate Chidzivo claimed third place in 1:18:23.
A First for the 5km Fun Run
This year also marked a significant milestone for the 5km Fun Run, which was officially timed for the first time and introduced podium winners.
Joshua Steytler took top honours in the men's race with a winning time of 15:50. Reighardt Rautenbach finished second in 18:39, while Jaun Haasbroek completed the podium in 19:48.
In the women's race, Zarah Rahman claimed victory in 20:20. Caitlin Hannah secured second place in 23:02, narrowly ahead of Jodi Williams, who crossed the line in 23:09.
More than just a race
While the running was the main attraction, there was plenty happening beyond the finish line. Participants and spectators enjoyed a vibrant race village featuring a Beer Garden, food vendors, the ZLAANT recovery area and the Under Armour Chill Zone.
The atmosphere was kept alive by a DJ on the decks, while giveaways and prizes added to the excitement, including grand prizes from the President Hotel. Animal lovers also got to meet some special four-legged guests at the Animal Welfare Society gazebo, making it a memorable day out for the whole family.
Next time, be first to enter
For those who missed out on this year's OUTsurance Gun Run, there's always next year. And if the Half Marathon is on your running bucket list, take this year's sellout as fair warning: when entries open, you'll need to be quick.