Komani is bracing for an early-morning burst of energy and community spirit this weekend as runners from across the Eastern Cape descend on the town for the Bonkolo Marathon, set for Saturday, 8 November 2025, at Bonkolo Dam.
The annual event has grown into one of the region’s most anticipated races, drawing both elite athletes and casual runners — and this year promises to be the biggest one yet.
Race Details and Start Times
All races start and finish at the Yacht Club, Bonkolo Dam, offering runners scenic views of Komani’s signature landscape. Participants can choose between three distances:
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42.2km Marathon — Start: 05:30, Cut-off: 11:00, Entry: R250, Temp Licence: R65, Min Age: 20 years
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21.1km Half Marathon — Start: 05:45, Cut-off: 11:00, Entry: R200, Temp Licence: R60, Min Age: 16 years
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10km Run — Start: 06:00, Cut-off: 11:00, Entry: R150, Temp Licence: R50, Min Age: 14 years
Medals, Shirts, and Exciting Extras
Every runner who completes their race will receive a finisher’s medal to mark the achievement.
In addition, the first 600 entries will receive a free official Bonkolo Marathon shirt — a keepsake that’s expected to go fast, adding extra motivation to register early.
But the excitement doesn’t end with the race. The weekend features two community events at the dam:
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7 November: Burger Evening – a relaxed night for runners and families to socialise before race day.
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8 November: Family Fun Day – live entertainment, local food stalls, and activities for children, creating a festive atmosphere around the race.
Race Pack Collection and Late Entries
Race packs can be collected at Queenstown Country Club at the following times:
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Thursday, 6 November: 17:00 – 19:00
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Friday, 7 November: 16:00 – 20:00
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Saturday, 8 November: 04:30 – 05:00
Late self-entry facilities will be available on all three days for a R50 premium (cash only).
Important Race Rules
To ensure a fair and well-managed event, runners must:
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Display their race number clearly on the front of their vest.
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Licensed runners must display their 2025 ASA license numbers on the front and back.
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Unlicensed runners must display their Temporary License on the back.
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Each distance has unique race numbers:
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42.2km: start with 4
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21.1km: start with 2
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10km: start with 1
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Runners caught using incorrect numbers or switching distances without proper re-registration will be disqualified.
Komani Invited to Support and Celebrate
Beyond the competition, the Bonkolo Marathon represents community pride and togetherness. Spectators are encouraged to come out early, cheer from the route, and create an atmosphere of excitement as the runners make their way through Komani’s scenic roads.
The Family Fun Day at Bonkolo Dam offers a perfect chance for locals to relax, enjoy good food, and celebrate the endurance and spirit of the athletes. With food vendors, music, and children’s activities, it’s set to be a highlight on Komani’s social calendar.
Residents are reminded to secure pets and plan travel around the dam area, as certain roads may be temporarily restricted for safety.
Event Summary
Venue: Yacht Club, Bonkolo Dam, Komani
Date: Saturday, 8 November 2025
Distances: 42.2km | 21.1km | 10km
Start Times: 05:30 | 05:45 | 06:00
Free Shirts: First 600 entries
7 November: Burger Evening
8 November: Family Fun Day
Late Entry: +R50 cash only
Race Pack Collection: Queenstown Country Club (6–8 Nov)
