Stephen Mokoka sympathises with organizers for cancelling Cape Town Marathon

Organizers sent out a WhatsApp message at 5 am to inform the 24,000 registered runners that the 42.2km marathon, which was scheduled to start at 6:15 am, would not go ahead.

Mokoka, who was aiming for his fourth title and the R250,000 first prize, said the decision—though disappointing—was the right one.

“It’s all about the safety of the runners,” Mokoka told SABC Sport. 

“It was a tough call by the organizers, but our safety comes first. There’s more to it than just going out there to run.”

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The 40-year-old Hollywood Athletics Club runner said he was heartbroken not to race but fully understood the reasoning.

“I’m disappointed, yes, but safety is the most important thing. No one can control the weather. The decision was made to protect us, and we must sympathize with the organizers. This wasn’t about a small group of elite runners — it affected 24,000 people from South Africa, Africa, and around the world,” he said.

Mokoka, who is coached by Michael “Sponge” Seme in Tshwane, said this was the first time in his career that a marathon had been cancelled on race day.

“This has never happened to me before,” he said. “I know this wasn’t an easy call for the organizers. They spent months preparing for this event, and I commend them for their professionalism. They deserve a chance to reflect and come back stronger next year.”

The veteran athlete said he would take time to process the disappointment before deciding on his next race.

“It’s still a shock, and emotions are high. I’ll take a moment to digest everything and then plan my next move,” Mokoka added.

Other top South African athletes who were set to compete included Thabang Mosiako, Elroy Gelant, Bennet Seloyi, and South Africa’s road-running queen, Gerda Steyn, who was aiming for her first Cape Town Marathon title. 

On the eve of the race, Steyn shared a photo of her running shoes and gear on social media, declaring herself ready to take on the challenge — but the weather had other plans.