The decision to cancel was made at 04:45. Communications to all runners were sent out at 05:00 in the form of direct WhatsApp messages to all participants and a dedicated running club captains’ group, as well as statements posted on social media platforms and sent to local radio stations, event media partners, and key stakeholders.

About 24,000 runners were due to start the race at 06:15, and many were already at the venue or on their way into the city when the cancellation was announced.

The winds overnight wreaked havoc in the race venue in Green Point, with marquee tents damaged and branding being ripped off fences and scaffolding.

‘Prompted emergency meetings’ 

This prompted emergency meetings of the race organising team in conjunction with the joint operations committee, which consists of representatives from the City of Cape Town’s disaster risk management and safety and security portfolios, as well as medical services and the police.

“The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon is devastated at the cancellation of our very special event, said Clark Gardner, CEO of the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon. 

“We have worked for months on planning for all scenarios and conditions, but ultimately, a bigger force had the final say, and we are so sorry for the situation. We wish to thank our participants, sponsors, and stakeholders for their ongoing support and understanding.”

‘Runners must be disappointed’

“All the runners must be disappointed, as are we all, said mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis. “But I’m grateful to the event organisers for making a decision with runners’ safety in mind after heavy winds blew down some race infrastructure this morning. 

“The City is committed to hosting events of the highest global standards, and that includes sometimes managing difficult calls like this one.”

OFM Sport/Ilse Smalberger dg