GARDEN ROUTE NEWS - Due to unforeseen circumstances, the route of the popular Outeniqua Marathon has been revised.

According to organisers, ongoing construction in the Seven Passes area has rendered sections of the route unsafe. 

“Following a detailed inspection conducted yesterday, Tuesday 14 April, it was confirmed that recent heavy rains have further deteriorated key portions of the road,” organisers said in a press release.

“The safety of all participants remains our absolute priority, and under these conditions, it is not possible to proceed with the original route.”

The event will still take place with a new central venue at Nelson Mandela University (Saasveld Campus).

Updated race details:

• 42.2km marathon: Starts at Cornerstone Lifestyle Centre and finishes at Nelson Mandela University.
• Half-marathon, 10km and 5km: Start and finish at Nelson Mandela University. 

Organisers said that while they realise that the original Seven Passes route holds special appeal for many of the participants, they are confident that the revised routes will still deliver a memorable experience. 

Runners can look forward to the natural beauty of the Garden Route Dam and the surrounding Saasveld landscape.

“We sincerely thank all athletes, sponsors, and volunteers for your understanding, flexibility, and continued support in making the 2026 Outeniqua Marathon a success,” they said.

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