Big Wins For Local Runners At Cape Town Trail Marathon

by | Oct 14, 2023 | Run, Events, Events & Racing, Featured, Race Reports, Running Event News

The 2023 Cape Town Trail Marathon which formed part of the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon Weekend was won by Samantha Reilly and Daniel Claassen respectively. Here is how it all went down:

Samantha Reilly’s Triumph

Sanlam Cape Town Marathon
Samantha Reilly won the 2023 Cape Town Trail Marathon

Samantha Reilly, a Cape Town local, seized her moment at the 46-kilometre distance, overcoming the scorching heat. Despite the challenging conditions, she maintained her composure, revealing her original intention was to use the race as part of her training regimen for the 100-kilometre at UTCT in December. She recounted how, during the climb up Platteklip Gorge, she decided to set her own pace, eventually securing the lead and going on to clinch the title.

Her winning time of 5 hours, 9 minutes, and 11 seconds was an astonishing 14 minutes and 19 seconds ahead of Catherine Williamson, a former mountain biking star who has transitioned to trail running. Landie Greyling, the defending champion, completed the women’s podium, after a particularly gruelling day on the trails.

Daniel Claassen’s Heroics

Sanlam Cape Town Marathon
Daniel Claassen’s strong run through the second half of the course saw him move from sixth into the lead.

In the men’s 46-kilometer race, Daniel Claassen’s exceptional display of strength and determination was the talk of the event. Despite the heat and dehydration, Claassen stormed through the course from sixth place to victory, ultimately collapsing at the finish line. His efforts left an indelible mark on this memorable race.

“Daniel was the strongest runner on the day and really deserved his victory,” commended second-place finisher Kane Reilly. Robbie Rorich, who secured third place, spoke of the race’s challenges but also celebrated his ability to overcome them.

Claassen’s winning time of 4 hours, 25 minutes, and 8 seconds positioned him ahead of Kane Reilly by 2 minutes and 48 seconds, with Rorich a further 9 minutes and 11 seconds behind.

Sanlam Cape Town Marathon
Kane Reilly

The 2023 Cape Town Trail Marathon from part of the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon weekend. The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon is on a quest to become Africa’s first inclusion in the Abbott World Marathon Majors.

Sanlam Cape Town Marathon

If they succeed, it would not only be a highlight on every African runner’s calendar, from pros to weekend warriors but also a historic moment for the entire continent and a major boost for the city of Cape Town. Learn more about what that would mean, here.

Event Coverage