- Kei Mouth, Eastern Cape, South Africa
It’s Got Legs: The Great Kei Marathon 2025
It’s estimated that less than 1% of the world’s population will complete a marathon in their lifetimes, proving that, however popular this event has become, it’s certainly not for the faint-hearted.
Sure, the morning of race day may dawn bright and early, with a distinctive buzz in the air, nervous chatter echoing through the ranks, but after two or so hours of pounding your feet onto undulating roads, the excitement gives way to grit, focus, and the sheer determination needed to conquer each of the rolling hills separating you from the finish line.
The Great Kei Marathon: A Celebration Of Endurance And Community
It’s a short story, but a long race—one that mirrors the essence of marathon running everywhere. Around the world, marathons bring people together in celebration of endurance, determination, and community spirit—and the Wild Coast has its very own, set against a backdrop of sweeping ocean views, rugged hills, and the welcoming charm of Kei Mouth.
Now in its third year, the Great Kei Marathon is fast becoming a highlight on the South African running calendar. What began in 2022 as a local response to growing demand has already blossomed into a full-scale event that attracts hundreds of runners, their families, and supporters to the little coastal village of Kei Mouth.
An Early Qualifier at the Heart of the Wild Coast
Speaking to one of the organisers, Bulela Sidloyi of the OMAC – Green Mambas, he explained how local marathon runners were already talking about the route, saying they used it regularly for training. The Green Mambas were keen to establish a marathon of their own—and equally determined not to follow in the footsteps of other running clubs in the Buffalo City area by sticking to the same old city routes.
Inspired by the possibility of creating a brand-new coastal challenge, they moved quickly to secure sponsorship and soon had the backing of Mlambo Investment Holdings. They also ensured the race would serve as a qualifier for South Africa’s biggest long-distance events—the Two Oceans Marathon in Cape Town and the legendary Comrades, which sees contestants covering a gruelling 88km between Durban and Pietermaritzburg (Msunduzi).
Officially Athletics South Africa (ASA) compliant, the Great Kei Marathon covers the full 42.2km distance and offers runners the chance to tick off an early qualifier.
Running Into Tradition: A Young Race with Timeless Appeal
From the very first event in 2022, it was clear the Green Mambas had spotted a gap in the market. An impressive 747 runners signed up to compete, bringing with them not only their determination but also their friends, families, and supporters.
In 2023, the field remained consistent with 693 runners—cementing the marathon’s place as a firm favourite on the Eastern Cape running calendar. It may only be three years old, but to many it already feels as timeless as the hills they run through.
The Route: Hills, Heartbreak, and Hidden Challenges
Anyone who lives in Kei Mouth—or has visited the village—will be familiar with the marathon route. It traces the main R349 from the Mooiplaas junction all the way into Kei Mouth, finishing at the Country Club, which, to the dismay of weary entrants, sits enticingly at the top of what local Parkrunners know all too well as Heartbreak Hill. And that certainly isn’t the only incline waiting to test tired legs on race day.
For those tackling the full marathon, the long uphill climb past the Belekumntwana turnoff is one of the earliest and toughest challenges, forcing runners to dig deep while the finish line is still a distant thought. Even the gentler gradients later in the race can sap strength and stamina, especially under a warming Wild Coast sun.
Half-marathon entrants won’t escape the climbs either. Towards the end, the tar road winds its way uphill from The Shed turnoff, demanding one last push before the course rewards runners with a breezy descent into the village. But the reprieve is short-lived—because waiting at the end, as always, is the infamous Heartbreak Hill, standing between every competitor and the finish line celebration.
Not the Main Event, But Not Without Challenge
And it’s not just the long-distance runners who face a test. The 5km “fun run” may seem lighthearted, but it still has its own challenge—the notorious incline at the finish. Before that final push, entrants are treated to sweeping views of the Kei Mouth Golf Course and the stunning Wild Coast shoreline. Following the regular Parkrun route, the course appears gently undulating at first, until you realise that the real hills are cleverly tucked just beyond the greens, waiting to test unsuspecting legs.
Nor will the challenge be limited to race day itself. On 20th September, organizers and volunteers run their own much-deserved race before donating to some of the needier households identified in Cwili village—a gesture that reflects how close to the heart of the community this event truly is.
Conclusion
Whether you’re chasing a personal best, tackling your first marathon, or simply enjoying the challenge of the hills and the sea breeze, the Great Kei Marathon offers an unforgettable experience on the Wild Coast. Beyond the race itself, it’s a celebration of community, determination, and the stunning beauty of Kei Mouth.
If you’re planning to be part of this year’s excitement—either as a runner, volunteer, or supporter—now is the time to secure yourself a place to stay. With accommodation to suit every budget and taste, Kei Mouth provides the perfect base to enjoy the marathon, soak in the Wild Coast scenery, and make the most of a weekend filled with sport, community, and coastal charm.
Online entries have now closed, but you can still enter manually at Beacon Bay Country Club on 24th September, or at Kei Mouth Country Club from 14h00 on 26th September.
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