THE RACE
INFO
The Icon's Journey Marathon (a proud member of Proudly South African) presents to you it's 5th annual multi-sporting event.
The Icon’s Journey Marathon vision was inspired by President Nelson Mandela’s journey of growing up in the rural villages of the former Transkei homeland to becoming a Global Icon.
Participants have a unique opportunity to trace Madiba’s footprints from where he was born, grew up, went to school and is laid to rest.
A unique heritage, tourism and heritage route where participants have an opportunity to also touch the birth places of some of South Africa’s Iconic freedom fighters namely Chris Hani, Walter Sisulu, Dr. A.B Xuma, Mama Albertina Sisulu, King Sabata Dalindyebo and General Bantu Holomisa
The only way to finish this challenge is by tapping into your inner Icon.
PLAN YOUR RACE
Physical Events
This year, the physical race comes with a change as we only offer the 14km and 35km distances—a distinctive heritage run offering participants a unique opportunity to touch the birthplaces of South Africa’s most revered struggle icons, including Dr O.R. Tambo, President Nelson Mandela, and Chris Hani, along this inspiring global heritage route.
Virtual Events
We're excited to announce that the 2025 marathon will introduce virtual options! Take on our new challenges: the 103km run in a single day on the route, the 103km run over 8 days anywhere in the world, or the 103km cycle in one day, also from anywhere in the world. Get ready to push your limits!
103KM ROUTE DESCRIPTION
In 2025, there will be no physical 103km running challenge, instead we are introducing our virtual challenge either run as a 1-day challenge on the route or as an 8-day challenge run anywhere in the world.
The 103km route cuts across many villages amongst them Clarkebury, Nkondlo, Bhaziya, Mqhekezweni, Qunu & Qokolweni.
The route kicks off at Clarkebury Institution - proceeds on the village gravel road towards Nkondlo where it joins the R61 tarred road towards Mthatha. Around Bhaziya Village it takes a turn at Bityi Road, passing Mqhekezweni Village until it touches the N2 North. It proceeds on the N2 for 9km and turn off at Viedgesville to Qokolweni village. It passes Mbuqe and Khwezi Locations and finishes at Nelson Mandela Museum in Mthatha,