The Milky Way Marathon - An Experience Under The Stars

Welcome to the Milky Way Marathon, a cosmic running experience that takes participants on a journey unlike any other! Set against the backdrop of breathtaking night skies, this marathon invites runners of all skill levels to push their limits while soaking in the beauty of the universe. Whether you’re chasing a new personal best or simply looking to enjoy a magical starlit course, the Milky Way Marathon promises an unforgettable adventure. Lace up your shoes, take a deep breath, and prepare to run among the stars!

At an altitude of 1100m, Leeuwenboschfontein offers an extraordinary view of the night sky that is nearly free from light pollution. From the vantage point of 33°S latitude, you will be able to see the beautiful constellations, stars and galaxies of the southern hemisphere, and marvel at the Milky Way spanning overhead. The 42km athletes will experience the vast landscapes of Drie Kuilen Nature Reserve as well, with more single tracks added to this year's event.

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Why this race?

In our rushed lives we just don't slow down enough and enjoy our surroundings. We are too busy for sunset drinks. We don't stop for a sunrise...segments, meetings, phone calls all chasing us to keep BUSY. The MWM will slow you down. It will force you to turn off your headlamp and look UP at the beautiful stars. The race only starts in the afternoon, so you will run with the sun setting in the distance and you'll finish with a blanket of stars above you...an experience you will never forget.

The run will have a scattered start during the afternoon, after the sun warmed up the crisp Karoo air. Different groups will be set off, depending on your estimated marathon pace. The aim would be for all to see the sun setting in the west as you drop down into the valley after tagging the highest peak (1418m) in the area. Approximately 10km would be run in the dark, as the sky lights up with the Milky Way above.

There will be a "Dark Zone" where you turn off your headlamp, follow the lights at your feet and be guided by the Milky Way above.

Marathon: There will be a scattered start from 13:00 to 15:00. Your start time will be determined by your marathon/half marathon pace. Faster runners will start last.

Half Marathon: There will also have a scattered start for the half marathon this year, starting from 16:00-17:00

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Leeuwenboschfontein is less than 200km from Cape Town and it is a perfect weekend getaway. There is a variety of accommodation options available, including camping (for the brave). Leeuwenboschfontein has a dark sky (Bortle 2) and very minimal light pollution. https://www.leeuwenboschfontein.co.za/

Alternative accommodation also available at Drie Kuilen Nature Reserve and this is a great option for those doing the 42km. https://www.driekuilen.co.za/

For those that want to spoil themselves, why not secure your spot at one of the incredible Huizen cabins. We have secured these and they will be available for a limited time only, so add that to your entry, to secure it.

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Shoes On. Let's Run.