South Africa’s trail stars shine at RMB Ultra Trail Cape Town 2025

South Africa delivered strong performances at this year’s RMB Ultra Trail Cape Town. Over three days, 2 800 athletes from 66 countries raced across Table Mountain and the Cape Peninsula. The event closed the World Trail Majors calendar and proved why Cape Town is one of the top global destinations for ultra running.

A weekend of world-class racing

The festival featured six distances from 16km to the tough 100-mile race. Strong winds forced the cancellation of the 35km event on Sunday morning, but the rest of the programme ran smoothly. Cape Town residents showed strong support along the routes, giving athletes a lively welcome.

Race Director Stuart McConnachie praised both local and international runners. He said South African athletes proved their strength in the 100-mile race by taking the full podium. He added that the growing global field demonstrates the event’s rising status.

South Africans sweep the 100-mile podium

Douglas Pickard won the men’s 100-mile race in 21:49:11. Aleksei Tolstenko followed in 22:40:48, and Admire Muzopambwa placed third in 22:41:40.

The route stretches across the full length of Cape Town, touching both the Indian and Atlantic sides. It takes runners across steep peaks, rocky trails and coastal paths.

Nicolette Griffioen dominated the women’s race. She won in 24:39:42, setting a new course record. Simone Malan placed second in 26:39:35, and Kerry Ann Marshall finished third in 27:26:30.

This win marks Griffioen’s third major victory this year. She won RMB Ultra Trail Drakensberg and the Mountain Ultra Trail by UTMB before her UTCT win.

International runners excel in the 100km race

The 100km race brought fast competition. American Jeff Mogavero won in 11:04:53. Dmitry Mityaev placed second in 11:05:24, and South African Matthew Healy took third in 11:11:26.

Nepal’s Sunmaya Budha led the women’s field with a strong 12:25:55 finish. Antonina Iushina placed second in 13:33:31, and Tara Fraga took third in 13:47:04.

Peninsula Traverse 55km starts the festival

Friday’s 55km race opened the weekend. Germany’s Johannes Wingenfeld won in 05:13:26. Robbie Simpson and Charles Hamilton completed the men’s podium.

Rebecca Kohne won the women’s race in 06:11:44. Olivia Dubern placed second, and Ram Maya Budha finished third.

A growing global event

McConnachie said the event continues to grow after eleven years. He thanked volunteers, Cape Town residents and the athletes who kept spirits high despite the strong winds. He added that safety and smooth operations remain the top priority.