For South African road runners, February isn’t just a month; it’s a mission. It’s the window where the hard training of January meets the reality of the race calendar. This month, the Balwin Run Series offers two of the most iconic, yet completely different, challenges in the country. Whether you’re looking for a fast coastal PB or a high-altitude test of character, Totalsports has the gear to get you to the finish line.
- The Coastal Sprint: Cape Peninsula Marathon (15 Feb) Taking place on February 15th, the Balwin Cape Peninsula Marathon is a 60-year-old legend. Running from Green Point to Simon’s Town, it is arguably the fastest point-to-point marathon in Africa. With a flat route that hugs the False Bay coastline, it is the ultimate Abbott World Rankings qualifier.
- The Gear: For 42.2km of coastal tar, you need energy return. The New Balance 1080 v15 is built for this. With its updated Infinion foam, it provides a plush ride that stays bouncy even when the “South Easter” wind starts to pick up near Kalk Bay.
- The Altitude Test: Pretoria Marathon (22 Feb) A week later, on February 22nd, the series moves to the capital for the Balwin Sport Pretoria Marathon. Starting at the Phobians Club in Lynnwood, this double-lapper is a different beast entirely. It’s a test of “Pretoria Grit,” climbing up to the historic Fort Klapperkop at an altitude of 1,555m.
- The Gear: Hills require stability and impact protection. The ASICS Gel-Cumulus 28 features PureGEL technology, which is 65% softer than previous versions, saving your quads during the steep descent from the Fort back toward Fountains Circle.
Pro-Tip: The Hydration Strategy Whether it’s the Cape humidity or the Pretoria dry heat, do not rely on water tables alone. Grab a Totalsports Squeeze Bottle to carry your own electrolytes essential for maintaining performance over the final 10km.
