March is where excuses go to die. The heavy legs of early-season training start to loosen, the mornings grow softer, and the calendar fills with start lines that promise fresh goals and faster finishes.

Whether you’re chasing a PB, building endurance for a bigger target, or simply craving that electric buzz of race-day energy, this is the month to pin on a number and test yourself.

…this is the month to pin on a number and test yourself.

From fast and flat road races to gritty trail adventures, these are the top races to run in March – and the ones that will remind you exactly why you love to run.

Saturday 7 March: The Constantia Village Totalsports VOB 15km
A firm favourite among Capetonians and visiting runners alike, this much-loved race starts and finishes at Constantia Village. Hosted by the Totalsports Varsity Old Boys Running Club, it’s a scenic and well-supported fixture on the local racing calendar.

Saturday 7 March: Pass2Pass Ultra-Trail Event presented by HOKA
Race Village is hosted by Imbuko Wines at Uitkyk Farm, Bo Dal Rd, Wellington. The event offers six unique race categories – 14.4km, 27.6km, 40km, 45km, 66km and 96km – the event welcomes runners of all backgrounds and abilities. Pass2Pass Ultra-Trail welcomes runners of all backgrounds and abilities.

Sunday 8 March: The Edenvale Marathon, 16km, 5km – Edenvale High School
The Edenvale Marathon starts and finishes at Edenvale High School on Linksfield Road in Edenvale, Gauteng. Runners can choose between the full 42.2km marathon, a 16km option, or a 5km race, making it an event that caters to seasoned marathoners and newcomers alike.

Saturday 14 March: The 2026 Kosmos 3-in-1
An old favourite on the road running calendar, the events get underway from 06h00 at the Lake Umuzi, South Bank, Kingfisher Street in Secunda, Mpumalanga. Distances available include 73.3km, 42.2km, 21.1km, 10km and 4km races. The 42.2km race is a Comrades Marathon qualifier.

Friday 20 to Sunday 22 March: Addo Elephant Trail Run 100 Mile, 76km, 44km – Addo Elephant National Park
Known for its scenic routes through the park, which include running alongside riverbanks, through valleys and up mountainous terrain, this race attracts runners from all over the world eager to experience this unique event. As the route runs through a conservation area, there is always the chance of an elephant or buffalo sighting as you make your way along the rugged course.

Sunday 22 March: The Balwin Sport Run Series, 42km, 21km, 10km, 5km – Durban
Building on the success of its 2024 debut, the Balwin Sport Marathon Series has added excitement to the local marathon scene, and this event, the third in the series, is one of the most popular. A scenic course along the M4 Coastal Highway from Ballito to Durban features breathtaking ocean views, while there is also the chance of winning an apartment valued at R1-million if you’ve entered.

Sunday 22 March: Johannesburg City Marathon, 21km, 10km – Klipriviersberg Recreation Centre, Kibler Park
With 42.2km, 21.1km and 10km race options, this event promises scenic yet challenging courses through the heart of Gauteng. Over 5 000 entrants are expected. The event is proudly hosted by Johannesburg Harriers Athletics Club.

Saturday 28 March: Durban City Marathon, 42km, 21km, 10km, 5km – Durban
A premier urban race blending scenic coastal views and city vibes, offering a Comrades qualifier route with full road closures. Join runners from around the globe for a true surf-city race experience, on a fast and flat course. T-shirts and medals for all athletes.

READ MORE ON: events race calendar road running trail-running