While history was made at the front, the London Marathon also saw several South African runners step onto the global stage, each with their own journey behind the result.
London, England (28 April 2026) – The streets of London came alive this past weekend as the TCS London Marathon delivered one of its most memorable editions yet.
Kenya’s Sabastian Sawe made history, becoming the first man to break the two-hour mark in an official marathon, crossing the line in 1:59:30. Ethiopia’s Yomif Kejelcha followed closely behind, also dipping under the barrier in 1:59:41 in what was one of the fastest marathon fields ever assembled.
Away from the elite battle, the race once again drew runners from across the globe. Cynthia Erivo, who also took part and, according to post-race interviews, clocked a personal best. Be on the lookout as she is set to star in the upcoming film The Road Home to be filmed in Cape Town.
From a South African perspective, there were several standout stories across the race.
Adam Lipschitz delivered a strong performance, finishing inside the top 20 in a highly competitive field.
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For Sipho Marima, the race was about more than just time. Known for sharing his running journey online, he completed the marathon in 3:08:21, reflecting on the experience as a milestone moment in a journey that started on the streets of Giyani.
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Cape Town’s content creator Chad Nathan also lined up in London, adding his name to the growing list of South Africans doing incredible work around the world.
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BK Matewe brought a touch of home to the course, proudly running in South African-themed socks.
Done & dusted.#tcslondonmarathon#BUSwithBK#polokwaneathleticclub pic.twitter.com/4r24LfQIgb
— BK Matewe (@bkmatewe) April 28, 2026
Finally, Fulufhelo Siphuma returned for her second London Marathon appearance, building on her experience from 2025.
Two-time London Marathon finisher 🇬🇧
2025 🏅
2026 🏅@LondonMarathon pic.twitter.com/fnjRhTuaOj— Fulufhelo Siphuma (@Fulu_S) April 27, 2026
Beyond the results at the front, the race once again highlighted the range of experiences that define a marathon.
Sources: Various Linked Above
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