More best. More flat. More fast.
The wait is finally over. The NEW Best Of The Best Marathon route has officially been revealed and it is everything runners have been asking for.
Designed for speed, safety, and unforgettable race energy, the 2026 BOTB route delivers one clear promise: faster times, better rhythm, and a truly elite running experience for every athlete on the road.
Built for fast times
The new route is super flat with approximately 259m total elevation gain, making it one of the flattest and fastest marathon courses in the region.
This means
• Better chances of personal bests
• Ideal conditions for elite and sub elite athletes
• Strong potential for excellent Comrades and Two Oceans Marathon seedings
• A smoother and more enjoyable run for first time and social runners
Whether you are chasing a podium finish, a qualification, or your first strong marathon performance, this route was built with you in mind.
Designed with runners first
Every kilometre of the new BOTB route has been carefully planned to prioritize
• Safety
• Road quality
• Crowd support potential
• Smooth pacing
• Minimal elevation changes
The result is a course that allows runners to settle into rhythm early, maintain momentum, and finish strong.
This is not just a new route. It is a better route.
A true stage for elite performances
Best Of The Best has always stood for excellence. With this new route, the race steps even further into elite territory.
The flat profile opens the door for
• Faster winning times
• Deeper competition
• High level performances
• Strong national and international attention
If you are an elite athlete looking for a serious racing platform, BOTB 2026 is your race.
Still the best for everyone
While the course is fast, it is also welcoming.
From seasoned marathoners to first time runners, from competitive athletes to runners doing it for the love of the sport, this new route offers an experience that is enjoyable, motivating, and unforgettable.
It is about speed.
It is about growth.
It is about community.
It is about being part of something special.