The Western Cape is firmly cementing its reputation as a premier global sporting destination this season. From the rugged mountain trails of the Overberg to the hallowed turf of Newlands, the province is set to host an exhilarating lineup of endurance challenges and stadium spectacles. This diverse calendar not only draws world-class elite athletes but also thousands of passionate fans, injecting a vibrant energy and significant economic boost into the region.
Endurance Frontiers: Grit and Scenery
The season’s action kicks off with the XTERRA South Africa (28 Feb – 1 Mar) in Grabouw. Often cited as the largest XTERRA event in the world, it offers a grueling off-road test of grit through the fynbos and forests of the Elgin Valley. Athletes must navigate technical lake swims and treacherous mountain bike trails, setting a high bar for the endurance months to follow.
The momentum then shifts from dirt to asphalt for the iconic Cape Town Cycle Tour (8 Mar). This event holds the prestigious title of the largest individually timed cycle race in the world. Interestingly, the race has humble but defiant roots; it began in 1978 as a protest ride to advocate for dedicated cycle paths in the city. Today, it has grown into a massive global phenomenon, hosting up to 35,000 riders and raising over R130 million for social upliftment and cycling development projects. Participants navigate a legendary 109km route, tackling the steep gradients of Suikerbossie and the breathtaking curves of Chapman’s Peak in what is widely regarded as the world’s most beautiful timed race.
For those who prefer the extreme, the Absa Cape Epic (15–22 Mar)—the “Untamed” premier mountain bike stage race—will weave through the scenic Winelands. This event is the pinnacle of the sport, pushing professional and amateur riders to their absolute limits over eight grueling days of intense climbing and technical descents.
The Spirit of the Stadium
Cricket fans have a packed schedule to look forward to with the CSA One-Day Cup (21 Feb – 29 Mar). As South Africa’s premier domestic 50-over competition, Newlands Cricket Ground will be the heart of the action. Known for its picturesque backdrop of Table Mountain, the venue will host key Western Province home games. Fans should mark their calendars for the clash against the Warriors on 3 March, followed by further home-ground action on 11 March.
As the cricket season winds down, rugby fever takes over the Atlantic Seaboard. The DHL Stormers will host high-stakes international fixtures in the United Rugby Championship (URC). The “Faithful” can catch the action at the DHL Stadium on 18 April (vs Connacht) and 25 April (vs Glasgow Warriors), where the atmosphere is expected to be electric as the season nears its playoffs.
April: The Runner’s High
April belongs to the runners, headlined by the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon (11–12 Apr). Known as “The World’s Most Beautiful Marathon,” the event features a grueling 56km Ultra on Saturday and a popular Half Marathon on Sunday. The route is famous for its “halfway” climb up Constantia Nek, where the spirit of the spectators often carries weary runners toward the finish line at UCT.
Closing out the month, the Walker Bay Outdoor (25–27 Apr) in Hermanus offers a multi-sport festival for all levels. Featuring everything from open-water swimming to the famous “Beer Run,” it is a final, sun-soaked celebration of the Western Cape’s unparalleled outdoor lifestyle.
