How trail running is driving local economic growth in South Africa
Well known South African trail runner Stuart McConnachie broke down the growing business of endurance sport, in particular trail running, in an interview with Business Report.
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Well known South African trail runner Stuart McConnachie broke down the growing business of endurance sport, in particular trail running, in an interview with Business Report.
McConnachie said that research indicates that trail running has become a driver of local economic growth that comes as the Rand Merchant Bank (RMB) Ultra-trail Cape Town (RMB UTCT) is expected to take place next weekend.
McConnachie has completed ultra-distance races such as the Comrades Marathon, the 2024 Two Oceans Marathon, and endurance races such as the Western States 100 and Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (UTMB) and now serves as Race Director of RMB UTCT.
McConnachie said that research published in the Journal of Sport & Tourism indicates that trail running in South Africa has become a potential driver of local economic growth, particularly in small towns located in remote areas.
“RMB UTCT has developed beyond a sporting competition into a significant tourism and economic driver for the region. The annual RMB Ultra-trail Cape Town brings an estimated R150 million to the local economy, demonstrating its substantial financial impact on Cape Town and the Western Cape province.”
McConnachie added that since its founding in 2014, RMB UTCT has evolved from a single vision to become one of the globe's most significant ultra-marathon competitions.
“The event now forms part of the prestigious World Trail Majors series, positioning it alongside the world’s most coveted trail running events.”
McConnachie said that RMB UTCT's current participation has approximately 2,800 runners across six distance options.
“International participation: 35% of participants (roughly 1,000 runners) from 55+ countries. Local participation: 65% South African runners (approximately 1,800 participants). International visitors: Over 400 international visitors recorded for the 2023 edition alone.”
McConnachie added that trail running has emerged as one of the fastest-growing sports globally and in South Africa, driven by its accessibility, connection to nature, and inclusive community atmosphere.
Key Global Statistics according to well-known sports businesses on trail running:
- 231% growth in participation over the past decade (RunRepeat)
- 2,394% growth over the past 20 years (RunRepeat)
- $7.3 billion (R124 billion) market in 2022, projected to reach $12.4 billion (R211 billion) by 2032 (Sports Destination Management)
McConnachie said that trail running is growing rapidly and can be measured against well-known ultra-distance races in South Africa.
“Road races like Comrades and Two Oceans are mature, well-established events with stable, high participation (20,000+ for Comrades, 27,000+ total for Two Oceans). They continue to sell out but represent steady rather than explosive growth. Trail running is growing much faster percentage-wise (231% over 10 years globally, tripled events in SA), but from a much smaller base. It’s attracting runners seeking new challenges, nature experiences, and less structured racing environments.”
McConnachie added that rather than competing, they’re complementary: many trail runners also do road races, and South Africa's strong road running culture has actually helped fuel trail running growth.
“The growth in trail running may partly be driven by road runners seeking more extreme challenges beyond traditional marathons.”
McConnachie said that RMB's headline sponsorship has been major for Cape Trail and Drakensberg Trail.
“The partnership includes RMB Ultra-trail Cape Town, scheduled for November 22-24, 2024, with RMB Ultra-trail Drakensberg set for April 24-26, 2026. This headline sponsorship by RMB represents a significant milestone in the development of South African ultra-trail running, providing the financial backing and corporate support necessary to elevate these events to world-class standards whilst ensuring their long-term sustainability.”
McConnachie added that they anticipate these events will inject millions of rands into the local economies.
“Beyond the immediate economic benefits, the global exposure will have long-lasting effects on our tourism industry, highlighting South Africa as a must-visit destination for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.”
McConnachie said that this year RMB Ultra Trail Cape Town (RMB UTCT) has announced a substantial 50% increase in prize money for its 2025 edition, elevating the total prize purse from R502,500 to R755,500.
“The announcement establishes RMB UTCT as having the highest total prize purse for trail running in South Africa, reinforcing its position as one of the continent's most prestigious ultra-marathon competitions.”
McConnachie added that ultra-trail running isn’t just a sport; it’s a journey of self-discovery.
“Our courses through Table Mountain and the Drakensberg will push runners to their limits whilst surrounding them with some of the most awe-inspiring scenery on the planet. From the iconic flat-topped Table Mountain overlooking the Atlantic Ocean to the jagged peaks and hidden valleys of the Drakensberg, these routes offer a true test of endurance and willpower.”