Skukuza Castle Lager Half Marathon 2027
Mission Statement
The Kruger Park Marathon Club exists to champion conservation and uplift the Kruger National Park community. Through our race, we raise vital funds to support local initiatives and foster a spirit of unity and purpose. Every stride we take strengthens the bond between nature, community, and collective action.
Rules & Regulations
Entry & Logistics
Entry Cap: all entries close as soon as cap is reached or on 10 October 2026
Entry Confirmations: will be sent out by end October 2026
Substitutions Open: 1 March 2027
Number Collection: Details to be announced in April 2027
Accommodation: Visit www.krugerparkmc.co.za for options
Race Conduct
Compliance: The race adheres to ASA, World Athletics (WA), and AMPU House rules.
No Seconding or Pacing: External assistance or pacing is strictly prohibited.
Age Requirement: Athletes must be 16 years or older on race day.
Own Risk: All participants run at their own risk. Medical clearance is advised before training and participation if you have an underlining condition.
Kruger Park Indemnity: Must be signed prior to park entry.
Extreme Heat Warning: Prepare for high temperatures typical of Kruger National Park.
Earphones: Not permitted during the race.
Speakers: Not permitted during the race.
Awards & Cut-Offs
Category Winners: Must attend prize giving or arrange collection in advance. Failure to do so forfeits prize money.
Cut-Off Times:
4.5km: 35 minutes
14/15km (Staff Village): 2 hours
Final Cut-Off: 3 hours
Medals: Awarded to all finishers within 3 hours.
Spectator Guidelines
No Spectators on Public Roads
Spectators Allowed Only in the Village and indicated areas
Pre-Reservation Required for All Day Visitors on race day
Hydration & Conservation
Plastic-Free Event: No sachets will be used.
Water Stations: 7 tables on route, serving water in paper cups.
Bring Your Own Bottle: Refillable hydration bottles are encouraged to support conservation and reduce delays.
Health & Safety Reminder
Running in the Kruger National Park is a privilege—and a challenge. Please take your health seriously:
Run at Your Own Risk: All participants accept full responsibility for their health and safety.
Medical Fitness: Ensure you are medically fit to participate. If you have any pre-existing conditions, consult your healthcare provider before race day.
Hydration Is Your Responsibility: While we provide seven water tables, it’s essential to manage your own hydration—especially in high humidity.
Listen to Your Body: Be alert to any unusual pain, dizziness, or discomfort. Stop and seek help if needed.
Heat & Humidity: The park’s climate can be extreme. Train accordingly and take precautions to avoid heat-related illness.
Gate Access
Gate Times: Please refer to https://www.sanparks.org/parks/kruger/what-to-do/day-visits for opening and closing times. These will remain unchanged for race day.
Pre-Booking Required: All participants and spectators must pre-book and pay for park entry via https://www.sanparks.org/reservations/day-visits Booking need to be paid in full before entering the park and proof needs to be printed.
No Refunds: Entry payments are non-refundable. If you cannot attend, you may:
Substitute your entry on designated date (1 March 2026)
Or donate your entry fee toward conservation efforts
Wild Card Applications: https://www.sanparks.org/rewards/wild-card/overview
Temporary license/club license
At the back on the vest and the Skukuza number on the front Age category ID tags must be clearly displayed for the duration of the event (back and front) by athletes competing for a category prize AND must be fixed on all 4 corners and not be covered by rain jacket or any shirt.
For any Sponsorship opportunities please contact me on
info@krugerparkmc.co.za
We do have opportunities for the following:
Comrades support for the KNP Members
New Water table initiative support -
Prizes for race day – category winners and spot prizes
Medals for race day
Trophies for race day
Medical aid bags – support for race day
Sponsorship include advertising on our FB page and website and the opportunity to advertise on our mailing list and race day
Indemnity
I hereby indemnify the South African National Parks, the organisers, and Sponsors of the Kruger Park Marathon Club and The Skukuza Castle Lager Half Marathon that will be hosted on 1Aug 2026 against any claims, losses, or damages that I or my dependents may incur as a result of my participation in the event. All participates must take note that photographs might be taken at the event and placed on social media.