37-YEAR-OLD RUNNER DIES AFTER COLLAPSING DURING KAAPSEHOOP MARATHON

A 37-year-old runner, Antonie van Zijl died after collapsing during the 2026 Tswelopele Kaapsehoop 4-in-1 Marathon in Mpumalanga on Saturday, 7 November 2026.

Van Zijl was participating in the 21km race when he reportedly collapsed mid-race, prompting an emergency response from medical personnel.

Medical responders arrived at the scene within minutes and immediately began resuscitation efforts. iSecure Managing Director, Dewald Strydom, confirmed that his team received the emergency call at 09:16am and rushed to assist the runner.

"I can confirm that we did resuscitate a male patient and provided all necessary treatment and techniques to ensure a positive outcome. Unfortunately, after 45 minutes, there was no improvement and resuscitation efforts had to be stopped. He was then declared dead at the scene," said Strydom.

The Nelspruit Marathon Club confirmed Van Zijl's passing and appealed to the public and fellow runners to respect the family's privacy as they come to terms with their loss.

Following the tragic news, runners and members of the broader running community took to social media to express their condolences, sharing messages of sympathy and support for the bereaved family.

His death has cast a shadow over the annual marathon, which attracts runners from different parts of the country.