Underberg, Drakensberg, Tuesday 04 November 2025; The iconic Sani Stagger returns this weekend, Saturday 08 November 2025, bringing one of South Africa's most challenging and scenic running festivals to the breathtaking Southern Drakensberg. After selling out all five distances on offer, over 1,500 runners will descend on the Maloti-Drakensberg World Heritage Site for a festival of running that spans road, trail, and gravel.
Sani Stagger 2025 presented by RRIB Set to Challenge Over 1,500 Runners Across Five Events.
"The excitement ahead of this weekend is palpable," says Spurgeon Flemington, Race Director and owner of Running Man Adventures. "The commitment and loyalty of the Stagger runners to the event is phenomenal, and we are ready to deliver an unforgettable experience across all five races."
New Partnerships Elevate the Experience
Now in its milestone year, the Sani Stagger includes five distinct events: the legendary 42.2km Sani Stagger Marathon (South Africa's steepest marathon), the scenic 21.1km Down Run, the challenging Stagger Trail (38km and 21km options) and the 16km Stagger Gravel presented by Salomon which showcases the spectacular gravel section of the Pass above the SA Border Post. Stagger Gravel represents the evolution of the Sani Stagger as it continues to evolve – a short, sharp blast on the Pass that dovetails perfectly with the existing distances.
Additionally, the event has secured further sponsorship. RRIB (Reid Raetzer Insurance Brokers) joins as the presenting sponsor of the event marathon, supercharging the prize purse and introducing the coveted R30,000 RRIB bonus for sub-3-hour men or sub-3:30 women in the marathon. Red Bull amplifies the challenge with their Final Phase concept: a high-intensity 1km section on the Pass itself that will push runners to their absolute limits.
"To have iconic brands like RRIB, Salomon, and Red Bull join forces with Sani Stagger is a tremendous coup," says Flemington. "They share our values of community, excellence, and pushing boundaries.
2024 Champions Return to Defend Their Titles
Most of the 2024 podiums will be toeing the Start Lines of the various races, and the depth of the field across all 5 events is substantial. "We are anticipating some incredibly competitive racing across all distances," Flemington adds. "Last year's results showed the level of talent we attract, and this year we expect even faster times and closer battles for the podiums. We are hoping that the R30K prize sponsored by RRIB for a sub 3hr marathon in the men's and a sub 3:30hr in the ladies' really breaks the shackles in the flagship event."
Running for a Cause
Beyond the athletic challenge, the Sani Stagger remains committed to environmental conservation. Running Man Adventures works closely with event beneficiaries Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife and the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT), with funds raised directed at projects benefiting the local area and its wild inhabitants.
"Our passion extends beyond the events to the environment in which we work and live," Flemington emphasises. "Every runner who participates is contributing to the conservation of this magnificent wilderness area. That is something we are incredibly proud of."
Event Day Details
Registration takes place on Friday, 7 November at Underberg Country Club from 11 am to 8 pm. All events will take place on Saturday, 08 November 2025, with staggered start times from 05:30. Race village activities will be centred at Premier Resort Sani Pass.
"We are expecting, hoping for perfect conditions and an electric atmosphere," concludes Flemington. "The Sani Stagger is more than just a race – it is a celebration of running, nature, and the incredible spirit of our mountain community. We cannot wait to see everyone on the start line this weekend."
