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Yazi captured the voices of 500+ runners after the Cape Town Marathon 2025 was cancelled just hours before the start. Discover what runners really thought — and how WhatsApp-based research revealed insights traditional surveys couldn’t.
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A rapid-response examination of runner sentiment and perspectives following the Cape Town Marathon 2025 cancellation. Deployed within 10 hours of the event cancellation, this comprehensive analysis reveals critical insights into communication failures, emotional impact, and strategic recovery opportunities for South Africa's premier marathon event.
Based on real WhatsApp conversational survey data from 518 completed responses, this report reveals the hidden patterns driving runner frustration—and the strategic opportunities organisers are missing to rebuild trust before 2026.
What You'll Discover in This Report
Runner Sentiment AnalysisQuantitative breakdown of 518 responses across 5 questions, revealing that 67% would have run if given a choice—challenging the cancellation narrative entirely.
Geographic Impact PatternsCity-by-city analysis showing Cape Town locals are 61% committed to returning while Pretoria shows only 31%—critical for recovery strategy targeting.
Communication BreakdownDetailed thematic analysis of what went wrong: 40% wanted delayed starts, 20% cite communication failures, and why "safety reasons" messaging backfired.
International PerspectivesDirect quotes from USA, Netherlands, Kenya, and UK runners revealing the tourism and reputational damage—and what it takes to win them back.
The Resolution RoadmapWhat 518 runners actually want (not what you think): 37% priority entry, 23% refunds, creative solutions like virtual race options.
Strategic RecommendationsSix evidence-based protocols for 2026 including delayed start procedures, infrastructure requirements, and communication frameworks tested against runner expectations.
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About This Research
Conducted by Yazi Research, a Cape Town-based firm specializing in rapid-response WhatsApp research. This study was self-funded to give runners a voice in the narrative and demonstrate how mobile-first technology can capture authentic perspectives when timing is critical.
Yazi's platform enables organizations to gather real-time insights in crisis moments—delivering actionable data within hours, not weeks.
Research Timeline: October 19-21, 2025 (10 hours to deployment)
Sample: 518 registered runners affected by the cancellation
Method: WhatsApp-based mobile survey with mixed quantitative (multiple choice) and qualitative (open-ended) questions
Distribution: Social media campaigns (LinkedIn, Instagram), running club WhatsApp groups, and organic runner networks
Incentive: R5,000 travel reimbursement (random draw) acknowledging financial losses
Independence: Self-funded research with no commercial relationship to race organisers or sponsors
