Fish Hoek Athletics Club, organisers of the 48th Timbercity Red Hill Marathon, in partnership with MANZI Water, has announced a major milestone for the 2026 edition of the race.
For the first time in South Africa, an established road marathon will operate on a complete water refill-only model across the entire route, eliminating all single-use plastic cups, water sachets and disposable bottles at MANZI Water hydration stations.
All participants, including elite athletes who often rely on seconding teams, will refill their own MANZI Water Hydration Bottles directly at the hydration stations.
A New Standard For Sustainable Road Running
The 2026 event will utilise the MANZI Water Hydration System, a purpose-built, modular structure designed specifically for high-volume endurance environments. Each hydration station will operate entirely on water refills, and every runner will receive a complimentary 500 millilitre MANZI Water Hydration Bottle. The reusable soft flask is BPA-free and designed to support efficient, safe and environmentally responsible hydration throughout the event.
This is the first time a refill-only system will be implemented across the full route of an established South African road marathon.
MANZI Water holds the full rights to the patented hydration system used for the 2026 event, which gives the company exclusive authority to operate and deploy this technology at major endurance events in South Africa. The system allows MANZI Water to implement a complete water refill-only model across all hydration stations along the route, reflecting a clear commitment to sustainability, safety and innovation. This approach supports global efforts to reduce waste at large sporting events and strengthens the movement toward more responsible race management.
Hydration Technology Designed For Race Efficiency
This approach creates a smooth, reliable and hygienic hydration experience for all participants.
Cleaner Roads And Safer Race Conditions
While carrying a soft bottle may be new for some road runners, it is widely used in trail running and becomes easy to manage with light training.
Community And Environmental Endorsement
Karoline Hanks, a well-known environmental advocate and accomplished runner from Noordhoek, has welcomed the introduction of the water refill-only system. She has been actively involved in conservation initiatives across the Cape Peninsula and has consistently encouraged communities to reduce plastic use and protect natural areas.
Speaking about the initiative, Hanks said: “I have spent many years working to protect the natural spaces of the Cape Peninsula. The shift to a water refill-only hydration system is a meaningful step that shows how sport can support environmental responsibility. I am encouraged by the leadership shown by Fish Hoek Athletics Club and MANZI Water and look forward to supporting this important initiative.”
She has been one of the leading voices behind the #ICarryMyOwn movement, which encourages runners to take responsibility for their own hydration and supports cleaner, safer and more sustainable racing. The refill-only model introduced for the 2026 event reflects the principles she has championed for many years.
A Shared Commitment To Greener Running
Fish Hoek Athletics Club has long promoted environmentally conscious race practices. The move to a refill-only model strengthens its #RunGreen initiative and reflects its commitment to reducing waste in sensitive areas.
Mark Jacobs of Fish Hoek Athletics Club said: “As we prepare for the Timbercity Red Hill Marathon, we remain committed to a plastic and sachet-free event. Building on the progress made since 2024, we are proud to move forward in January 2026. Our renewed partnership with MANZI Water increases the number of hydration stations, giving participants a seamless and sustainable experience. Every runner will receive a reusable soft flask in their goodie bag, which further supports our environmental focus. We look forward to welcoming everyone on 24 January 2026.”
A Partnership With Purpose
Alfred Challis, CEO of MANZI Water, says the collaboration reflects a shared vision for responsible hydration.
“Our purpose is rooted in providing safe, clean and accessible drinking water. Implementing a full-route refill-only model at a major road marathon is an important step for sustainability in sport. We are honoured to support an event that prioritises cleaner, safer and community-focused practices.”
Timbercity, the title sponsor, has endorsed the initiative and views this as an example that could influence future races across the country.