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
The MANZI Water Hydration System includes:
• Multiple high-flow, food-grade valves that allow several runners to refill quickly;
• A ‘carry-your-own’ approach that aligns with global endurance-running trends;
• Fast refilling of the 500 millilitre soft flask in under ten seconds; and
• High-capacity water tanks at each station to ensure consistent pressure and
uninterrupted supply.
This approach creates a smooth, reliable and hygienic hydration experience for all participants.
Cleaner Roads And Safer Race Conditions
By eliminating single-use plastic cups, water sachets and disposable bottles, the model provides several benefits:
• Continuous access to safe, clean drinking water;
• A significant reduction in slipping and tripping hazards;
• Cleaner roads and surrounding natural areas; and
• A stronger culture of personal hydration responsibility.
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, Karoline said:
“I have spent many years working to protect the natural spaces of the Cape Peninsula. The shift to a water refill-only hydra@on 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.”
Karoline 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 commiLed to a plas@c 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 priori@ses 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. Further event details are available through Fish Hoek Athletics Club and race entries are accessible via EntryNinja.
Media Enquiries:
Anneke Burns
Publicist for MANZI Water
071 423 0079
anneke@manzi.co.za
www.manzi.co.za
About MANZI Water
With more than 120 trusted outlets across South Africa, MANZI Water offers a wide range of beverages and affordable, environmentally friendly water refill solutions, bringing safe, clean drinking water to the heart of every community.