The journey to running a marathon begins long before race day. It starts with the courage to try. To put one foot in front of the other, relentlessly, day after day. It means carving out time in busy schedules, believing in yourself through every high and low, and building a support system to help you get there. Marathon running may seem like a solo sport, but in truth it takes a village. 

And crossing that finish line? It’s an achievement that transcends race day itself. It’s about far more than just the medal. It’s about everything else: the struggle, the triumph, and the transformation that comes with taking on the challenge.

This campaign tells the stories of three individuals. Shawn-lee Carlse, who overcame addiction and forged a new path through running, ultimately building not just a community, but a new identity. Jaide Jacobs, who proved that marathon running is for everyone, even the slow and steady, and created a safe space for dreamers to chase audacious goals together. And Cocecka Quomiyana, who discovered that the universal language of running helped her transition from the rural Eastern Cape to the bustling streets of Cape Town, connecting her to a powerful community of go-getters who helped shape her future.

Share your story with us

It’s a given really that behind every marathon finish, there’s a story that got you there. What’s your #NotJustAMedal story?

From the 4th of April 2025 to 30th of April 2025, we’re running the #NotJustAMedal competition, and we want to hear how running has changed your life.

How to Enter:

• Share your story on Instagram or Facebook and tell us how marathon running has impacted you.
• Tag us, Sanlam, adidas, Named, and Woolworths in your post. 
• Use #NotJustAMedal in your caption.
• Make sure your profile or post is public so we can see it!

What You Can Win*:

Grand Prize:

• Full adidas kit
• Sanlam Satrix investment account with R5,000 loaded
• R1,000 Woolworths voucher
• Free entry + VIP start line access
• Named sport nutrition hamper

Two Runners-Up Will Receive:

• R1,000 Woolworths voucher
• Free entry + VIP start line access
• Named sport nutrition hamper
• adidas running visor

The winners will be selected on May 2. Whether it’s your first marathon or your fiftieth, we can’t wait to hear your #NotJustAMedal story. 

*Ts & Cs apply.