Tom Cottrell

The Runner’s Guide has been an integral part of the South African running scene for over thirty years. Ask any road runner at a race if they have used a copy of Tom’s book, and they will nod, often times enthusiastically. Rewritten and updated annually, the Guide has formed a substantial part of the backbone of racing information in South Africa.

Over these years the data provided by Tom has been consistent and accurate. Date, times and venues are standard and are a given. Contact names and numbers and distances are items you’d expect from any fixtures list. But Tom goes further, much further. Almost all the routes are graded 1-5, one being easy and five very difficult. Most of the big races have detailed course descriptions along with profile graphics. Entry details form part of any runner’s planning and these are set out fully. His editor’s notes cover race history, facilities and anecdotes that make up the rich tapestry of this beloved sport.  

The method of delivery has changed over the publication’s lifetime. In the mid 1990’s the first attempt at a website was made. It went through numerous names and iterations before it arrived at a steady destination.  Today runnersguide.co.za is without peer when it comes to offering South African race information. By 2013 Tom starting experimenting with apps, with a view to putting the Runners’ Guide book onto a runner’s phone.

His persistence and patience paid off, and already by 2015 the number of app downloads had exceeded book sales. South Africa’s running community had spoken, they liked the digital format. This year it is even easier to get the Runners’ Guide app and download it onto your phone.  The QR code is widely available wherever runners meet.

Features like maps to get to the start and online entries come standard with the app. Strava links also make up for a comprehensive outline of South African events.

The app is available on

Android Here

Apple Here

Download on your phone using this QR code.