Inaugural Street Mile in Plett 2025
Mark your calendars for a brand-new highlight on Plettenberg Bay’s December calendar: the town’s inaugural Street Mile is set to take place on 18 December, with organizers determined to make it the stand-out event of the holiday season, further details to the event is not available yet.
Former Olympic middle-distance runner Ray Wicksell and local go-getter Nico Westraat conceived the idea, and they already have the enthusiastic backing of Bitou mayor Jessica Kamkam—herself a former runner.
Legendary South African Olympian and one-time 1,500m world record holder Sydney Maree will also be part of the occasion. Wicksell and Maree plan to visit local schools, stoking excitement for the race and promoting a love for athletics. The Plett Street Mile now officially joins the Garden Route Street Mile series, which includes races in Oudtshoorn and Hartenbos. Like its sister events, it’s expected to draw top competitors from around the country.
Westraat, who chairs the Plettenberg Bay Street Mile, emphasizes the importance of role models. “We need heroes,” he says, “and what better way to inspire the next generation than by bringing Olympic icons right here to our community?” The event’s theme, “The Community,” highlights a focus on unity—organizers want residents lining the streets, cheering for their favorite runners, and experiencing the thrill of a big-time athletic spectacle.
Mayor Kamkam has given her full support to the project, ensuring all protocols and safety measures match the standards set by the other Street Mile events. Westraat hopes this first edition will be just the beginning: “I want kids to dream big—maybe one day Plett will produce an Olympian of its own.” The long-term goal is for Plettenberg Bay to earn its reputation as the crown jewel among these triple-crown Street Mile races—showcasing not only top-tier athletics but also the vibrant community spirit that defines Plett.
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