Woman dies after tree falls at Slave Route Challenge

A woman has died after a tree fell on her while she was running the 2025 Slave Route Challenge on Sunday.

Event organisers said the tragic incident took place along the race route in the Company’s Garden area, striking the woman.

“Emergency services responded swiftly and transported the runner to hospital, where she sadly succumbed to her injuries. On behalf of the Slave Route Challenge Organising Committee, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the runner’s family, friends, and loved ones.

“This is a devastating loss, and we are holding her family in our thoughts during this profoundly difficult time,” organisers said.

Organisers added that the safety and well-being of every participant remains a top priority.

“All safety and security protocols were observed and implemented ahead of the event in close collaboration with the City of Cape Town and emergency services.

“This was a tragic and unforeseeable accident, and we are working closely with the relevant authorities to fully understand the circumstances surrounding it. Out of respect, we will not be releasing any further details,” event organisers said. 

Organisers further asked that the runners’ family be respected at this time. 

“The Slave Route Challenge is an event rooted in history, community, and resilience and today, we carry the memory of one of our own with us. We mourn her loss together as community,” organisers said.

In a statement, the City of Cape Town extended its condolences to the runner’s family.

“This is a deeply tragic incident. We are working closely with the event organisers and the South African Police Service to fully understand the circumstances surrounding the incident,” the CoCT said.

Cape Argus