The route kicks off from Kings Park Athletics Track with a flat run into Durban’s CBD between the sheltered buildings in Pine Street. Onward first to Albert Park followed by a sprint down the palm lined majesty of the Victoria Embankment. This is the Durban of old; tall stately buildings overlook the Royal Natal Yacht Club and Dick King’s statue. Further out is the Bay of Natal and a busy harbour. Ships replenish themselves, here water tables provide refreshment. Before you know it you are in Point. Take a sharp left turn into Bell Street, this speedy course races off to the Ushaka Marine World.

It is the turn of the Golden Mile to greet you. Indian Ocean waves crash on white beaches and surfers do battle of another kind around the North Beach Pier. Grand and famous beach hotels silently look on as you run through part of the Formula A1 race track and onto the boardwalk of Sun Coast Casino. Still northwards, lift your gaze, for past the Bay of Plenty, past Oasis and Tekweni Beach there is a beautiful blue ocean. On your way to Blue Lagoon, this race finally reveals its real intention, to mesmerise you.

The work of the first lap is almost complete as the course quickly leads back past the Kings Park Track and the 19-kilometre marker. The second lap, although largely similar, does have some surprises and variation as you race through the waterfront and canal area in front of Ushaka Marine. The Durban course is ideal for speed merchants and has a variance of less than 30 metres between the highest and lowest point. To be sure it is a fast race just bursting with PB potential.