Dolphin Coast Striders

Founded in 1986, the Dolphin Coast Striders (DCS) has grown from a small group of passionate runners into one of the most recognised clubs on the KwaZulu-Natal North Coast. Today, with over 500 members, its legacy is defined not only by the kilometres run, but by lives changed.

Built on camaraderie, perseverance, and inclusivity, DCS has always created a space where everyone belongs – from first-time runners to seasoned ultramarathon athletes. That ethos remains central, supported by strong leadership, an active committee, and a community that shows up week after week.

At the heart of the club’s calendar is the Balwin Dolphin Coast Marathon, a flagship event attracting over 6,000 runners annually. Held each March, it showcases not only the club’s organisational strength, but also its spirit, with members volunteering to help one another on race day.

Beyond the big events, it is the consistent rhythm of weekly activity that defines the club. Thursday time trials, open to both members and non-members, offer 4km and 8km routes for runners of all levels from the clubhouse on Ocean Drive, Ballito. Monthly club nights bring the “Pod Squad” together in a more social setting, where the bar heaves, local businesses sponsor prizes, and the community connects beyond the run.

Members benefit from a structured training programme developed by club captain Nic Acampora, catering to all distances, from 10km to ultramarathons like the Comrades. Regular group runs, organised and supported by the club, provide a level of guidance and accountability that sets DCS apart. There are not many clubs in the country that have seconded long runs on any given weekend, something that is unique and special to being a dolphin.

One of the club’s most impactful initiatives is the KICKSTART “From Couch to 10km in 10 Weeks” programme. Designed for beginners, it offers a reinforcing introduction to running. The programme runs twice a year, with the first group of Kickstarters recently “graduating” at the Durban City Marathon 10km run in April. The next programme is set to start in August. Participants often arrive with little experience and leave having completed their first 10km, with many continuing to become committed members and even ultramarathon runners.

Kerry Beamish is one such story. After moving to Salt Rock three years ago, she joined Kickstart in search of connection. Two years later, she has completed multiple marathons, Two Oceans, and Comrades, and has recently completed the London Marathon. For Kerry, the real transformation was not just physical, but in finding a community that made her feel at home.

For Barry Holland, running has been a lifelong journey of leadership and legacy. A respected figure in the club and a Comrades runner, Barry has played a pivotal role in shaping DCS – as Race Director of the Dolphin Coast Marathon – and was most recently named an Honorary Life Member of the club. His dedication behind the scenes has helped inspire runners across generations and mentor a new generation of athletes.

DCS has a strong commitment to developing runners, ensuring that talented athletes who may not have the financial means or mentorship to pursue their dreams are given the assistance to do so. This commitment to growth and development extends further through the Dolphin Coast Distance Project (DCDP), launched this year in partnership with Curro Salt Rock. Focused on youth development, the initiative aims to provide young athletes with the structure and support needed to reach their full potential.

DCS has also recently welcomed its first elite runner, Annie Bothma, an indication of the club’s growing depth and presence on a national competitive level. Annie has recently been crowned the South African Marathon Champion, with an incredible time of 2:27:45.

As the club looks ahead, its focus remains clear: to grow participation, nurture talent, and preserve the inclusive culture that has defined it for 40 years. Because at Dolphin Coast Striders, it’s never just about running. It’s about the Pod, the journey, the people, and the community that carries them.

Words by: Nicola Muir

Photo Credit: Shannon Clark & Rudi Brown
Instagram: dolphincoaststriders