By Adnaan Mohamed
The Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon powered by BYD’s resurgence has found global recognition.
Months after delivering a widely acclaimed 2026 edition, South Africa’s flagship 56km race has been awarded the prestigious International Association of Ultrarunners (IAU) Golden Label Certificate, confirming its place among the world’s premier ultramarathons.
For an event that has spent recent years rebuilding its reputation, the accolade is more than another trophy for the cabinet. It is a global vote of confidence that places the Cape Town spectacle back among the sport’s benchmark races.
The IAU Golden Label is reserved for events that satisfy stringent international standards covering race organisation, athlete safety, elite competition, prize structures and governance.
It also reflects the transformation behind the scenes, where the Two Oceans Marathon NPC and event partner Stillwater Sports have worked to restore the shine to one of the country’s most recognisable sporting brands.
“This recognition from the International Association of Ultrarunners is a powerful endorsement of the Ultra Marathon as a world-class event,” said Two Oceans Marathon NPC chairperson Chris Goldschmidt.
“Earning the IAU Golden Label Certificate confirms that we meet the highest international standards across every aspect of the race, from organisation and athlete experience to elite competition, prize money and regulatory compliance.”
Event director Wade Bromfield credited months of meticulous planning for the achievement.
“This achievement is incredibly special for our team. After months of hard work behind the scenes, receiving the IAU Golden Label Certificate is a deeply rewarding moment for everyone involved.
“It’s a testament to the passion, commitment and attention to detail that has gone into delivering this iconic event.”
The timing is significant.
Entries for the 2027 festival open from July and August, with organisers preparing for another bumper weekend of racing that includes the Ultra Marathon, Half Marathon, Trail Runs, Night Run and International Friendship Run.
Both the 56km Ultra and the 21.1km Half Marathon will accommodate up to 21,000 runners, reinforcing the race’s standing as one of the biggest participation events on the African calendar.
The Golden Label may be the latest finish-line ribbon for Two Oceans to break, although it also raises the bar. World-class status demands world-class delivery every year.
For now, the Cape classic has earned the right to wear gold.
EVENT INFORMATION: 2027 Totalsports TWO OCEANS MARATHON powered by BYD
Wednesday 31 March 2027
Totalsports TWO OCEANS MARATHON powered by BYD / Night Run
Capacity: 5000
Distance: 8km
Entry Fee: R320.00
Entries Open: Monday 03 August 2026
Thursday 01 April 2027
Totalsports TWO OCEANS MARATHON powered by BYD / International Friendship Run
Capacity: 1500
Distance: 4.5km
Entry Fee: R 250.00
Entries Open: Monday 03 August 2026
Friday 02 April 2027
Totalsports TWO OCEANS MARATHON powered by BYD / Trail Run
Capacity: 1500
Start & Finish Venue: UCT Rugby Fields
Distance & Entry Fee: 24km / R 950.0016km / R750.00
Entries Open: Monday 03 August 2026
Saturday 03 April 2027
Totalsports TWO OCEANS HALF MARATHON powered by BYD
Capacity: 21 000
Finish Venue: UCT Rugby Fields
Distance: 21,1km
Entry Fees: Licensed SA Athletes: R450.00Unlicensed SA Athletes: R450.00 plus temp license
Entries Open: Blue Number Club (BNC): Wednesday 15 – Wednesday 22 July 2026
Ballot: Wednesday 05 August 2026
Sunday 04 April 2027
Totalsports TWO OCEANS ULTRA MARATHON powered by BYD
Capacity: 21 000
Finish Venue: UCT Rugby Fields
Distance: 56km
Entry Fees: Licensed SA Athletes: R840.00
Entries Open: Blue Number Club (BNC): Wednesday 15 – Wednesday 22 July 2026
Ballot: Wednesday 05 August 2026
