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Two Oceans 2027 countdown begins as Blue Number entries open

Adnaan MohamedNews, Totalsports Two Oceans MarathonLeave a Comment on Two Oceans 2027 countdown begins as Blue Number entries open
By Adnaan Mohamed

The race to the 2027 Totalsports TWO OCEANS MARATHON powered by BYD is underway, with Yellow and Blue Number Club members given the first opportunity to secure their place before the public ballot opens next month.

The priority entry window opened at 10:00 on 15 July and closes at 22:00 on Wednesday, 22 July, giving the event’s most loyal runners the first opportunity to secure a place in either the 56km Ultra Marathon or the 21.1km Half Marathon.

Totalsports TWO OCEANS MARATHON powered by BYD photo credit Devin Paisley

Two Oceans Marathon NPC chairperson Chris Goldschmidt said the exclusive entry period recognises runners who have played a significant role in building the race’s legacy.

“The opening of the Yellow and BNC entry window is always a special milestone in our journey to race day,” said Goldschmidt.

“It is our way of recognising and rewarding the loyalty of runners who have embraced the spirit and tradition of the Totalsports TWO OCEANS MARATHON powered by BYD over many years. We are proud to welcome these dedicated members back first as we begin the countdown to another unforgettable edition of the world’s most beautiful marathon.”

Event director Wade Bromfield described the opening of entries as the first major milestone on the road to race weekend in April next year.

“The exclusive Yellow and BNC entry period marks the first major milestone on the road to the 2027 Totalsports TWO OCEANS MARATHON powered by BYD. We encourage all eligible members to take advantage of this dedicated entry window and secure their place early.

“While our team has been hard at work behind the scenes for some time, there is always a special sense of excitement when we can officially welcome our loyal Yellow and BNC members on the journey to race day. We look forward to seeing them back on the start line next April.”

Eligible Yellow and Blue Number Club members can enter through the official Two Oceans Marathon website by selecting the entry option for either the Half Marathon or Ultra Marathon.

Totalsports TWO OCEANS MARATHON powered by BYD photo credit Devin Paisley

The general ballot for both races opens on 5 August 2026.

The 2027 event programme begins with the 8km Night Run on Wednesday, 31 March, followed by the 4.5km International Friendship Run on 1 April and the Trail Run on 2 April.

The Half Marathon will be held on Saturday, 3 April, with a capacity of 21,000 runners, while the iconic 56km Ultra Marathon takes place on Sunday, 4 April, with an identical field limit of 21,000 participants.

Entries for the Night Run, International Friendship Run and Trail Run open on 3 August 2026.

Totalsports TWO OCEANS MARATHON powered by BYD photo credit Devin Paisley

The Half Marathon entry fee is R450 for licensed South African athletes, while licensed local runners will pay R840 to enter the Ultra Marathon. International and Rest of Africa entry fees are payable in pounds sterling and remain subject to the prevailing exchange rate at the time of payment.

To Enter: Yellow and BNC members can go to the website www.twooceansmarathon.org.za and click the ENTER HERE button for either the Half or Ultra Marathon or go directly to https://enter.twooceansmarathon.org.za/two-oceans-2027/entry-windows

Discovery Bank opens historic pre-sale for Two Oceans Marathon 2027

Adnaan MohamedEvent Update!, Features, News, Totalsports Two Oceans MarathonLeave a Comment on Discovery Bank opens historic pre-sale for Two Oceans Marathon 2027
By Adnaan Mohamed

The Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon powered by BYD has rewritten its entry playbook. Discovery’s new partnership introduces the event’s first-ever preferential entry window, rewarding qualifying Discovery Bank clients with an early shot at the coveted start line.

Discovery has been announced as the Official Health, Wellness and Banking Sponsor of the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon powered by BYD, introducing a range of benefits designed to support runners from registration through to the finish line.

The headline announcement is a historic first for the event. Qualifying Discovery Bank clients will enjoy an exclusive preferential entry window from 10:00 on 28 July until 09:59 on 31 July 2026. A limited allocation of entries will be available on a first come, first served basis before the public ballot opens on 5 August.

For one of South Africa’s most oversubscribed races, that early access offers runners greater certainty as they prepare for one of the country’s most iconic endurance experiences.

Seen at the official launch on Thursday 09 July 2026 (from left to right): Wade Bromfield (Event Director of the Totalsports TWO OCEANS MARATHON powered by BYD), Firoze Bhorat (CMO, Discovery), Gerda Steyn (South African marathon and ultramarathon athlete, and seven-time winner of the Totalsports TWO OCEANS MARATHON powered by BYD), Celeste Williams (Head of marketing for Vitality and Sponsorships) and Dinesh Govender (CEO of Vitality).

Discovery Chief Marketing Officer Firoze Bhorat said the partnership builds on the bank’s commitment to rewarding healthy lifestyles with meaningful experiences.

“This first-ever early access opportunity for the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon powered by BYD is a natural extension of that promise, giving qualifying clients a genuine head start on securing a place at one of the country’s most sought-after races,” he said.

The rewards continue well beyond registration. Discovery Vitality members who complete race week events, including the Night Run, Trail Runs, Half Marathon and Ultra Marathon, will earn Vitality points, with Ultra Marathon finishers receiving 3,000 Vitality points plus a 500-point bonus.

Participants can also benefit from discounts on official race merchandise through Vitality Active Gear, reduced gym membership offers, travel savings and wellness rewards designed to support every stage of their preparation.

“We are proud to partner with Discovery, a brand that shares our passion for encouraging healthier, more active lifestyles,” said Event Director Wade Bromfield. “The Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon is about more than race day. It inspires people to set ambitious goals, prepare with purpose and celebrate their achievements.”

Chairperson Chris Goldschmidt added that Discovery’s long-standing commitment to health and wellbeing makes it a natural partner for an event that celebrates perseverance, achievement and the joy of running.

The partnership arrives during an exciting period of growth for the event. Both the 56km Ultra Marathon and the 21.1km Half Marathon will accommodate 21,000 runners in 2027, creating opportunities for thousands more participants to experience the spectacular Cape Peninsula route.

From its humble beginnings in 1970 with only 26 runners, the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon has grown into one of the world’s premier road running events, welcoming athletes from almost 100 countries while making a significant contribution to the Western Cape economy.

As South Africa’s running community continues to flourish, the collaboration between Discovery and the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon reflects a shared vision of making healthy living more accessible, more rewarding and more enjoyable. For runners chasing a personal best, a first finish or a lifelong dream, every step towards April 2027 now comes with even greater support.

Two Oceans Ultra strikes gold with IAU honour

Adnaan MohamedComrades Marathon, Features, NewsLeave a Comment on Two Oceans Ultra strikes gold with IAU honour

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.

Totalsports TWO OCEANS MARATHON powered by BYD photo by Tobias Ginsberg

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.”

Totalsports TWO OCEANS MARATHON powered by BYD photo by Mark Sampson

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

Totalsports TWO OCEANS MARATHON powered by BYD photo credit Chris Hitchcock
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

Two Oceans Marathon 2027 gets a turbo boost

Adnaan MohamedFeatures, Totalsports Two Oceans MarathonLeave a Comment on Two Oceans Marathon 2027 gets a turbo boost
By Adnaan Mohamed

The Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon powered by BYD is preparing to stretch its stride in 2027, unveiling a revamped Event Week and a dramatic increase in entry capacity that could turn Cape Town into an even bigger running carnival.

From 31 March to 4 April 2027, the race dubbed the “World’s Most Beautiful Marathon” will feature a five-day festival of footfalls, including an 8km Night Run, International Friendship Run, Trail Run, Half Marathon and the iconic 56km Ultra Marathon.

In a significant shift, the Totalsports Two Oceans Half Marathon will take place on Saturday, 3 April, while the Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon returns to its traditional Sunday slot on 4 April as the grand finale.

Totalsports TWO OCEANS ULTRA MARATHON powered by BYD by Devin Paisley

The biggest headline is the swelling field sizes. The Half Marathon will grow from 17,000 to 21,000 runners, while the Ultra Marathon will leap from 14,000 to 21,000 participants. Like a river breaking through a narrow gorge after heavy rain, the expansion opens the gates for thousands more athletes to chase the ocean breeze and the coveted medal.

“We are excited to unveil a revitalised Event Week format for 2027 that will transform the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon into an even bigger celebration of running, community and camaraderie,” said Chris Goldschmidt, chairperson of the TWO OCEANS MARATHON NPC.

Goldschmidt said the new schedule gives each event “its own moment to shine” while preserving the race’s rich traditions and legacy.

Event director Wade Bromfield described the 2027 edition as “a major milestone”, adding that the increased capacity reflects the event’s continued growth and its commitment to making the experience accessible to more runners.

The University of Cape Town campus will remain the race’s home in 2027 and 2028, providing what organisers called a “supreme backdrop” with world-class facilities and easy accessibility.

Totalsports TWO OCEANS MARATHON Trail Run powered by BYD photo by David Sullivan

For runners, the announcement is likely to land like the ringing of a starting gun. The Ultra Marathon has long been one of South Africa’s most sought-after road races, with ballot systems and qualifying standards often leaving hopeful entrants pounding the pavement of disappointment.

There is also a touch of irony in the expansion. While many major races around the world wrestle with congestion and logistical headaches, Two Oceans is effectively adding another small town’s worth of runners to its start lines. It is a controlled stampede, a carefully choreographed avalanche of ambition.

The 2027 programme begins with the Night Run on 31 March, followed by the International Friendship Run on 1 April and the Trail Run on 2 April. Entries for the Night Run, Friendship Run and Trail Run open on 3 August 2026. Blue Number Club entries for the Half and Ultra open from 15 to 22 July 2026, with the public ballot opening on 5 August 2026.

If Cape Town’s roads could speak, they would probably be lacing up their shoes already.

Totalsports TWO OCEANS ULTRA MARATHON powered by BYD by Tobias Ginsberg

Springbok front-row giants embrace endurance at Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon

Adnaan MohamedNewsLeave a Comment on Springbok front-row giants embrace endurance at Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon
By Adnaan Mohamed

Front-row forwards are rarely associated with distance running. Tighthead props are built like granite pillars for the scrum rather than the endless rhythm of road racing. Yet two former Springbok giants have embraced a different test of endurance.

Former 1995 Rugby World Cup winner Marius Hurter and ex-Springbok prop Eddie Andrews will line up at the 2026 Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon powered by BYD over the weekend of the 11 and 12 April in Cape Town, chasing finish lines on roads that wind between ocean views and mountain climbs.

Hurter will again tackle the demanding 56km ultra marathon on Saturday 11 April, while Andrews returns for his sixth 21km half marathon the following day.

Both men once weighed more than 130kg while anchoring the Springbok scrum. Today they measure progress through kilometres rather than collisions.

Hurter, affectionately known as the ‘Hurternator’, now weighs around 103kg after shedding more than 30kg through endurance sport.

Marius Hurter crossing the TTOM 56km finish in 2026 by Action Photo

“My rugby career finished in 2006, but being from a military household I was used to exercise from a very young age,” Hurter said.

His mindset was forged during his youth.

“When I was about 15, I told my dad I wanted to be a paratrooper. He said, ‘You’re too soft, man. You’ll never be a paratrooper.’ That afternoon he came home with a two-metre pole and told me every morning before school I had to jog around the block with it, then do push-ups, sit-ups and pull-ups.”

That discipline carried him through a career that now includes nine finishes in the Absa Cape Epic, multiple Ironman triathlons, the Two Oceans and Comrades Marathon as well as the Ultra Trail Cape Town (UTCT) 100-Miler (160km) race.

“I must say, being a prop, I like a bit of suffering,” he said.

“This stuff is hard on the body, but a lot of it comes down to mental toughness. Your physique is one thing, but it’s this little thing between your ears that runs the whole operation.”

This year’s Two Oceans Ultra carries special meaning as Hurter will run alongside his eldest daughter Annalien in her first ultra marathon.

“I told them if you start something, you finish it,” he said.

For Andrews, who currently serves as the Deputy Mayor of Cape Town, the running journey began with a modest first step in 2016.

“A journey of a thousand miles starts in the first step,” he said. “My running journey started in 2016 with Parkrun. Run, walk or crawl.”

The former Bok strongman, who played 23 Tests between 2004 and 2007, now views running as both challenge and community.

“Yes, this is part of my prep for the Two Oceans Half Marathon,” Andrews said after a recent 15km race. “It was my first road race back over the shorter distances.”

Even seasoned runners feel the strain in the closing kilometres.

“You know, fighting some demons at the end there but it’s all about crossing that line no matter the pace. It’s about finishing the race.”

The 2026 race will mark Andrews’ sixth appearance in the half marathon and move him closer to the coveted Blue Number awarded for ten finishes.

“This is my sixth Two Oceans Half,” he said. “Yes, I am almost there. I’m going to go for it.”

He believes other former rugby players should follow the same path.

“This is a challenge to all ex-Springbok rugby players to do it as well,” Andrews said. “Run the races, be in the community of runners and have other conversations.”

For two men once defined by scrums and collisions, the open road now offers a different contest where endurance, patience and belief carry the day.

Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon secures BYD as presenting sponsor

Adnaan MohamedNews, Totalsports Two Oceans MarathonLeave a Comment on Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon secures BYD as presenting sponsor
By Adnaan Mohamed

The Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon has entered a new phase after global electric vehicle manufacturer BYD was announced as the race’s official presenting sponsor from 2026.

The partnership marks the first time in the event’s history that the Cape Town race will have a presenting sponsor. The event will now be known as the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon powered by BYD.

Organisers believe the agreement strengthens efforts to elevate the race and align it with sustainability initiatives.

“This is a proud and exciting moment for us as we welcome BYD as Presenting Sponsor of the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon from 2026, with the event now officially known as the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon powered by BYD,” said Two Oceans Marathon NPC chairperson Chris Goldschmidt.

“This partnership reflects a shared commitment to excellence, innovation and community. BYD’s leadership in new energy vehicles, including advanced electric mobility solutions, aligns strongly with our vision for a more sustainable future.”

The race, widely known as the “World’s Most Beautiful Marathon”, winds through the Cape Peninsula and attracts thousands of local and international runners each year.

According to race general manager Wade Bromfield, securing a presenting sponsor represents a key milestone in the organisation’s long-term strategy.

“From the outset, our ambition has been to restore and elevate the World’s Most Beautiful Marathon to its former glory. Securing our first-ever Presenting Sponsor marks a major milestone in that journey,” said Bromfield.

“With BYD’s innovation and energy behind us, we are proud to power the next era of the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon.”

BYD is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of new energy vehicles, including electric cars, and develops advanced battery technology aimed at reducing emissions. The company is listed on the Hong Kong and Shenzhen stock exchanges.

The Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon has announced BYD as its Official Presenting Sponsor in a landmark collaboration that will see one of the world’s leading electric vehicle manufacturers Power one of South Africa’s most iconic endurance events. PHOTO: Adnaan Mohamed

BYD South Africa marketing director for the Middle East and Africa region Nomonde Kweyi said the partnership reflects the company’s commitment to innovation and sustainability.

“As a brand committed to innovation, sustainability, and enhancing everyday mobility, we see tremendous alignment with an event that inspires endurance, passion and progress,” said Kweyi.

“This partnership gives us a unique platform to showcase how clean, efficient and future-focused mobility can enhance major events.”

Kweyi added that runners and spectators will see the brand’s vehicles integrated into the race experience.

“Runners and spectators can look forward to experiencing our vehicles up close from lead and support cars on race day to interactive displays and engagements in the lead-up to the event. We are excited to bring our technology, energy and innovation to the running community.”

The 2026 event programme will include the International Friendship Run on 9 April, the Trail Run on 10 April, the Ultra Marathon on 11 April and the Half Marathon on 12 April.