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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.

Mosiako in top form ahead of 2026 Totalsports Two Oceans half marathon showdown

Adnaan MohamedFeatures, News, Totalsports Two Oceans MarathonLeave a Comment on Mosiako in top form ahead of 2026 Totalsports Two Oceans half marathon showdown
By Adnaan Mohamed

Thabang Mosiako has timed his run into form with precision ahead of the Totalsports Two Oceans Half Marathon on 12 April, delivering back-to-back performances that underline his intent to challenge for the title in Cape Town.

The Nedbank Running Club athlete produced a commanding victory at the Phakamile Mabija Human Rights Half Marathon in Kimberley, clocking 1:04:37 to set a new course record. He finished 1 minute and 23 seconds clear of teammate Joel Mmone.

“What a great race,” said Mosiako. “The road was smooth and safe, it was well organised and everything was indeed perfect. Overall, I am happy with my performance.”

That result followed a strong showing at the Paris Half Marathon on 8 March, where he ran 1:00:44 to finish third, the third fastest 21km time of his career.

The 31-year-old, who is the 2023 South African half marathon champion and one of the country’s fastest ever over the distance, believes improved race management has played a key role in his current form following his recent marathon campaigns.

“I think this time around I was smarter after my second marathon. I took enough rest, that’s why I didn’t struggle with the buildup phase and that led me to the shape I have now.”

Mosiako will return to Cape Town aiming to improve on last year’s fifth-place finish and replicate his victory in 2024.

“I’m going for the Two Oceans Half Marathon again to correct the mistake I made last year,” he said. “I’m just praying to remain injury free and to have consistency in training. I’m really happy about what’s coming my way.”

Two Oceans Marathon NPC chairperson Chris Goldschmidt believes Mosiako will be among the leading contenders.

“We’ve been watching Thabang Mosiako’s recent performances with great interest. His form in the lead-up to the Totalsports Two Oceans Half Marathon powered by BYD certainly suggests that he is ready to challenge strongly for the title again. With athletes of this calibre lining up, we can expect an exciting and highly competitive race on 12 April.”

Race general manager Wade Bromfield echoed those sentiments.

“Thabang has shown impressive determination since finishing sixth last year, and his recent results indicate that he’ll arrive at the start line full of confidence. Performances like these add to the anticipation surrounding the Totalsports Two Oceans Half Marathon powered by BYD, and we’re looking forward to seeing how the race unfolds with such a strong field competing for top honours.”

The 2026 event carries a combined prize purse of R2.6 million, with the half marathon offering R422 600, adding further incentive to an already competitive field.

Event Information

  • Thursday, 9 April: International Friendship Run
  • Friday, 10 April: Trail Run (07:00)
  • Saturday, 11 April: Ultra Marathon (05:15)
  • Sunday, 12 April: Half Marathon (06:15)

Total Prize Purse (2026): R2.6 million

  • Ultra Marathon: R2 177 400
  • Half Marathon: R422 600

Running beyond age at Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon 2026

Adnaan MohamedNews, Totalsports Two Oceans MarathonLeave a Comment on Running beyond age at Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon 2026
By Adnaan Mohamed

At the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon, the Blue Number Club (BNC) is living proof that endurance doesn’t fade, it evolves. In 2026, more than 3 100 BNC members will line up across the Ultra and Half Marathon, turning the race route into a moving celebration of longevity, resilience and love for the run.

Among them are 16 Half Marathon runners in their 80s, 49 Ultra runners in their 70s, and 147 Half Marathoners also in their 70s, alongside 743 runners aged 60–69. These athletes don’t chase the clock, they outlast it, running on experience as much as fitness.

“The BNC continues to show that the spirit of running knows no age,” says Chris Goldschmidt, Chairperson of the Two Oceans Marathon NPC. “With members in their 60s, 70s and even 80s taking on the Ultra and Half Marathon, it’s incredible to see such dedication, perseverance, and passion inspiring runners of all generations.”

Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon General Manager Wade Bromfield adds: “This year, more than a third of our BNC runners are aged 60 and above, including remarkable athletes in their 70s and 80s. Their commitment is a true testament to the power of endurance, resilience, and the joy of running, proving that age is never a barrier to chasing your goals.”

BNC Profiles to Watch

Kaare James (82) – Half Marathon

Kaare James (82) by Action Photo

A walking and running archive of Two Oceans history, James owns an extraordinary 41 medals and has lined up at every edition since 1980, bar the two COVID-cancelled years. After earning his Light Blue Number in 2025, he returns in 2026 wearing number 2338.

“It’s a privilege to be one of the oldest BNCs in 2026,” says James. “I don’t have any secret to staying strong, I just make sure to get an early night and don’t eat too much before a race. On race day, my goal is simply to reach the finish in one piece and enjoy every moment. No rushing, no stress, just soaking it all in.”

Makgoale Magwentshu (71) – Ultra Marathon
After earning her 19th Ultra medal in 2024 and missing the 2025 race, Magwentshu returns in 2026 with one clear objective: her 20th medal and Double Blue Number status.

Makgoale Magwentshu (71) by Action Photo

“I can’t wait to be a Double Blue Number member after this race,” she says. “It means the world to me to be part of the Blue Number Club, and I wear my number with pride. The special treatment we receive shows that we are appreciated and valued, and it motivates more runners to become Blue Number members.”

Other inspirational BNC runners lining up in 2026 include Kaare and Marlene James (both 82), Sibongile Cele (81) and Willemien Smuts (85) in the Half Marathon, as well as Nancy Will (73) and Larence Ashworth (79) in the Ultra Marathon.

At Two Oceans, the Blue Number Club reminds the running community that the longest journeys are often the most meaningful, and that some runners only get stronger the further they go.

Marlen James (82)
Willemien Smuts (85)
Larence Ashworth (79)
Nancy Will (71) Credit: Action Photo

Two Oceans Marathon turns up the pace with R2.6m prize purse for 2026

Adnaan MohamedNews, Totalsports Two Oceans MarathonLeave a Comment on Two Oceans Marathon turns up the pace with R2.6m prize purse for 2026
By Adnaan Mohamed

The Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon has raised the stakes for 2026, announcing a combined R2.6 million prize purse that further cements its status as one of the world’s premier road running events.

Dubbed the World’s Most Beautiful Marathon, the iconic Cape Town race will see increased prize money across both its flagship events. The internationally renowned Ultra Marathon and the ever-popular Half Marathon will get a significant boost as organisers look to attract top-tier local and international talent.

The Ultra Marathon will account for the lion’s share of the purse, with R2 177 400 on offer, while the Half Marathon prize money has been boosted to R422 600, a move organisers believe was long overdue.

“The Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon has always been about more than just finishing the race – it’s about celebrating the spirit of running, pushing boundaries, and inspiring excellence,” said Chris Goldschmidt, chairperson of the Two Oceans Marathon NPC.

“By increasing the prize purse for 2026, we’re not only recognising the dedication and talent of elite athletes but also raising the profile of the event on the global stage. It’s a clear statement that the Two Oceans Marathon is committed to fostering world-class competition while honouring our rich heritage in road running.”

At the sharp end of the Ultra Marathon, male and female winners will each pocket R380 000, with runners-up earning R220 000 and third place R100 000. The Open Category prize money will be shared among the top 10 finishers, ensuring depth and competitiveness throughout the elite field.

The Half Marathon Open Category will distribute R298 000, with winners taking home R50 000, second place R30 000 and third R18 000, again across both men’s and women’s races.

Prize money will also be paid across multiple age categories in both events, rewarding consistent excellence beyond the podium. Additional allocations have been made for Top WPA Athletes, Top South African Athletes (Ultra only) and Teams, underlining the race’s inclusive competitive structure.

General manager Wade Bromfield said the increase in prize money was about more than financial reward.

“Increasing the prize purse is more than just a financial boost – it’s an investment in the athletes and the integrity of the race itself,” Bromfield said.

“It shows our commitment to supporting both local and international elite runners, while also elevating the prestige of the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon. This step reinforces our mission to create a race experience that inspires ambition, celebrates achievement, and upholds our position as a world-class event.”

Bromfield added that the enhanced Half Marathon purse was a particularly significant milestone.

“We are especially proud to introduce a significantly enhanced prize purse in the 2026 Half Marathon, an increase that has been long overdue,” he said.

“By investing in both the Ultra and Half Marathon, we are rewarding excellence, while reinforcing our dedication to the running community. We are proudly celebrating elite performance while ensuring the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon continues to be one of the most prestigious and exhilarating races on the global calendar.”

The 2026 Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon weekend will take place from 10 to 12 April, with the Trail Run on Friday, the Ultra Marathon on Saturday and the Half Marathon on Sunday.

The People’s Race Will Happen!

Roxanne MartinEvent Update!Leave a Comment on The People’s Race Will Happen!

First it was cancelled, then it was on again… this has been the yo-yo experience for the running community today as news broke about the Soweto Marathon. As a long-term media partner to the race, Modern Athlete got in touch with the ‘right’ people to get to the bottom of what is really going on.

On Wednesday morning, we woke to the news that the 2023 Soweto Marathon had been cancelled due to an ongoing dispute regarding the broadcast rights for the race, and the funding received for these rights. Thankfully, a few hours later news broke that the 28th edition of the event known as the People’s Race will go ahead as scheduled on Sunday 5 November.

The original media release announcing the cancellation of the race was apparently issued on Tuesday evening or Wednesday morning, and quoted Soweto Marathon Trust (SMT) Chairman Sello Khunou directly, so it appeared to have been issued by the SMT. This media release laid the blame for the cancellation squarely at the feet of Athletics South Africa (ASA) and Central Gauteng Athletics (CGA).

However, according to a statement released today by provincial athletics body, Central Gauteng Athletics (CGA), Khunou as well as General Secretary Ishe Sadiki and Board Member Pamela Tainton had already been suspended by the provincial federation the previous week, for bringing the sport into disrepute, and they each face a potential two-year suspension from all athletics activities, subject to a disciplinary and appeal process. The original press release therefore appears to have been released following their suspension.

Furthermore, on Sunday 18 June, CGA met with 15 of the 17 Soweto athletics clubs that make up the SMT, to ensure that the race will be hosted successfully following the suspension of the above Trust members. According to CGA, the clubs welcomed the suspension of the three members and indicated to CGA that the race must take place in 2023. Note: The Soweto athletics clubs are the beneficiaries of the Soweto Marathon, and both the event and these Soweto clubs are affiliated to CGA, and through the provincial federation, also to Athletics South Africa (ASA).

Getting Back on Track

When asked about the unfortunate turn of events, newly elected SMT Board Member Thokozani Mazibuko said, “This is not what we as the Soweto Marathon Trust wanted or expected. Our focus is to find a solution to the problem and get the 2023 People’s Race on track. The sudden announcement of cancellation from disgruntled members created panic and was completely unnecessary.”

He added that the Trust, the Board, and the relevant athletics bodies are all committed to ensuring the race happens, saying, “Our message to the runners planning on tackling the Soweto Marathon in November is that our 2023 edition is happening, and we can’t wait to welcome you to the streets of Soweto.”

We also spoke to long-standing Race Director, Danny Blumberg, and he assured us that while the opening of entries has been delayed due to these internal issues, this is in no way holding up the organisation of the 2023 edition of the race. “My team is working hard in the background to ensure that when we are able to open entries, everything will be on track to make sure that this edition of the People’s Race is as good as runners expect it to be,” he said.

The Soweto Marathon has been a much-loved fixture on the running calendar for nearly three decades, and we look forward to bringing you all the news, including the opening date for entries, expected to be announced soon!

Soweto Marathon is the biggest One Day Race in 2022!

Roxanne MartinNewsLeave a Comment on Soweto Marathon is the biggest One Day Race in 2022!

Having surpassed the 16 000 entry mark, the 27th edition of the Soweto Marathon is now this year’s biggest one day
race.

Soweto Marathon Trust Chairman, Sello Khunou takes tremendous pride from this achievement, and is grateful to all
those who have entered; “There is no denying that Covid put all events in jeopardy of shutting down. Through tremendous dedication, we are proud to host the 27th event and endeavour to do so to the high standards that our fans have come to expect. This latest achievement is a testament to our loyal fans entering once more – we absolutely cannot wait to have them back come 6 November. And to those who will be running for the first time: We welcome you and wish you a great race in South Africa’s biggest one-day race this year!”

There is Still Time To Enter!

After numerous calls from athletes requesting an extension of the race entry cut-off date, Soweto Marathon organisers heeded the call and so the extension was granted due to public demand. The 27th edition of The People’s Race has made the bold move to extend the closing date of entries in order to allow participants to enter their chosen distance of 10km, 21.1km, or 42.2km.

Entries will remain open until the entry cap is reached, so says Soweto Marathon Trust Chairman Sello Khunou;
“We understand the pressures that our valued runners are under – and as such we are allowing them to enter to participate in their beloved People’s Race. We take note too of their recent participation in other races and know that once the athletes have recovered adequately, they’ll be wanting to hit the streets once more! The Soweto Marathon promises to deliver another top event and I strongly encourage runners from all walks of life to enter – let us celebrate our ability to move, our health, our spirit and our beautiful country.”

So if you would like to be part of making history in out post-COVID-19 era, click here to Enter Today!

Entry Options:

Option 1: With the T-shirt included

The Marathon (42.2km): Entry Fee R550

The Half Marathon (21.1km): Entry Fee R450

The 10km: Entry Fee R350

Option 2: Without the T-shirt *

The Marathon (42.2km): Entry Fee R400

The Half Marathon (21.1km): Entry Fee R300

The 10km: Entry Fee R200

* If you change your mind about the T-shirt, you will still be able to buy one later.

STILL MORE SAVINGS FOR YOU…

Every runner that enters this year’s Soweto Marathon, no matter the distance you choose, will be given an online 20% discount voucher from Totalsports on performance shoes priced R2000 and above. That’s a minimum saving of R400 off your next pair of running shoes!