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Arthur Jantjies shocks field as Steyn claims seventh Two Oceans title

Adnaan MohamedTotalsports Two Oceans MarathonLeave a Comment on Arthur Jantjies shocks field as Steyn claims seventh Two Oceans title
By Adnaan Mohamed

Arthur Jantjies announced himself on the national stage, while Gerda Steyn added another chapter to her legacy at the Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon powered by BYD in Cape Town on Saturday.

Jantjies, 25, produced a breakthrough performance to win the men’s 56km race in 3:09:25, claiming the biggest victory of his career.

“It’s a phenomenal step – a big step. It’s history,” said Jantjies, who hails from Hopetown near Kimberley. “I’m just a small-town boy winning Two Oceans. That’s something really special.”

The race developed into a tactical contest over the closing stages. Zimbabwe’s Blessing Waison led over Constantia Nek, forcing the chasing group into action.

Jantjies remained in contention alongside former champion Onalenna Khonkhobe and defending champion Joseph Seutloali. Waison was caught at 49km, before Khonkhobe made a move at 51km.

Seutloali dropped off the pace, though Jantjies stayed with Khonkhobe before making his decisive move near Chet’s Hill to secure victory by 35 seconds.

“I know he (Khonkhobe) is faster than me. But in training we always pick up in the last 8km. I stayed close to him, and he gave up too quickly. Then I told myself I’m going to strike now,” Jantjies said.

Running only his second ultra marathon, Jantjies credited his preparation under coach John Hamlett.

“My coach put me through the worst in Dullstroom where I die in the mountains. We often do 800m elevation on huge long runs and this was only about 600m of elevation. So, this was nothing. I was there for 8 weeks away from my family. Whatever he says, I do. No questions asked. My coach says we stay small and fly under the radar. It was better for me to come through like a cannon ball. It’s the first major title for my town in the Northern Cape. Winning this race opens doors because it puts my name somewhere.”

In the women’s race, Steyn delivered another composed performance to claim a record seventh title.

The 36-year-old broke clear shortly after the marathon mark, moving away from Margaret Jepchumba and maintaining her pace to the finish.

Steyn crossed the line in 3:27:43, her second fastest time at the race.

“I didn’t break the record but I’m still happy with my race and am really happy with my time. It’s a completely successful day for me,” she said.

“When I won my first Two Oceans, I never envisaged winning seven. I take it year for year. If I’m here next year and ready and fit, then I’ll push for sure. But I also need to accept the fact that I’m getting older. But for now, I’m feeling strong and I feel that I still have a few more years left in my career. So, if seven becomes eight and eight becomes ten, then I’ll take it.”

Jantjies’ win and Steyn’s record extended the rich history of the Two Oceans Marathon, widely regarded as one of the premier ultra-distance races in the country.

TOP 10 RESULTS: Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon powered by BYD

Elite Men

1 Arthur Jantjies 03:09:25, 2 Onalenna Khonkhobe 03:10:00, 3 Blessing Zvikomborero Waison 03:11:13, 4 Dennis Kipkosgei 03:11:29, 5 Tumelo Moja 03:12:07, 6 Sphamandla Nkosi 03:12:42, 7 Siboniso Sikhakhane 03:12:42, 8 Malixole Kalideni 03:12:49, 9 Mphatso Nadolo 03:13:16, 10 Msawenkosi Mthalane 03:13:32

Elite Women 

1 Gerda Steyn 03:27:43, 2 Margaret Jepchumba 03:33:31, 3 Nobukhosi Tshuma 03:38:34, 4 Shelmith Muriuki 03:39:14, 5 Rholex Jelimo Kogo 03:40:39, 6 Mildred Chepkemei Kinyanja 03:42:42, 7 Bize Beyira Negasa 03:43:00, 8 Neheng Khatala 03:43:43, 9 Courtney Olsen 03:44:40, 10 Loveness Madziva 03:48:54

SEE FULL RESULTS HERE:

Mother and Daughter Run for Meaning at Two Oceans

Adnaan MohamedFeatures, Totalsports Two Oceans MarathonLeave a Comment on Mother and Daughter Run for Meaning at Two Oceans
By Adnaan Mohamed

Every runner knows the moment when the rhythm of their stride begins to shape the road ahead. For veteran broadcaster Vaylen Kirtley, that moment arrived far from any finish line, in Athens in 2004.

“The first major event I covered at the national broadcaster was the Paralympics,” she recalls.

The experience did more than fill airtime. It set her internal compass.

“Covering disability sport at such a formative part of my career laid the foundation to understand that the power of sport to transform and unify, is truly unique.”

That early assignment became the starting gun of a philosophy that has paced her career for more than two decades. Now, it finds its most personal expression on the open road at the Two Oceans Half Marathon powered by BYD.

This time, she will not be narrating the race. She will be living it alongside her daughter.

“My daughter, despite my best efforts, didn’t really enjoy running,” she laughs.

Then, like a runner finding their stride mid-race, something shifted. During her first year at university, her daughter discovered a quiet passion for running. What was once unfamiliar terrain became shared ground.

“Now it’s something we can do together, and I am so excited.”

Vaylen Kirtley and her daughter will be tackling the Two Oceans Half Marathon to raise funds for Jumping Kids Photo: Andries Kruger

For a first official half marathon, the choice of race carried weight. Two Oceans is not a route you stumble into. It is a ribbon of road woven into South Africa’s sporting soul, as iconic as the climbs it demands and the views it rewards.

For Kirtley, it is also deeply personal. She has called the race from the heights of Constantia Nek, run the Ultra in 2014, and tackled the Long Trail in 2019. Yet, she marks 2026 as the year that matters most.

Their run is more than a shared milestone. It is a moving tribute to purpose.

They will take to the course in support of Jumping Kids, a non-profit dedicated to empowering children with lower limb amputations or mobility challenges.

The organisation provides prosthetics, rehabilitation, education access, and opportunities in sport. Its mission echoes the belief Kirtley has carried since Athens, that sport is not only competition, it is transformation in motion.

“We see the power of sport in the performances of our national heroes and in events like the Comrades, the Dusi, the Midmar Mile,” she says.

The Two Oceans belongs in that same breath. On race day, each kilometre will carry more than effort. It will carry memory, connection, and purpose.

Like a long-distance run, the journey stretches beyond the visible horizon, powered by something deeper than pace.

To support their run, visit www.jumpingkids.org.za
(Jumping Kids, Reg. no: 2009/018078/08)

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

Tayla Kavanagh stuns Glenrose Xaba in dramatic Cape Town SPAR 10km Challenge finish

Adnaan MohamedNewsLeave a Comment on Tayla Kavanagh stuns Glenrose Xaba in dramatic Cape Town SPAR 10km Challenge finish
By Adnaan Mohamed

Tayla Kavanagh delivered a breakthrough performance to win the opening leg of the SPAR Grand Prix series in Cape Town on Sunday, outsprinting defending champion Glenrose Xaba in a gripping finish in Green Point.

The 24-year-old from Hollywood Athletics Club in KwaZulu-Natal clocked a personal best 31:33, timing her charge to perfection over the final 50 metres to edge Xaba by five seconds. It marked a significant statement at the start of the national women’s road running series.

Xaba, a three-time SPAR Grand Prix winner representing Boxer Athletics Club Gauteng North, crossed in 31:38 after a sustained duel with Kavanagh in the closing stages. Her teammate Kayla Jacobs secured third place in 32:16.

Kavanagh executed a measured race, staying within striking distance before lifting the pace in the final kilometre. The contest tightened approaching the last corner, where she committed to a decisive surge.

“No, I knew I was coming into the race in pretty good shape, but I never expected to win the race today,” said Kavanagh.

“I kind of just stuck to my plan, and I felt good in the last 1K. From about 9Ks, I just started to surge a bit. Glenrose came back at me, and I thought, ok let me keep trying. And as we took the last corner, I was like, I still got some gas in the legs, let me try.

“So, I took the risk and I brought it home. I was really happy to get a bit of a gap and to win. I’m super happy.”

Her focus this season has been consistency following a strong 2025 campaign.

“I had a really good year last year. So going into this season, I really wanted to build some consistency again. I was trying to continue that and it’s exactly what I managed to do today, so I’m really happy.”

Behind the leading trio, Karabo More (32:34) and Cacisile Sosibo (32:42) rounded out the top five in a competitive field that set a high standard for the series opener.

Double Olympic 800m gold medallist Caster Semenya (35:44), who coaches Xaba with her wife Violet Semenya finished in a credible 12th place.

Kavanagh’s victory reshapes the early Grand Prix standings and signals a potential shift in the competitive order, with Xaba set to respond as the series progresses.

A record 18000 women took to the streets of the Mother City to participate in perfect weather conditions on a fast, flat circular route that started in Vlei Road at the DHL Stadium and finished at Green Point. Common Fields.

Top 10 Results – SPAR Women’s 10km Challenge (Cape Town)

  1. Tayla Kavanagh – 31:33
  2. Glenrose Xaba – 31:38
  3. Kyla Jacobs – 32:16
  4. Karabo More – 32:34
  5. Cacisile Sosibo – 32:42
  6. Karabo Mailula – 33:28
  7. Irvette van Zyl – 33:43
  8. Zanthe Taljaard – 34:23
  9. Carina Swiegers – 34:47
  10. Elizabeth Hutamo – 35:09
  11. Deanne Launscher – 35:41       
  12. Caster Semenya -35:44

Top three: Tayla Kavanagh (center), Glenrose Xaba (left) andKayla Jacobs (right) finished on the podium at the Spar 10km Challenge in Cape Town on Sunday morning.
Photo Credit: Adnaan Mohamed

Glenrose Xaba targets record fourth SPAR Grand Prix crown

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By Adnaan Mohamed

Defending champion Glenrose Xaba will begin her bid for a record-breaking fourth SPAR Grand Prix title when the 2026 series opens in Green Point on Sunday.

No athlete has won the competition four times since its inception 18 years ago. Xaba, already a three-time winner, now has the opportunity to stand alone at the top of that list.

The opening race has been reshaped by the absence of Ethiopian runners Diniya Abaraya and Salem Gebre, who finished second and third respectively in last year’s standings. Both were unable to secure the necessary visas and clearance documents, their club confirmed earlier this week.

Their withdrawal strengthens the prospects of South Africa’s leading contenders and is expected to intensify competition among the local elite field.

“The SPAR Grand Prix has become very important to me,” said Xaba.
“I am very proud to be the first black South African to win it three times. I hope my achievements are an inspiration to young girls living in poverty as I was, who see what I have done and believe they can do the same.”

Xaba said she was in good condition ahead of the season opener.

“I am ready to run my best and I am looking forward to the competition. I just want to achieve good results in 2026,” she said.

Among those expected to challenge are Karabo Mailula, Irvette van Zyl and Tayla Kavanagh, along with Xaba’s training partners Karabo More and Cacisile Sosibo.

The SPAR Grand Prix consists of five races, with stops in Cape Town, Durban, Tshwane, Gqeberha and Johannesburg.

This year’s series offers a total prize purse of R2 million. The overall winner will earn R210 000, with additional incentives available to the top South African finishers.

Attention will also turn to the age-group categories. Junior champion Chanel Groenewald starts as favourite in her division. Anne Stewart will defend her 50-59 title, with Elizabeth Potter among her challengers. In the 60-plus category, Judy Bird is set to face strong competition from record holder Margie Saunders.

Sunday’s race follows a fast coastal route, starting near Green Point and running along the Sea Point Promenade before finishing at the Green Point Common.

For Xaba, the campaign begins with a clear objective: to convert consistency into history.

Sikhakhane seeks redemption at Two Oceans Ultra after 2025 heartbreak

Adnaan MohamedNews, Totalsports Two Oceans MarathonLeave a Comment on Sikhakhane seeks redemption at Two Oceans Ultra after 2025 heartbreak
By Adnaan Mohamed

Sboniso Sikhakhane is confident he can finally deliver the breakthrough victory at the Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon powered by BYD in 2026.

The 35-year-old Entsika Athletics Club runner will return to the gruelling 56km race Saturday, 11 April with unfinished business after last year’s agonising runner-up finish.

In 2025 Sikhakhane clocked 3:11:18, crossing the line only 31 seconds behind Lesotho’s Joseph Khoarahlane Seutloali after a gripping duel over the closing kilometres of the 56km race.

The narrow defeat still lingers in his memory.

“I still think I should have won the Two Oceans Ultra Marathon last year,” Sikhakhane said.

“I had a good strategy on how to attack the race from the start to the end. It all worked out well till the latter stages of the race.”

A late miscalculation ultimately proved costly.

“I made a huge mistake when I went to fetch a water bottle where I wasn’t supposed to. I gave Khoarahlane an opportunity to open a gap which made it hard for me to recover,” he explained.

“But I have moved past it as everything is planned by God.”

Under the guidance of coach Hendrick Ramaala, the 2004 New York Marathon champion, Sikhakhane has opted for a familiar preparation path ahead of this year’s race.

The Newcastle-born runner again used the FNB Kazungula Marathon in Botswana as a key build-up race, a strategy that produced encouraging results.

He finished second in 2:19:17, more than five minutes quicker than the 2:24:53 he recorded at the same race in 2025 when he placed seventh. Zimbabwe’s Isaac Mpofu took the victory.

“I didn’t see a reason to change what worked for me last year, which is why I decided to participate in the Kazungula Marathon just like I did last year,” Sikhakhane said.

“I love that race; it gives me the clear indication on where to adjust my training going forward.”

The race also confirmed his current fitness.

“The conditions were hot on race day, but I did well to adapt. My aim was to go there and clock two hours and 20 minutes, which I managed to achieve. I now have to discuss with coach where we can strengthen to be fully ready for Two Oceans.”

Sikhakhane has steadily built a strong record at the iconic Cape Town ultra.

He finished third in 2022 in 3:11:30, before improving to runner-up last year, performances that have strengthened his belief that victory could be within reach.

“I think I’m in the best shape of my life,” he said.

“My body has been responding well to training. Plus my mind is also strong as I have battled in the past two years.

“My target is to clock a better time than I have done in the past. I believe it is time for me to win a big race in this country.”

The experienced road runner says the lessons from previous campaigns have sharpened his approach.

“In the past I have made mistakes, but I have learned from them. Winning would be a dream come true as I have been knocking on the door for too long.”

Race organisers believe Sikhakhane’s determination adds another compelling storyline to the 2026 edition of the race often dubbed the World’s Most Beautiful Marathon.

“Sboniso Sikhakhane’s determination and consistency over the years make him a true contender for this year’s Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon powered by BYD,” said Chris Goldschmidt, chairperson of the Two Oceans Marathon NPC.

“Having finished second last year, it’s inspiring to see him so focused on claiming his first victory.”

Wade Bromfield, general manager of the race, echoed that sentiment.

“Every year the Ultra Marathon brings out remarkable stories of resilience and ambition,” Bromfield said.

“Sboniso’s drive to turn last year’s near-miss into a win perfectly embodies the spirit of the Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon powered by BYD.”

The 56km Ultra Marathon starts at 05:15 on Saturday, 11 April, forming the centrepiece of the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon weekend, which also includes the Trail Run on Friday and the Half Marathon on Sunday.

For Sikhakhane, the goal is simple when the starting gun fires before dawn in Cape Town.

Finish the race he believes slipped away last year.

Event Information

Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon powered by BYD

Thursday, 9 April 2026
Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon International Friendship Run

Friday, 10 April 2026
Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon Trail Run
Start Time: 07:00

Saturday, 11 April 2026
Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon
Start Time: 05:15

Sunday, 12 April 2026
Totalsports Two Oceans Half Marathon
Start Time: 06:15

2026 Prize Purse

The iconic event boasts a combined prize purse of R2.6 million in 2026.

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

More information:
www.twooceansmarathon.org.za

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.

South Africa’s Adriaan Wildschutt storms to stunning New York Half Marathon victory

Adnaan MohamedNewsLeave a Comment on South Africa’s Adriaan Wildschutt storms to stunning New York Half Marathon victory
By Adnaan Mohamed

South African distance running ace Adriaan Wildschutt surged to a memorable victory at the New York City Half Marathon in the Big Apple on Sunday.

The 27-year-old from Ceres produced a clinical 59:30 performance, the biggest road running victory of his career. Patience marked his opening miles as he settled into the rhythm of the lead group, moving with the calm of a runner saving his energy for the final push to the finish line.

When the race reached the decisive stages, Wildschutt shifted gears.

Approaching the 10-mile mark, roughly 18km, he launched a surge that sliced the pack apart. The acceleration landed like a hammer blow and the chasing runners struggled to close the gap as he stretched clear through the final kilometres.

Zouhair Talbi (59:41) was the Top-American in second place, with Gulveer Singh  (59:42) of India rounding out the podium in third position.

Hellen Obiri of Kenya claimed the win in the women’s race in 1:06:33, breaking the course record. Sharon Lokedi (1:07:10), the former course record holder, took second in with Megan Keith (1:07:13) third.

After winning the Absa RUN YOUR CITY GGEBERHA 10K in a blistering 27:47 two weeks ago in South Africa, he confirmed that he had his sights set on victory over 21.1km in the Big Apple. And that’s exactly what he managed to do.

“I knew if I wanted to win the race, I’ll have to have the best last five k’s,” Wildschutt said after the race. “Once I hit 10 miles, I wanted to make a big move and see if everybody went. I was able to drop them and keep squeezing. The goal was always to try and win.”

The victory arrived in only his second race over the half-marathon distance, a sign that the South African star continues to expand his range beyond the track where he already holds multiple national records.

Cold conditions threatened to complicate his race plan. Morning temperatures hovered around freezing, a sharp contrast to the scorching training conditions he experienced in South Africa.

“When we woke up it was about 32 or 33 degrees Fahrenheit, around one or two degrees Celsius,” he explained.

“I came from summer, seeing my family and doing a training camp in Potchefstroom where it was over 30 degrees Celsius. I thought the cold might really get to me. Coach made sure I had everything I needed, arm sleeves, gloves and a hat. It turned out really great and I’m grateful the weather didn’t bother me.”

As the finish line approached in New York City, Wildschutt ran with the controlled strength of a marathon engine still humming smoothly.

“I was so happy that I was done,” he said. “This was my second half and my first time in New York. The goal was to run really hard in a good effort. I was so stoked that I felt really strong towards the end.”

Wildschutt’s stride across the finish line marked another powerful chapter for South African distance running, his performance echoing through the streets of the Big Apple like the final kick of a champion hitting full flight.

In-form Kusche returns to Two Oceans Half with confidence

Adnaan MohamedNews, Totalsports Two Oceans MarathonLeave a Comment on In-form Kusche returns to Two Oceans Half with confidence
By Adnaan Mohamed

George Kusche’s recent results place him among the runners to watch at the Totalsports Two Oceans Half Marathon on 12 April, though the Nedbank Running Club athlete prefers to keep his attention on the work rather than the predictions.

The 27-year-old heads into the Cape Town race on the back of a strong stretch of form over the past year. He finished fourth at the African Bank Soweto Marathon in November in 2:20:48, claimed victory and set a course record at the hilly Biogen 21km in Johannesburg in January in 1:05:32, and delivered a breakthrough marathon performance with a 2:15:02 win at the Balwin Run Series Peninsula Marathon in February. The result trimmed more than five minutes off his previous personal best.

Kusche believes the improvement has come through steady consistency.

“I’ve been slowly getting better. I haven’t changed anything in my training, I’ve been doing what I’ve been doing and it’s compounding. So I’ve been feeling stronger,” he said.

His running journey began at Die Afrikaanse Hoër Seunskool in Pretoria where he established himself as a leading middle-distance athlete. His performances attracted attention from American college scouts and he moved to the United States to compete for Northern Arizona University in the NCAA system.

Kusche returned to South Africa as a sub four minute miler with a 5000m personal best of 13:28.95. The experience still influences the way he approaches the sport.

“I’m very grateful for my experience in the US. I enjoyed it a lot and had some good experiences with some great coaches and athletes. I’m coaching myself now, so it certainly helps me to look back at the training I did and try and recreate those circumstances.”

After returning home, Kusche stepped away from competition during 2023 before returning to racing in 2024. He shifted his focus to road running and quickly made an impact.

His debut at the Totalsports Two Oceans Half Marathon that year produced an immediate result. Kusche led the race until the halfway point before being passed by eventual winner Thabang Mosiako. He finished second in 1:05:31 after edging Lesotho’s Kamohelo Mofolo in a sprint to the line.

The experience left a strong impression.

“I actually wasn’t a big road running fan because I’d never done it before, though as I’m getting into it I’m starting to enjoy it now,” said Kusche.

“Two Oceans is one of those races that everybody wants to run. It’s a big race and everybody has a family member or a friend competing in either the 21km or the 56km. When I ran it for the first time I was excited because I knew there would be a lot of people competing. It’s always fun when a lot of people compete. Two Oceans is one of the races you have to run.”

Kusche’s primary target this season remains the Comrades Marathon. His approach reflects the same philosophy that has guided his steady rise.

“I want to do my best at Comrades. There’s no point in talking about the outcome. All I need to do is focus on the process. If I start talking about the outcome that’s when things start going wrong. So I keep my back against the wall and keep on working hard.”

Two Oceans Marathon NPC chairperson Chris Goldschmidt said Kusche’s presence strengthens the field for the half marathon.

“George Kusche’s entry adds real depth and excitement to this year’s field. His performances over the past 12 months have been exceptional and we are thrilled to welcome an athlete of his calibre to the start line of the Totalsports Two Oceans Half Marathon.”

Race general manager Wade Bromfield said Kusche has established himself among the country’s leading road runners.

“His recent results including a record breaking victory at the Biogen 21km and a dominant performance at the Balwin Run Series Peninsula Marathon underline his potential. We are excited to have him back at the Totalsports Two Oceans Half Marathon where his passion for the event and competitive spirit will undoubtedly make for an exciting race.”

The Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon takes place in Cape Town from 9 to 12 April and carries a combined prize purse of R2.6 million across the ultra marathon and half marathon events.

Khatala chasing another podium at Two Oceans Ultra

Adnaan MohamedFeatures, News, Totalsports Two Oceans MarathonLeave a Comment on Khatala chasing another podium at Two Oceans Ultra
By Adnaan Mohamed

Lesotho distance-running star Neheng Khatala is gathering momentum ahead of the 2026 Two Oceans Ultra Marathon, with the versatile runner targeting a top-two finish when the race unfolds in Cape Town on Saturday, 11 April.

Nicknamed the World’s Most Beautiful Marathon, the 56km test along the Cape Peninsula demands endurance, strength and tactical patience. Khatala arrives with confidence growing stride by stride after a strong start to her season.

The Olympian recently used the Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K as a key fitness checkpoint, finishing fourth in 32:43 despite carrying heavy training miles in her legs.

“I really ran well to be honest and I’m grateful about the work I did that day especially because the last 3km were quite windy,” said Khatala. “I’m particularly happy with my performance because I didn’t taper. The week of the race I did a 45km long run so I went into the race with heavy legs.”

The performance highlighted the range that has become Khatala’s trademark. Few athletes move as smoothly between shorter races and the grinding demands of ultra-distance events.

The Hollywood Athletics Club runner recently demonstrated that versatility when she claimed victory at the demanding Pirates 21K Powered by Medshield, finishing ahead of South African ultra star Gerda Steyn on a challenging course.

Khatala attributes her steady progress to the training programme designed by coach Andrew Booyens, which blends hill work, endurance training and speed sessions.

“I think my training is balanced and structured in such a way that it allows me to run hilly routes as well as fast and flat courses all at the same time,” she said. “It’s all about the effort I put in. Whether it’s a tough course or a flat course I always put in effort to ensure that I remain consistent even if I don’t always win.”

Her disciplined approach produced a third-place finish in 3:40:38 at last year’s Two Oceans Ultra Marathon, placing her firmly among the contenders for the 2026 edition.

“My aim is to improve. Last year I finished in third position, so this year I must target a win or second position,” she said. “The point is to improve last year’s performance and if I can achieve that, it would be a huge blessing.”

Race organisers believe the Lesotho athlete could play a significant role when the field tackles the demanding course through Cape Town’s mountain passes and coastal roads.

Neheng Khatala by Action Photo

“Neheng Khatala is a remarkable athlete whose versatility and dedication make her a standout entrant for the Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon,” said Chris Goldschmidt, chairperson of the Two Oceans Marathon NPC.

“Her performances over the last twelve months, from track races to ultra marathons, demonstrate the discipline and focus required to excel at this level.”

Event general manager Wade Bromfield believes her preparation places her among the pre-race favourites.

“Khatala’s approach to training and racing is what makes her a true contender at the Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon,” he said. “Her structured preparation, combined with a third-place finish last year, positions her as one of the pre-race favourites.”

With form building kilometre after kilometre, Khatala now sets her sights on Cape Town’s sweeping coastal route, where another podium finish may await if her rhythm holds across the 56km journey.