Two Oceans Marathon: Here's what you need to know before race day

As the Two Oceans Marathon approaches, here are crucial insights and tips for both participants and spectators.

Race Details

The 56km race is scheduled for April 11 in Cape Town, with the half marathon taking place the following day. The race will commence on Main Road in Newlands near Dean Street and conclude at the University of Cape Town upper campus rugby field.

Preparation for Participants

By this stage, competitors should have completed their major training. The focus now turns to resting and maintaining health to ensure they are injury-free come race day. If participants are travelling from afar, securing accommodation ahead of time is essential.

Race Day Planning

Participants should plan their race day meticulously. This includes knowing the time to leave for the race and ensuring sufficient time to attend to any last-minute preparations, especially those pre-race bodily functions. It's vital to avoid any last-minute scrambles!

Favourites for the Race

The men's race is competitive, with six different winners in the last six events, making it hard to predict a clear favourite. In contrast, the women's race features a strong frontrunner: Gerda Steyn, who is aiming for her seventh consecutive title. With impressive recent performances, she is in exceptional form going into the race.

Gerda Steyn's Recent Performance

Steyn finished second at Joburg's Toughest Half Marathon but rebounded with a win at the Sunrise Monster 32km race, achieving a pace similar to her race day target for the Two Oceans Marathon. Her consistency and resilience make her a contender to watch.

Increased Prize Money

The prize money for 2026 has seen an increase of R130,000, with a total of R380,000 awarded to the winners in both the men’s and women’s 56km races, adding extra incentive for competitors this year.

Mark your calendars and prepare for an exciting event at the Two Oceans Marathon!

IOL