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A demanding race along the coast
The Two Oceans Marathon
The Two Oceans Marathon along the Cape Peninsula.
© Shawn Benjamin Photography/Ark Images
Did you know?
Local runners regard the Two Oceans Marathon as training for the Comrades Marathon.
Welcome to the most beautiful race in the world.
Now that's a bold statement for anyone to make, but when you run the Two Oceans Marathon, between the Atlantic and Indian Oceans down on the Cape Peninsula of South Africa, chances are you'll endorse those sentiments.
Just take Chapman's Peak Drive, for instance. It's hard to keep your eyes on the road because of all the distractions out there: a few dolphins leaping out to sea, the delicious curve of the coast, fynbos in bloom and, on a clear day, the bobbing fishing boats and the surfers and the tucked-in little hamlets along the way.
Nearly 7 000 runners take on the long version (56 kilometres) of this Cape Town marathon, while about 12 000 sign up for the half-marathon, the favourite of its kind in South Africa.
The Two Oceans Marathon, which takes place over the Easter Weekend, winds along the peninsula seaboard, arguably the most scenic drive – or run – one can find.
For the serious runners, it's tough going, and a classic field of winners has come from various African countries and the Russian states. The first black runner to win a Comrades Marathon medal, Vincent Rakabele, won the Two Oceans in 1976, beating another Comrades legend, Alan Robb.
Dirkie Steyn of Stellenbosch University was the first winner of this ultra-marathon, then known as the Celtic 35 Mile Road Race. He was one of only 15 finishers at that inaugural 1970 event – and he ran the whole race barefoot.
This marathon in Cape Town – officially known as the Old Mutual Two Oceans Marathon – is the main Easter event, but around this there are various expos, a family day, fun runs and all manner of entertainment for young and old.
Travel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
Contact the Two Oceans Marathon race office on +27 (0) 21 685 2030 or email info@twooceansmarathon.org.za
How to get here
The Two Oceans Marathon begins and ends in Cape Town, served by an international airport.
Length of stay
The race takes a day, but you'll definitely want to stay around to explore all the sights you ran past.
Where to stay
Cape Town has many hotels, guest houses and B&Bs. Just book well in advance, because the Easter weekend usually coincides with local school holidays.
What's happening
Most people know the Two Oceans as a marathon. But those not too serious about marathon running could also do the 5 or 2.5 km fun-runs.