Record crowds expected at Two Oceans
CAPE TOWN – Two Oceans Marathon just days away.
The organisers of the Old Mutual Two Oceans Marathon have confirmed they are ready for the 49th edition of the world’s most beautiful marathon.
Scheduled to take place on 31 March, the sold-out field of 27 000 participants in the ultra and half marathons will make for an exciting race while an additional 5 000 runners are anticipated to participate in other running events.
The general manager of the Two Oceans Marathon NPC Carol Vosloo said the popular 12km and 24km trail runs would also see 1 000 runners conquering the slopes of Table Mountain and Newlands Forest.
The ultramarathon women’s field is strong this year and will see plenty of battles for the top position.
Caroline Wöstmann is back from injury while Jenna Challenor and Tanith Maxwell, who came in second and third position respectively last year, will also be back.
Other exciting additions to the line-up include last year’s Wings for Life World Run Winner Dominika Stelmach from Poland, indoor marathon world record holder Lindsey Scherf from America and SA’s Gerda Steyn will be looking for a top-three finish.
READ: Women runners from Blairgowrie-based running club complete the Two Oceans successfully
In the men’s race, defending champ Lungile Gongqa is hoping to make a triumphant return, while former winners David Gatebe (2013), Lebenya Nkoka (2014) and Mike Fokoroni (2016) are also planning on running a hard race.
The marathon’s R1-million prize bonus for the man or woman who breaks the course record is always a big drawcard, and this year will be no different.
The organisers have worked hard to meet the challenges that the severe drought in the Western Cape has brought.
Through a comprehensive action plan and implementing a range of water-saving and alternative water-sourcing initiatives, the event is essentially off the grid.
No municipal water will be used at any of the events, and water for race day has been sourced from the Newlands spring with an allocated and approved dispensation from relevant stakeholders, including the Department of Water and Sanitation.
Shower facilities have been removed from the finish line, and taps and fixed showers at the University of Cape Town will not be accessible.
Chemical toilets will use recycled water only.
