A local runner, Lauren Rolfe, has achieved a major milestone by completing her tenth Two Oceans Marathon this year, earning her blue number, a badge of honour in the South African running community.
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The athlete, who began her running journey in school cross-country, was inspired by her father, when he started training for both the Comrades and the Two Oceans marathons. “He sparked the fire in me,” she said, recalling how his dedication led her to take the sport seriously.
In 2012, after completing several half-marathons, her father asked if she’d like to run the Two Oceans Marathon with him. “And hence the training began,” she smiled.
This year marked her tenth time running the iconic race, known for its scenic views of Cape Town. “It was a huge milestone. There’s a bit of superstition around running your tenth, so, I made sure to stay humble, go out easy, and just enjoy the day,” she said.
Coming off a difficult 2024 race, she entered this year’s event with some nerves, but a strong mindset. “I never let that bad race live rent-free in my head. I focused on having a comfortable run.”
She described this year’s experience as beautiful. Listening to advice from her coach, Michelle Mee, she ran smart, saving her energy for the latter part of the race. “The standout moments were seeing my dad twice on the route, getting high fives from friends and family, and soaking in the sunrise over Muizenberg and the glassy sea views from Chappies. The sun dog over Hout Bay was magical.”
The most difficult part of the route, as always, was Constantia Nek. “It’s relentless,” she said, “but once you’re over it, you know you’re good.”
Crossing the finish line was an emotional moment. “I was so happy. Beaming. I had written down this goal 13 years ago, and now I’ve done it.”
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Her training in the months leading up to the marathon included weekly mileage, two marathons, and an ultra, as well as track sessions and long runs every weekend. She focused on eating well, making sure to have protein shakes and immune-supporting supplements after tough sessions.
“The goal was big, and I knew if I slacked, I wouldn’t make it. Running with the Michelle Coach Mee (MCM) group helped. They hold you accountable, and Coach Michelle checks in often – you don’t want to disappoint her.”
Her biggest supporter remains her father. “He’s been with me every step of the way, running my first marathon, Two Oceans, and Comrades. Even when he wasn’t running, he was cheering from the sidelines.”
Being part of MCM has also been a key part of her journey. “The running community is incredible. So many friends have lifted me when I needed it most.”
This achievement, she says, is deeply personal. “My dad hasn’t got to his blue number, so, it’s something I always wanted to do, for the both of us. From the start of my long-distance journey, this was the goal.”
Reflecting on the experience, she added: “I’ve learnt that with the right mindset, anything is possible. But it truly takes a village. The people beside you… They’re everything.”
Her advice to aspiring runners: “Do it. It’s a tough race, but also one of the most beautiful in the world.”
Looking ahead, she’s set to run the Loskop race on April 26, followed by the Comrades Marathon. “Then I’ll take it easy on long distances and focus more on 21km races, maybe the Vitality Series,” she said.
As for the Two Oceans? “Yes, I’ll definitely be back. I’ve always loved it and I still do.”
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