The Two Oceans Marathon is one of the most prestigious ultra marathons in the world, attracting thousands of runners from all over the globe. The race takes place in Cape Town, South Africa and is known for its challenging route and breathtaking views of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the Two Oceans Marathon 2024, including when it takes place, the starting and end point, the Two Oceans Marathon distance, places to go to watch, as well as the perfect place for the race after-party, at Forester’s Arms!
History of the Two Oceans Race
The Two Oceans Marathon holds the distinction of being Africa’s most impactful running event, contributing R672 million annually to the Western Cape economy. Renowned as the world’s most picturesque marathon, it debuted in 1970 with 26 runners taking on the uncharted challenge, where the event originally served as a training run for Cape Town runners preparing for the Comrades Marathon. The Comrades Marathon is an ultra marathon spanning approximately 88 kilometres that runs between the cities of Durban and Pietermaritzburg and holds the distinction of being the world’s largest and oldest ultra marathon race. With an entry fee of just 50 cents, only 15 individuals completed the Two Oceans Ultra Marathon in 1970, and Dirkie Steyn emerged as the victor, clocking in at 3 hours, 55 minutes, and 50 seconds, all while running barefoot.
The Two Oceans Race Today
Since then, the Ocean Marathon has evolved into a national institution beloved by local and international athletes. Participants consistently rank it as one of South Africa’s premier races, attracting strong fields of competitors and an increasing number of international entrants, and the Two Oceans Marathon 2024 will be no different.
This event has become synonymous with the Easter Weekend in Cape Town, featuring pre-race activities at the expo, family day, and fun runs on Easter Friday. On race day, the en-route entertainment adds an element of fun, excitement, and a distinctive experience for runners, families, friends, and spectators alike.
Registration and Fees
Registration for the Two Oceans Marathon typically opens in October of the previous year, and the registration fee varies depending on the distance that is chosen to run. The Two Oceans Marathon 2024 fees are:
- – 56km Ultra Marathon: R790 for licensed South African Athletes
- – 21km Half Marathon: R420 for licensed South African Athletes
It is important to register as early as possible as the race is limited to 27,000 participants, and due to its popularity spots fill up quickly. More race entry categories can be found on the official website.
When is the Two Oceans 2024 Marathon?
The Two Oceans Marathon is held annually on Easter Saturday, and in 2024, the ultra marathon race will take place on Saturday, 13 April, and the half marathon will take place on Sunday, 14 April. It is important to plan travel and training schedules accordingly, whether you are planning to participate in the Two Oceans Marathon 2024 race or only wanting to spectate and support your friends and family so that you don’t miss out on making the event.
Where is the Two Oceans Marathon 2024 Starting and End Point?
The Two Oceans Marathon starting point is in Newlands, Cape Town, at the corner of Dean Street and Main Road, close to South African Breweries, and the race will finish at the rugby fields on the upper campus of the University of Cape Town.
What is the Two Oceans Marathon 2024 Distance?
The Two Oceans Marathon is an ultra marathon, which means it is longer than a traditional marathon, which is usually 42.195 kilometres long. The Two Oceans Ultra Marathon distance is 56 kilometres and takes runners through some of the most scenic areas of Cape Town, such as Chapmans Peak Drive and Constantia. The Two Oceans Half Marathon is 21.1 kilometres long and offers a great alternative for those not up to running the ultra yet.
The Two Oceans Marathon 2024 Route
The route for the Two Oceans Marathon 2024 is incredibly challenging but also incredibly beautiful. A detailed route breakdown is available here on the Two Oceans website, and participants are advised to familiarise themselves with the route before the race.
The runners will start in Newlands and make their way through the Southern Suburbs of Cape Town, then head through Muizenberg, Kalk Bay, Fish Hoek, Noordhoek and the impressive Chapman’s Peak Drive. They will then pass through Hout Bay, leafy Constantia and will then make their way back to the finish line in Newlands at the University of Cape Town.
Both the ultra marathon and half marathon Cape Town routes include some steep inclines and declines, as well as breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and Table Mountain, and it is important for runners to train on similar terrain to prepare for the races.
Where Can Spectators Watch the Two Oceans 2024 Race?
If you are not participating in the Two Oceans Marathon 2024 race but still want to experience the excitement and support the race participants, there are plenty of opportunities to do just that. It is important to note that there will be many road closures on the weekend, and details for both the ultra marathon and the half marathon road closures can be found on the Two Oceans official website and should be taken into account when choosing where to go to watch as parking may be limited in the areas.
Two of the best places to watch the race are, of course, at the start and finish lines, where the excitement and anticipation will be electrifying, but the renowned section spanning from Muizenberg to Kalk Bay along the initial 20 kilometres of the route also provides an optimal vantage point for ocean views, and this predominantly flat segment also features numerous coffee shops and restaurants, presenting spectators with opportunities to unwind after the passage of the runners.
The route along Hout Bay and Chapman’s Peak Drive is also extremely popular due to the scenic view, but it does require a bit of an early morning hike as the area will be inaccessible to cars.
The race route offers a myriad of beautiful places to watch the race, so you won’t be disappointed no matter where you choose to go watch from.
Two Oceans Marathon 2024 After-Party at Forries
The post-race festivities of the Two Oceans Marathon 2024 culminate in an unforgettable after-party, which is traditionally held at the Foresters Arms pub and restaurant in Cape Town. Established in 1852, Forries boasts a rich historical heritage and a warm, inviting atmosphere, making it the ideal setting for a vibrant gathering in the heart of Newlands.
The after-party will, as always, feature great live entertainment and, of course, ice-cold beer and delicious food. It is the perfect place for participants to exchange stories about personal victories, relive the highs and lows of the race, and revel in the camaraderie that defines the Two Oceans Marathon experience. Please keep an eye on our Facebook and Instagram pages for more information nearer to the time, or feel free to contact us if you have any questions.
As the sun sets over Newlands, the Two Oceans Marathon 2024 after-party at Forries pub and restaurant in Cape Town promises to be a fitting conclusion to the marathon weekend, encapsulating the spirit of sportsmanship, unity, and unwavering determination that characterises this iconic event.
