The Two Oceans Marathon is a globally renowned ultra-marathon held annually in Cape Town, South Africa. Known as the “world’s most beautiful marathon,” it draws runners from across the globe. Here’s the latest information and details to help you prepare for the 2025 edition of the marathon.
Key Dates for the Two Oceans Marathon 2025
The 2025 Two Oceans Marathon is scheduled for:
- Ultra Marathon (56km): April 5, 2025
- Half Marathon (21.1km): April 6, 2025
- Expo, Race Registration, and Race Pack Collection: April 2-5, 2025
This marathon is more than just a race—it’s an entire weekend filled with events, including an expo where participants collect their race packs and enjoy exhibitions from fitness brands.
How to Enter the Two Oceans Marathon 2025
Entry Process:
- The entry process for the 2025 edition opens on September 30, 2024. Runners are required to enter a draw, and successful applicants will be notified. Entries must be paid by November 30, 2024, to secure a spot.
- The race is open to both elite runners and enthusiasts, with separate categories for men, women, and age groups.
Training and Preparation for the Two Oceans Marathon
For those looking to participate in the Ultra Marathon or Half Marathon, training is crucial. The Two Oceans Marathon is challenging due to the elevation, particularly for the 56km Ultra Marathon, which includes steep ascents over Chapman’s Peak and Constantia Nek.
Key tips for training include:
- Start early: Give yourself at least 6 months of focused training.
- Hill training: Incorporate hill runs to prepare for the elevation changes.
- Long-distance stamina: Gradually increase your mileage to build endurance.
There are also official training runs organized by the marathon committee to help participants prepare.
Charity and Fundraising Opportunities
The Two Oceans Marathon is more than just a race; it’s a significant charity event. Runners can participate in the “Run for Charity” initiative, where they raise funds for a cause close to their hearts. Entries for charity runners open alongside general entries, but spots are limited.
Accommodation and Travel Tips for Two Oceans Marathon 2025
Cape Town offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. It’s recommended to book accommodations early due to high demand during marathon weekend. Many runners prefer staying near the starting point in Newlands, while others enjoy the scenic areas near the finish line in Constantia.
Getting around Cape Town is easy with services like Uber, local taxis, and Rikkis taxis, a popular choice for environmentally-conscious travelers. Ensure you check road closures in advance as they occur throughout the marathon weekend.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the entry fee for the Two Oceans Marathon 2025?
The entry fees for 2025 will be announced closer to the event. In previous years, entry fees have ranged from R450 to R650 for the half marathon and R700 to R1000 for the ultra-marathon.
2. What is the qualifying time for the Two Oceans Ultra Marathon?
Participants must meet specific qualifying times based on their age and gender. Typically, runners need to complete a marathon in under 5 hours to qualify for the ultra-marathon.
3. When do I collect my race pack?
Race packs can be collected at the Two Oceans Expo from April 2-5, 2025, with the half marathon runners collecting on the final day.
4. Are there any prizes?
Yes, there are substantial cash prizes for the top finishers in both the ultra and half marathon categories. Additionally, runners who complete their 10th Two Oceans Marathon receive a special blue number.
Final Thoughts on the Two Oceans Marathon 2025
The Two Oceans Marathon is more than a race; it’s an experience that showcases the breathtaking scenery of Cape Town while pushing runners to their limits. Whether you’re participating in the ultra-marathon or the half marathon, it’s essential to prepare, plan your travel early, and soak in the excitement of this globally renowned event.