By: Lonwabo Mtyeku Photo Credit: Tobias Ginsberg
Seen Here: (from left to right) at the 2026 Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon powered by BYD Press Conference that was held at The Southern Sun Cape Sun (today, Tuesday 08 April 2026) are Onalenna Khonkobe, Deane Laubsher, Joseph Seutloali, Gerda Steyn, Joseph Manyedi and Neheng Khatala. Photo Credit: Tobias Ginsberg
Cape Town, South Africa — The stage is set for a thrilling showdown at the Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon 2026, where Gerda Steyn will chase a historic seventh consecutive title, while a fiercely competitive men’s field prepares for a wide-open battle on Saturday, 11 April.
Speaking at the pre-race press conference at the Southern Sun Cape Sun Hotel on 8 April, Steyn—South Africa’s dominant ultra-distance runner—struck a measured yet confident tone as she reflected on her remarkable run of success.
“I know I have done it before, so I believe I can do it again,” said the six-time champion. “But I never allow myself to get too comfortable. Every year demands everything.”
Steyn Faces Deep and Dangerous Field
Despite her dominance, Steyn will not have it easy. The women’s race features a strong and diverse field, including:
- Irvette van Zyl, a consistent podium contender
- Neheng Khatala, Lesotho’s marathon record holder
- Shelmith Muruiki, last year’s runner-up
- Debutants Margaret Jepchumba and Elizabeth Mukoloma, both in strong form
Steyn, who holds the course record of 3:26:54, acknowledged the depth of competition, emphasising that victory would require her very best performance.
“It won’t be a one-woman show,” she admitted. “I can only control my race and make sure I perform at my highest level.”
Men’s Race Wide Open
In contrast to the women’s race, the men’s contest is shaping up as an unpredictable battle featuring multiple contenders capable of taking the title.
Defending champion Joseph Khoarahlane Seutloali will look to retain his crown, but faces stiff competition from:
- Onalenna Khonkhobe, the 2024 winner
- Sibonsiso Sikhakhane, last year’s runner-up
Khonkhobe, determined to bounce back after failing to finish in 2025, delivered a bold statement of intent.
“This is my show,” he declared, signalling his readiness to push the pace—and potentially challenge the long-standing course benchmark set by Bongumusa Mthembu in 2019.
A Race of Global Standing
Organisers say the 2026 edition reflects the growing stature of the race on the international stage. According to the Two Oceans Marathon NPC, the depth of talent across both fields promises a high-quality spectacle.
“This year’s field is incredibly strong and competitive,” organisers noted. “We expect outstanding performances from start to finish.”
Event Details
The Two Oceans Marathon weekend features a full schedule:
- International Friendship Run: Thursday, 9 April
- Trail Run: Friday, 10 April (07:00)
- Ultra Marathon (56km): Saturday, 11 April (05:15)
- Half Marathon: Sunday, 12 April (06:15)
The 2026 event boasts a combined prize purse of R2.6 million, with the Ultra Marathon offering over R2.17 million, further elevating the stakes.
History and Rivalry Collide
As anticipation builds in Cape Town, the narrative is compelling: a dominant champion chasing history, a stacked women’s field ready to challenge her reign, and a men’s race brimming with rivalry and unpredictability.
Whether Gerda Steyn can extend her legacy—or whether new champions will emerge—remains to be seen. What is certain is that the 2026 edition of the Two Oceans Ultra Marathon promises drama, intensity, and potentially historic performances on one of the world’s most iconic courses.
