By: Lonwabo Mtyeku | Photo Credit: Devin Paisley, David Sullivan
Seen Here: (from left to right) at an official Sponsor and Stakeholder Breakfast held at the Southern Sun Cape Sun Hotel earlier this week: Michael Meyer (Managing Director of Stillwater Sports), Pieter Bloem (Founder of Bootlegger), Chris Goldschmidt (Chairperson of the Two Oceans Marathon NPC) and Miguel Netto (Group Head of Marketing at Bootlegger). Photo Credit: David Sullivan
One of South Africa’s most iconic endurance events is getting a fresh jolt of energy—both on and off the course. The Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon has officially welcomed Bootlegger as an Event Partner from 2026, marking the start of a three-year collaboration aimed at enhancing the overall race experience.
Widely known as “the world’s most beautiful marathon,” the event continues to evolve by aligning with brands that reflect its ethos of community, performance, and lifestyle.
A Partnership Rooted in Shared Values
Chris Goldschmidt, Chairperson of the Two Oceans Marathon NPC, described the partnership as a natural fit:
“We are proud to welcome Bootlegger to the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon family. Their commitment to quality and community aligns perfectly with the spirit of the event.”
Echoing this sentiment, General Manager Wade Bromfield emphasised the experiential value the partnership brings:
“Bootlegger brings energy, passion, and a love for people—values at the heart of the Two Oceans Marathon. Their presence adds an exciting dimension to the 2026 event.”
Seen Here: Runners enjoying the World’s Most Beautiful Marathon in 2025. Photo Credit: Devin Paisley
Coffee Culture Meets Endurance Sport
With more than 100 outlets nationwide, Bootlegger has built a reputation as a premium café brand deeply embedded in South Africa’s active lifestyle culture. Its involvement in the marathon signals a strategic move to connect directly with a community of runners, cyclists, and endurance enthusiasts.
Miguel Netto, Group Head of Marketing at Bootlegger, highlighted the alignment between brand and event:
“This partnership makes complete sense for us. The Two Oceans Marathon brings together quality, consistency, and community on a grand scale. We see it as an opportunity to elevate the experience across every touchpoint.”
Founder Pieter Bloem reinforced the brand’s vision of integrating into everyday rituals and active lifestyles:
“This partnership allows us to extend our presence into a space that brings together thousands of passionate runners and supporters, enhancing the overall event experience.”
Enhancing the Race Weekend Experience
As part of the agreement, Bootlegger will play an active role throughout race weekend—bringing its signature coffee offering to participants and spectators alike. From early morning starts to post-race recovery moments, the brand aims to become an integral part of the marathon journey.
A World-Class Event Line-Up
The 2026 edition of the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon will once again feature a packed programme:
- 9 April: International Friendship Run
- 10 April: Trail Run (07:00)
- 11 April: Ultra Marathon (56km) – 05:15 start
- 12 April: Half Marathon (21.1km) – 06:15 start
Set against the dramatic coastal and mountain scenery of the Cape Peninsula, the event continues to attract thousands of local and international runners.
Driving Lifestyle Integration in Sport
Delivered by the Two Oceans Marathon NPC in partnership with Stillwater Sports, the marathon remains a cornerstone of South Africa’s sporting calendar.
The addition of Bootlegger reflects a broader trend in endurance events—where lifestyle, community, and experience are becoming as important as competition itself.
As the countdown to April 2026 begins, runners can expect more than just a race. With coffee culture now part of the mix, the Two Oceans Marathon is set to deliver a richer, more connected experience—fuelled by both endurance and espresso.
