By: Lonwabo Mtyeku | Photo Credit: Adnaan Mohamed, Action Photo.
Seen Here: Alderman Eddie Andrews, Deputy Mayor of the City of Cape Town in action at a recent event. Photo Credit: Adnaan Mohamed.
Cape Town – Two former Springboks front-row stalwarts, Marius Hurter and Eddie Andrews, are set to swap scrums for endurance as they tackle new personal challenges at the 2026 Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon powered by BYD this April.
Once known for their dominance in the rugby scrum, the two tighthead props—each weighing over 130kg during their playing days—are now embracing the physical and mental demands of long-distance running in one of South Africa’s most iconic endurance events.
Hurter Embraces the Ultra Challenge
At 55, Marius Hurter—a member of South Africa’s victorious squad at the 1995 Rugby World Cup—will take on the gruelling 56km Ultra Marathon on Saturday, 11 April 2026.
Affectionately known as “The Hurternator,” Hurter has undergone a remarkable transformation since retiring from professional rugby in 2006, shedding nearly 30kg to become a seasoned endurance athlete.
“My rugby career finished in 2006, but I must say, being a prop, I like a bit of suffering,” Hurter said.
“This is hard on the body, but a lot of it comes down to mental toughness. It’s what’s between your ears that runs the whole operation.”
Hurter’s endurance résumé is impressive. He has completed nine editions of the Absa Cape Epic, multiple Ironman triathlons, the Comrades Marathon and the demanding Ultra-Trail Cape Town 100 miler.
This year’s race will carry added emotional significance as he lines up alongside his 20-year-old daughter, Annalien, who will be running her first ultra marathon.
“I’ve got three daughters and I try to involve them in my events. The oldest one is running with me—we committed to doing it together,” he said.
Seen Here: Marius Hurter in action at TTOM. Photo Credit: Action Photo.
Andrews Eyes Blue Number Milestone
Meanwhile, Eddie Andrews, now the Deputy Mayor of Cape Town, will return for his sixth start in the Half Marathon (21km) on Sunday, 12 April 2026.
The former Springbok, who earned 23 Test caps between 2004 and 2007, began his running journey in 2016 through community Park Runs and has steadily built his endurance profile.
With six races under his belt, Andrews is now edging closer to the prestigious Blue Number status, awarded to runners who complete ten editions of the event.
“This is my sixth Two Oceans Half. Yes, I am almost there. I’m going to go for it,” Andrews said.
He has also called on fellow former rugby players to embrace endurance running.
“This is a challenge to all ex-Springbok rugby players—come and do it. Be part of the running community and have different conversations.”
Celebrating Endurance and Community
Organisers say the participation of Hurter and Andrews highlights the inclusive and inspirational nature of the event.
Chris Goldschmidt, Chairperson of the Two Oceans Marathon NPC, welcomed the duo’s involvement.
“Their participation brings a unique excitement to the 2026 edition and underscores the spirit of endurance and community that the event celebrates,” he said.
Wade Bromfield, General Manager of the race, echoed the sentiment.
“Having two former Springbok front-row legends on the start line is truly special. It highlights the diversity and inclusivity of the event, inspiring runners of all levels.”
A Showcase of Transformation
The journeys of Marius Hurter and Eddie Andrews reflect a broader narrative of transformation—from elite rugby athletes to endurance competitors driven by personal goals, resilience and community engagement.
As they prepare to take on the roads and hills of Cape Town, both men embody the evolving nature of sport—where the challenge is no longer just physical dominance, but mental endurance, personal growth and shared experience.
For spectators and fellow runners alike, their presence adds a compelling dimension to an already celebrated race weekend.
