By: Lonwabo Mtyeku | Pictures: Action Photo
Seen Here: Neheng Khatala in action during the 2025 Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon. Photo Credit: Action Photo.
Cape Town — Lesotho’s long-distance star Neheng Khatala has set her sights on another podium finish at the prestigious Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon as she prepares for the iconic race scheduled for 11 April 2026 in Cape Town.
Known globally as the “World’s Most Beautiful Marathon,” the race attracts elite athletes from across the globe, and Khatala is determined to improve on her third-place finish in 2025 when she completed the ultra-distance challenge in 3:40:38.
Strong start to the 2026 season
The accomplished runner has already demonstrated impressive early-season form. Khatala recently used the Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K, held on 1 March, as a crucial fitness test ahead of the ultra-marathon.
The Olympian finished fourth in a time of 32:43, a performance she considered encouraging given the demanding preparation she undertook beforehand.
Despite facing windy conditions during the final stages of the race, Khatala was pleased with the result. “I really ran well and I’m grateful for the effort I put in that day,” she said. “The final three kilometres were quite windy, but I’m particularly happy because I didn’t taper for the race. That week I had already done a 45km long run, so I went into it with heavy legs.”
Seen Here: Neheng Khatala in action during the 2025 Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon. Photo Credit: Action Photo.
Versatility sets Khatala apart
Khatala’s ability to excel across multiple distances has become a defining feature of her career. From competing in 5,000-metre track events to finishing on the podium in major marathon and ultra-marathon races, she has established herself as one of Southern Africa’s most versatile endurance athletes.
The Hollywood Athletics Club runner recently demonstrated that versatility by defeating South Africa’s celebrated ultra-marathon champion Gerda Steyn to win the demanding Pirates 21K Powered by Medshield in February.
Khatala credits much of her success to the structured guidance of her coach, Andrew Booyens.
“My training is balanced and structured so that I can handle both hilly routes and fast, flat courses,” she explained. “Whether it’s a difficult course or an easier one, I always focus on putting in the effort to remain consistent.”
Eyes on improvement in Cape Town
With last year’s podium finish providing added confidence, Khatala will arrive in Cape Town as one of the pre-race favourites for the 2026 edition of the ultra-marathon.
Her goal is clear: improve on last year’s result.
“My aim is to improve,” she said. “Last year I finished third, so this year I’m targeting a win or second place. If I can better last year’s performance, that would be a huge blessing.”
Organisers expect exciting race
Race organisers believe Khatala’s participation will add further excitement to this year’s event.
Chris Goldschmidt, Chairperson of the Two Oceans Marathon NPC, described her as a standout athlete.
“Neheng Khatala is a remarkable competitor whose versatility and dedication make her a strong contender,” he said. “Her performances across both track and ultra-marathon distances demonstrate the discipline and focus needed to succeed at this level.”
Similarly, Wade Bromfield, General Manager of the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon, highlighted her strategic preparation as a key strength.
“Khatala’s structured training and strong finish last year position her as one of the favourites. We look forward to seeing her resilience and race strategy on display in Cape Town,” he said.
Major prize purse on offer
The 2026 edition of the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon will feature an impressive combined prize purse of R2.6 million, with the Ultra Marathon offering R2,177,400 and the Half Marathon R422,600.
The multi-day event schedule includes:
- 9 April 2026: Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon International Friendship Run
- 10 April 2026: Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon Trail Run
- 11 April 2026: Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon
- 12 April 2026: Totalsports Two Oceans Half Marathon
With her disciplined preparation and growing reputation on the international running circuit, Khatala will undoubtedly be one of the athletes to watch when the elite field lines up in Cape Town next month.
For fans of long-distance running, the stage is set for another thrilling chapter in one of the world’s most iconic endurance races.
