By: Lonwabo Mtyeku | Photo Credit: Action Photo
Seen Here: Onalenna Khonkhobe in action during the 2025 Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon. Photo Credit: Action Photo
Cape Town, South Africa – April 2026 – Redemption will be the driving force behind Onalenna Khonkhobe when he lines up for the Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon powered by BYD on Saturday, 11 April 2026.
After a heartbreaking finish at last year’s edition of the world-renowned race, Khonkhobe returns with renewed focus and determination to reclaim his place among the elite.
A Painful Memory Fuelling Motivation
Khonkhobe entered the 2025 race as the defending champion, following his commanding 3:09:30 victory in 2024. He looked poised to secure back-to-back titles, running strongly within the lead pack through the 50km mark.
However, disaster struck on the descent from Constantia Nek, where severe cramps forced him out of contention. With less than 6km remaining, he was unable to finish—a result that has lingered for nearly a year.
“I would like to win the Two Oceans like I did in 2024. Last year I couldn’t even make it into the top 10,” Khonkhobe admitted.
A Strategic Reset for 2026
Now 30, the Klerksdorp-based athlete has taken a more calculated approach to his preparation. Under the guidance of coach Piou Mpolokeng, Khonkhobe has shifted his focus toward quality training over excessive racing.
After acknowledging that over-racing affected his 2025 performance, he has opted for a more disciplined build-up this season.
“I made the mistake of over-racing last year and decided not to repeat that,” he explained.
His 2026 campaign has been deliberately measured, with limited competitive outings to preserve peak condition for Cape Town.
Seen Here: Onalenna Khonkhobe in action during the 2025 Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon. Photo Credit: Action Photo
Testing Form Ahead of the Big Race
Khonkhobe’s only major test this year came at the Motsepe Foundation Race to Gender Equality Half Marathon, where he finished second in 1:05:07, behind Kenya’s Joseph Koech, with Bennet Seloyi rounding out the podium.
The race provided a valuable fitness benchmark, despite presenting challenges along the route.
“The race was good, but around the 12th kilometre I encountered a tough hill. I just wanted to test where my fitness is for Cape Town,” he said.
Running Free, Racing Smart
Unlike last year, Khonkhobe enters the 2026 race without the weight of defending a title—something he believes will work in his favour.
“Defending the Two Oceans title is not easy. This year there is less pressure, and I am going to run the race freely.”
This mindset, combined with his refined training approach, positions him as a strong contender in what is expected to be a highly competitive field.
Organisers Expect a Strong Comeback
Race organisers are anticipating a compelling performance from the seasoned ultra-runner.
Chris Goldschmidt expressed confidence in Khonkhobe’s ability to bounce back:
“Onalenna Khonkhobe is an exceptional athlete, and competitors of his calibre always return stronger after a challenging race.”
Wade Bromfield echoed this sentiment, highlighting the role of resilience in elite sport:
“Setbacks often fuel great performances, and Onalenna has already shown the determination that makes him a formidable contender.”
A Race Steeped in Prestige
The Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon remains one of the most celebrated endurance races globally, attracting elite athletes and amateur runners alike.
The 2026 edition will feature a full programme of events:
- 9 April: International Friendship Run
- 10 April: Trail Run (07:00)
- 11 April: Ultra Marathon (05:15)
- 12 April: Half Marathon (06:15)
With a combined prize purse of R2.6 million, including over R2.1 million allocated to the Ultra Marathon, the stakes are higher than ever.
All Eyes on Khonkhobe
As race day approaches, Khonkhobe’s journey from disappointment to determination adds a compelling narrative to this year’s event.
Armed with experience, discipline, and renewed hunger, he returns to Cape Town not just to compete—but to rewrite his story.
Whether he reclaims the title or not, one thing is certain: Onalenna Khonkhobe will be a central figure in what promises to be an electrifying 2026 Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon.
