By: Lonwabo Mtyeku Photo Credit: Devin Paisley, Action Photo
Seen Here: A team of seasoned pace setters fulfil an important function at the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon. Photo Credit: Action Photo.
CAPE TOWN, WESTERN CAPE — As thousands of runners prepare to take on one of the world’s most iconic road races, a dedicated team of experienced pace setters is once again set to guide the field at the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon, ensuring participants have the support they need to achieve their goals.
Taking place across the weekend of 11–12 April 2026, the Ultra Marathon (56km) and Half Marathon (21.1km) will see a combined team of nearly 70 pace setters deployed across various time targets—each playing a crucial role in helping runners navigate the challenging yet breathtaking Cape Peninsula route.
Precision, Experience and Strategy
The pacing programme, coordinated by the Western Province Pace Setters Group under the leadership of seasoned runner Paul Murphy, has become an integral part of the event since 2015.
This year, 41 pace setters will lead groups in the Ultra Marathon, while 28 will guide runners in the Half Marathon—each carefully assigned based on projected finish times and seeding data.
Murphy emphasised that pacing the Ultra is both an art and a science.
“Predicting finishing times in the Ultra Marathon is complex. We design our pacing strategies based on route profiles—slower on climbs, faster on descents—and real race data. Most runners slow down in the second half, so we adopt a slight positive fade approach to accommodate that,” he explained.
Runners are encouraged to remain disciplined in the early stages, particularly before the demanding climbs of Chapman’s Peak and Constantia Nek—sections that often determine race outcomes.
Seen Here: Louzanne Coetzee on her way to the finish after pace setting at the Totalsports Two Oceans Half Marathon in 2025. Photo Credit: Action Photo.
Inspirational Figures on the Route
Among the standout pace setters is Louzanne Coetzee, who continues to break barriers in distance running. The Paralympic athlete will make her Ultra Marathon debut before returning the next day to pace the sub-two-hour group in the Half Marathon alongside her guide Sewie Sevenster.
Coetzee, who made history in 2022 as the race’s first blind pace setter, described her return as both exciting and meaningful.
“We’ve planned our pacing strategy carefully—where we need to be at certain points and how we’ll motivate runners. Having Sewie alongside me gives me confidence, and I’m excited to share this experience,” she said.
Her participation embodies the resilience and inclusivity that define the Two Oceans Marathon.
Milestones and Personal Journeys
Veteran runner Ashraf Orrie—affectionately known as “Mr O”—is also set to feature prominently. This year marks a significant milestone as he targets his 10th Ultra Marathon finish, earning entry into the prestigious Blue Number Club.
A familiar face on the route, Orrie has built a reputation for pacing both the Ultra and Half Marathon in the same weekend—a testament to his endurance and passion for the sport. “There’s nothing like pacing on home ground,” he said. “Helping runners achieve their goals, especially first-time finishers, is incredibly rewarding. The support along the route makes every step worth it.”
Seen Here: Ashraf Orrie pace setting at the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon in 2025. Photo Credit: Devin Paisley.
Enhancing the Runner Experience
Race organisers have underscored the importance of the pacing programme in elevating the overall race-day experience.
Chairperson Chris Goldschmidt praised the consistency and dedication of the pacing team, noting their impact on helping runners achieve personal milestones—from completing their first race to setting new personal bests.
General Manager Wade Bromfield added that the programme reflects the event’s commitment to excellence, highlighting how expert guidance can transform a runner’s experience from start to finish.
More Than a Race
With a total prize purse of R2.6 million and global recognition as “the world’s most beautiful marathon,” the Two Oceans Marathon continues to attract elite athletes and recreational runners alike.
Yet beyond competition, the event remains a celebration of human endurance, community spirit, and personal achievement.
Guiding Every Step of the Journey
As runners prepare to line up in Cape Town, the presence of experienced pace setters offers more than just timekeeping—it provides reassurance, structure, and motivation.
In a race where every kilometre presents a new challenge, these unsung heroes will once again be at the heart of countless success stories—guiding, encouraging, and helping runners cross the finish line with purpose.
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