By: Lonwabo Mtyeku Photo Credit: Action Photo
Seen Here: Matlakala Bennett Seloyi in action during the 2025 Totalsports Two Oceans Half Marathon. Photo Credit: Action Photo
Seen Here: Matlakala Bennett Seloyi in action during the 2025 Totalsports Two Oceans Half Marathon. Photo Credit: Action Photo
Cape Town, South Africa — The stage is set for a thrilling elite showdown at the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon Half Marathon, as defending champion Bennett Seloyi prepares to defend his crown against a formidable field led by distance-running legend Stephen Mokoka.
With race day scheduled for Sunday, 12 April 2026, anticipation is building for what promises to be one of the most competitive editions in recent years.
Seloyi Ready for a Fight
Seloyi enters the race with confidence, but no illusions about the challenge ahead. The Boxer Athletics Club standout has enjoyed strong form, including a standout victory at the Kimberley Big Hole Marathon, and is determined to remain on top.
“To be honest, it’s going to be tough. Very, very tough,” Seloyi admitted. “The lineup is strong, but I’m here to defend my title. If I don’t win, I must at least finish in the top three.”
Having clocked an impressive 1:04:42 on debut at the event, Seloyi has proven he can handle the demands of the course — but defending his title against such depth will require a near-perfect performance.
Seen Here: Stephen Mokoka in action during the 2025 Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon. Photo Credit: Action Photo
Mokoka’s Legacy and New Mission
All eyes, however, will be on Mokoka — a towering figure in South African distance running and one of the most decorated athletes in the race’s history.
With five gold medals, including four victories, Mokoka has already etched his name into Two Oceans folklore. Now, at 41, the Hollywood Athletics Club veteran is chasing a fifth consecutive podium finish — a feat that would further cement his legendary status.
“The support from the crowd is amazing. It’s something that has always stayed with me,” Mokoka said. “This race means a lot. It’s historic, and being part of that history is special.”
Mokoka’s return to the half marathon distance also serves a strategic purpose, as he uses the race to assess his fitness ahead of the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon later this year.
“This is a test for me,” he explained. “The course is not easy — the elevation is similar to the Cape Town Marathon. I need to see if my body is ready. But whenever you race, you must give your A-game.”
A Deep and Competitive Field
Beyond Seloyi and Mokoka, the elite field is stacked with talent. Athletes such as Thabang Mosiako, George Kusche, and Anthony Timotheus add further depth, ensuring a high-tempo contest from start to finish.
The combination of seasoned champions and in-form challengers sets the stage for a tactical and unpredictable race.
Organisers Expect Fireworks
Race organisers are equally excited about the calibre of competition.
“Bennett Seloyi has shown real determination to defend his title,” said Chris Goldschmidt, Chairperson of the Two Oceans Marathon NPC. “At the same time, Stephen Mokoka’s record speaks for itself. His achievements reflect exceptional class and consistency. With athletes like these, we’re set for an exciting race.”
General Manager Wade Bromfield added: “Mokoka’s presence elevates the entire field, while Seloyi’s hunger to defend his title adds another layer of intensity. It’s exactly the kind of elite contest that makes this event so special.”
High Stakes, High Rewards
The 2026 edition of the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon features a combined prize purse of R2.6 million, with the Half Marathon offering R422,600 — further raising the stakes for elite competitors.
A Race of Prestige and Purpose
More than just a race, the Two Oceans Half Marathon remains one of the most prestigious events on the South African running calendar — blending elite competition with community spirit and global appeal.
As Seloyi chases back-to-back titles and Mokoka hunts history, the 2026 edition promises a compelling narrative of ambition, legacy, and endurance.
On Cape Town’s scenic yet demanding course, only one certainty remains: the road to the podium will be fiercely contested.
