By: Lonwabo Mtyeku | Photo Credit: Luigi Bennett / Tobias Ginsberg
Seen here: The start of the 2025 Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon. PHOTO CREDIT: Luigi Bennett / Tobias Ginsberg
The iconic Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon, the World’s Most Beautiful Marathon, is set to raise the bar even higher in 2026, unveiling an impressive, combined prize purse of R2.6 million and reaffirming its place among the world’s most prestigious road running events.
Cape Town, South Africa — The world-renowned Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon, often celebrated as “The World’s Most Beautiful Marathon”, has raised the bar once again, unveiling a remarkable R2.6 million prize purse for its 2026 edition. The announcement cements the event’s standing as one of the most prestigious road races on the global athletics calendar.
The increased prize money will be shared across both the iconic Ultra Marathon and the ever-popular Half Marathon, reinforcing the event’s commitment to elite performance, athlete development, and world-class competition.
Bigger Rewards, Greater Prestige
For 2026, the Ultra Marathon will command a total prize purse of R2,177,400, while the Half Marathon will offer R422,600, marking a significant boost across both races.
“This event has always been about more than just crossing the finish line,” said Chris Goldschmidt, Chairperson of the Two Oceans Marathon NPC. “It’s about celebrating excellence, pushing boundaries, and honouring the spirit of running. By increasing the prize purse, we are reinforcing our commitment to elite athletes and strengthening the global profile of the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon.”
Seen here: Gerda Steyn in action during the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon in 2025. PHOTO CREDIT: Tobias Ginsberg
Elite Athletes Take Centre Stage
The prize structure reflects the race’s growing international stature:
Ultra Marathon Prize Breakdown
- Total prize money: R1,794,000
- Winners (Men & Women): R380,000 each
- Second place: R220,000
- Third place: R100,000
- Additional prizes awarded across age categories:
- Top five in 40–49 and 50–59
- Top three in 60–69 and 70+ divisions
- Additional awards for:
- Top WPA Athletes
- Top South African Athletes
- Team categories
Half Marathon Prize Breakdown
- Total prize money: R298,000
- Winners (Men & Women): R50,000 each
- Second place: R30,000
- Third place: R18,000
- Age-category prizes awarded for:
- 40–49 and 50–59 (Top 5)
- 60–69, 70+, and 16–19 (Top 3)
A Strategic Investment in Excellence
According to Wade Bromfield, General Manager of the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon, the expanded prize purse is about more than financial reward.
“Increasing the prize purse is an investment in the integrity of the race and the athletes who dedicate their lives to the sport,” Bromfield said. “It strengthens our ability to attract top local and international runners while elevating the experience for everyone involved. This is about building a world-class event that inspires ambition and celebrates achievement.”
He added that the enhanced Half Marathon prize pool was a long-overdue development, recognising the race’s growing popularity and competitive depth.
A Global Event with African Soul
The Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon remains one of South Africa’s most celebrated sporting events, drawing thousands of runners and spectators from across the globe. Known for its breathtaking coastal and mountain scenery, the race showcases the natural beauty of the Cape Peninsula while delivering a world-class athletic experience.
2026 Event Schedule
- Friday, 10 April 2026: Trail Run
- Saturday, 11 April 2026: Ultra Marathon (56km)
- Sunday, 12 April 2026: Half Marathon (21.1km)
A Commitment to Growth and Legacy
As custodian of the event, the Two Oceans Marathon NPC, alongside its staging and commercial partner Stillwater Sports, continues to drive innovation, athlete support, and international recognition for South African road running.
“With this enhanced prize structure, we are not only celebrating excellence today but investing in the future of the sport,” Bromfield concluded. “The Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon remains a race where legends are made.”
📍 More information:
🌐 www.twooceansmarathon.org.za
📧 Event enquiries: Patiswa@twooceansmarathon.org.za
📱 Facebook & Instagram: Two Oceans Marathon
