An Exploration of the Unfiltered Happiness in Every Stride Welcome, fellow runners and fitness enthusiasts after a long period of not posting. There's something profoundly magical about the moment my feet leave the pavement and the world around me transforms into a rhythm of breath and movement. Running isn't about breaking records or chasing medals. It's about discovering a version of myself that emerges when I commit to putting one foot in front of the other, again and again, in the most authentic form of human propulsion. Why I Run I discovered something fundamental about running when I first ventured into understanding how different cultures approach movement. I learned that some indigenous communities don't race. They run as part of their culture, their celebration, their connection to the land. Their approach to running speaks to something deeper within all of us, a primal joy that exists beyond competition or performance metrics. Running offers me a gateway in...
Unveiling the Majesty and Might
The world of ultra-marathon running holds a special place in the hearts of athletes and enthusiasts alike, a realm where human endurance is tested, and the spirit of perseverance shines brightest. At the very pinnacle of this challenging discipline, two iconic South African events stand tall: the Two Oceans Marathon and the Comrades Marathon. These races are far more than mere competitions; they are profound journeys, celebrations of the human will, and deeply woven into the fabric of South African sporting heritage. This exploration delves into the rich history, challenging routes, and legendary figures that have shaped these magnificent ultra-marathons, captivating participants and spectators for decades.
The Two Oceans Marathon: Where Two Oceans Meet and Beauty Unfolds
Often hailed as 'the world's most beautiful marathon', the Two Oceans Marathon, affectionately known as TOM, is an annual spectacle held in the breathtaking city of Cape Town, South Africa. It is an ultra-marathon covering 56 kilometres, traversing the stunning landscapes where the mighty Atlantic and Indian Oceans converge around the Cape Peninsula. The race was first held on 2 May 1970, with a modest 26 runners bravely tackling the unknown challenge. Over the decades, it has blossomed into Africa's largest running event by economic impact, attracting thousands of local and international participants each year.
The genesis of the Two Oceans Marathon came from the vision of Dave Venter, who aimed to establish an ultra-race around and over the mountains guarding Cape Town. The initial entry fee was a mere 50 cents for what was then called the Peninsula 35-miler, a course that actually measured 36.5 miles, equivalent to around 58.75 kilometres. The inaugural race saw Dirkie Steyn claim victory in challenging conditions of pouring rain and bitter cold wind, completing the course barefoot in 3 hours, 55 minutes, and 50 seconds. From these humble beginnings, the Two Oceans Marathon quickly gained traction, growing from 31 finishers in 1971 to 186 by 1975.
The course itself is a journey through unparalleled natural beauty, beginning in Newlands. The ultra-marathon takes a roughly circular route, guiding runners through picturesque Muizenberg and Fish Hoek, before ascending the iconic Chapman's Peak. This section of the route, approximately 180 metres above sea level at its highest point, offers magnificent views of the Atlantic Ocean below. A bone-jarring descent leads runners into Hout Bay, followed by another significant climb over Constantia Nek, which sits at an elevation of 215 metres. The race culminates at the University of Cape Town campus, where exhausted yet exhilarated runners cross the finish line. Occasionally, alternative routes, such as over Ou Kaapse Weg, have been used when Chapman's Peak Drive has been closed.
Over its illustrious history, the Two Oceans Marathon has witnessed numerous memorable performances and the emergence of true ultra-running legends. A significant milestone occurred in 1975 when the race was granted "multi-national" status, allowing athletes of all races to participate officially, marking a crucial step towards inclusivity in South African sport. The 1976 edition saw Gabashane Vincent Rakabaele become the first Black athlete to win the race, setting a new record of 3 hours, 18 minutes, and 5 seconds.
One of the most notable figures in the Two Oceans Marathon's history is Zimbabwean ultra-marathoner Stephen Muzhingi. Known for his three consecutive Comrades Marathon victories, Muzhingi also triumphed at the Two Oceans Marathon in 2012, clocking a time of 3 hours, 8 minutes, and 8 seconds. His victory made him only the second man, after Derek Preiss in 1974, to hold both the Comrades and Two Oceans titles concurrently, a testament to his exceptional talent and versatility. Muzhingi's 2012 win was achieved in wet and windy conditions, further cementing his reputation as a formidable competitor.
The women's race at Two Oceans has also produced incredible stories of determination and triumph. The Russian twin sisters, Elena and Olesya Nurgalieva, who dominated the Comrades Marathon for years, also left their mark on the Two Oceans course. Elena Nurgalieva, in particular, won the 56-kilometre race four times, in 2004, 2005, 2009, and 2012. Her 2012 Two Oceans victory came in a time of 3 hours, 41 minutes, and 55 seconds, further showcasing her comprehensive dominance in South African ultra-marathons.
A truly historic achievement unfolded in 2015 when South African athlete Caroline Wöstmann made headlines by winning both the Two Oceans Marathon and the Comrades Marathon in the same year. Wöstmann's Two Oceans victory in 2015, on only her second attempt, was secured with a time of 3 hours, 41 minutes, and 23 seconds. This remarkable feat made her the first South African woman in 14 years to win the Two Oceans title and only the second South African woman ever, after Frith van der Merwe in 1989, to achieve the rare double victory in both of South Africa's premier ultra-marathons within the same calendar year. Wöstmann, a chartered accountant and mother of two, demonstrated that dedication and rigorous training, even alongside a busy professional and family life, can lead to unparalleled success. Her journey from a 10-kilometre time of 56 minutes in 2010 to an ultra-marathon champion in just a few years served as an immense inspiration to many.
More recently, Gerda Steyn has emerged as a beacon of excellence in ultra-running, particularly at the Two Oceans Marathon. By November 2023, Steyn had already cemented her place in the race's history books with multiple victories and course records. Her consistent performances and record-breaking times have elevated her to legendary status, drawing significant attention to the women's field. In 2023, Gerda Steyn not only won the Two Oceans Marathon but also broke her own course record for the women's ultra, completing the 56-kilometre distance in a phenomenal 3 hours, 29 minutes, and 6 seconds. This continuous improvement and dominance underscore the incredible evolution of performance in women's ultra-running.
The Two Oceans Marathon is not simply about elite athletes, however. It embraces a broader community of runners, offering a half-marathon of 21 kilometres which was introduced in 1998, attracting thousands of participants. The event also features fun runs for children and trail runs, creating a festive atmosphere that celebrates health, fitness, and the beauty of the Mother City. The sheer scale of participation, with approximately 11,000 athletes tackling the 56-kilometre ultra-marathon and 16,000 in the half-marathon, makes it a truly monumental event.
The Comrades Marathon: The Ultimate Human Race
Across the vast and diverse landscapes of South Africa, another colossal ultra-marathon ignites the passion of runners and spectators: the Comrades Marathon. This iconic race, approximately 90 kilometres in length, alternates annually between an "up" run, starting in Durban and finishing in Pietermaritzburg, and a "down" run, reversing the direction. Its origins date back to 1921, conceived by World War I veteran Vic Clapham as a memorial to the South African soldiers who lost their lives during the war. Clapham, having endured a gruelling 2,700-kilometre route march through German East Africa, envisioned the race as a unique test of physical endurance, a fitting tribute to resilience and sacrifice.
The inaugural Comrades Marathon took place on 24 May 1921, with 48 runners entering and 34 starting the race. A challenging 12-hour cut-off time was imposed, and Bill Rowan etched his name into history as the first winner, crossing the finish line in 8 hours, 59 minutes. Only 16 of the starters completed the race that day, highlighting its immense difficulty from the very beginning. With the exception of a few years during World War II and the COVID-19 pandemic, the Comrades Marathon has been an annual event, evolving into the world's largest and oldest ultra-marathon.
The Comrades course is renowned for its formidable climbs, affectionately known as the 'Big Five' hills: Polly Shortts, Inchanga, Botha's Hill, Fields Hill, and Cowie's Hill. These demanding ascents and descents test every fibre of a runner's being, physically and mentally. The "up" run starts near sea level in Durban and climbs to an elevation of approximately 921 metres in Pietermaritzburg, while the "down" run starts at the higher elevation and descends towards the coast. Landmarks such as Drummond, often considered the halfway mark, and others including Lion Park, Umlaas Road, and Pinetown, have become familiar to generations of runners.
The Comrades Marathon has generated countless tales of superhuman effort and enduring spirit. The race was officially opened to all athletes, including Black runners and women, in 1975, marking a pivotal moment in its history. In that same year, Vincent Rakabele became the first Black runner to officially win a medal, and Elizabeth Cavanaugh became the first official women's winner.
No discussion of the Comrades Marathon is complete without mentioning the incomparable Bruce Fordyce, often referred to as the 'Comrades King'. Fordyce achieved an unprecedented nine victories in the race, including an incredible eight consecutive wins from 1981 to 1988, and a final triumph in 1990. His dominance during the 1980s captivated the nation and significantly boosted the race's popularity, with entries skyrocketing from under 4,000 in 1980 to over 10,000 by the end of the decade. Fordyce also held the record time for both the "up" and "down" runs for significant periods. His "down" run record of 5 hours, 24 minutes, and 7 seconds, set in 1986, stood for 21 years before being broken by Russia's Leonid Shvetsov in 2007. Fordyce's legacy extends beyond his victories; he was also an outspoken critic of apartheid, wearing a black armband during his 1981 win as a silent protest, which, despite some initial boos, resonated deeply with many.
The 2000s saw a different kind of dominance in the women's race, primarily from the Russian Nurgalieva twins, Elena and Olesya. Elena Nurgalieva holds the record for the most gold medals in the women's race, with 13. She won the Comrades Marathon an astounding eight times, cementing her and her sister's formidable presence between 2003 and 2014. Their strategic racing and consistent performance made them a formidable force, with Elena often prevailing in the ultras. The sisters made history in 2003 by finishing first and second, showcasing their collective power.
South African runners have continued to make their mark. In 2016, David Gatebe delivered a sensational performance, shattering the "down" run record with a time of 5 hours, 18 minutes, and 19 seconds. Gatebe's victory was particularly remarkable as he was not initially considered a top contender, but his strategic race, including a powerful surge in the latter stages, saw him claim a memorable win and a substantial prize purse. Gatebe is also one of the select few male runners to have won both the Two Oceans Marathon (which he achieved in 2013) and the Comrades Marathon.
The 2018 Comrades Marathon saw Ann Ashworth, an advocate by profession, achieve her lifelong dream by winning the women's race in a time of 6 hours, 10 minutes, and 3 seconds. Ashworth's victory, unexpected by many, highlighted the unpredictable nature of ultra-running and the power of individual determination. She had meticulously prepared for years, with 2018 marking her seventh Comrades Marathon.
In 2019, Edward Mothibi secured victory in the Comrades "up" run, completing the race in 5 hours, 31 minutes, and 33 seconds. His win was a significant achievement, coming in only his second attempt at the Comrades Marathon, beating a three-time champion, Bongmusa Mthembu. Mothibi, who started running in school and progressed through shorter distances, embodies the journey of many South African runners who dedicate years to perfecting their craft.
Gerda Steyn continued to solidify her legacy in 2023, not only with her Two Oceans record but also by smashing the women's "down" run record at the Comrades Marathon. She completed the race in an astonishing 5 hours, 44 minutes, and 54 seconds, a performance that further cemented her status as a leading figure in ultra-running. On the men's side in 2023, Tete Dijana also broke the "down" run record, finishing in 5 hours, 13 minutes, and 58 seconds, continuing the trend of elite South African performances.
The Comrades Marathon is deeply steeped in tradition. The pre-race rituals, such as the playing of Max Trimborn's rooster crow instead of a starting gun, and the singing of "Shosholoza", create an atmosphere of anticipation and shared national identity. The awarding of various medals, from the coveted gold for the top finishers to the bronze, is a testament to the diverse range of achievements on the day. The race also celebrates longevity, with runners like Louis Massyn completing an astounding 50 Comrades Marathons.
The Enduring Allure and the Human Spirit
Both the Two Oceans and Comrades Marathons represent the pinnacle of road ultra-running, but they offer distinct challenges and experiences. Two Oceans is celebrated for its sheer beauty, offering panoramic ocean views and winding coastal roads, demanding a varied running skillset to navigate its undulations. Comrades, on the other hand, is known as 'the ultimate human race' for its unrelenting climbs and descents, requiring immense mental fortitude and physical resilience to conquer its arduous 90-kilometre distance.
These races are a powerful testament to the human capacity for endurance and an inspiring display of camaraderie. Along the routes, communities come out in full force to support the runners, offering encouragement, water, and often, slices of oranges or other refreshments. This collective spirit, from the elite athletes to the last finishers, forms an unbreakable bond among participants and spectators alike. The battles against personal limits, the strategic decisions made during the race, and the sheer joy of crossing the finish line are experiences that transcend the athletic realm, touching on deeper aspects of self-discovery and triumph.
The Road to Ultra-Glory: Training and Dedication
Preparing for either the Two Oceans or the Comrades Marathon requires an extraordinary level of commitment and sacrifice. Months of rigorous training are essential, often involving hundreds of kilometres of running each week, incorporating long runs, speed work, and hill training to simulate the demands of the race courses. Runners meticulously plan their nutrition and hydration strategies, understanding the critical role these play in sustaining performance over such extreme distances. Mental preparation is equally vital, as the races are as much a test of the mind as they are of the body. Developing resilience, managing discomfort, and maintaining focus over many hours are key to success.
Many elite athletes work closely with coaches and support teams, meticulously analysing their training, recovery, and race day tactics. For example, Caroline Wöstmann's success was attributed in part to the support she received from the High Performance Centre (HPC) and her coach, Lindsey Parry, who helped her focus on core and strength training. This holistic approach, encompassing physical conditioning, mental toughness, and strategic planning, allows runners to push the boundaries of what is possible.
A Legacy that Continues to Inspire
The Comrades Marathon and the Two Oceans Marathon are more than just races; they are institutions that embody the enduring spirit of South Africa. They celebrate courage, determination, and the sheer joy of running. From the pioneering efforts of Vic Clapham and Dave Venter to the record-breaking achievements of Bruce Fordyce, Elena Nurgalieva, Stephen Muzhingi, Caroline Wöstmann, David Gatebe, Ann Ashworth, Edward Mothibi, and Gerda Steyn, these events have created a rich tapestry of human endeavour. They continue to inspire generations of runners to lace up their shoes, push their limits, and experience the profound satisfaction that comes from conquering these majestic ultra-marathons. Each year, as thousands gather at the start lines in Cape Town, Durban, or Pietermaritzburg, a new chapter is written in the storied history of these incredible races, reinforcing their status as unparalleled tests of the human spirit.
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