Two Oceans Marathon 2023: Africa’s Biggest Running Event and World’s Most Beautiful Marathon

Checkout Two Oceans Marathon 2024 article instead.

The Two Oceans Marathon, set for 15th and 16th April 2023 in Cape Town, is renowned as Africa’s premier running event and the world’s most picturesque marathon. It features a 56 km Ultra Marathon and a 21 km Half Marathon, showcasing the breathtaking Cape Peninsula. From its start in 1970, its popularity has surged, with the Half Marathon drawing 16,000 runners and the Ultra Marathon 11,000. Additionally, there are fun and trail runs attracting 6,000 participants, and international entrants must meet specific qualification criteria to participate.

The Two Oceans Marathon is one of Africa’s most significant running events and the world’s most beautiful marathon. The event is scheduled to occur on the 15th and 16th of April, 2023 in Cape Town, South Africa. The marathon comprises a 56 km Ultra Marathon and a 21 km Half Marathon, both of which offer runners a chance to experience the stunning natural beauty of the Cape Peninsula.

The Ultra Marathon and Half Marathon Routes

The Ultra Marathon route follows a circular path through Muizenberg and Fish Hoek, over Chapman’s Peak and Constantia Nek, before culminating at the University of Cape Town campus. If Chapman’s Peak Drive is closed, the Ultra Marathon takes an alternative route over Ou Kaapse Weg. The Half Marathon takes runners along Edinburgh Drive before passing Kirstenbosch and finishing at the University of Cape Town campus.

Growing Participation

Since its inception in 1970, the Two Oceans Marathon has significantly grown in popularity with each passing year. The Half Marathon alone attracts 16,000 participants, making it the most significant event in South Africa. Meanwhile, 11,000 athletes tackle the grueling 56 km Ultra Marathon.

Fun Runs and Trail Runs

In addition to the primary events, various fun runs and trail runs take place the day before the primary races, attracting approximately 6,000 runners, including toddlers and young children with their families. International participants also get to participate in a scenic 5 km route along the Sea Point promenade as part of the International Friendship Run.

Qualification

The race is open to international entrants; however, it is unfortunately not available to residents of South Africa. To enter, runners must qualify by running a standard IAAF (ASA in South Africa) affiliated marathon or race longer than 42.2 km that is officially timed and measured. If running a 42.2 km qualifying race, a sub-5:00 time is required. Further details on qualifying times can be found on the TOM website.

Join Team Africa Marathons

For those interested in joining Team Africa Marathons, please email info@africamarathons.com or ring +44 1932 361807 (UK) +1 844 390 1798 (USA) +44 (0)7791360170 (Rob).

Cape Town Today encourages runners and outdoor enthusiasts alike to join the Two Oceans Marathon 2023 and witness firsthand the stunning natural beauty of the Cape Peninsula.

FAQ

Q1: When and where is the Two Oceans Marathon 2023 scheduled to take place?

• Answer: The Two Oceans Marathon is scheduled for the 15th and 16th of April 2023 in Cape Town, South Africa. It is recognized as Africa’s leading running event and offers a unique chance to experience the captivating natural beauty of the Cape Peninsula.

Q2: Can you describe the routes for the Ultra Marathon and Half Marathon?

• Answer: The 56 km Ultra Marathon follows a route through Muizenberg and Fish Hoek, goes over Chapman’s Peak and Constantia Nek, and concludes at the University of Cape Town campus. If Chapman’s Peak Drive is unavailable, runners take the alternative Ou Kaapse Weg route. The 21 km Half Marathon leads runners along Edinburgh Drive, past Kirstenbosch, and finishes at the University of Cape Town campus.

Q3: How many participants usually join the Two Oceans Marathon, and are there any other associated events?

• Answer: The Half Marathon attracts approximately 16,000 runners, while the Ultra Marathon sees around 11,000 participants. In addition to these main events, fun runs and trail runs take place the day before, with about 6,000 participants, including families with young children. International participants can also enjoy a scenic 5 km run along the Sea Point promenade, known as the International Friendship Run.

Q4: What are the qualification criteria for international entrants?

• Answer: International runners are welcome to join, but the event isn’t open to South African residents. To qualify, runners must participate in a standard IAAF (or ASA in South Africa) affiliated marathon or a race longer than 42.2 km that’s officially timed and measured. For a 42.2 km qualifying race, a time below 5:00 hours is necessary. More details on qualifications are available on the TOM website.

Q5: How can one join Team Africa Marathons for the event?

• Answer: For those interested in joining Team Africa Marathons for the Two Oceans Marathon, they can reach out via email at info@africamarathons.com or call on the provided phone numbers: +44 1932 361807 (UK), +1 844 390 1798 (USA), or +44 (0)7791360170 (Rob).