BY I flew to Cape Town for Two Oceans Ultra where I ran 56km along route that connect Indian Ocean and Atlantic Ocean. Having completed in under 6 hours, I asked myself - will I return?
The following are 10 reasons:
First Class Expo
I experienced all about running under one roof through various stands selling new gadgets, apparels, equipment, food supplements and others like sport tours. The expo held at CTICC, Convention Centre was well organised. I saw plenty of healthy food and supplement stands such as Futurelife, 32Gi, racefood, The Primal Pantry, TREK, and Nakd.
Generous Goodie Bag
I paid R1570 (USD 120) for entrance fee which I took home more than a medal and a t-shirt. Additional items such as nutrition bars, cooling gel, mouse pad, balaclava, and deodorant are included in the race pack. At the finish, international tent readily welcome runners and refreshment provided
Something For Everyone
I value races that offer multi-distances as long as they are well organised. Apart from Ultra and Half Marathon, there were trail races - 12km and 24km cover area of Table Mountain, Devil’s Peak and Newlands Forest. A fantastic challenge to add to my bucket list.
Friday Friendship
I looked forward for the International Friendship Run on Good Friday – a complimentary 5.6km run for international runners through the city waterfront. Around 3000 signed up which showed popularity of this race being a world class event. I ran with my club members from Dubai Creek Striders. Patriotic runners held flags of own country.
Shosholoza Smooth Start
I was placed in last seeding E. The race has a cut-off of 7 hours and is run from gun to mat. Passionately sang national anthem and classic Shosholoza filled in the air. I’m pleased with the punctuality and smooth start. Didn’t felt too crowded in first 5 km like any big city marathon races.
Beautiful Course
Is this the world’s most beautiful marathon? I read that Lisbon is possibly the world’s most beautiful road marathon course. But beauty is on the eye of runner. Running along Chapman peak, the view from the ocean, the rugged cliff and secluded pristine beaches took my breathe away.
Training Build Up
I enjoyed the 56km distance (not too short nor too long). It’s a good training build up for next longer ultra races. The course has a good combination of up (Chapman and Constantia Nek) and down which is lacking in most road marathon races.
Responsible Running
Organiser claimed to have contributed for sustainability of community and environment. In 2016, R672m (USD51m) have been brought into the economy through jobs creation. The green initiatives are applauded through anti-littering movement and Throw Zone area. Those waste being collected and turned into school desks.
Easter Weekend
The event happen during Easter weekend which means runners can plan ahead. The 2018 race is on 30th and 31st March. Between March and April is best time to visit as temperature is mild in range of 20 degrees Celsius.
Mother City
Cape Town indeed is a beautiful city with so many things to do. There are beaches, mountain, wildlife, wineries, and culture to explore.
I adore the concept of RUN AS ONE which encompass the rainbow nation value. I felt enriched from the entire experience that brought positivity and passion of life above running. Next time - faster!
Live To Thrive, x
Visit www.twooceansmarathon.org.za for details.
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