The Totalsports TWO OCEANS ULTRA MARATHON powered by BYD has reached a significant international milestone after being awarded the prestigious International Association of Ultrarunners (IAU) Golden Label Certificate.
Following what organisers describe as a landmark 2026 edition, the accolade recognises the event’s world-class standards in organisation, athlete safety and elite competition, further strengthening its reputation as one of the world’s leading ultramarathons.
The announcement was made jointly by the TWO OCEANS MARATHON NPC and Stillwater Sports, the event’s staging and commercial partner.
International Recognition for an Iconic South African Race
The IAU Golden Label is awarded only to ultramarathons that meet the highest international standards across event management, athlete experience, competition quality, prize structures and regulatory compliance.
“This recognition from the International Association of Ultrarunners is a powerful endorsement of the ULTRA MARATHON as a world-class event,” said Chris Goldschmidt, Chairperson of the TWO OCEANS MARATHON NPC.
“Earning the IAU Golden Label Certificate confirms that we meet the highest international standards across every aspect of the race, from organisation and athlete experience to elite competition, prize money and regulatory compliance.”
Event Director Wade Bromfield said the recognition reflects months of hard work behind the scenes.
“This achievement is incredibly special for our team. After months of hard work behind the scenes, receiving the IAU Golden Label Certificate is a deeply rewarding moment for everyone involved. It’s a testament to the passion, commitment and attention to detail that has gone into delivering this iconic event.”
What This Means for Runners
The Golden Label places the Totalsports TWO OCEANS ULTRA MARATHON among an elite group of ultramarathons recognised for delivering exceptional race experiences while attracting both elite athletes and recreational runners from around the world.
Often referred to as “the world’s most beautiful marathon,” the event showcases some of the Cape Peninsula’s most spectacular coastal and mountain scenery.
2027 Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon Dates
Planning to take part next year? Here’s when each event takes place:
Wednesday, 31 March 2027
Night Run
- Distance: 8km
- Capacity: 5,000
- Entry Fee: R320
- Entries open: Monday, 3 August 2026
Thursday, 1 April 2027
International Friendship Run
- Distance: 4.5km
- Capacity: 1,500
- Entry Fee: R250
- Entries open: Monday, 3 August 2026
Friday, 2 April 2027
Trail Run Venue: UCT Rugby Fields
Distances:
- 24km – R950
- 16km – R750
Capacity: 1,500
Entries open: Monday, 3 August 2026
Saturday, 3 April 2027
Half Marathon
- Distance: 21.1km
- Capacity: 21,000
- Finish: UCT Rugby Fields
Entry Fees:
- Licensed SA Athletes: R450
- Unlicensed SA Athletes: R450 plus temporary licence
Entries:
- Blue Number Club: 15 to 22 July 2026
- Public Ballot: 5 August 2026
Sunday, 4 April 2027
Ultra Marathon
- Distance: 56km
- Capacity: 21,000
- Finish: UCT Rugby Fields
Entry Fee:
- Licensed SA Athletes: R840
Entries:
- Blue Number Club: 15 to 22 July 2026
- Public Ballot: 5 August 2026
Why This Matters
The IAU Golden Label is more than just an award. It confirms that one of South Africa’s most iconic sporting events continues to meet the highest international standards while showcasing Cape Town as a world-class destination for endurance sport.
With entries for the 2027 event opening from July and August, runners hoping to secure a place are encouraged to keep an eye on the official entry dates.
For more information, visit www.twooceansmarathon.org.za or follow Two Oceans Marathon on Facebook and Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon on Instagram.
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