Cape Town, get your running shoes ready and hold onto your visors, because Africa’s most beautiful race just became one of the world’s most prestigious. Fresh off a spectacular 2026 comeback that captivated athletes across the globe, the Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon powered by BYD has officially been awarded the highly coveted IAU Golden Label Status by the International Association of Ultrarunners.
This isn’t just a shiny new badge for the mantle; it’s the ultimate global stamp of approval. The elite accolade firmly cements the iconic 56km route among the absolute finest ultramarathons on the planet. For Cape Town, the staging partners at Stillwater Sports, and the broader global running community, it means our beloved race officially meets the gold standard for safety, world-class organization, elite competition, and an unparalleled athlete experience.
A Triumphant Return to the Top
“This recognition from the International Association of Ultrarunners is a powerful endorsement of the Ultra Marathon as a world-class event,” says 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.”
Behind the scenes, the monumental effort to elevate the race to its former glory has been a labor of pure love. Event Director Wade Bromfield emphasized just how much this moment means to the 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.”
Gear Up for 2027: The Ultimate Running Festival
With international gold status comes massive global demand. If you want to be part of history, you’ll need to act fast. The 2027 edition is shaping up to be a week-long lifestyle festival of fitness, culture, and community, running from 31 March to 4 April 2027.
Whether you are an elite athlete aiming for the legendary 56km Ultra or a casual lifestyle runner looking for scenic vibes, there is a spot on the starting line tailored just for you.
The 2027 Event Lineup Breakdown:
The Night Run (8km): Wednesday, 31 March 2027 | Entry: R320.00 (Capacity: 5,000)
International Friendship Run (4.5km): Thursday, 01 April 2027 | Entry: R250.00 (Capacity: 1,500)
The Trail Runs (16km & 24km): Friday, 02 April 2027 | Entry: R750.00 / R950.00 (Capacity: 1,500)
The Half Marathon (21.1km): Saturday, 03 April 2027 | Entry: R450.00 (Capacity: 21,000)
The Golden Ultra Marathon (56km): Sunday, 04 April 2027 | Entry: R840.00 (Capacity: 21,000)
Save the Dates for Entries
The race before the race happens at the registration desk! Blue Number Club (BNC) members get exclusive early access from Wednesday, 15 July to Wednesday, 22 July 2026.
For the rest of the hopeful fields, the highly anticipated General Ballots open on Wednesday, 05 August 2026, while the Trail, Night, and Friendship run entries open on Monday, 03 August 2026.
With fields capped tightly to ensure a premium experience, spaces will vanish in a flash. Check out their Facebook and Instagram (@Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon) or visit www.twooceansmarathon.org.za to lock in your fitness goals for 2027. Let’s run history together!
