35 Runners Are Going the Distance to Gift Life-Changing Smiles

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While thousands will chase personal bests at this year’s Two Oceans Marathon, 35 extraordinary runners are measuring their success in the smiles of children in need of life-changing cleft surgeries.

Cape Town, South Africa (16 March 2026) – Each year, thousands of children are born with cleft conditions across Southern Africa. Without early intervention, these children often face serious health complications, including difficulty with feeding, malnutrition, recurrent ear infections, hearing loss, and impaired speech development. Beyond the physical challenges, many also experience heartbreaking emotional trauma and social isolation.

This year, 35 incredible runners are taking on the Two Oceans Marathon in April and pushing their limits so children affected by this reality can receive life-changing surgery.

Every kilometre, every donation, every shared message helps cover the cost of safe surgery for families who could never afford it. Facilitated by Operation Smile South Africa, these free, high-quality cleft lip and cleft palate surgeries will ensure children in need receive the smile they deserve.

Motivating the brave hearts running in support of the worthy cause was Operation Smile South Africa ambassador, David Grier.

“Some of you are doing your first event, others are doing the 21k, and some are doing the 56k. But I know what every single one of you has put into this through training and giving up time to get ready for this event. We really appreciate it. There’s always a time when you’re running when you hit that dark space where you think you can’t take another step. Remember one thing: there’s a reason why you are doing this event. You are taking that step to change a child’s life. To give them back their God-given right to smile. I know you’re going to get to that end line because you’re doing this for a reason bigger than yourself. You’re making a difference in someone else’s life,” David said.

David himself is no stranger to pushing his limits for this very cause, having run 550 km from Die Hel to Cape Town over 16 days earlier this year.

You can also show your support by backing these fundraising champions here.