Arthur Jantjies delivers a breakthrough performance to win the men’s race, while Gerda Steyn secures a record seventh title at the Two Oceans Ultra Marathon in Cape Town.
Cape Town, South Africa (13 April 2026) – South African runners took centre stage at the Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon in Cape Town, with Arthur Jantjies delivering a breakthrough victory in the men’s race and Gerda Steyn continuing her remarkable dominance in the women’s field.
For Jantjies, the moment marked a major turning point in his career. The 25-year-old from Hopetown produced a confident run to claim victory in a time of 3:09:25, announcing himself as a serious contender on the ultra-distance scene.
“It’s a phenomenal step, a big step. It’s history,” said Jantjies. “I’m just a small-town boy winning Two Oceans. That’s something really special.”
The race unfolded into a tactical battle over the closing stages. Zimbabwe’s Blessing Waison had injected pace earlier on, but Jantjies remained patient as the field reshuffled, staying within striking distance.
The win is even more impressive considering it was only Jantjies’ second ultra marathon. His rapid rise has been shaped by a demanding training block under coach John Hamlett, including time spent at altitude preparing for the physical demands of the race.
“My coach put me through the worst in Dullstroom where I die in the mountains. We often do 800m elevation on huge long runs and this was only about 600m of elevation. So, this was nothing. I was there for 8 weeks away from my family. Whatever he says, I do. No questions asked.”
In the women’s race, it was a familiar story as Gerda Steyn once again showed her class on the iconic 56km route. The 36-year-old claimed her seventh Two Oceans title, further cementing her legacy as one of the race’s greatest athletes.
Steyn made her move shortly after the marathon mark, pulling away from Margaret Jepchumba and steadily building a lead that would not be challenged. She crossed the line in 3:27:43, the second fastest time of her Two Oceans career.
“I didn’t break the record but I’m still happy with my race and am really happy with my time. It’s a completely successful day for me,” said Steyn.
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Her latest victory adds another chapter to an already outstanding record at the race, underlining both her consistency and ability to deliver year after year.
“When I won my first Two Oceans, I never envisaged winning seven. I take it year for year. If I’m here next year and ready and fit, then I’ll push for sure. But I also need to accept the fact that I’m getting older. But for now, I’m feeling strong and I feel that I still have a few more years left in my career. So, if seven becomes eight and eight becomes ten, then I’ll take it.”
With a breakthrough win from Jantjies and another dominant performance from Steyn, this year’s race delivered two remarkable displays from South Africa’s long-distance runners.
Sources: TotalSports Two Oceans Marathon
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