The Inside Lane with our Editor Mike Finch.

Mike Finch

Editor-In-Chief

Instagram: @MikeFinchSA

Oceans Reboot

AT THE TIME OF WRITING, ENTRIES FOR THE TWO OCEANS ULTRA AND HALF MARATHON HAD FINALLY

OPENED, barely two months before the proposed race dates on 16 April (Half) and 17 April (Ultra). Over the past three years the race has been mired in controversy, in-fighting and accusations of mismanagement; but after months of delays, the news that entries are now open was greeted with much excitement. starting from ground zero, and the pressure will be on them to pull o an event worthy of sponsor interest and investment.

Looking back, the race itself has been pivotal in South African running. When the event fi rst held the Half Marathon, in 1998, it almost single-handedly changed the face of running in our country, by popularising the shorter distance with the credibility of the

Ultra behind it.

Back then the naysayers suggested that the Half would eventually kill o the Ultra; but in reality it became a feeder event for the 56km, and it wasn’t long before Ultra entry numbers were showing healthy growth.

Since 2007 the Two Oceans Half has been the biggest half marathon in the country, with close to 16 000 entering each year. The very best

When the event first held the Half Marathon, in 1998, it almost single-handedly changed the face of running in our country...

It will be no easy task for the current organisers to match the events of the past, as the race is struggling to fi nd meaningful sponsors. Entry fees can only cover so much of the costs; sponsors are critical to enhancing the runner experience.

With no fun runs or trail event, this year’s Oceans is likely to be a watered-down a air in all respects. The organisers are

3 Great Moments in Two Oceans History

1988: Thompson Magawana breaks the world 50km record, on his way to a stunning record time of 3:03.44 – a time that has not been matched or bettered since.

1989: Frith van der Merwe establishes a women’s record of 3:30.36 – another time that has yet to be beaten.

1998: The race introduces a half marathon alongside the Ultra. In its first year, 3 593 entered the Half. runners compete for line honours at the front of the fi eld, while the thousands behind either chase PBs or just enjoy the festival vibe out on the course.

Two Oceans over the Easter weekend in Cape Town is a tradition. The Ultra itself can rightly claim to be one of the world’s most beautiful roadrunning races, and the spirit of the supporters along the route makes it a celebration of everything that is good about South African running.

It is critical that the Two Oceans Marathon regains its place among our most respected races. It is a catalyst for growth and excitement, and gives everyone a boost – from individuals to clubs to the running industry.

We wish the organisers the greatest success.