FOREWORD
MESSAGES OF WELCOME
From the Two Oceans Marathon NPC
The starting line-up for the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon ( TTOM ) will be exciting , thrilling and exhilarating . Yet for some participants , the start of the race may be overwhelming , and may even fill them with fear , somewhat . As most of us did not participate in races for a long while , even getting up for a race may be a challenge , or you may be so excited the night before , that you may not have sufficient sleep .
Whatever the experience , the feeling of taking part in an actual big event is usually described by participants as exhilarating . More than that , lining up for TTOM 2022 in particular is a deeply personal decision for each person – only you know if you ’ re striving towards a goal , running for a purpose , or perhaps even in memory or encouragement of a loved one .
TTOM 2022 had its fair share of challenges , from negotiating with and having robust discussions with the local authority for permission to host our event over two days for the first time in its history , to ongoing discussions with church communities and the clergy , as well as service providers , and even dealing with challenging individuals , to mention but a few curveballs .
However , the commitment of a great team and skilled Board , who had the tenacity and endurance to ensure that we stage the “ world ’ s most beautiful marathon ” is absolutely commendable . Finally , the privilege of securing a well-known and recognised retail giant as a title sponsor in the form of Totalsports has enhanced our brand ’ s standing and viability within the realms of athletics .
Let ’ s conquer the Current so the Current can be conquered .
William Swartbooi Chairperson of the Two Oceans Marathon NPC
From Title Sponsor , Totalsports
The long hours of training are behind you , and by now you should be starting to feel the nervous energy of knowing that the big day is just around the corner . There ’ s nothing left to do except enjoy these last hours of anticipation , get your kit ready and load up on carbs . Don ’ t forget about setting that alarm !
What a fantastic feeling , to be one of the thousands taking part in this year ’ s Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon ! I know the organisers have done everything possible to make this day an unforgettable experience . Yes , it will be hard , but no-one takes up long distance running because it is easy . You have chosen to Conquer the Current , and you will .
You have every reason to be proud , knowing you have put in the miles to earn your place at the start , and Totalsports is certainly proud to be with you today ! Runners , you are incredible . Go out and show what you are made of . Have a great race and good luck !
Jonathan Stein Totalsports Head of Business
From the City of Cape Town
I
am excited to welcome back this big event to the streets of scenic Cape Town . After many months of events being impacted by the COVID-19 lockdown , it is a joy to see crowds gathering again at festivals , concerts and our outdoor open dining events , which have taken on a wonderful momentum of their own . Events and visitors have rushed back into our city , just in time for a pre-Winter boost .
The Half and Ultra Marathon is the ultimate test of endurance . The running enthusiasts and athletes taking part have meticulously prepared for this event , pushing through fatigue and difficulty to be ready to hit the road . The races are a symbol of how , by steadily placing one foot in front of the other , one eventually gets to your goal . It is a beautifully simple metaphor of the challenges of the last two years , and finding great strength and determination to triumph .
We are ready to show the world why Cape Town was named the World ’ s Leading Festival and Event Destination for 2021 . The event offers a big boost to the local economy , bringing more than R600 million into the
tourism and hospitality sector and boosting job creation . We look forward to all capacity restrictions being lifted so our economy can sprint faster towards recovery , and once again see both fields of runners together on one day .
Although spectators sadly aren ’ t allowed just yet , your family , your friends , the organisers and the City of Cape Town are cheering you on all the way . I wish all participants and the organisers a magnificent return to form .
Geordin Hill-Lewis Executive Mayor of the City of Cape Town
6