South Africa’s golden girl of the ultra-distance running believes the country’s most beautiful marathon has found fresh legs and a new gear for the road ahead.
Gerda Steyn has seen many finish lines, but none quite as meaningful as the one the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon has just crossed.
With Stillwater Sports taking over as the official staging and commercial partner, the six-time champion believes the race has shifted up a gear, and is back cruising in the fast lane.
“It’s always a pleasure to talk about the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon because it’s been the one constant in my running career,” Steyn says with her familiar, sunlit smile.
“I’ve run the race almost every single year except one when I was injured. Since I won it the first time in 2018, it’s been on my calendar every year. I never doubt whether I want to do it … it’s always a yes.”
For the 35-year-old record-holder whose 3:26:54 record still gleams like a polished medal, the Two Oceans isn’t just another race. It’s where her story began, her first taste of victory, the open road that set her career in motion.
But even the smoothest course can get a few potholes. After this year’s race, runners and supporters voiced frustrations about the organisation, as if a once-proud engine had started spluttering uphill.
“There was a clear need for a professional company to take over the organisation and planning of the race,” Steyn admits.
“When it was announced that Stillwater Sports were taking over, it came as a massive welcome to everyone involved.
“Michael Meyer and his team have proven themselves over and over, making sure the events they manage are all top-notch and world-class.”
For Steyn, the new partnership feels like a pit stop that’s come just in time, a chance to refuel, retread, and get back to top speed.
“We want this race to continue for years and years to come,” she says.
“We don’t want to see it disappear like the Korkie 56km Ultra or City2City 50km Ultra Marathons that once drew the best athletes.
“Two Oceans has become that race for our generation, and we want to see it carried into the next, and the next after that.”
With Stillwater Sports now behind the wheel, Steyn believes the future looks bright.
“It makes me and everyone else so excited for the 2026 race. I think it’s going to be phenomenal … better than ever.
“The dream race we’ve always hoped for, and a race that we all love,” she says, her voice carrying the steady cadence of a runner finding her stride.
For Steyn, this partnership can be seen as a new lease on life for South Africa’s most iconic ultra.
“I am very pleased to see the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon and Stillwater Sports taking hands to ensure our race stays the good-quality event it should be,” she says.
After years of carrying the torch, Steyn now sees the flame burning brighter than ever. With Stillwater steering the ship, the Two Oceans Marathon looks ready to stretch its legs, and run full tilt into a glorious new chapter.
