Former Springbok props set to tackle the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon

Two former Springbok tighthead props, Marius Hurter (55) and Eddie Andrews (48), who once anchored the national scrum with over 130kg of front-row power, will be chasing new goals at the 2026 Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon powered by BYD in Cape Town this April.

Hurter, a 1995 Rugby World Cup winner, will take on the 56km Ultra Marathon on Saturday, 11 April, while Andrews, the current Deputy Mayor of the City of Cape Town, returns on Sunday, 12 April, to compete in his sixth Totalsports Two Oceans Half Marathon.

Hurter, affectionately known as ‘The Hurternator’, has transformed himself from a 132kg prop into a seasoned endurance athlete weighing around 103kg.

“My rugby career finished in 2006, but I must say, being a prop, I like a bit of suffering,” laughs Hurter.

“This is hard on the body, but a lot of it comes down to mental toughness. Your physique is one thing, but it’s this little thing between your ears that runs the whole operation.”

Believing that the greatest battleground in endurance sport lies within the mind, Hurter has completed some of endurance sport’s toughest events including nine finishes in the Absa Cape Epic, several Ironman triathlons, the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon, Comrades Marathon and the Ultra-Trail Cape Town 100 miler (160km) last year.

This year’s Two Oceans Ultra Marathon will hold special significance as Hurter runs alongside his eldest daughter Annalien (20) in her first ultra marathon. 

“I’ve got three daughters and I try to involve them in my events,” he explained. “The oldest one is running with me. It’s her first ultra marathon and we committed to doing it together.”

Andrews running journey began in 2016 with a far smaller step

Alderman Eddie Andrews, Deputy Mayor of the City of Cape Town by Adnaan Mohamed

The former Bok strongman, who played 23 Tests for South Africa between 2004 and 2007, has steadily built his running credentials, since starting his running journey in 2016 with the Park Run. The 2026 event will mark Andrews’ sixth start in the half marathon as he moves closer to the coveted Blue Number Status that’s awarded to runners who complete ten editions of the race.

“This is my sixth Two Oceans Half. Yes, I am almost there. I’m going to go for it,” said Andrews.

He has also encouraged fellow rugby veterans to take up the challenge.

“This is a challenge to all ex-Springbok rugby players to do it as well. Run the races, be in the community of runners and have other conversations.”

“We’re excited to welcome Marius Hurter and Eddie Andrews back to the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon powered by BYD, each taking on different challenges that showcase their incredible athleticism and determination,” says Chris Goldschmidt, Chairperson of the Two Oceans Marathon NPC.

“Their participation brings a unique excitement to the 2026 edition and underscores the spirit of endurance and community that the event celebrates.”

Echoing this excitement, Wade Bromfield, General Manager of the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon, added:

“Having two former Springbok front-row legends like Marius and Eddie on the start line is truly special. Marius tackling the Ultra and Eddie returning for his sixth Half Marathon highlights the diversity and inclusivity of the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon powered by BYD, inspiring runners of all levels to challenge themselves.”

EVENT INFORMATION: Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon powered by BYD

Websites: www.twooceansmarathon.org.za