2014 Two Oceans: New phased approach introduced

The Old Mutual Two Oceans Half Marathon isn’t only the world’s most beautiful 21,1km race, but also one of the most sought-after races.

This year, however, in an effort to give runners a fair chance to enter and to alleviate pressure on the online entry system, the organisers have introduced a phased approach to the 2014 Half Marathon entries, which includes application into an entry draw in January 2014.

During the first phase, which is currently running, runners can update their personal profiles and medical details on the race administration system, while new entrants are encouraged to create their profiles.

• Phase 2: Blue and light blue number holders can access the system from 10am on 5 November to finalise their entry. Entries are limited to 1 000 runners.

• Phase 3: All runners with valid SA running club licences may finalise their payment from 10am on 11 November, with entries being limited to 5 500 entrants. This includes runners who haven’t participated in the Two Oceans Marathon before.

• Phase 4: Previous Two Oceans Half and Ultra Marathon and Trail Run finishers may confirm their entry from 10am on 14 November (limited to 2 000 entrants).

• The fifth and final entry phase will take place from 10am on 22 January 2014, when new entrants, previous participants who finished outside the cut-off and those who missed their original entry batch may submit their applications into an entry draw. A random electronic draw on 23 January will select 6 000 entrants who may proceed to pay for their entry.

How to enter

Runners are encouraged to visit www.twooceansmarathon.org.za/enter and update their personal and medical details before entries open. They can then simply return to the website on their particular entry day to finalise their payment and secure a place at the start.

Half Marathon entries only will be available online.

Charity groups invited

Charity organisations wishing to use the Half Marathon as a platform for their fundraising efforts can apply for a group entry batch.

The application form can be downloaded at https://www.twooceansmarathon.org.za/information/charity-entries and applications have to reach the organisers by 8 November. Entry group batches are limited.

Entries for the 56km Ultra Marathon are still open and runners can enter online or download an entry form from the website. South African Ultra Marathon entrants are required to belong to a registered running club and have a valid running licence. No temporary licences will be issued to Ultra Marathon runners.

Entries into the 10km and 22km Trail Run will open at 10am on Monday 2 December.

The Two Oceans Marathon website has been upgraded to ensure a better user experience for athletes, and is jam-packed with information around the various events hosted under its banner. “Designed to Run” is the theme that supports the 2014 Two Oceans Marathon marketing campaign – a coincidental hat-tip to Cape Town’s status as the World Design Capital next year.

Runners can visit www.twooceansmarathon.org.za or contact the organisers on 087 741 2610.