Every year, the Two Oceans Marathon attracts scores of people to Cape Town. The Mother City’s main drawcards, namely its stunning views and great vibes, are what gave this event its reputation for being the world’s most beautiful marathon.
Professional athletes and first-time participants train vigorously for a weekend filled with sweat, determination and all-around fun. Due to this, crowd support is always appreciated and the cheering is what gets many through the race.
Whether you’re a dedicated supporter or just looking for a fun day out, here’s everything you need to know about where to catch all the action and spread some gees while respecting road closures and supporting local businesses
Here are the perfect spots to view this year’s Two Oceans Marathon, as provided by the event organisers:
The Start – Main Road, Rondebosch
Here, the atmosphere is palpable. The early morning chill and anxious murmur of the runners add to the excitement.
The Half Marathon splits off towards Edinburgh Drive. Spectators enjoying their morning coffee typically line Protea and Paradise Roads.
Main Road – Rondebosch to Fish Hoek
Ultra Marathon runners stay on Main Road all the way to Fish Hoek. Simply choose your nearest location and support the Ultra Marathon runners as they take on the first 20km of their race along this flat section of the route.
The runners will get their first glimpse of the ocean along the stretch between Muizenberg and Kalk Bay, a long but mostly flat section that offers spectacular views before the challenge really starts.
Spectators are spoiled for choice with the many coffee shops and restaurants that line this stretch.
Fish Hoek – Kommetjie Road
Don’t worry about getting too hot; the beach and sea are right there to cool off while still keeping an eye on the runners.
Main Road – Noordhoek
This 4km section along Noordhoek Main Road is another popular spot to cheer the runners on before they reach Chapman’s Peak.
Chapman’s Peak
The most well-liked landmark along the route starts at Noordhoek Village and winds down along the mountain’s edge to Hout Bay. This area marks the 28km mark for Ultra Marathon runners, who can enjoy unparalleled views of the Atlantic Ocean and Hout Bay up ahead.
This is a great spot to give the runners that extra push they need to take on the climb.
Note that this stretch of the route is not accessible by car, so you may want to pack a picnic and take an early hike up the famous Chappies.
Hout Bay and The Marathon Mark, to the top of Constantia Nek
Hout Bay, Main Road is a popular party zone for residents of the street, from the bottom of Chappies to the top of Constantia Nek. It is another milestone marathon mark. The steep Constantia Nek climb can make or break the athletes – runners need a lot of support here.
Constantia Nek – Ladies Mile/Parish Road
Here, Half Marathon runners will get ready for their second climb of the day: up the steep Southern Cross Drive.
Spectators can make their way to the Ladies Mile / Parish Road intersection to support the runners and cheer them on.
Southern Cross Drive
Dreaded by most first-time participants, Southern Cross Drive features a seemingly never-ending steep challenge. Many runners will slow down to a walking pace.
Here, spectators will be accompanied by bands and general merriment.
Cecelia Forest along Rhodes Drive
A large shoulder that flanks the road on one side offers spectators the perfect spot for viewing. Although road closures prohibit travelling to and from the forest, residents can still take a stroll and admire the sights.
From here on forward, the Ultra Marathon runners will get ready for a strong finish – they will need that extra boost to get them there.
Kirstenbosch Gardens
Runners still need to take on Chet’s Hill – typically a fairly insignificant climb that becomes a pre-finish hurdle on Race Day. Here, spectators should cheer them on before they take on their final challenge.
There’s plenty of shade along this crowd-favourite spot.
UCT – Rondebosch: The Finish Line
From dramatic sprints to the high drama of the final cut-off gun, the finish line is the place to be to cheer on your loved ones. Here, spectators and runners alike can experience the emotional rollercoaster of the event.
Running Club members can cheer on their mates at the finish and then catch a shuttle to transport them to the Club Gazebo area.
In light of the weather advisory for ‘hot to very hot and uncomfortable conditions’ issued by the South African Weather Service (SAWS), spectators are strongly urged to be cautious, stay hydrated and protected, find shady areas and plan their viewing spot journey with the high temperatures in mind.
For more information, visit the Two Oceans Marathon website.
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Picture: Gallo Images
