Plus 10 000 committed runners, huddled up, in the dark, early hours of Saturday morning, as they prepared to take on the 16th annual Two Oceans Ultra Marathon – a gruelling 56km route around the Cape Peninsula.
I was one of the 16 000 slightly-less-committed individuals who were tackling the still grueling (in my opinion) 21km half marathon.
Don’t get me wrong, there are some very talented runners who take part in the half marathon. However, there are also people like me, who just want to prove to themselves that they can survive 21kms and come out with a shiny medal. Not only did I survive AND come away with an awesome souvenir, I had an absolute ball doing it and can’t wait for next year to do it all over again.
The atmosphere throughout the race can only be described as electric, as thousands of strangers cheer you on from the side-lines. It is this unique vibe, combined with the friendly banter and camaraderie between the runners, that make the kilometres fly by and keep you running, even when your body protests.
There is also the added incentive of the ice-cold beer waiting for you at Forries, where many runners and spectators meet for an after party of sorts.
All in all, it was an amazing experience that exceeded any expectations. I strongly urge everybody to start training early and get involved next year if you haven’t done so already. I promise you, you won’t regret it.
[Submitted by Stacey Kriger who will be keeping her eye on what’s happening in and around the Mother City. She’s second from the Right in photo below.]
