The Two Oceans Marathon has over the years has incorporated other races into its fold. First came the half marathon which proved immensely successful. It has now become the largest half marathon in the country with 14,000 entrants. I assume it was for all the supporters and future ultra runners but then took a life of its own.
Next came the fun runs held the day before which also turned out to be a big hit. This year sees four races: 1. 56m nappy dash - for toddlers 1-3 years old
2. 300m toddlers trot - for kids 4-6 years old
3. 2.5km fun run - all ages and for the not so fit
4. 5km fun run - for the fitter and loosener for big races next day
Then came the trail run in the forests above UCT. There are two races: a 10km and 20km. 400 entries were allocated to both events and all slots were snapped up in just 24 hours of entries opening! So if you're interested in these races next year, you'd better be quick on the mouse!
We got to see the fun runs on Good Friday from 12pm onwards. What fun it was! The kids were unbelievably cute and having a blast running around in all directions. The nappy dash and toddlers trot were held on the finishing strait of the marathon the UCT sportsfield.
At 1:30pm it was the turn of the 2.5km fun run. The race started just off to the side of the Jameson Plaza steps. There were seemingly hundreds of people at the start. At about 2:15pm it all played out again but with a bigger crowd for the 5km.
People of all ages and sizes were there. It really was 'fun' run. There were also many people in 2011 56km and 21km t-shirts running with their kids or partners.
All participants in all the races were given very authentic looking two oceans medals for their efforts.
It was really a fun day at the races. Next year if you're able to, it really is worth taking part in one of these events whether you're taking part in the big races or not. It feels great to be a part of something so big as the Two Oceans marathon. If this reason is not good enough then the lucky draw prizes for the fun runs might convince you. The prizes were mainly aimed at kids, though adults were able to win Cavendish vouchers, digital cameras, CD player radios and MP4 players. The look on the kids' faces was really priceless as they received their enormous toy prizes. Christmas had really come very early this year for the lucky ones.
So with the fun runs done, the big day was next: the 56km and 21km the next morning.
