Local would be oceans of lekker

THIS weekend an estimated 30 000 people will take part in one or more running events under the banner of the Old Mutual Two Oceans Marathon, which has become one of the Mother City’s most important events.

A recent academic study demonstrated that the Two Oceans boosted the regional economy by a conservative estimate of R672 million, creating thousands of jobs and opportunities for skills training. Visitors from almost 100 countries are pouring into the Mother City to take part in one of the races, to support runners or become involved in product promotion and development.

But the event, which comprises a pot pourri of running options, from the 56m Nappy Dash for toddlers to the “big daddy” 56km road ultra-marathon, reaches way beyond monetary value. The gees (spirit) generated through the participation of runners from diverse age, gender, ethnic and religious backgrounds, united in a common cause of reaching a finish line, gives real meaning to the powerful Two Oceans theme, “Run As One.”

Added to that are significant benefits to charitable organisations – the Wildlands Conservation Trust, Christel House South Africa, Breadline Africa and Saartjie Baartman Centre for Women and Children are the official event beneficiaries, while more than 50 charitable organisations are expecting to raise a total of several million rand using the Two Oceans as a fund-raising platform.

But for all the celebrations and applause, something has been missing for many years – a Cape Town winner of the Two Oceans Marathon. It has been 43 years since well-known Cape Town runner, poet and artist Don Hartley recorded his second win, and 25 years since “running pharmacist” Monica Drogemoller achieved her fourth and final victory in the women’s competition.

Mthandazo Qhina and Lungile Gongqa have the ability to beat all visitors to the finish line on Saturday, while Tanith Maxwell is one of the favourites for top honours among the women. Let’s hope!