The coronavirus pandemic continues to decimate the local and international running race calendars.

Runners hoping to transverse the picturesque Cape Peninsula in April during the iconic Two Oceans Marathon in 2021 will need to wait another year after event organisers cancelled the race.

Health and safety concerns

“As the pandemic continues to rage across our country unabated, we have continued to consult extensively with our stakeholders, Athletics South Africa and Western Province Athletics, as well as our medical team on the best way forward,” reveals a statement posted on the event’s website.

“Guided by the advice from the medical team and Two Oceans Marathon chief medical officer, Dr Adrian Rotunno, the Two Oceans Marathon NPC is deeply saddened to announce that the 2021 Two Oceans Marathon, scheduled to take place on 3 April 2021, is cancelled.”

“The health and safety of all competitors, stakeholders, and running community as a whole, is paramount, and given the current pandemic climate, the health risks around hosting the TOM mass participation event are far too significant for the event to proceed safely. Under guidance from global evidence-based practice, only hosting a full-scale physical event once the health situation has improved to acceptable levels for all is unfortunate, but necessary,” stated Dr. Rotunno.

Alternative options planned

While a postponement to the second half of the year was considered, it is not feasible given the general uncertainty related to potential third and fourth COVID-19 waves, and the already congested event calendar during that period.

The Two Oceans Marathon team plans to host alternative events and programmes within the prevailing regulations. Expect further announcements related to these plans in the coming weeks.