I have never run the Two Oceans Marathon nor have I been enticed to wake up at dawn’s crack to watch others running it. To encourage others like me to get involved, here’s a roundup of cool spectator spots and after parties to get you going. You don’t have to sweat to be part of the action so why not give real-time spectatorship a bash.
Half marathon (21 km)
Kill two birds with one stone and watch the race from Constantia Village. You can cheer until Woolies opens and then head inside for the week’s groceries and a cuppa freshly brewed coffee.
Top of Southern Cross Drive. It’s a steep hill that seems to go on forever where runners need all the support and encouragement they can get. There’s usually music, cheerleaders and loads of spectators here, creating a fun vibe…even at 7am.
Anywhere along the tree-lined Rhodes Drive. There’s plenty of shade and the beautiful surrounds make this an ideal viewing spot for spectators who want to enjoy a chilled out morning.
For a map of the half marathon route click here.
Ultra marathon (56km)
Noordhoek Village at the start of Chapman’s Peak is a beautiful part of the world to spend your Saturday morning and runners need your encouragement before tackling the mighty Chappies.
Hout Bay Beach at the end of Chapman’s Peak is a great spectator spot for families with small kids. The beach will keep the little ones occupied so the folks can enjoy a Bucks Fizz or beer whilst they cheer.
Other good vantage points for the 56km are Kirstenbosch Gardens, and the Constantia Nek and the Silvermine intersection.
For a map of the ultra marathon route click here.
The best spot for viewing both marathons
The stretch along the M3 from Newlands Forest to UCT is great. There’s a palpable sense of excitement in the air, as the race is almost over. The runners tend to be smiling and there is plenty of loud cheering, dancing and singing amongst the spectators. Sound systems blasting out great tunes round up the fun feeling. Being the final stretch, you don’t need to be standing here in the dark. Get there by 07h00 and you’ll catch the front-runners.
After parties
The biggest after party happens at Forresters Arms in Newlands. Beer tents are erected outside to accommodate the influx of runners and spectators. DJs start playing from 1pm and a real party ensues, continuing well into the evening. Ideal for Jeigermeister- and beer-loving party animals.
For a more tranquil celebration head to Kirstenbosch Gardens for an afternoon picnic or sit back to brunch at the Kirstenbosch Tea Room.
The Chapman’s Peak Hotel is a great lunch spot for spectators in the Hout Bay area, famous for its calamari.
You could also throw your own after party and invite friends and relatives that ran or watched the race. Nothing beats a good old chop ‘n dop celebration.
