Two former Springbok tighthead props, Marius Hurter (55) and Eddie Andrews (48), who once anchored the national scrum with over 130kg of front-row power, will be chasing new goals at the 2026 Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon powered by BYD in Cape Town this April. Hurter, a 1995 Rugby World Cup winner, will take on the 56km Ultra Marathon on Saturday, 11 April, while Andrews, the current Deputy Mayor of the City of Cape Town, returns on Sunday, 12 April, to compete in his sixth Totalsports Two Oceans Half Marathon.

Hurter, affectionately known as ‘The Hurternator’, has transformed himself from a 132kg prop into a seasoned endurance athlete weighing around 103kg.

“My rugby career finished in 2006, but I must say, being a prop, I like a bit of suffering,” laughs Hurter. “This is hard on the body, but a lot of it comes down to mental toughness. Your physique is one thing, but it’s this little thing between your ears that runs the whole operation.”

Believing that the greatest battleground in endurance sport lies within the mind, Hurter has completed some of endurance sport’s toughest events including nine finishes in the Absa Cape Epic, several Ironman triathlons, the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon, Comrades Marathon and the Ultra-Trail Cape Town 100 miler (160km) last year.

This year’s Two Oceans Ultra Marathon will hold special significance as Hurter runs alongside his eldest daughter Annalien (20) in her first ultra marathon.

“I’ve got three daughters and I try to involve them in my events,” he explained. “The oldest one is running with me. It’s her first ultra marathon and we committed to doing it together.”

Andrews running journey began in 2016 with a far smaller step.

The former Bok strongman, who played 23 Tests for South Africa between 2004 and 2007, has steadily built his running credentials, since starting his running journey in 2016 with the Park Run. The 2026 event will mark Andrews’ sixth start in the half marathon as he moves closer to the coveted Blue Number Status that’s awarded to runners who complete ten editions of the race.

“This is my sixth Two Oceans Half. Yes, I am almost there. I’m going to go for it,” said Andrews.

He has also encouraged fellow rugby veterans to take up the challenge. “This is a challenge to all ex-Springbok rugby players to do it as well. Run the races, be in the community of runners and have other conversations.”

“We’re excited to welcome Marius Hurter and Eddie Andrews back to the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon powered by BYD, each taking on different challenges that showcase their incredible athleticism and determination,” says Chris Goldschmidt, Chairperson of the Two Oceans Marathon NPC. “Their participation brings a unique excitement to the 2026 edition and underscores the spirit of endurance and community that the event celebrates.”

Echoing this excitement, Wade Bromfield, General Manager of the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon, added: “Having two former Springbok front-row legends like Marius and Eddie on the start line is truly special. Marius tackling the Ultra and Eddie returning for his sixth Half Marathon highlights the diversity and inclusivity of the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon powered by BYD, inspiring runners of all levels to challenge themselves.”

 

EVENT INFORMATION: Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon powered by BYD

Thursday 09 April 2026	Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon International Friendship Run
Friday 10 April 2026	Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon Trail Run Start Time: 07:00
Saturday 11 April 2026	Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon Start Time: 05:15
Sunday 12 April 2026	Totalsports Two Oceans Half Marathon Start Time: 06:15

 

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Websites: www.twooceansmarathon.org.za

For entry and/or event related queries please email Patiswa@twooceansmarathon.org.za

 

About the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon powered by BYD:

The Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon powered by BYD is one of South Africa’s most iconic running events, widely celebrated as “the world’s most beautiful marathon.” It features two flagship events – the renowned 56km Ultra Marathon and the hugely popular 21.1km Half Marathon – both offering runners unforgettable coastal and mountain scenery around the Cape Peninsula.

About the Two Oceans Marathon NPC:

The Two Oceans Marathon NPC is the owner and custodian of the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon, responsible for the event’s heritage, brand identity, public-benefit mandate, overseeing the delivery of world-class experiences for its entrants, and long-term strategic direction. The TOM NPC ensures the event will continue to positively impact local communities and promote Cape Town and South Africa, on the global stage.

About Stillwater Sports:

Stillwater Sports is the appointed Staging and Commercial Partner of the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon powered by BYD under a long-term licensing and staging agreement, concluded with the TOM NPC. In terms of the agreement, Stillwater Sports is responsible for delivering world-class event operations, enhancing the runner experience, driving commercial growth, all while expanding the event’s reach and runner value. Stillwater Sports is a leading Sports Marketing and Event Management Agency, based in South Africa, and active across Southern Africa.