Press Releases

TOM NPC BOARD 2023 FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: Mr. Angelo Kriger, Mr. Ian McDonald, Mr. Graham Bentz, Mr. Garth Schreiner (Chair of the finance sub-committee), Ms. Ilhaam Saban, Ms. Phumizile Mlotshwa, Ms. Ilse De Wet (Chairperson), Ms Liezel Short (Vice Chairperson), Ms Antoinette Cavanagh, Mr Ashraf Orrie, Mr. Allan Ryninks, Mr William Swartbooi.

At the 14th Annual General Meeting held on 28 September 2023, the following two new directors were elected to serve on the Two Oceans Marathon (TOM) NPC Board:
• Ms. Ilhaam Saban (Ommiedraai & Friends)
• Ms. Antoinette Cavanagh.

In addition, Ms. Elizabeth Short (SATORI) was re-elected as a director.

The above directors will fulfil their mandate on the Board of Directors alongside:
• Mr. Graham Bentz (Pinelands)
• Mr. Angelo Kriger (Celtic Harriers)
• Mr. Ian McDonald (Celtic Harriers)
• Ms. Phumizile Mlotshwa (Celtic Harriers)
• Mr. Ashraf Orrie (Brimstone Itheko)
• Mr. Allan Ryninks (WPA), and
• Ms. Ilse De Wet (Celtic Harriers)
• Mr. Garth Schreiner (WPA)
• Mr. William Swartbooi (WPA)

Ms Ilse De Wet was elected to the position of Chairperson, historically ushering in a new, female-led board for the first time, with Ms Liezel Short serving as Vice Chairperson.

As a former Managing Director of a global network advertising agency, Ilse is a marketing specialist who brings with her many years of senior and executive management experience. Since joining the TOM board in 2022, she has chaired the marketing and communications sub-committee, where she quickly made her mark on sponsorship in particular.

“I am filled with a deep sense of gratitude, humility and determination as I accept the honour and responsibility of assuming the role of Chairperson of this esteemed organisation. I am acutely aware that taking on the role of Chairperson for the iconic Two Oceans Marathon is both a privilege and a challenge. With careful planning, dedication, and a strong team, the intention is to maintain the race’s legacy,” says Ilse.

“For me, this has less to do with being the first woman in this role and more to do with ensuring that with the assistance and full support of the Board, we usher in constructive changes and growth for the future. I want us to make decisions based on what will best serve our runners and their experience leading up to and on Race Days.”

Liezel says: “I am honoured to assume the role of Vice Chair for the Two Oceans Marathon NPC Board 2023 | 2024. This milestone represents progress and a commitment to fostering diversity, inclusion and equal opportunities within the Two Oceans Marathon NPC and our broader running, stakeholder and partner community.

“I am committed to working collaboratively with my fellow board members to enhance TOM’s Vision, Mission, and Strategy, ensuring we continue to empower and inspire individuals through Running. Together, we will lead by example, driving positive change and creating an environment where every runner can thrive and achieve their full potential.”

Liezel joined the board in 2021 and served as Chair of the finance sub-committee, having formerly headed up the comms and marketing committee with great impact. This former captain in the SA National Defence Force and race director for SATORI athletics club went on to become a senior events project manager and now owns her own successful Event Management business. She holds an honours degree in military science and manages events across the African continent.

Completing the list of senior executive members is Mr Garth Schreiner, who will now serve as Chair of the finance sub-committee.

The very best wishes of the Two Oceans Marathon NPC and Office accompanies the Board in the execution of their fiduciary duties and overall mandate as they lead the organisation.
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Issued by: The TOM Media Office
media@twooceansmarathon.org.za