Exciting News for the Two Oceans Ultra Marathon and Half Marathon Enthusiasts
The much-anticipated entry process for the Two Oceans Ultra Marathon (OMTOM) and Half Marathon will officially commence on 1 November. This year, the introduction of a new payment system aims to enhance the registration experience for participants. Runners keen on joining the iconic race are urged to mark their calendars, as entry spots are expected to fill up quickly—similar to last year, when entries closed in a record 32 days.
Entry Details and Key Dates
With a cap of 11,000 participants, last year’s swift registration showcased the growing interest in this prestigious event. However, devoted participants, referred to as Blue and Yellow Number Holders (those who have completed nine or more OMTOM Ultra Marathons), will have an advantage this year. A guaranteed entry pool of 1,500 spots is set aside specifically for them. For Half Marathon runners, there is some additional flexibility. Those who have completed more than nine OMTOMs can register immediately, while newcomers will enjoy a 10-day window to submit their ballot applications through the OMTOM website.
Running Club Draw Mechanism
Here’s how the entry process will unfold:
- Running Club Draw: After the ballot applications close, running clubs will verify their members before the Running Club Draw on 20 November. Successful participants will have until 25 November to finalize their payments.
- General Draw: Following the club draw, the General Draw will take place on 27 November, where successful applicants will need to pay by 2 December.
It is crucial for potential entrants to adhere to these deadlines. Past events have witnessed overwhelming responses, with 25,000 Half Marathon applications received for a limited 16,000 entries in 2016. Missing the payment deadline could mean forfeiting a hard-won spot.
Payment Options: A New Era with Webtickets
In a significant advancement for the 2018 event, OMTOM has partnered with Webtickets, allowing seamless online payments for all entries via their website. Entrants can choose to pay using any credit or debit card or even cash at selected retail stores such as Pick n Pay or Boxer Store. This shift not only simplifies the payment process but also eliminates the complexities associated with electronic funds transfers (EFT).
“Having Webtickets on board as our payment portal extends our payment options and makes the entry system more accessible to a wider demographic of runners,” said Carol Vosloo, General Manager of the Two Oceans Marathon.
Runners interested in utilizing Webtickets will need to create a profile or update their existing ones. Fortunately, nearly half of the current runner base already possesses a Webtickets account, making this transition easier.
Important Event Dates
The exhilarating atmosphere of the Old Mutual Two Oceans Marathon is eagerly awaited by participants and spectators alike, set to take place on the weekend of Friday, 30 March and Saturday, 31 March. Runners from across the globe flock to this event, making it one of the most celebrated marathons in South Africa.
Stay Connected
For the latest news and updates related to the Two Oceans Marathon, follow their official channels on Facebook at facebook.com/TwoOceansMarathon or keep an eye on Twitter and Instagram via @2OceansMarathon. For more comprehensive information, visit the official website at www.twooceansmarathon.org.za. Additionally, you can contact the entries team directly at [email protected] or call 0861 262 326.
Get Involved
If you have further insights or information regarding the Two Oceans Marathon, feel free to reach out via email at [email protected] or call 011 955 1130.
As we gear up for the event, remember to explore our sister publications for daily local news, including Randfontein Herald, Roodepoort Record, and Get It Joburg West Magazine.
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Don’t miss this opportunity to participate in one of South Africa’s premier running events. Ensure you’re prepared and ready for an unforgettable marathon experience!