Neheng Khatala – Ready to shake up Two Oceans showdown

The Lesotho star will line up in Cape Town on Saturday for the 56km spectacle, which gets underway in Newlands at 5:15am and finishes at the University of Cape Town, with a massive R380 000 payday awaiting the winners.

Khatala returns to the “world’s most beautiful marathon” full of belief after finishing an impressive third last year in 3:40:39 — a performance that announced her as a serious ultramarathon contender.

Now representing Hollywood Athletics Club, the North West University sports science management student is chasing back-to-back podium finishes — and possibly more.

 Her confidence is sky-high after a recent victory at the Pirates Half Marathon in Northcliff, where she stunned even herself by beating six-time Two Oceans champion Gerda Steyn over 21.1km.

Khatala has also shown sharp speed this season, clocking 32:43 for fourth place in a 10km race in Gqeberha — proof that she brings both endurance and pace into Saturday’s battle.

Lesotho will once again be strongly represented, with her compatriot Joseph Seutloali having claimed the men’s title last year, while two runners from the Mountain Kingdom finished in the top three — a sign of the nation’s growing dominance in ultra-distance running.Both athletes fall under the guidance of coach Andrew Booyens, and expectations are once again high. 

Despite her rising status, Khatala remains grounded but quietly confident.

“I really ran well last year, especially because the last 3km were very windy,” she told SABC Sport. “What makes me proud is that I didn’t even taper — I went into the race with heavy legs after a 45km long run that same week.”

READ: Mami Diale: Three-city TNL rollout aims to bring the game closer to communities

That toughness could prove crucial again on the demanding Two Oceans route.

“I train for everything — hills, flats, speed. It’s all about effort and consistency. Whether I win or not, I always make sure I give my best.”

After pocketing R100 000 for her third-place finish last year, Khatala now has her sights firmly set on going one better — or even claiming the crown.

“My aim is to improve. Last year I was third, so this time it has to be second or first. If I can do that, it will be a huge blessing.”

With form, confidence, and momentum on her side, Khatala is shaping up as one of the biggest threats to Steyn’s dominance — and Cape Town could be in for a thrilling showdown.