Onalenna Khonkhobe I have unfinished business at Two Oceans

Dubbed the “world’s most beautiful marathon,” the race will once again start in Newlands and finish at the University of Cape Town's Rugby Fields.

The 2024 champion lost his crown to Joseph Seutloali, his new rival from the Hollywood Athletics Club.

The Nedbank Running Club runner was in control of the race before injury struck cruelly, forcing him to withdraw with just 6km left.

“I’m still haunted by that race,” Khonkhobe says. “This year, it’s simple — I want to win.”

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Nicknamed the “head of the table,” Khonkhobe has already stamped his authority on the ultra-scene.

He famously pulled off a rare double, winning both the Two Oceans Marathon and the Soweto Marathon in the same year, before adding the City-to-City 50km title in Tshwane and another podium finish in Soweto.

But last season didn’t go to plan due to injury. 

“I didn’t even crack the top 10 — that hurts,” he admits.

Back under the guidance of coach Pio Mpolokeng in Klerksdorp, Khonkhobe has gone back to basics.

His Nedbank Running Club manager Nick Bester pointed to over-racing as the key mistake — and the runner is not arguing.

“Yes, I overdid it,” he says. “But I’ve learned. I’ve been smarter this season.”

Now, after a carefully managed build-up since January, Khonkhobe believes he’s back to his best.

With two, Two Oceans medals already to his name and another big win at the Mangosuthu Buthelezi 52km ultra, the North West runner feels everything is finally aligned.

“I’m in good shape,” he says. “This time, I’m ready."