Blandina Makatisi bags the Two Oceans half-marathon title

Proudly representing the Maxed Elite Running Club, who recently set a new national record during the Absa Run Your City in Gqeberha just two weeks prior, showcased her domination in the women’s category amidst the windy conditions of the Mother City.

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Cian Oldknow, widely regarded as the frontrunner before the race, clinched second place behind the runner representing the mountain Kingdom, completing the course in 1:14:03.

Makatisi expressed her triumph as a pinnacle moment in her career in South Africa. “I would like to thank my sponsors and coach for their amazing support. Securing victory in the Two Oceans was a personal goal, and I’m thrilled to have achieved it,” said Makatisi during a press conference.

Reflecting on the intense competition with Cian, she acknowledged the challenge while celebrating her own success, bringing honour to her country. “I stuck to my race plan and produced the results. Now, my focus shifts to the Spar 10km races starting with the Durban leg in June where I aim to compensate for missing the initial event and participating in the upcoming Absa 10km races,”

Makatisi did not participate in the Spar 10km Women’s Challenge last month due to its scheduling conflict with the All Africa Games in Ghana.

While she felt disappointed about missing out on the Green Point Stadium event, she was overjoyed to return to Cape Town and emerge victorious.

Oldknow having secured her spot in the upcoming Olympic Games marathon in Paris, expressed satisfaction with her runner-up position. “This race was integral to my Olympic preparations for July,” she remarked, reflecting on her performance. Despite her desire to claim victory, she found solace in her overall performance as the highest placed South African in the top ten.