Blessing Waison Shines with Podium Finish at Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon Debut in Cape Town
The Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon in Cape Town delivered a powerful showcase of endurance running as Zimbabwe’s Blessing Waison marked a standout debut in the ultra-distance event. The race drew elite competitors from across Africa and Europe, creating a highly competitive field that tested both experience and stamina. Waison, representing Cadence Athletics Club, exceeded expectations by finishing third in a time of 3 hours 11 minutes 13 seconds. His performance went beyond his pre-race target of a top-10 finish and placed him firmly among the top long-distance runners on debut. The event highlighted his rising potential in ultra-marathon competition and added strong momentum to his career.
The men’s race produced a tight battle at the front, with South Africa’s Arthur Jantjies securing victory in 3 hours 9 minutes 25 seconds after a strong late surge. Arthur Jantjies controlled key sections of the race and timed his effort well in the final stretch. His compatriot Onalenna Khonkhobe finished second in 3 hours 10 minutes, narrowly holding off Waison in a dramatic closing phase. Onalenna Khonkhobe stayed consistent throughout the course and managed the demanding terrain with discipline. Waison remained in the leading pack for most of the race and even led at certain points before the final kilometres reshaped the podium positions.
Waison described his debut as both challenging and rewarding, pointing to the tactical learning curve of ultra-distance racing. Blessing Waison explained that he initially believed he could compete for victory before experience and pacing errors affected his final push. He admitted that he miscalculated key sections of the race but still managed to maintain a strong rhythm under pressure. He credited his discipline in sticking to the race plan given by his coach despite changes in pace from competitors. His coach Alden Muhoni played a key role in preparing him for the demands of the event. Alden Muhoni guided his training strategy, helping Waison manage the difficult climbs and technical downhill sections that define the Cape Town course.
The women’s race also delivered strong performances, with South Africa-based Nobuhle Tshuma claiming third place in 3 hours 38 minutes 34 seconds. Nobuhle Tshuma held a steady pace throughout the race and secured a valuable podium finish against a strong international field. Loveness Madziva finished tenth in 3 hours 48 minutes 54 seconds after a consistent but challenging run. Loveness Madziva worked through the demanding route and maintained effort despite the tough conditions. The race was won by South Africa’s Gerda Steyn in 3 hours 27 minutes 43 seconds, with Kenya’s Margaret Jepchumba taking second place in 3 hours 33 minutes 31 seconds. Gerda Steyn delivered a dominant performance on home soil, while Margaret Jepchumba stayed competitive throughout but could not close the gap in the final stages.
The half marathon added further depth to the weekend with strong regional and international participation. Fortunate Chidzivo produced a solid performance to finish second in the women’s race in 1 hour 16 minutes 29 seconds. Fortunate Chidzivo maintained a competitive pace but was edged out by Namibia’s Lavinia Haitope, who won in 1 hour 14 minutes 36 seconds. Lavinia Haitope controlled the race with a strong early push and sustained her lead to the finish line. Emma Browne of Great Britain secured third place in 1 hour 18 minutes 9 seconds after a steady run in a tightly contested field. Emma Browne kept close to the leaders but could not match the winning pace in the final stages. In the men’s half marathon, Kenya dominated through Felix Masai, who took victory in 1 hour 3 minutes 17 seconds ahead of Shadrack Musyoka and Joshua Mengich. Felix Masai delivered a controlled and powerful performance, while Shadrack Musyoka and Joshua Mengich completed a strong Kenyan podium presence that reinforced their country’s depth in distance running.
The overall event also highlighted the financial rewards and growing prestige of the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon. Waison and Tshuma each earned R100 000 for their podium finishes, reflecting the increasing value placed on elite road running performances in the region. Winners received R380 000, while runners-up took home R220 000, adding significant motivation for competitive participation. The prize structure attracted a high-calibre field and ensured intense competition across all categories. For Waison, the result marked a breakthrough moment that confirmed his ability to compete at ultra-marathon level despite limited experience. His decision to return to standard 42km races shows a planned approach to building endurance and refining race strategy.
The Cape Town race reinforced the importance of preparation, pacing, and experience in ultra-distance competition. Waison’s debut podium finish demonstrated strong physical capability and mental resilience under pressure. His performance against seasoned athletes showed that Zimbabwe continues to produce competitive long-distance talent capable of challenging on major international stages. The event also highlighted the depth of African dominance in endurance running across both men’s and women’s categories. With lessons learned from his first ultra-marathon, Waison leaves Cape Town with confidence, experience, and a clear direction for future races.
