The Old Mutual Two Oceans Marathon, Newlands, South Africa - April 3, 2010

A record field of close to 21 000 runners, including the men and women's defending champions, and over 1 000 international runners, will line up in Newlands on Easter Saturday April 3 for the Old Mutual Two Oceans Marathon.

The Cape's biggest road running event has attracted a field of 8,700 runners in the 56km ultra marathon, making this the second biggest field in the history of the event.

The record stands at just under 10,000 (9,766) runners, which was in 2004 when Chapman's Peak reopened.

Some 35% of the ultra marathon field are novices who are running the event for the first time, an indication that the sport is growing and still attracting people to the longer distances.

The 21.1km has attracted a field of 11,571 runners, which makes it the biggest half marathon in the country.The Old Mutual Two Oceans Marathon has earned a reputation as the world's most beautiful marathon.

The first race was held in 1970 and saw 26 runners line up to face the unknown challenge. Since then, the race has become a national institution and a firm favourite with local, upcountry, and international athletes.

Website: http://portal.twooceansmarathon.org.za/