Two male runners were disqualified and may be banned after fraudulently competing in the women’s race at South Africa’s Two Oceans Marathon.
Two male runners have been disqualified after competing in the women’s category of the Two Oceans Marathon in Cape Town. Race officials said the men ran using bibs assigned to female athletes, finishing in the top 10 of the half-marathon before the deception was uncovered by a board member reviewing race details and social media posts.
Race official Stuart Mann said the athletes could face two-year bans, along with the women involved. He described the act as unethical, warning it “poses health and medical risks… as wrong medication may be administered to a wrong person.” Two legitimate female runners were later reinstated into the top 10 standings.
The scheme came to light after one participant shared race photos online showing a mismatched bib name. One runner admitted, “I made an error in judgment and did not consider the consequences.” Another athlete said injury led to the decision, stating, “I felt bad… so my friend ran in my place.” Authorities confirmed all four have apologised and face disciplinary action.