Use of cannabis sees SA runner stripped of Two Oceans title

South African runner William Kaptein has been stripped of his 2025 Two Oceans Half-Marathon title after testing positive for cannabis, ending his historic claim as the first local winner since 1998.

The South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport (SAIDS) confirmed that William received a one-month suspension following an out-of-competition test that detected the banned substance in his system.

The 32-year-old shared his shock on social media, explaining that a flavoured hookah he smoked socially two nights before the race had been unknowingly laced with cannabis.

“I never expected anything like this to happen,” he wrote, reflecting on the incident that had erased his name from the record books.

William had won the 20.6km race, run on a shortened course, in 64 minutes and 41 seconds, narrowly defeating South African half-marathon champion Bennett Seloyi by just two seconds, as reported by Briefly.

While cannabis is not considered a traditional performance-enhancing drug, it remains prohibited during competition under the 2025 World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) rules, meaning athletes cannot have cannabinoids present on race day.

Initially, William faced a three-month ban, but the suspension was reduced to one month after he reportedly completed a SAIDS substance abuse treatment programme. The Two Oceans Half-Marathon continues to uphold strict anti-doping regulations, aligned with both WADA and SAIDS policies, ensuring that competitors comply fully with the rules.

William told supporters he had learned a valuable lesson from the experience.

“I’ve learned my lesson and am back in competition now, feeling motivated and ready to move forward. Next year, I’ll be back for that race again,” he said, signalling his intent to return to the sport despite the setback.

Written by Aiden Daries

First published by Cape {Town} etc

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