Both runners came in under the course record of 4:40:15, previously held by Ryan Sandes. Third was Cape Town runner Greg Goodall in a time of 4:42:18.
In the ladies field, US legend Krissy Moehl from Colorado took first place in a time of 5:24:59. She is the current UTMN record holder. In second place and the first veteran lady was South African Jacoline Haasbroek in an impressive 5:27:14.
Third lady was Landie Greyling in a time of 5:37:03. Jeannie Dreyer holds the course record of 5:17:12.
An impressive field of international trail runners gathered on the beach in Natures Valley to tackle the reversed Otter Trail Run course, known this year as the RETTO.
A tricky 4km prologue the day prior to the race divided the competitive field according to their electronically timed results. The men's "Ambengeni" or challengers, the only men eligible for prizes on the day included Sebastian Chaigneau of France, AJ Calitz, Michael Bailey and John Ntuli of the Hi-Tec sponsored Change a Life Academy.
The Otter, known to many as the "Grail of Trail" takes athletes on a relentless and technical route through the Tsitsikamma National Park. The SANParks Otter Trail is one of South Africa's premium hikes.
With 42km of technical single track through indigenous fynbos and along pristine beaches, an Olympic swim distance across Bloukrans River, at least four 50m drops to rugged rocks, eight significant climbs and nearly 3 000m of vertical ascent, the Otter is not a challenge to be taken lightly.
The pre-race briefing by race organiser Mark Collins of Magnetic South was a terrifying wake-up for some, but expected for others. The importance of carrying the right gear and applying common sense and caution was highlighted.
Winner and new record holder Iain Don-Wauchope and runner up AJ Calitz hold the South African flag high at the finishing point. Jacques Marais
The American legend Krissy Moehl takes the US flag over the finish line. Photo: Jacques Marais
Runner-up AJ Calitz tackles the Bloukrans River. Photo: Jacques Marais
