By Adnaan Mohamed
In the high-stakes theatre of road running, where each stride speaks of sacrifice and each breath carries the weight of dreams, Neheng Khatala is preparing to script a triple act across three South African cities. The Lesotho speedster, who holds her nation’s 10km record like a badge of honour, is gearing up to blaze a trail from Durban to Cape Town and Johannesburg in the 2025 Totalsports Women’s Race.
Like a mountain goat forged in the highlands of Lesotho, Neheng thrives in the rarified air of challenge. But this August, it’s not just the stopwatch she’ll be chasing—it’s purpose, pride, and the pulsing spirit of sisterhood.
The triple-city running festival—South Africa’s grandest ode to Women’s Month—is no ordinary race; it’s a rhythmic beat of sneakers on tar, a collective hymn of hope sung in stride
“The Totalsports Women’s Race is not just about competition,” says Neheng, her voice steady with conviction.
“It’s about unity, empowerment, and purpose. Running in all three cities allows me to connect with diverse communities, inspire young girls, and represent Lesotho on a meaningful platform.”
For Neheng, the race is a canvas, and she’s running brushstrokes of resistance and resilience across it. In 2025, she’ll run the Durban leg (3 August), return to the Johannesburg route (17 August), and make her much-anticipated debut in Cape Town (9 August), all within a fortnight.
“Each city offers a unique racing experience,” she explains.
“In Durban, the fast and flat route along the coast is ideal for testing my speed and enjoying the sea breeze. I’m especially looking forward to experiencing the race for the first time in Cape Town—soaking up the energy of the Mother City. Joburg boasts a vibrant crowd and a high-altitude challenge that always brings a special atmosphere.”
It’s a campaign that reads like a three-act drama—Act I: chase the clock in Durban, flirting with the R1 million prize for breaking the Women’s Only 10km World Record; Act II: charm the Cape with a confident debut; Act III: conquer Johannesburg’s thin air and rolling roads with redemption in her rearview.
“My goal in Durban is to run a strong, fast 10km and build momentum for the season,” she says
.“In Cape Town, I want to compete confidently, enjoy my debut, and aim for a podium finish. In Joburg, I’ll aim to improve on my previous performance and push myself in the altitude conditions.”
But Khatala’s fire is fueled by more than finish lines and fast times. At the heart of her mission is PinkDrive, the breast cancer awareness initiative that powers the race’s deeper meaning. Her footsteps will echo with empathy, honouring those who’ve battled illness and those still fighting.
“As someone who has seen the pain illness can bring to families, I know how important awareness and early detection are,” she shares.
“Running for something bigger reminds me that every step I take can inspire hope, raise awareness, and help save lives. It gives deeper purpose to what we do as athletes.”
Khatala’s journey, from a small village in Lesotho to the roar of international crowds, is a testament to grit grown in rocky soil. Her message to aspiring runners is as poignant as it is powerful—a rallying cry from one who’s scaled steep hills both literal and metaphorical.
“Never stop believing in your dreams, even when life gets hard,” she urges.“I come from a small village in Lesotho, and my journey hasn’t been easy—but through faith, perseverance, and hard work, I’ve reached the world stage. If I can do it, so can you. Keep showing up, stay true to yourself, and run your race—your time will come.”
For Nikki Crous, Head of Marketing at Totalsports, having Khatala line up in all three races is more than a sporting spectacle—it’s a symbol of everything the event stands for.
“It’s absolutely fantastic to have Neheng Khatala taking part in all three Totalsports Women’s Races in 2025,” says Nikki.
“We truly appreciate her support, but more than that, we love seeing elite athletes like Neheng embrace the unique identity and spirit of each race. Watching the elite women push their limits and deliver world-class performances is not only inspiring—it’s empowering.”
This isn’t just a race series; it’s a celebration of the feminine spirit in full stride. With music from Lady Zamar to electrify the air, and thousands of women in pink charging toward something brighter, every kilometre is a protest against limitation and a song of solidarity.
In a sport that often sidelines women’s narratives, the Totalsports Women’s Race paints the road pink with purpose. And in 2025, Neheng Khatala won’t just be running. She’ll be leading a movement—fast, fierce, and full of fire.
