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Coetzé wins five golds as Pearse qualifies for Commonwealth Games

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By Adnaan Mohamed

Hannah Pearse’s (pictured above) long-held dream finally surfaced on the final night of the Bombela Concession Company SA Swimming Championships in Gqeberha, while Pieter Coetzé stamped his authority with a flawless golden campaign.

Pieter Coetzé in action in the 200m backstroke Photo: Swimming SA

Pearse delivered when it mattered most, powering to victory in the 200m backstroke in 2:10.92 to secure the Commonwealth Games qualifying time. The 23-year-old could not contain her emotions after touching the wall, her journey over the past year culminating in a moment of release.

“It’s surreal. It’s a big dream, so I can’t believe the dream finally came true,” said the neurophysiology honours student.

“I knew I had it in me, but I wasn’t sure. It’s been a rough year with lots of ups and downs. So the belief was there, but it was a deep-down belief and we had to really dig deep to find it.”

While Pearse celebrated a breakthrough, Coetzé continued to underline his status as South Africa’s leading male swimmer at the championships. The 21-year-old completed a five-from-five record, claiming his fifth title in the 200m backstroke in 1:55.26.

Having eased through the morning heats, Coetzé sharpened his pace in the final, though he admitted there is still room for improvement.

“I used to swim this race very back-end based, and I want to get my body used to going out a bit faster… I would have liked to go out a bit faster than that, but it’s okay,” he said.

Reflecting on his overall performance, he added: “This is only my second meet in about nine months. So I think it’s a great base and I’ve got about two months now to go back to work and make sure I put in a good performance at Commonwealth.”

In the sprint events, Erin Gallagher and Caitlin de Lange ensured a double qualifying performance in the 50m butterfly. Both swimmers dipped under the required mark in the heats and repeated the feat in the final, where Gallagher took gold in 25.63 and De Lange secured silver in 25.98.

“It was always going to be close. It’s all about the start and the finish and timing everything perfectly,” said Gallagher.

Erin Gallagher and Caitlin de Lange Photo: Swimming SA

“You never really know what to expect, and it’s always great when it pays off. But it’s a splash and dash. You don’t have much time to think, you kind of just close your eyes and go for it.”

De Lange echoed those sentiments. “The 50 is always such a hit-or-miss. From the start you either feel so great or so bad, and you just ride along with it. But that was a really fun race.”

One of the standout stories of the night came from Calvyn Justus, who marked his return from a serious back injury with victory in the 50m butterfly. The 30-year-old edged Chad le Clos by 0.01 seconds, winning in 23.68 for his first national title in a decade.

Calvin Justus and Chad le Clos Photo: Swimming SA

“The butterfly’s still so new to me. I don’t know what it’s supposed to feel like yet… That was only the second time I’ve ever done it, so it’s still pretty foreign to me and I think I need a lot more work in cleaning up. But we’ll take it, a win’s a win,” said Justus.

“I had a ton of fun racing Chad. I grew up with him so it’s kind of like a full circle moment. I think that was a special way to come back to South Africa.”

Elsewhere, Matthew Caldwell completed a clean sweep of the distance freestyle events, adding the 400m title in 3:53.02 to his earlier wins in the 800m and 1500m. Duné Coetzee successfully defended her 400m freestyle crown in 4:11.35.

In total, 13 swimmers achieved Commonwealth Games qualifying times across the championships.

Coetzé led the men with five titles and qualifying swims, while Aimee Canny topped the women’s standings with four gold medals and qualifying performances.

Commonwealth Games Qualifiers (Team Sheet)

  • Aimee Canny: 200m freestyle, 100m, 200m breaststroke, 200m individual medley
  • Pieter Coetzé: 50m, 100m & 200m backstroke; 50m & 100m freestyle
  • Kaylene Corbett: 200m breaststroke
  • Caitlin de Lange: 50m freestyle, 50m butterfly
  • Erin Gallagher: 50m & 100m butterfly
  • Michael Houlie: 50m breaststroke
  • Calvyn Justus: 50m freestyle
  • Rebecca Meder: 200m individual medley
  • Hannah Pearse: 200m backstroke
  • Chris Smith: 50m breaststroke
  • Jessica Thompson: 50m backstroke, 50m freestyle
  • Lara van Niekerk: 50m breaststroke
  • Ruard van Renen: 50m & 100m backstroke

Standout performances at rain-soaked SA Senior Athletics Championships finale

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By Adnaan Mohamed

Stellenbosch’s Coetzenberg Stadium played host to a rain-soaked finale at the 2026 ASA Senior Track and Field Championships, where several of the country’s leading athletes delivered composed performances in testing conditions.

Among the standout winners were long jumper Luvo Manyonga who after seven years in the wilderness soared to 8.04m to claim gold on home soil. Gift Leotlela, Lythe Pillay, Rogail Joseph, Sinesipho Dambile and Tayla Kavanagh, amongst others all secured national titles in challenging weather conditions.

Leotlela successfully defended his men’s 100m crown, edging Benjamin Richardson in a photo finish, while Dambile added another chapter to his growing reputation in the 200m.

Dambile clocked 20.02 seconds to claim his third national title in the half-lap sprint, having also won in 2022 and 2025. After crossing the line, he raised three fingers on each hand in acknowledgement of his achievement.

“It is very special man, I have to win it back-to-back to back to back,” Dambile said.

“I’ve seen the consistency of 400m when Wayde was there, I saw the consistency of Akani in the 100m and I’ve actually never seen in the 200m someone being that consistent. I wanted to be that guy and I’m definitely working towards that.”

Sinesipho Dambile defended his 200m crown Photo: Team SA

He finished ahead of 18-year-old Naeem Jack, who took second in 20.34, while Mihlali Xotyeni was third in 20.62.

In the men’s 400m, Pillay delivered a controlled run from lane six to secure gold in 45.22. With his main challengers on the inside lanes, he executed a measured race plan to stay clear of the field.

“The plan was just to execute,” Pillay said.

“I knew that Leendert and Udeme were the two on my inside lane, so I wouldn’t be able to gauge them until either it was too late to the finish or they caught me early on. My plan was just run a bold race, run strong. I know where my strengths are this season and just to bear out the weather.”

Bradley Maponyane finished second in 45.77, with Udeme Okon third in 46.02 and Leendert Koekemoer fourth in 46.52. Okon’s meeting ended on a concerning note later in the 4x400m relay when he appeared to suffer a hamstring injury on the final bend and fell after handing over the baton.

Wernich van Rensburg won the men’s 400m hurdles in 50.09, while Joseph took the women’s title in 55.94.

Rogail Joseph Photo; Cecelia van Bers

In the women’s 400m, Marlie Viljoen secured her first national title in 51.72 after a delayed start. Jada van Staden and Isabella Gunter completed the podium.

“Today was only about running for a gold medal, I wasn’t looking for a time. I’m actually happy with the time in the conditions, but today was only about getting the gold medal,” Viljoen said.

Kayla la Grange won the women’s 200m in 23.37, finishing ahead of Anastaysha George and Rume Burger, while Joviale Mbisha defended her national title in the women’s 100m.

The women’s 1500m provided one of the more competitive races of the afternoon. Karabo More surged late to win in 4:11.54, denying Prudence Sekgodiso a double after her earlier victory in the 800m. Sekgodiso finished second in 4:14.38, with Danielle Verster third in 4:16.86.

Denmar Jacobs claimed his first national title in the men’s 110m hurdles in 13.47, narrowly beating Mondray Barnard, while veteran Antonio Alkana placed third.

Marione Fourie won the women’s 100m hurdles in 12.69 despite a slightly slow start.

“I’m really happy with the time, I thought it would be slower. I didn’t know I can run a 12.69 in these conditions, it just means that there’s a next level coming up and I hope that I can achieve that,” Fourie said.

Tayla Kavanagh dominated the distance double at the SA Champs Photo: Team SA

In the field events, Leandri Holtzhausen produced one of the standout performances with a winning hammer throw of 67.70m. Colette Uys secured gold in the discus with a throw of 57.86m and added silver in the hammer (63.53m), while Anje Holtzhausen took bronze in the hammer with 50.93m.

Zinzi Xulu won the women’s triple jump with a best attempt of 12.90m.

Jana van Schalkwyk claimed the javelin title with a throw of 53.12m, while Danielle Nolte won the long jump with 6.49m.

On the track, Edmund du Plessis defended his 800m title in 1:46.63, and Siboniso Soldaka took top honours in the 3 000m steeplechase.

Despite the persistent rain, the championships concluded with a series of measured performances across track and field, as athletes adapted to the conditions to secure national titles.

FIND THE FULL RESULTS HERE:

Stormers left reeling as Connacht spoil emotional Cape Town farewell

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By Adnaan Mohamed

What was meant to be a day of tribute and celebration at DHL Stadium ended in bitter disappointment for the Stormers, who slumped to a shock 33-24 United Rugby Championship defeat to Connacht on Saturday.

On an emotionally charged afternoon, the home side honoured long-time team manager Christopher “Chippie” Solomons, who died suddenly from a heart attack last week, while veteran hooker Scarra Ntubeni was set for a fitting farewell in his final appearance in blue and white.

Instead, the occasion turned into a nightmare.

With Solomons’ family receiving warm applause from the 13,903-strong crowd on a cold, wet Cape Town afternoon, the mood before kick-off was heavy with emotion. Tears flowed among players as the Stormers prepared for a match coach John Dobson had described as one “for Chippie”.

By full-time, there was no comfort to be found.

The defeat not only denied the Stormers the chance to climb to the top of the URC table, it also left their play-off ambitions under fresh pressure. Connacht’s first-ever win over the Stormers in Cape Town lifted the Irish side from ninth to sixth, while the hosts remained second.

The Stormers appeared to have done enough when Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu crashed over late in the second half to edge them ahead.

But the match swung dramatically moments later.

A costly error from the restart by replacement lock Ruben van Heerden handed Connacht the opening they needed, with scrumhalf Ben Murphy pouncing for a crucial try in the 71st minute to snatch a 26-24 lead and secure the visitors a bonus point.

Forced to chase the game, the Stormers unravelled.

Their expansive approach in slippery conditions proved costly, with loose passing and poor decision-making repeatedly placing them under pressure. That desperation was punished in the 77th minute when Connacht flyhalf Sean Naughton intercepted to race away for the decisive score.

Dobson admitted afterwards that his side had failed to adapt to the conditions.

“You are 100% correct. Yes, it was very frustrating. We shovelled rubbish out there for quite a bit of time. We did … We did,” he said.

The Stormers coach conceded his side should have played a more territorial game.

“We were loose throughout. There were a couple of patches in the first half that we spoke about where we shuffled it around too much.

“I thought we were very loose. We said at halftime, let’s be more direct and limit the passing on attack.

“But we kept shovelling the ball back repeatedly and conceded a penalty for sealing off.”

Dobson felt the Stormers strayed from a winning blueprint that was already working.

“It felt at times we needed to invent to beat them, when in reality the template was there to do it; we saw it with our mauling getting on top.”

He also pointed to key moments that shifted momentum.

“We had their maul on the ropes, and at one instance we had a quick throw in to Warrick Gelant, but then Damian Willemse threw a forward pass, Connacht got the scrum and ended up scoring.”

The emotional week, Dobson said, could not be used as an excuse, though he acknowledged the impact it had.

“We can’t use Chippie’s thing as an excuse, but it was a helluva week.”

Captain Ruhan Nel echoed his coach’s frustration.

“I felt we did more than enough in that game to put ourselves in the correct positions.

“I felt we defended great at certain times and then there were a lack of concentration due to simple decisions.”

The defeat leaves the Stormers with little room for error heading into a massive clash against the Glasgow Warriors next week, before a demanding two-match tour against Ulster Rugby and Cardiff Rugby.

“Massive… to get nothing out of this game is very disappointing,” Dobson said.

“We now have to win all three to get where we want to be, but that’s much easier said than done.

“We’ve put ourselves in a bit of a position now.”

For the Stormers, a day that began with tribute ended with a bruising reminder that sentiment alone does not win rugby matches.

SA rugby prospect Pead secures major deal

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Haashim Pead’s career is gathering momentum like a rolling maul surging towards the try line, and his latest move confirms his place among South Africa’s brightest rugby prospects. The 20-year-old scrumhalf has signed with Roc Nation Sports International, aligning himself with a global agency that represents leading Springboks including Siya Kolisi, Cheslin Kolbe, Aphelele Fassi and Jordan Hendrikse.

For a player shaped in the streets of the Bo-Kaap and polished at Bishops, this moment feels like a clean break from the base of the scrum, quick, decisive and loaded with intent. Pead’s rise over the past two seasons has been as sharp as a well-timed box kick, climbing from promising junior to one of the most talked-about young playmakers in the game.

His breakout came on the world stage at the 2025 World Rugby U20 Championship in Italy, where he didn’t only steer the Junior Springboks with precision, he rewrote the script for what a scrumhalf can deliver at that level. Named Junior Springbok Player of the Year, Pead shattered records previously held by France star Antoine Dupont, underlining his influence with a blend of tempo, vision and nerve.

Generational Talent; Haashim Pead

Those performances opened the door to the senior Springbok environment, where he has already spent time absorbing the rhythm and demands of Test rugby. Back on home soil, he has slotted seamlessly into senior competition, becoming a key figure for the Lions in the United Rugby Championship. His service is crisp, his decision-making measured, and his tactical kicking often lands like a pinpoint cross-field strike.

Roc Nation Sports International’s Head of Rugby Recruiting in South Africa, Tamsanqa Ncwana, believes Pead’s ceiling is far from reached.

“Haashim is a generational talent whose work ethic and technical ceiling are truly exceptional,” Ncwana said.

The move places Pead in a stable that has helped shape some of the most influential figures in South African rugby, a pathway that now stretches invitingly ahead of him. With another Springbok alignment camp already under his belt this year, whispers of a Test debut are growing louder, like a crowd rising in anticipation before a decisive play.

For Pead, the decision to join Roc Nation was as instinctive as spotting a gap in a fractured defensive line.

“Joining the Roc Nation Sports International family is an exciting moment for me. Watching the impact they have had on the careers and lives of players I look up to, made this an easy decision,” he said.

“I’m proud of my roots in the Bo-Kaap, and as I take the next steps in my career, I’m excited to have a world-class team behind me as I look to achieve my goals both on and off the field.”

Roc Nation Sports International president Michael Yormark highlighted the broader impact Pead could have beyond the pitch.

“At Roc Nation Sports International, we look for athletes who not only excel on the pitch but also possess the character to inspire the next generation. Haashim’s journey as a professional rugby player is a story that will resonate throughout South Africa and we look forward to supporting him to reach his full potential.”

As Pead’s career continues to accelerate, this latest signing feels less like a milestone and more like the start of a new attacking phase, one where the pass has been set and the space ahead is waiting to be exploited.

Kavanagh keeps cool head despite red-hot form ahead of Cape Town 10K

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By Adnaan Mohamed

Tayla Kavanagh heads into the Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K in the kind of form that turns heads, yet the 24-year-old remains firmly grounded as she prepares for Sunday’s race in the Mother City.

The Hollywood Athletics Club runner has lit up the past three weeks with personal bests over 3000m, 5000m and 10km, building momentum like a runner finding a smooth downhill rhythm. Still, her focus stays on execution rather than expectation.

“I’m looking forward to taking part in the Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K,” said Kavanagh. “I ran it last year and thoroughly enjoyed the route and the competition. With this being my second 10km race of the season, I’m looking forward to putting together a strong run.”

Her recent 3000m victory in Stellenbosch, where she clocked 8:46.86, underlined her sharpness, coming soon after her 31:33 win at the Cape Town leg of the SPAR Grand Prix where she beat Glenrose Xaba.

Kavanagh believes her decision to spend more time on the track this season is paying off.

“It was a good decision,” she said. “As someone without a track background, it is so good to add track to the mix this year. I think it’s assisting me to be faster on the road. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the track season, but the road is where my full passion lies. I’m looking forward to being back on the road and seeing what we can do in the 10km distances.”

Cape Town also marks a meaningful point in her resurgence after injury setbacks in 2023 and 2024. Her fifth-place finish here last year signalled a return to form.

“I feel that the Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K last year is where I started to pick up my form again. That means it’s kind of a special race for me. I don’t have too many expectations. I’ve been enjoying the process of running. That’s when I perform at my best.”

Series founder Michael Meyer believes Kavanagh’s current trajectory makes her one to watch.

“Tayla has been nothing short of exceptional over the past few weeks, and her recent string of personal bests across multiple distances is a clear indication that she’s in outstanding form,” he said. “If her current trajectory is anything to go by, we can expect a truly special performance in Cape Town.”

The race starts at 09:00 on Sunday, 10 May, from Marine Drive in Milnerton and finishes in the Cape Town CBD.

EVENT DATES: 2026 Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series

  1. Sunday 01 March 2026 Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K

Elite Men’s Winner: Adriaan Wildschutt (RSA) 27:47
Elite Women’s Winner: Brenda Jepchirchir (KEN) 30:15

  1. Sunday 10 May 2026 Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K

Start Time: 09:00
Start Venue: Marine Drive, Milnerton
Finish Venue: Cape Town CBD

  1. Sunday 12 July 2026 Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K
  2. Sunday 23 August 2026 Absa RUN YOUR CITY TSHWANE 10K
  3. Thursday 24 September 2026 Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K

Blitzboks reset for Hong Kong with focus on complete performance

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By Adnaan Mohamed

The Blitzboks head into the Hong Kong Sevens with renewed energy and a clear mission to deliver a complete performance as the World Championship phase kicks off.

Zain Davids returns to the squad refreshed after missing the Vancouver and New York legs, determined to make an impact at a tournament where South Africa are still chasing their first title.

“We are starting this Championship at the same venue and with no log points,” Davids said. “What happened in the past counts for nothing, but what happens this weekend will.

“We have never won here, fair enough, but that is not consuming us. What we want is to be on the same page, execute our game plan as one, and take it one game at a time. For now, that is Uruguay, and from there on in, we’ll take each challenge as it comes.”

Davids said the squad rotation plan has left him physically primed.

“You always want to play in every tournament, but coach Philip laid out his plans… so we all knew that we could be rested along the way,” he said.

“I use the word rested in italics, as our strength and conditioning coach, Ghafoer Luckan, keeps a very sharp eye on our prescribed fitness programme.

“So, I am fit and ready for this one. I’m feeling refreshed and keen to get another trophy win.”

He added that strong South African support in Hong Kong adds extra motivation.

“In a way, if we go all out and finish on top, it will be as much for them as for us.”

Captain Impi Visser believes the series winners must raise their attacking standards despite claiming four titles this season.

All the captains at the Hong Kong Sevens Photo Credit: SA Rugby

“Yes, we are not quite there yet, especially on attack, where we can be much better than what we were in our last tournament in New York,” said Visser.

“There our defence was outstanding, our attack not so much.”

The Blitzboks face Uruguay, Spain and Argentina in Pool A, with Visser stressing the need for focus from the opening match.

“We believe we are the best team on the circuit and as such, we want to prove that by winning this weekend,” he said.

“Being the top ranked team will put a target on our backs, but that is fine. We want to be challenged, but mostly by ourselves.

“Our focus is on what we want to achieve, starting with the match against Uruguay.”

Visser warned against complacency in a tournament where all teams start level.

“We all start at zero, so you underestimate any other team at your own peril,” he said.

“Twelve teams come into the same tournament hoping to achieve the same goal and that is to win it.”

He also underlined the significance of the Hong Kong stop on the sevens circuit.

“Many great names in the game have played and competed here. Just to be part of this is special, to finally finish victorious will be even more so.”

Blitzbok pool schedule (SA times, all matches live on SuperSport)

Friday, 17 April
05h16 Uruguay
08h49 Spain

Saturday, 18 April
06h13 Argentina

Trio Secure Commonwealth Berths at SA Swimming Nationals

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By Adnaan Mohamed

South Africa’s elite swimmers wasted little time diving into qualification mode as the SA National Swimming Championships in Gqeberha produced a trio of early Commonwealth Games qualifiers, with Aimee Canny, Pieter Coetzé (pictured above) and Ruard van Renen slicing through the water with purpose.

At the Newton Park Swimming Pool, where every stroke carries the weight of Glasgow selection, the opening exchanges had the urgency of a final-length sprint. Coetzé, already riding a wave of confidence this season, once again proved why he is the country’s backstroke standard-bearer, delivering a performance that ticked the qualifying box with controlled authority.

World champion Coetzé had already made sure of his Commonwealth qualifying time in the morning heats, where he swam 53.13 seconds in the 100m backstroke. He went even quicker in the evening final, thanks to a strong challenge from Ruard van Renen. Coetzé claimed the title in 52.40 seconds, with Van Renen second in 53.61, also under the required qualifying time.

“I just wanted to see what I can do, get on the team firstly, and then just see what happens. I think that’s by far the fastest I’ve been at Nationals or at this time of the year, so it’s a very good sign,” said Coetzé afterwards, adding that he was pushed to a faster time by Van Renen next to him.

“I wasn’t sure what kind of form he was in, so I didn’t know what was going to happen and then after the turn, I just saw him pop up next to me, and I was like, ‘Okay, he’s looking good. I’m going to have to push.’ I’m super glad he got it, it’s been a long time coming for him,” added the 21-year-old.

If Coetzé’s swim was measured, Van Renen’s was a surge of raw intent, powering through his race like a swimmer chasing the wall in the final metres of a relay. His qualifying time underlined his growing stature in the national setup, marking him as one to watch as the season gathers pace.

Canny, meanwhile, cut through the field with the precision of a perfectly timed dive, her swim sealing a well-earned place among the early qualifiers. Calm and composed, she turned preparation into performance when it mattered most.

The 22-year-old achieved qualifying times in the 200m freestyle and the 100m breaststroke.  She first claimed a dominant victory in the 200m freestyle, speeding to victory in a time of 1 minute 56.64 to not only secure a place on the team but also better her own national and continental record, set at the SA Championships in the same pool back in 2024.

She was back in the pool around half an hour later for the final of the 100m breaststroke, where she saw off challenges from Simone Moll, Kaylene Corbett, and defending champion Rebecca Meder to win in another qualifying time of 1:06.57.

Aimee Canny Photo: Swimming SA

“I think I’m happy that [the freestyle] was first because breaststroke was kind of more of a wildcard, you could say, just because I do a lot of freestyle training. But I’m super happy with that,” said Canny afterwards.

“I’ve kind of always been training breaststroke, but this year I’ve changed training groups and done a lot more distance and a lot more 200 breast… So I was really excited for this coming in.”

As for achieving the qualifying time in the breaststroke, the University of Virginia student added: “I don’t know if I was expecting that. I knew I could get close to that, just wasn’t sure how close I would have got after that 200 freestyle.”

The women’s 100m backstroke title was won by Olivia Nel, who just missed the Commonwealth Games qualifying time by 0.37 of a second after winning in 1:00.83.

“I’ve had a very long season. There’s always the expectation of wanting [the qualifying time]. I gave my best in that race, and I executed it much better than this morning. As a technical swim, it was way better. So I’ll take the wins where I can take the wins,” said the North Carolina-based swimmer, who still has the 50m backstroke and the 50 and 100m freestyle to come this week.

Other winners on the night were 18-year-old Kris Mihaylov, who claimed the men’s 200m freestyle title in 1:48.24 and Chris Smith, who overcame a slow start to successfully defend his 100m breaststroke title, winning in a time of 1:00.36.

Swimming action at the Bombela Concession Company SA Swimming Championships continues at the Newton Park Swimming Pool in Gqeberha on Wednesday.

Race to Glasgow begins at SA National Swimming Championships

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By Adnaan Mohamed

South Africa’s premier swimmers are ready to dive into deep waters as the Bombela Concession Company SA National Swimming Championships splash into action in Gqeberha from 14–18 April.

With national titles up for grabs and coveted qualification spots for the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow hanging like a finish-line touchpad, the stakes could hardly be higher.

Hosted at the Newton Park Swimming Pool, the five-day meet forms the heartbeat of the domestic season, where dreams either glide forward or sink beneath the surface. For many, its about striking the right rhythm to secure selection for Team SA.

Leading the surge is backstroke ace Pieter Coetzé, who arrives riding a wave of momentum after a clean sweep at the China Open. The University of Pretoria star has been slicing through the water with the precision of a well-timed tumble turn.

“With China going very well, I think it was a good indicator that I’m on track to perform well at Nationals and see if I can build on that for the rest of the season. It was a good place to start,” said Coetzé.

“I’m hoping to just get some good performances on the board and obviously qualify for the team. But just improving on my performances in China and my performances in previous years at Nationals will be something that I’ll be happy with for Nationals this year.

“It is just a qualification competition, so I’m not hoping to peak or anything like that. I just want to get the job done and make the team.”

Coetzé’s programme includes the 50m, 100m and 200m backstroke, alongside the 50m and 100m freestyle.

Veteran campaigner Chad le Clos is also back on the blocks, targeting a remarkable fifth Commonwealth Games appearance. Like a seasoned swimmer pacing a long race, he is balancing confidence with caution after limited long-course racing since the Olympics.

“I’m really excited for next week. I haven’t swum many long-course races since the Olympics. I think I’ve only done one. So, I’m a little nervous, I’m not going to lie,” admitted Le Clos.

“But I feel good and confident, as I always do. I’m definitely ready as I’ve had a good build-up, and everything’s gone really well.

“I’m feeling really confident for the butterfly. It’s just naturally what I’m pretty good at. I’ve been working on my speed and my power, and I’m the strongest I’ve ever been physically in the gym. Hopefully, that will translate.”

Le Clos will contest the 50m and 100m butterfly, as well as the 50m freestyle.

In the women’s ranks, Lara van Niekerk returns with quiet assurance, her stroke efficiency honed to razor sharpness.

“It’s been going well, taper has been good, sharpening up on all the little things,” she said.

“⁠I’m hoping to qualify for the Commonwealth Games and just enjoy myself and execute my race plans as best I can.”

She lines up in the 50m and 100m breaststroke, where she will face fierce competition from Rebecca Meder and Kaylene Corbett. Meder, fuelled by unfinished business after illness at last year’s World Championships, is approaching the meet with renewed hunger.

“My training has been going really well,” said Meder. “We’re looking forward to Nationals. Obviously, eyes are set on the Commonwealth Games, so Nationals is just getting the work done and trying to secure my spot on that team and put some solid times on the database.

“Commonwealth Games is a very big one in my eyes this year, especially after last year’s world champs. I think it was a bit of a bitter taste after world champs, knowing how on-form I was, but then unfortunately getting sick 12 to 24 hours before that 200 breaststroke with the gastro bug that the Americans brought in.

“I was really disappointed and walked back feeling quite unsatisfied… I feel like this year I’m fired up and ready to go for Commonwealth Games. I’m hungry and I am really wanting to achieve well there.”

Also in the mix are Erin Gallagher, Jessica Thompson and Chris Smith, each aiming to carve their own lane to Glasgow.

The Para ranks add further depth, led by Christian Sadie, whose performances continue to ripple across the continent.

“I’ve been really happy with the progress that I’ve been making in the past year since coming back from world champs,” said Sadie.

“We changed a few things going into world champs last year and I think we’re reaping the benefits now of being able to tune them quite well.

“I did get a little bit sick, and I was a little bit worried because I was out for about two weeks with Covid, but I think I bounced back a lot quicker than I thought I would. So I’m actually really looking forward to Nationals. I’m feeling really good in the water.”

Team Sheets (Selected Entries)

  • Pieter Coetzé: 50m, 100m, 200m Backstroke; 50m, 100m Freestyle
  • Chad le Clos: 50m, 100m Butterfly; 50m Freestyle
  • Lara van Niekerk: 50m, 100m Breaststroke
  • Rebecca Meder: 200m Individual Medley; 50m, 100m, 200m Breaststroke
  • Kaylene Corbett: Breaststroke events
  • Erin Gallagher: Sprint freestyle/butterfly
  • Jessica Thompson: Sprint backstroke
  • Chris Smith: Breaststroke
  • Christian Sadie: 50m Freestyle, 50m Butterfly, 100m Breaststroke, 100m Backstroke, 200m Individual Medley

Heats begin daily at 9:30am, with finals diving in at 5pm.

Arthur Jantjies shocks field as Steyn claims seventh Two Oceans title

Adnaan MohamedTotalsports Two Oceans MarathonLeave a Comment on Arthur Jantjies shocks field as Steyn claims seventh Two Oceans title
By Adnaan Mohamed

Arthur Jantjies announced himself on the national stage, while Gerda Steyn added another chapter to her legacy at the Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon powered by BYD in Cape Town on Saturday.

Jantjies, 25, produced a breakthrough performance to win the men’s 56km race in 3:09:25, claiming the biggest victory of his career.

“It’s a phenomenal step – a big step. It’s history,” said Jantjies, who hails from Hopetown near Kimberley. “I’m just a small-town boy winning Two Oceans. That’s something really special.”

The race developed into a tactical contest over the closing stages. Zimbabwe’s Blessing Waison led over Constantia Nek, forcing the chasing group into action.

Jantjies remained in contention alongside former champion Onalenna Khonkhobe and defending champion Joseph Seutloali. Waison was caught at 49km, before Khonkhobe made a move at 51km.

Seutloali dropped off the pace, though Jantjies stayed with Khonkhobe before making his decisive move near Chet’s Hill to secure victory by 35 seconds.

“I know he (Khonkhobe) is faster than me. But in training we always pick up in the last 8km. I stayed close to him, and he gave up too quickly. Then I told myself I’m going to strike now,” Jantjies said.

Running only his second ultra marathon, Jantjies credited his preparation under coach John Hamlett.

“My coach put me through the worst in Dullstroom where I die in the mountains. We often do 800m elevation on huge long runs and this was only about 600m of elevation. So, this was nothing. I was there for 8 weeks away from my family. Whatever he says, I do. No questions asked. My coach says we stay small and fly under the radar. It was better for me to come through like a cannon ball. It’s the first major title for my town in the Northern Cape. Winning this race opens doors because it puts my name somewhere.”

In the women’s race, Steyn delivered another composed performance to claim a record seventh title.

The 36-year-old broke clear shortly after the marathon mark, moving away from Margaret Jepchumba and maintaining her pace to the finish.

Steyn crossed the line in 3:27:43, her second fastest time at the race.

“I didn’t break the record but I’m still happy with my race and am really happy with my time. It’s a completely successful day for me,” she said.

“When I won my first Two Oceans, I never envisaged winning seven. I take it year for year. If I’m here next year and ready and fit, then I’ll push for sure. But I also need to accept the fact that I’m getting older. But for now, I’m feeling strong and I feel that I still have a few more years left in my career. So, if seven becomes eight and eight becomes ten, then I’ll take it.”

Jantjies’ win and Steyn’s record extended the rich history of the Two Oceans Marathon, widely regarded as one of the premier ultra-distance races in the country.

TOP 10 RESULTS: Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon powered by BYD

Elite Men

1 Arthur Jantjies 03:09:25, 2 Onalenna Khonkhobe 03:10:00, 3 Blessing Zvikomborero Waison 03:11:13, 4 Dennis Kipkosgei 03:11:29, 5 Tumelo Moja 03:12:07, 6 Sphamandla Nkosi 03:12:42, 7 Siboniso Sikhakhane 03:12:42, 8 Malixole Kalideni 03:12:49, 9 Mphatso Nadolo 03:13:16, 10 Msawenkosi Mthalane 03:13:32

Elite Women 

1 Gerda Steyn 03:27:43, 2 Margaret Jepchumba 03:33:31, 3 Nobukhosi Tshuma 03:38:34, 4 Shelmith Muriuki 03:39:14, 5 Rholex Jelimo Kogo 03:40:39, 6 Mildred Chepkemei Kinyanja 03:42:42, 7 Bize Beyira Negasa 03:43:00, 8 Neheng Khatala 03:43:43, 9 Courtney Olsen 03:44:40, 10 Loveness Madziva 03:48:54

SEE FULL RESULTS HERE:

Mother and Daughter Run for Meaning at Two Oceans

Adnaan MohamedFeatures, Totalsports Two Oceans MarathonLeave a Comment on Mother and Daughter Run for Meaning at Two Oceans
By Adnaan Mohamed

Every runner knows the moment when the rhythm of their stride begins to shape the road ahead. For veteran broadcaster Vaylen Kirtley, that moment arrived far from any finish line, in Athens in 2004.

“The first major event I covered at the national broadcaster was the Paralympics,” she recalls.

The experience did more than fill airtime. It set her internal compass.

“Covering disability sport at such a formative part of my career laid the foundation to understand that the power of sport to transform and unify, is truly unique.”

That early assignment became the starting gun of a philosophy that has paced her career for more than two decades. Now, it finds its most personal expression on the open road at the Two Oceans Half Marathon powered by BYD.

This time, she will not be narrating the race. She will be living it alongside her daughter.

“My daughter, despite my best efforts, didn’t really enjoy running,” she laughs.

Then, like a runner finding their stride mid-race, something shifted. During her first year at university, her daughter discovered a quiet passion for running. What was once unfamiliar terrain became shared ground.

“Now it’s something we can do together, and I am so excited.”

Vaylen Kirtley and her daughter will be tackling the Two Oceans Half Marathon to raise funds for Jumping Kids Photo: Andries Kruger

For a first official half marathon, the choice of race carried weight. Two Oceans is not a route you stumble into. It is a ribbon of road woven into South Africa’s sporting soul, as iconic as the climbs it demands and the views it rewards.

For Kirtley, it is also deeply personal. She has called the race from the heights of Constantia Nek, run the Ultra in 2014, and tackled the Long Trail in 2019. Yet, she marks 2026 as the year that matters most.

Their run is more than a shared milestone. It is a moving tribute to purpose.

They will take to the course in support of Jumping Kids, a non-profit dedicated to empowering children with lower limb amputations or mobility challenges.

The organisation provides prosthetics, rehabilitation, education access, and opportunities in sport. Its mission echoes the belief Kirtley has carried since Athens, that sport is not only competition, it is transformation in motion.

“We see the power of sport in the performances of our national heroes and in events like the Comrades, the Dusi, the Midmar Mile,” she says.

The Two Oceans belongs in that same breath. On race day, each kilometre will carry more than effort. It will carry memory, connection, and purpose.

Like a long-distance run, the journey stretches beyond the visible horizon, powered by something deeper than pace.

To support their run, visit www.jumpingkids.org.za
(Jumping Kids, Reg. no: 2009/018078/08)