The marathon’s ultimate barrier finally cracked on Sunday as Sabastian Sawe produced a run for the ages to win the London Marathon 2026 in a scarcely believable 1:59:30.
On a cool spring morning that quickly turned electric, the 30-year-old Kenyan sliced through 42.195km with ruthless precision to become the first athlete to go under two hours in a certified race.
Sawe’s time obliterated the previous world record of 2:00:35 set by Kelvin Kiptum in 2023, lowering it by a staggering 65 seconds in what will be remembered as a seismic moment in road running.
“I am feeling good, I am so happy,” Sawe told BBC Sport. “It is a day to remember.
“We started the race well and approaching the end of the race, I was feeling strong and I remember the Ethiopian was so competitive. I think he helped me a lot. Finally, reaching the finish line, I saw the time, I was so excited.
“Today showed me there is time for everyone. I am so happy. I was well prepared. Coming to London for the second time was important to me.
“I want to thank the crowd for cheering for us. I think they had a lot for me because I feel so happy and strong and [was] pushing. What happened today was not for me alone, but for everyone in London.”
If Sawe’s performance lit the fuse, Yomif Kejelchapoured fuel on the fire.
The Ethiopian, making his marathon debut, clocked 1:59:41 to finish 11 seconds adrift, ensuring that two men broke the mythical two-hour mark in the same race. His relentless presence in the latter stages helped turn the closing kilometres into a high-speed duel against both the clock and convention.
Further back, Jacob Kiplimo underlined the extraordinary pace by finishing third in 2:00:28, a time faster than the previous world record.
We’re going to need a few days to recover from this one… 😮💨
2 men under 2 hours. 3 men breaking the world record.
Eluid Kipchoge congratulates Sawe and Kejelcha on breaking sub-2 hours in London
The sub-two-hour milestone had long stood as the sport’s holy grail. Eliud Kipchogedipped below it during the INEOS 1:59 Challenge, though that effortfell outside official record conditions. In London, the barrier gave way under the weight of a competitive race, pending ratification by World Athletics.
Kipchoge, now easing away from elite racing, hailed the breakthrough.
“Today is a historical day for marathon running!” he said.
“Seeing two athletes break the magical 2-hour barrier at London Marathon is the proof that we are just at the beginning of what is possible when talent, progress and an unwavering belief in the human potential come together. My deepest congratulations to both Sabastian Sawe and Yomif Kejelcha.
“Breaking the sub-two-hour barrier in the marathon has long been a dream for runners everywhere, and today, you’ve made that dream come true.
“During the INEOS 1:59 Challenge we showed the world that it was possible and it has always been my hope to see another athlete continue with this belief and break this magical barrier in a city marathon.
“Let this achievement inspire the next generation and remind everyone in the world that No Human Is Limited.”
Sabastian Sawe storms to 1:59:30 in London, breaking the marathon’s ultimate barrier. Photo: https://x.com/WorldAthletics
Beyond the history, there was also a significant payday. Sawe earned $55,000 for the win, along with a $125,000 world record bonus and a further $150,000 incentive for breaking 2:02, taking his confirmed earnings to around KSh 42.3 million, excluding sponsor deals with brands such as Adidas.
Earlier, the women’s race delivered another record-breaking display as Tigst Assefa successfully defended her title in 2:15:40, trimming 10 seconds off her own world record.
She held off a strong challenge from Hellen Obiri, who finished in 2:15:53, with Joyciline Jepkosgei completing the podium.
With two official sub-two performances on the cards and records tumbling across both races, London 2026 may well be remembered as the day the marathon’s limits were redrawn.
TheStormersdelivered a ruthless reminder of their championship pedigree, dismantling the Glasgow Warriors 48-12 in a high-octaneUnited Rugby Championship (URC) clash in Cape Town to surge to the top of the standings.
A week ago, after a stuttering home defeat to Connacht, the Stormers looked adrift of the title conversation. A week later, the narrative has flipped completely. As the old sporting cliché goes, momentum can turn in an instant, and here it arrived like a rolling maul with venom.
Roared on by 23,740 fans at Cape Town Stadium, John Dobson’s side produced the cold-blooded performance demanded in the build-up, combining forward muscle with backline incision to overwhelm Franco Smith’s charges.
They burst from the blocks like a backline move off first phase. Loosehead prop Ntuthuko Mchunu crashed over twice inside the opening quarter, each carry a thunderclap at scrum time where the Stormers held a decisive edge. Flyhalf Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu added a penalty and both conversions to push the hosts into a 17-0 lead after just 15 minutes.
Glasgow refused to be passengers. Wing Ollie Smith capitalised on a rare lapse – sparked by a misjudged attacking kick from Feinberg-Mngomezulu – to score and breathe life into the contest. Hooker Gregor Hiddleston later finished a driving maul, with Adam Hastings converting as the visitors clawed back to 24-12 at the break.
Yet even during that resurgence, the Stormers looked the sharper blade. Their defence held firm, their scrum creaked Glasgow backwards, and their decision-making – bar the odd misfire – was largely on point.
The defining moment of the first half arrived when Feinberg-Mngomezulu’s sleight of hand released Evan Roos, who surged clear for the Stormers’ third try. It was a glimpse of the attacking clarity that had been missing the previous week.
After halftime, the contest tilted decisively. Captain Ruhan Nel powered over after a pinpoint grubber from Feinberg-Mngomezulu, stretching the lead to 34-12. From there, the Stormers tightened their grip like a choke tackle.
Feinberg-Mngomezulu, orchestrating proceedings with poise, marked his 50th appearance with a try of his own before replacement Keke Morabe added the finishing touch. The flyhalf was flawless from the tee, slotting six conversions and two penalties in a 26-point haul that underlined his influence.
There was also a moment for the future, as teenage sensation Markus Muller became the youngest player in franchise history, stepping onto the field to a warm reception.
Glasgow were shut out in the second half, their challenge blunted by a Stormers side that was dominant at the set piece, disciplined on defence and clinical in execution. It was a complete performance – the kind that fuels belief of another title run reminiscent of 2021/22.
Two-try prop Mchunu walked away with Man of the Match honours, but this was a collective statement. The Stormers now hold their playoff destiny in their own hands as they head into their final tour fixtures against Ulster and Cardiff, chasing top spot and home-ground advantage through the knockouts.
The Junior Springboks will look to light the first fire of their Under-20 Rugby Championship campaign when they face Argentina in Gqeberha on Monday, withflyhalf Yaqeen Ahmed expected to play a central role in shaping South Africa’s attacking edge.
Ahmed, known to many as“The Chef”, has earned a reputation for stirring defences with a blend of vision, timing and composure. The former Wynberg Boys’ High playmaker, now aligned with the Stormers, steps into the No 10 jersey with the responsibility of directing traffic against a Los Pumitas side known for its physical edge and structured set piece.
Kick-off at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium is scheduled for 16h10, with the match broadcast live on SuperSport.
Captain Riley Norton leads a side that combines continuity with emerging talent. Norton, who skippered the Junior Boks to World Championship success in Italy last year, anchors the pack alongside lock partner Heinrich Theron, while the front row of Rambo Kubheka, Liam van Wyk and Danie Kruger is tasked with providing a stable platform.
In the backline, Ahmed will link with scrumhalf Hendré Schoeman in a pairing that balances tempo with control. Out wide, Jack Benade is rewarded for his Varsity Cup form, joining Lindsey Jansen on the wings, while Ethan Adams and Samuel Badenhorst combine in midfield.
At fullback, Alzeadon Felix completes a back three that offers both counter-attacking threat and defensive cover.
Junior Bok coach Kevin Foote expects a demanding contest against Argentina, who have consistently tested South Africa at this level.
“They are known for their physicality and their solid set piece, so we know we will have to steady ourselves for a very tough contest,” said Foote.
“Our recent contests have been very close – they played exceptionally well against us in this tournament last year, and we had to dig very deep to overcome them in the semi-final of the World Championship last year in Italy.”
The breakdown is likely to be a key battleground, with loose forwards Luke Canon, Kebotile Maake and Thomas Beling carrying the responsibility of slowing Argentina’s momentum while securing quality possession.
Foote indicated that the tempo of the match could be high, in line with the approach favoured by southern hemisphere teams.
“Argentina, like the other southern hemisphere sides, prefer a high-tempo game with plenty of ball in play,” he said.
“They are a battle-hardened, tenacious outfit, and we will have to work extremely hard throughout the contest if we want to impose ourselves.
“Our DNA is our physicality, and we are looking forward to playing an exciting brand of rugby.”
South Africa will be without a handful of players due to injury and senior commitments, though the squad retains depth. Vusi Moyo returns from injury and is expected to provide cover at flyhalf from the bench, while Oliver Reid adds experience in the front row.
Earlier on Monday, Australia and New Zealand will open the tournament, which features the leading Under-20 sides from the southern hemisphere.
For the Junior Boks, the focus will be on execution and control. If the forwards establish a foothold, Ahmed’s ability to read space and manage territory could prove decisive in setting the tone for the campaign.
Junior Springboks team vs Argentina U20
Starting XV 15. Alzeadon Felix, 14. Jack Benade, 13. Samuel Badenhorst, 12. Ethan Adams, 11. Lindsey Jansen, 10. Yaqeen Ahmed, 9. Hendré Schoeman, 8. Kebotile Maake, 7. Thomas Beling, 6. Luke Canon, 5. Riley Norton (c), 4. Heinrich Theron, 3. Danie Kruger, 2. Liam van Wyk, 1. Rambo Kubheka
The Fidelity SecureDrive Lionswill look to strengthen their push for a Vodacom United Rugby Championship playoff place when they host Irish side Connacht in their Round 16 clash at Ellis Park on Saturday.
With the Race to the Eight entering its decisive phase, every result carries significant weight in the battle for knockout qualification and potential European competition spots. The Johannesburg side return home on the back of encouraging form, having built momentum with an attacking approach that has yielded results in recent weeks.
Connacht, however, arrive with a clear game plan and will be confident of challenging in the Highveld conditions, where accuracy and tempo often prove decisive.
Lions head coach Ivan van Rooyen has made four changes to his side, including a positional switch that sees Springbok forward Ruan Venter move into the second row. Batho Hlekani comes into the starting line-up at flank as the hosts look to maintain balance between physicality and mobility.
The match will also mark a significant milestone for hooker PJ Botha, who is set to earn his 100th cap for the franchise.
“When I was still at school, I thought it would be nice to maybe play one or two matches for a franchise in an international competition,” Botha said.
“To now reach 100 is incredible. The time has flown. It’s a privilege for me to reach this milestone, and I’m grateful that it will happen in a home match.”
Botha’s role at the set piece is expected to be key as the Lions aim to establish a solid platform against a Connacht side known for their structured play and attacking intent.
Scrum coach Julian Redelinghuys believes the visitors will pose a similar challenge to one the Lions handled effectively in their previous outing.
“We know what they will bring. We know their game model. It’s not easy to defend or attack against it, but if we do what we need to do well, I am sure there will be opportunities,” he said.
The Lions will again rely on their forward pack to provide momentum, while their backline looks to capitalise on scoring chances. Maintaining the intensity shown in their previous performance will be crucial against a Connacht outfit that thrives on quick ball and spatial awareness.
Morne Brandon returns to the matchday squad and is expected to provide impact off the bench, while Siba Qoma offers additional cover in the second row.
Fidelity SecureDrive Lions Match 23
Starting XV
1. SJ Kotze, 2. PJ Botha (100), 3. Asenathi Ntlabakanye, 4. Ruan Venter, 5. Darrien Landsberg, 6. Siba Mahashe, 7. Batho Hlekani, 8. Francke Horn (captain), 9. Morne van den Berg, 10. Chris Smith, 11. Erich Cronje, 12. Richard Kriel, 13. Henco van Wyk, 14. Angelo Davids, 15. Quan Horn
Replacements 16. Morne Brandon, 17. Eddie Davids, 18. Sebastian Lombard, 19. Reinhard Nothnagel, 20. Siba Qoma, 21. JC Pretorius, 22. Nico Steyn, 23. Kelly Mpeku
Cape Town City teenager Emile Witbooihas taken another step forward in his fast-rising career after securing a partnership with Nike.
The 17-year-old has signed a boot and apparel agreement that will see him represent the brand on and off the field, further underlining his growing reputation as one of South Africa’s brightest young prospects.
Witbooi, who has already made history as Cape Town City’s youngest debutant, continues to build an impressive profile. He has also featured prominently for South Africa’s U17 and U20 national teams, showing maturity and technical quality beyond his years.
The deal was facilitated by Roc Nation Sports International, which represents the attacking midfielder as his career continues to gain momentum.
“Growing up, I always saw some of the world’s best players wearing Nike, and to now be part of that same legacy is incredibly motivating,” Witbooi said.
The partnership places him among a group of elite athletes associated with the global brand, known for its influence across football and sport culture.
Emile Witbooi
“This partnership is more than just about boots and gear; it’s another significant step in my journey that will help me elevate as an athlete and reach the goals I’ve set for my career,” he added.
Witbooi’s rise has been steady, with the Cape Town-born player establishing himself as a key figure at youth international level while gaining valuable experience in senior football.
“I’m grateful to Nike for believing in my potential and to my team at Roc Nation Sports International for making this possible,” he said.
The agreement signals growing confidence in Witbooi’s future, as he continues to develop into a player with the potential to make a lasting impact both locally and beyond.
The battle to secure a place at the 99th edition of the Comrades Marathon proved as demanding as the race itself, with the newly introduced ballot system placed under immediate pressure by overwhelming demand.
The 2026 Up Run from Durban to Pietermaritzburg(Approximately 87 km – 89 km) which takes place on Sunday, 14 June 2026 is capped at 22 000 entries. The race had already sold out its full quota in a single day in (under 10 hours) on 3 November 2025, underlining the enduring appeal of the ultra-marathon.
Entrant Statistics for Sold Out 2026 Comrades Marathon
Pietermaritzburg, South Africa: With general entries having closed for the 2026 Comrades Marathon in less than one day – a new record for the event – the Comrades Marathon Association (CMA) can now share some of the… pic.twitter.com/YpV77vwKoB
A total of 4 832 runners applied for 2 444 substitution entries, which became available after withdrawals between 16 and 30 March. Those entries were funnelled into a draw, replacing the previous first-come system that had long drawn criticism.
Comrades Marathon Association race director Sue Forge(pictured above) said the shift to a ballot was necessary to create a more equitable process.
“In previous years, substitutions operated on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning a runner’s chance of securing an entry depended largely on being the quickest to log in,” Forge said.
“This system was not fair, as many runners have limited or inconsistent access to the Comrades Marathon website or app, and payment processing difficulties also placed some runners at a disadvantage.”
Forge said the ballot system ensured that every applicant had an equal opportunity.
“This year we introduced a ballot system in which all available entries were placed into a draw, giving applicants an opportunity to secure one of the available entries.”
Despite the revised approach, the imbalance between supply and demand remained stark.
“Unfortunately, with 4 832 applicants competing for 2 444 entries, some runners were inevitably left disappointed,” she said.
The substitution process unfolded in phases, with the application window closing on 2 April before the ballot draw was conducted. Successful applicants were notified via email, with entry fees automatically debited in scheduled cycles.
Entries linked to failed payments were returned to the pool and redrawn, with the process repeated multiple times to ensure all available slots were filled. Organisers also contacted runners directly where necessary.
“Our entries office went the extra mile throughout these processes,” Forge said.
“Our goal was to ensure that all available entries were allocated, and that every runner seeking an entry had a fair opportunity of getting into the 2026 race.”
Forge acknowledged the disappointment among those who missed out and encouraged them to look ahead to next year’s milestone event.
The substitution ballot entry period for the 2026 Comrades Marathon saw 2,444 runners secure a substitution entry. Photo Credit: Comrades Marathon Association
“We acknowledge that some runners remain very disappointed after missing out, and we sincerely hope they will try again in 2027, when we celebrate the centenary edition of this incredible race,” she said.
“Importantly, all runners wishing to be part of the 100th edition next year will once again have a fair chance of securing an entry. Participation in the 2026 race will not influence eligibility or selection in the 2027 process.”
With the field now finalised, attention turns to compliance requirements ahead of race day on 14 June.
Runners must submit qualifying details, complete the compulsory medical questionnaire and update their profiles by 4 May or risk disqualification.
“The entry process is now officially closed and the CMA will not be undertaking any further entry processes or ballot draws after the May 4 deadline,” Forge said.
“Finally, I would like to thank all runners for their passion, enthusiasm, and ongoing support of the Comrades Marathon. Your commitment to the race continues to inspire us and remains at the heart of everything we do.”
Entries officially open today (Monday 20 April 2026) for South Africa’s premier Women’s Month celebration, the Totalsports Women’s Race, that will take place on three consecutive Sundays in August with the action kicking off in Durban on 2 August, followed by Cape Town on 9 August, and culminating in Johannesburg on 16 August 2026.
Thousands of women from across the country are expected to once again unite in celebration of movement, camaraderie, and empowerment, choosing between scenic 5km and 10km routes in each host city.
Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports, shares his excitement on entries opening: “The opening of entries for the Totalsports Women’s Race is always special to us. We encourage women of all ages and fitness levels to secure their place on the start line and be part of something truly meaningful. Whether you’re chasing a personal best or simply enjoying a walk with friends, this event offers an inclusive and inspiring space for every participant to celebrate Women’s Month in a powerful way.”
The Totalsports Women’s Race will once again support PinkDrive in 2026, contributing to the ongoing fight against breast cancer and raising awareness around early detection.
Meyer adds: “From a performance perspective, the Totalsports Women’s Race offers South Africa’s elite athletes an exceptional opportunity to compete in a world-class, women-only event on home soil. Spanning three cities, the series sets the stage for exciting head-to-head competition, complemented by an inspiring and energetic race-day atmosphere.”
Building on this sentiment, Nikki Crous, Head of Marketing at Totalsports, highlights the broader impact of the event:
“Entries opening signals the start of an incredible journey that brings women together from all walks of life. The Totalsports Women’s Race is more than just a race – it’s a celebration of strength, unity, and shared experiences. Each city offers its own unique energy, from Durban’s coastal charm to Cape Town’s iconic scenery and Johannesburg’s vibrant spirit. We encourage women to enter early, gather their friends and family, and be part of this unforgettable Women’s Month celebration.”
With limited entries available and high demand expected, participants are urged to act fast to secure their spot on the start line of one of South Africa’s most iconic women’s events.
Totalsports Women’s Race Cape TownStart Venue: 10km Start: Darling Street, Cape Town5km Start: Castle StreetFinish Venue: Grand Parade, Cape Town
Sunday, 16 August 2026
Totalsports Women’s Race JoburgStart Venue: Orange Road and Buffalo Road Junction, Marks ParkFinish Venue: Orange Road and Buffalo Road Junction, Marks Park
ENTRIES OPEN:
Monday, 20 April 2026.
ENTRIES CLOSE:
Durban: Thursday 02 July 2026, or once capacity has been reached. Cape Town: Monday 27 July 2026, or once capacity has been reached.Joburg: Monday 03 August 2026, or once capacity has been reached.
CHARITY SUPPORT: The Totalsports Women’s Race proudly supports PinkDrive, a non-profit company (NPC) dedicated to increasing breast cancer awareness, providing education, and offering free services to medically uninsured individuals across South Africa.
Like our Facebook page: Women’s Race / The PinkDrive
The Lions registered the biggest upset of the weekend in the fourth-last round of pool matches as they thumped log-leaders the Glasgow Warriors 54-12 in Johannesburg to leap into fourth position on the standings on 48 points to work themselves in contention for a possible home quarter-final, while the Bulls outplayed the Dragons 47-7 in Wales to remain in eighth place (45 points).
The Stormers, meanwhile, had their hopes of reclaiming the top position on the table dashed as they suffered a disappointing 33-24 defeat against Connacht in slippery conditions in Cape Town, but they managed to remain in second place on the standings with 51 points, level with the third-placed Leinster.
The Sharks’ hopes of reaching the playoffs sustained a huge blow as they went down 21-17 against the Opsreys in Wales. This result knocked them one place down the table into 11th place, level on 34 points with the Welsh outfit.
With only three pool rounds remaining, the Stormers remain in a strong position to secure a playoff spot, while the Lions will be in a comfortable position to make the playoffs for the first time if they register one more victory.
The Bulls still have their destiny in their own hands despite ninth-placed Connacht trailing them by only one point, but the Sharks find themselves in a tough spot with only a mathematical chance to force their way into the playoffs, which would require winning all of their remaining matches with bonus points, while other teams will have to stumble along the way.
With only four points separating the fourth to ninth-placed teams, the competition is set to come down to the wire.
Dominant second half steers Bulls to bonus point win against Dragons
A sublime second-half performance saw the Vodacom Bulls build on a narrow 12-7 lead against the Dragons at Rodney Parade on Friday to claim a commanding 47-7 victory, scoring seven tries to only one by the hosts.
The first half was fairly balanced as both teams created opportunities on attack, with Embrose Papier crossing the chalk for the visitors in the 11th minute from a pick-and-go at a scrum, while the Dragons’ only points of the match were scored in the 23rd minute from a stunning pass out wide, which saw them take advantage of a hole in the defence.
They had to work hard for that try, however, as they were shut out three times previously close to the tryline in the opening quarter.
The scramble for dominance continued as the half progressed, but the Vodacom Bulls took the lead shortly before halftime as Johann Grobbelaar scored from a rolling maul, handing them a 12-7 halftime lead.
It was one-way traffic in the second half as the Vodacom Bulls took full control of the match and capitalised on most of their try-scoring chances, which saw Marco van Staden score a brace from strong forward play to add to tries by Marcell Coetzee, Devon Williams, and Sergeal Petersen, while they denied the hosts a single point to bag the vital bonus-point 47-7 victory.
Scorers:
Dragons 7 (7) – Try: Fine Inisi. Conversion: Cai Evans.
Vodacom Bulls 47 (12) – Tries: Embrose Papier, Johann Grobbelaar, Marcell Coetzee, Marco van Staden (2), Devon Williams, Sergeal Petersen. Conversions: Handre Pollard (3), David Kriel (3).
Disappointment in the Cape as Stormers go down to Connacht
The DHL Stormers’ tough week following the loss of their team manager, ‘Chippie’ Solomon, last week, was compounded on Saturday as they suffered a 33-24 defeat against Connacht in wet conditions at the DHL Stadium, which saw them fail to come away with a single point from the encounter.
It was a tight scramble, with the home side taking a 10-7 lead going into halftime, but three late tries by the Irishmen saw them close out the match with a bonus-point victory.
The first half was hard-fought as both teams tried hard to break through the defence, and they each scored only one try in the opening stanza before a penalty goal by Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu handed the Capetonians a narrow halftime lead.
The DHL Stormers started the match on the back foot as Deon Fourie received a yellow card for making head contact in a tackle in the fifth minute, and this paved the way for Connacht to score the first try of the match two minutes later. The Cape side hit back shortly after as Evan Roos snatched a fantastic pass to level the scores.
While mistakes at crucial times cost the DHL Stormers from adding to their score, their strong defence held Connacht out from scoring a possible second try, and in the end, the difference between the teams on the scoreboard going into the break was Feinberg-Mngomezulu’s penalty goal.
The teams continued to throw everything at one another in the second half, with Ntuthuko Mchunu and the visitors scoring within eight minutes of one another, both from strong pick-and-goes, and it was again a three-point game with over 20 minutes to play.
The closing stanza was nail-biting as Feinberg-Mngomezulu weaved through the defence for a third try, but this was cancelled out by three tries in a row by Connacht, which secured them their bonus point and sealed a rewarding 33-24 victory to ensure that they remain in the race for a quarterfinal spot.
The Lions delivered a performance worthy of high praise against the Glasgow Warriors, as they thumped the Vodacom URC log-leaders 54-12 in a commanding display at Ellis Park, scoring a whopping eight tries to two by the Scots.
The Johannesburgers made a strong statement from the outset, scoring the first of their four first-half tries in the sixth minute, and they backed this up with a gallant defensive effort to limit Glasgow to only one try for a morale-boosting 26-7 lead at the break.
Henco van Wyk delivered the first salvo in the sixth minute as he crashed through a defender to touch down, and Erich Cronje followed four minutes later from an effective pass out wide for a 12-0 lead.
Van Wyk struck again shortly before the second quarter from a beautiful skip pass, before Glasgow forced their way through for their first try, but this was cancelled out on the stroke of halftime as SJ Kotze crashed over the tryline and extended the hosts’ lead to 26-7 going into the sheds.
The Gautengers continued to shine early in the second half with Ruan Venter darting through to the tryline from a lineout to secure their bonus point try and take a handy 33-7 lead.
This, however, fuelled Glasgow’s determination and they hit back with their second try in the 58th minute to trail 33-12, but this did not stop the Fidelity SecureDrive Lions from fighting, as Van den Berg, Sibabalwe Mahashe, and Quan Horn dashed through to the tryline in the closing 12 minutes to inflate their score to 54-12.
Scorers:
Fidelity Securedrive Lions 54 (26) – Tries: Henco van Wyk (2), Erich Cronje, SJ Kotze, Ruan Venter, Morne van den Berg, Sibabalwe Mahashe, Quan Horn. Conversions: Chris Smith (7).
The Hollywoodbets Sharks were left gutted at the Electric Brewery Field as a string of unforced errors cost them a 21-17 defeat against Ospreys, in a match in which both teams scored three tries apiece, with the difference on the scoreboard being two missed conversions by the Durbanites.
The first half was intense as both teams ran hard at one another on attack and used their tactical kicking game to try to gain ascendancy, and although the Ospreys entered the break 14-12 up after both teams crossed the whitewash twice, the Hollywoodbets Sharks will rue two realistic opportunities that could have given them the upper hand.
The Durbanites threatened to score early on and supported this with a brave defensive effort, but a smart kick and great interplay saw the Ospreys score first in the 11th minute.
Phepsi Buthelezi cancelled this out with the South Africans’ first try in the 19th minute from a driving maul, but the conversion went wayward, leaving them trailing by 7-5.
Both teams crossed the chalk in the second quarter, with Ospreys touching down from a rolling maul, while Ethan Hooker gathered a turnover against the run of play close to the KwaZulu-Natalians tryline to score under the posts on the stroke of halftime, which saw the home side enter the sheds 14-12 ahead. Unfortunately for Hooker, the try marked the end of his contribution to the match as he left the field with a shoulder injury.
The Hollywoodbets Sharks’ woes continued in the second half as they missed out on three possible chances to score in the third quarter, and then found themselves 21-12 down, as the Welshmen scored from a well-timed intercept in the 54th minute.
The Durbanites finally found their momentum on attack as Buthelezi crossed the tryline for his brace from a rolling maul in the 69thminute, but the conversion attempt went wide once again, leaving them trailing four points with less than 10 minutes to play.
Their hopes of securing a late victory were dashed completely as a costly knock-on saw Ospreys secure a turnover to snatch the 21-17 win.
Scorers:
Ospreys 21 (14) – Tries: Dan Edwards, Jac Morgan, Garyn Phillips. Conversions: Edwards (3).
The Blitzboks rose like steel pillars among Hong Kong’s towering skyline on Sunday, producing a performance as sharp as a perfectly timed offload to secure their first ever HSBC SVNS title at the iconic stop.
Their 35-7 dismantling of Argentina in the final at Kai Tak Sports Stadium carried the authority of a side in full stride, every phase clicking like a well-drilled scrum machine.
For head coach Philip Snyman, a former captain who conquered almost every corner of the sevens world during his playing days, the moment landed with emotional weight.
“I’m almost speechless,” Snyman said afterwards.
“There is a massive feeling of pride and gratitude at this moment. We waited so long for this, and I am happy we finally did it. I am also very happy for us as a group, not only those here tonight, but also those back home who worked just as hard to make it possible.”
Hong Kong has long been rugby sevens’ grand theatre, a stage where legends are carved into memory. For South Africa, it had remained an elusive prize. That narrative shifted decisively as the Blitzboks stitched together a campaign that blended resilience with ruthless precision.
Snyman acknowledged the significance of the breakthrough while keeping his squad grounded.
Tristan Leyds was named player of the final Photo: SA Rugby X
“We will relax and enjoy and celebrate tonight. We know the job is not done, but 50 years was a long time to wait for this.”
The path to the title was not without turbulence. A shaky opening phase, including an underwhelming display against Uruguay and Spain, forced a moment of reckoning within the camp.
“We just reminded everyone who we are, what we represent and what we came to do,” Snyman said. “The book on Hong Kong 2026 might not have had six perfect chapters, but what a great ending to the story.”
From that turning point, the Blitzboks surged forward with the momentum of a counter-attack launched from deep. Victories over New Zealand and Argentina on the final day showcased a team that had rediscovered its rhythm.
“The way we came back from that stutter was exceptional, especially today when we played against two very good teams in New Zealand and Argentina. We were so clinical and effective in everything we did, it was wonderful to see first-hand.”
Captain Impi Visser echoed the sense of history, his words reflecting both relief and pride after finally cracking the Hong Kong code.
“I am just so proud of the boys because we achieved something special today,” said Visser. “We broke the hoodoo in Hong Kong and can finally call ourselves champions here and that is amazing.”
He pointed to the early setback as a catalyst for growth.
“We came back from a dark place on Friday night as that defeat hurt, as suddenly doubt started to creep in, but we had a good chat and turned it around like I expected the guys to do.”
Visser highlighted the team’s shift in mindset, focusing on execution rather than flair for its own sake.
“There are massive fight and pride in this team, and it showed once we were under pressure. We realised the focus should be on creating and assisting in a try rather than thinking of the celebration of it and we turned it around, that big win over Argentina Saturday laid the foundation for the rest of the tournament.
“Today was a showcase of what we are capable of. The management moulded us into a competitive team and credit for them.”
The victory extends a remarkable run, with four tournament wins from four, placing South Africa firmly atop the standings. Yet the tone within the camp remains measured.
“We will keep our heads down and stay honest once we get back to work for the next two tournaments. We have seen hard work pays off, so there is no need to change that habit now,” Visser said.
Like a team chasing space on the edge, the Blitzboks have found their stride. Hong Kong, once a missing piece in their puzzle, now gleams as a defining jewel in a season gathering unstoppable momentum.
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 Closby 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.
