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Teenager tastes glory at Hollywood Durban 10km

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By Adnaan Mohamed

Kamohelo Mofolo turned the Hollywoodbets Durban 10km into his personal victory lap, storming away from the pack like a runaway train on Saturday morning. The 19-year-old from Lesotho, already his nation’s 10km record-holder, lit up Kingsmead Cricket Stadium as he broke the tape in 27:58 leaving 12,000 competitors trailing in his slipstream.

With compatriot Tebello Ramakongoana absent, Mofolo carried the Mountain Kingdom’s flag high, ensuring the crown never left Lesotho’s grasp. Running in the colours of Durban’s Xcel Running Club, he made it back-to-back victories for his country, clocking the fastest stride of the day.

South Africa’s finest tried to reel him in, but Mofolo was simply out of reach. Kabelo “Mr Podium” Mulaudzi ( 28:01) chased hard, finishing just three seconds adrift, while Thabang Mosiako (28:03) sprinted home another two seconds later. Both men held on to his shadow but could never quite close the gap.

Mofolo’s race was bold from the gun. Just after 2km, he hit the accelerator, opening daylight between himself and the chasers. Even when stiff coastal winds blew across the route after 6km, slowing his record attempt, his lead never wavered.

“I realised the record was gone, but I focused on protecting my lead,” he said.

The teenager’s decision to skip the Absa Tshwane 10km the week before was a tactical masterstroke by saving his legs for Durban’s big stage. The gamble paid off handsomely, as he surged through the final kilometre in a blistering 2:40, sealing the title and the R35,700 prize.

“Yes, I said earlier this week that I wanted to win,” Mofolo smiled, breathless but triumphant.

“Everything went according to plan, and I am just so happy.”

For Mulaudzi, the runner-up spot was yet another podium finish in a career built on consistency.

“The race was tactical. I’m happy with my time, but today belonged to Kamohelo,” he admitted.

Mosiako, meanwhile, was elated with third.

“I was with Kabelo until halfway, but it got tough. To still finish top three in 28:03 makes me really happy,” he said.

On Durban’s flat, fast streets, Mofolo showed he is no longer just a promising prospect but a genuine force. At just 19, he has already proven he can set the pace and leave even the strongest rivals chasing shadows.

Men’s Top 10 Results

1 Kamohelo MOFOLO 00:27:57
2 Kabelo MULAUDZI 00:28:01
3 Thabang MOSIAKO 00:28:03
4 Matlakala Bennett SELOYI 00:28:04
5 Bongelani MKHWANAZI 00:28:08
6 Cwenga NOSE 00:28:10
7 Stephen MOKOKA 00:28:16
8 Simon SIBEKO 00:28:18
9 Siyabonga NDLOVU 00:28:21
10 Chris MHLANGA 00:29:0

Van Niekerk, Commins Keep Dreams Alive

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Adnaan Mohamed

Groenewald Brothers Shine

The Growthpoint Nationals in Cape Town served up rallies of grit and guile on Friday, with Dewald van Niekerk and Alex Commins keeping their championship bids firmly in play, while the Groenewald brothers showed that the future of South African squash is already pressing hard at the glass.

Defending champion Van Niekerk, the man who has ruled the domestic court for nearly half a decade, fended off 19-year-old Luhann Groenewald in a semifinal that was as much a passing-of-the-torch preview as it was a title bout.

The Northerns teenager swung with courage and stamina, but Van Niekerk’s control and precision were like a player who always finds the perfect length after eventually wearing his opponent down 11-3, 11-8, 11-9 in 37 lung-busting minutes.

That victory sets up a repeat final against Luhann’s elder brother Damian, who played the immaculate straight drive to sink former champ JP Brits 3-0.

Damian Groenewald Picture credit: Petri Oeschger/Gallo Images

The 21-year-old held his nerve, showing patience and placement, while forcing the 34-year-old into wild, risky shots. It was the kind of disciplined squash that announces a player not just chasing the ball, but chasing greatness.

On the women’s side, Commins gave a ruthless reminder of why she once climbed to 22 in the world rankings. Playing with the sharpness of a volley kill, she dismantled Kim McDonald 11-2, 11-3, 11-3, conceding only eight points in a flawless display. For Commins, every outing is about raising the bar higher:

“You just have to find a way to get the job done. You can’t relax against anyone.” Tomorrow, she meets Hayley Ward, who justified her top seed with a commanding 3-0 victory over Teagan Russell, injecting pace and aggression at every opening.

Beyond the senior spotlight, the juniors added fresh bounce to the tournament. KZN’s top seed Rylee Howells tightened her grip on the U15 girls’ crown with back-to-back wins, while the boys’ U15 division is heading for a nail-biting finish, with all four contenders locked at one win apiece—Saturday’s final matches will decide who stands tall when the dust settles.

With Van Niekerk chasing a record fifth title, Commins hunting her sixth, and the Groenewald brothers showing the sport’s next chapter is already on court, the Growthpoint Nationals are shaping up like a rally that just keeps getting bette with each point harder, faster, and more thrilling than the last.

Friday’s results were:

Seniors

Women – Semifinals

1-Hayley Ward (EP) bt 4-Teagan Russell (Joburg Squash) 3-0 (11-3 11-6 11-5), 3-Alex Commins (WP) bt 7-Kim McDonald (Northerns) 3-0 (11-1 11-1 11-6)

Pool 5-8

Helena Hudson (Northerns) bt Lara Patrick (Northerns) 3-1 (11-4 11-13 11-2 16-14), Alexa Pienaar (SACD) bt Shelomi Truter (SACD) 3-0 (11-6 11-8 11-8), Alexa Pienaar (SACD) bt Helena Hudson (Northerns) 3-0 (11-4 11-9 11-5), Lara Patrick (Northerns) bt Shelomi Truter (SACD) 3-0 (11-3 11-9 14-12).

Men – Semifinals

1-Dewald van Niekerk (SACD) bt 4-Luhann Groenewald (Northerns) 3-0 (11-3 11-8 11-9), 2-Damian Groenewald (Northerns) bt 3-JP Brits (SACD) 3-0 (11-8 11-3 11-4).

Pool 5-8

John Anderson (Joburg Squash) bt Luke van Vuuren (SACD) 3-1 (11-5 9-11 15-13 14-12), Reuel Videler (SACD) bt Jonty Matthys (SACD) 3-2 (9-11 11-9 10-12 11-2 11-9), John Anderson (Joburg Squash) bt Jonty Matthys (SACD) 3-0 (11-9 11-1 11-6), Reuel Videler (SACD) bt Luke van Vuuren (SACD) 3-1 (10-12 11-7 11-8 11-9)

U15– Girls: Pool 1-4 – Rylee Howells (KZN) bt Jasmaine Rust (Free State) 3-0 (11-1 11-4 11-7), Genevieve Lang (WP) bt Alyssa Arcangeli (Northerns) 3-0 (11-8 11-5 11-8).

Pool 5-8 – Nhlalala Masingi (Joburg Squash) bt Mienke Stander (Boland) 3-0 (11-6 11-6 11-9), Faatima Packery (EP) bt Hanja Gildenhuys (Eden) 3-2 (11-5 11-7 10-12 10-12 11-2).

Boys– Pool 1-4 -Liam Fehrsen (EP) bt Ashton Burger (EP) 3-2 (9-11 11-4 11-7 3-11 11-9), Codey Abrahams (Eden) bt Zander Smit (Boland) 3-1 (11-3 9-11 11-8 11-4). 

Pool 5-8- Milton Posthumus (WP) bt Tiaan Goosen (Northerns) 3-1 (11-4 9-11 11-6 11-4), Jeremy John (KZN) bt George Hung (Free State) 3-0 (11-9 12-10 11-4).

Hollywood Durban 10km Set for Clash of Generations

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By Adnaan Mohamed

Stephen Mokoka arrives at the Hollywoodbets Durban 10km not as a man winding down, but as a statesman of South African road running … still racing, still teaching. At 40, with four Olympic Games, multiple World Championships, and five Shanghai Marathon victories behind him, the long-distance legend is not here for farewells. Instead, he’s at Kingsmead Stadium to test himself against the next wave, while offering them a warning.

Hollywood 10K Male Contenders Photo: George Sithole

“Many youngsters are racing too often and training too hard,” Mokoka cautioned at the pre-race press conference.

“That leads to muscle strain and long-term injuries. If you’re supposed to get 20 to 30 years out of your legs, you can cut that down to just five. You may be the best now, but once your body breaks down, people forget you quickly.”

It was advice delivered with the kind of gravity only a two-decade career can lend. Mokoka knows the traps: the lure of prize money, the rush of early success, the temptation to burn too brightly.

“Race less, stay healthy, and you’ll last longer,” he added.

“Money will always run faster than you, let the banks keep it safe. Your health and longevity matter more.”

The timing of his message is pointed. Saturday’s Durban 10km has sold out with a record 12 000 entries and boasts the richest prize purse in the country for the distance: R357 500., with the men’s and women’s winners each pocketing R37,500.

Ambition will be in the air, but Mokoka insists he’s not just there to preach. He wants a top-10 finish, still hungry to prove that his legs, though seasoned, are far from finished.

Kavanagh Chasing the Pace

Hollywood 10K Female Contenders Photo: George Sithole

If Mokoka embodies endurance, Taylor Kavanagh is South Africa’s rising flame. At 23, the Hollywood Athletics Club runner has already carved her place among the nation’s best. She showed her class by winning the Durban International 10km earlier this year, clocking a sub-32-minute at the Totalsports Women’s 10km, and taking victory in Pietermaritzburg’s Spar 10km.

Now she lines up on home streets with her eyes on a lifetime best. With Glenrose Xaba, the national record-holder at 31:12, headlining the women’s field, Kavanagh knows the opportunity is real.

“Since this is a home race, I’m more excited than pressured,” said Kavanagh .

“I know Glenrose is targeting another national record, and that kind of pace will definitely pull the rest of us to faster times. She’s in terrific form. When you run with someone like that, you brace yourself for a PB or at least a really fast run.”

Her personal best of 31:53 already places her among the elite, but Kavanagh believes progress comes through collective effort.

“Women’s running in South Africa is growing rapidly,” she said. “The more we work together, the more we can achieve. Running with Neheng [Khatala] to break that sub-32 barrier was special. It shows that when women push each other, great things happen.”

The women’s race promises fireworks: Kavanagh’s teammate and defending champion Neheng Khatala returns, while Boxer Running Club’s Karabo Mailula and Karabo More will press the pace. For Kavanagh, the challenge is not only to keep up, but to thrive.

The Passing of Torches

When the starter’s gun fires at 7:30am, the Durban 10km will be a clash of philosophies: Mokoka’s seasoned voice urging patience, preservation, and the long game, against Kavanagh’s youthful surge, chasing personal bests and fresh milestones.

For some, the prize purse will be the target; for others, it’s about personal markers. But in the larger story of South African road running, Saturday represents something deeper. It’s about the the endurance of careers, the rise of new stars, and the eternal chase against time itself.

The race will be broadcast live on SABC, bringing the spirit of the Purple Team to South African homes.

Next stop after Durban is Joburg on Saturday, 13 September.

McDonald’s Shakes Up Squash Nationals

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By Adnaan Mohamed

The Growthpoint SA Nationals opened with a bang at Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront as seventh seed Kim McDonald stunned second seed Alexa Pienaar in straight games, 11-7, 11-9, 11-7.

McDonald, a qualified doctor working in Eswatini, played with surgical precision to cut through Pienaar’s game. Her variation and attacking intent never allowed her opponent to settle.

“We’ve had some really good matches in the past and I know Alexa is a fierce competitor,” McDonald said. “When you play her, you have to make sure your belief is high. I just had to take my chances because the front of the court can be quite dead, and I focused on mixing it up with a solid length.”

For McDonald, the victory was as unexpected as it was satisfying.

“At the moment I get some squash in over the weekends and do some trail running to keep sane, but to come here and get a win is something I will treasure,” the 29-year-old admitted.

Her next opponent is defending champion Alex Commins, who breezed past Lara Patrick in three games.

Seeds Stay Firm

Elsewhere, the tournament’s top names stayed solid. Dewald van Niekerk, chasing a record fifth consecutive title, demolished teammate Luke van Vuuren 11-2, 11-2, 11-5, while women’s top seed Hayley Ward survived some testing moments against Helena Hudson before winning 11-4, 11-5, 11-8.

Teenager Steps Up

The men’s draw also saw a breakthrough from Luhann Groenewald. The 19-year-old Northerns prodigy, twice an U19 champion, marked his senior debut with a composed 3-0 win over fifth seed Reuel Videler.

Luhann Groenewald Picture credit: Petri Oeschger/Gallo Images

“That takes a bit of pressure off, and I just aim to go out and give it my best against Dewald tomorrow,” he said.

“I was happy with the way I played today, although I fell off a bit in the last game before coming back. But I’ll take that win and look forward to the next challenge.”

Junior Fireworks

The day’s most dramatic encounter unfolded in the U15 boys’ section, where Eastern Province’s Ashton Burger pulled off a miraculous comeback against Western Province’s Milton Posthumus.

Ashton Burger Picture credit: Petri Oeschger/Gallo Images

Posthumus led 2-1 and had four game points in the fourth, only for Burger to rally. Then, in the decider, Posthumus stood on the brink at 10-4 up before Burger reeled off eight consecutive points for an astonishing 12-10 win.

“I just decided that I wasn’t going to give in,” Burger said. “It was about not looking too far ahead and just keeping my concentration.”

He joined EP teammate and top seed Liam Fehrsen, who cruised past Free State’s 12-year-old George Hung. In the girls’ U15s, KwaZulu-Natal’s Rylee Howells was too strong for Eden’s Hanja Gildenhuys, winning 3-0.

Opening Day Verdict

From McDonald’s clinical takedown of Pienaar, to Groenewald’s fearless senior debut, to Burger’s Houdini act in the juniors, day one served a reminder: squash at the Nationals is never scripted.

Momentum swings faster than a ball off the tin, and as the week unfolds, fans can expect more drama, more upsets, and more proof that in this game, no seed is truly safe.

Thursday’s results were:

Seniors

Women

1-Hayley Ward (EP) bt 8-Helena Hudson (Northerns) 3-0 (11-4 11-5 11-8), 7-Kim McDonald (Northerns) bt 2-Alexa Pienaar (SACD) 3-0 (12-10 11-6 11-7), 3-Alex Commins (WP) bt 6-Lara Patrick (Northerns) 3-0 (11-3 11-3 11-4), 4-Teagan Russell (Joburg Squash) bt 5-Shelomi Truter (SACD) 3-1 (11-13 11-9 11-1 11-9).

Men

1-Dewald van Niekerk (SACD) bt 3-0 (11-2 11-2 11-5), 8-Luke van Vuuren (SACD), 2-Damian Groenewald (Northerns) bt 7-Jonty Matthys (SACD) 3-0 (11-3 12-10 11-3), 3-JP Brits (SACD) bt 6-John Anderson (Joburg Squash) 3-1 (11-9 6-11 11-8 11-3), 4-Luhann Groenewald (Northerns) bt 5-Reuel Videler (SACD) 3-0 (11-6 11-5 11-9).

U15

Girls

1-Rylee Howells (KZN) bt 8-Hanja Gildenhuys (Eden) 3-0 (11-6 11-1 11-2), 2-Alyssa Arcangeli (Northerns) bt 7-Mienke Stander (Boland) 3-1 (11-0 11-9 8-11 11-4), 3-Genevieve Lang (WP) bt 6-Nhlalala Masingi (Joburg Squash) 3-0 (11-2 11-3 11-2), 4-Jasmaine Rust (Free State) bt Fatima Packery (EP) 3-0 (1-5 11-1 11-8).

Boys

1-Liam Fehrsen (EP) bt George Hung (Free State) 3-0 (11-4 11-3 11-3), 2-Codey Abrahams (Eden) bt 7-Jeremy John (KZN) 3-1 (11-9 7-11 11-3 13-11), 6-Zander Smit (Boland) bt 3-Tiaan Goosen (Northerns) 3-0 (11-1 11-9 11-3), 5-Ashton Burger (EP) bt 4-Milton Posthumus (WP) 3-2 (11-4 9-11 6-11 11-9 12-10).

Sanlam Cape Town Marathon Elite Line-Up Revealed at 50 Day Mark

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By Adnaan Mohamed

The clock is ticking and the countdown boards are flashing with just 50 days to go before the 2025 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon.

Africa’s premier marathon is shifting gears and hitting full stride, sprinting towards Abbott World Marathon Majors glory. And this year’s start line promises to be stacked like never before.

On Thursday, 28 August, the organisers unveiled the headline stars of the fourteenth edition, with 6 platinum and 8 gold-status athletes set to lace up on Sunday, 19 October. For the sold-out field of 24,000 runners, the stage is set for a showdown worthy of the Mother City’s streets.

Double Olympian Caster Semenya shares her thoughts on Sanlam Cape Town Marathon becoming an Abbott World Marathon Major:

Running Towards Greatness

“With the help of our partners, the City of Cape Town, and the citizens of the Mother City, we achieved an unconditional pass for Stage 1 of our Abbott World Marathon Majors candidacy in 2024,” said Clark Gardner, CEO of the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon.

Like a runner finding an extra gear in the final kilometre, Gardner underlined the event’s growing momentum:

“In 2025, we are undertaking Stage 2 and to that end have secured the best elite marathon field in the race’s history.

“Where London and New York vie to be the biggest marathons in the world, we believe the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon can be the best.

“Our beautiful route, the dedication of our sponsors and partners, and the enthusiasm of the city’s runners and residents are key to achieving this feat.”

Elite Showdowns at the Front of the Pack

The elite field is as sharp as the tip of a racing spike.

In the men’s race, Ronald Korit (Kenya, PB 2:04:22) arrives as the fastest man in the field, shadowed by compatriot Bethwel Chumba Kibet (2:04:37). South Africa’s new marathon record-holder Elroy Gelant (2:05:36) is breathing down their necks, just four seconds ahead of Ethiopia’s Boki Kebede Asefa.

All will have their sights on the 2024 course record of 2:08:16, set by Abdisa Tola.This mark is now in serious danger of being left behind like a fading pacesetter.

The women’s race has its own drama scripted. Leading the charge is South Africa’s Gerda Steyn, the undisputed queen of local ultra-running.

“I’m so excited and so honoured to announce that I will be lining up for the 2025 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon,” Steyn said with a smile.

“I can’t wait for the 19th of October! And most of all to share the beautiful route with thousands and thousands of my fellow runners.

“The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon has always been close to my heart, and the last time I ran this race was in 2021.

“I can still remember crossing the finish line that day. I felt so proud that we have such an amazing race here on South African soil.”

She will face an all-star peloton including Kenya’s Winfridah Moseti (2:16:56) and Angela Tanui (2:17:57), as well as Ethiopia’s Mare Dibaba (2:19:59). South Africa’s Glenrose Xaba, who dethroned Steyn’s course record in 2024, will not be back to defend her title.

Sanlam’s Meaningful Impact

Sanlam’s backing goes beyond the water tables and medals.

“What began as a sponsorship in 2014 has grown into a strategic partnership aimed at positioning the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon as Africa’s first and only World Marathon Major,” said Shadi Chauke, Group Executive for Corporate Affairs and Sustainability at Sanlam.

“As a Pan-African organisation, we are deeply committed to unlocking the continent’s potential and creating meaningful impact that extends well beyond the finish line.”

Already, 62 fundraising champions have raised nearly R200,000 for 18 charities via the GivenGain portal. Chauke added:

“Through partnerships with the Caster Semenya Foundation, CANSA, and WWF South Africa, we are advancing youth sports development, health, and environmental sustainability. We invite every runner to turn their race into a force for good through GivenGain.”  

Final Kick to the Finish

With the field set, the excitement building, and the countdown clock ticking, the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon is running full tilt towards history. Africa’s best will battle for glory, while thousands more will chase their own finish-line dreams.

adidas, too, is leaving footprints bigger than its shoes.

“For adidas, our role as technical partner goes beyond supplying kit; it’s about supporting the culture of running in Africa,” said Tom Brown, Senior Brand Director at adidas.

‘Run For Africa’ is central to that vision, rewarding runners who start and finish the marathon in adidas shoes with a R2,000 adidas voucher, and building pride in this community.

adidas has created a limited-edition Cape Town Marathon Boston 13 shoe to commemorate the 2025 race. Photo by adidas.

“The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon shows what’s possible when innovation meets purpose, from the race tee to the limited-edition Cape Town Marathon Boston 13. Every touchpoint is about leaving a legacy for runners well beyond the finish line.”

The Mother City is ready. The runners are ready. And the race is just 50 days away.

adidas Back into the Stormers Scrum

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By Adnaan Mohamed

After eight years on the sidelines adidas has dusted off its boots and jogged back into the DHL Stormers’ starting XV as official technical sponsor.

The three stripes are back in Cape Town, and they’ve come to make a statement not just as a rugby kit, but as part of the culture.

“It’s a great honour for us to be reunited with the DHL Stormers again,” says Tom Brown, Senior Brand Director at adidas South Africa.

“The team and the dynamic way they play rugby embodies the flair and passion of their supporters. This partnership is about more than sport; it’s about honouring tradition whilst also celebrating a new era of bold ambition.”

Home Kit: Reunite the Stripes

The home jersey is rugby’s equivalent of a well-timed hand-off: classic, powerful, impossible to ignore. Those blue and white hoops are stitched like the DNA of Newlands itself.

It’s bold, uncompromising, and unapologetically Stormers. It’s heritage with a modern polish, a jersey that looks just as good under the Saturday sun as it does when drenched in the sweat of a one-point thriller.

It honours history with every stripe a reminder of where the club’s been, and every hoop a promise of where it’s going.

Away Kit: Remix the Stripes

The away jersey concept “Remix the Stripes” takes on a vibrant twist. Inspired by the spirited streets of Bo-Kaap, a neighbourhood known for its deep rugby heritage, cultural diversity and vibrantly decorated homes, the jersey bursts with electric hues of lucid pink, lime burst, and lucid cyan. A remix of tradition that celebrates freedom, energy, and individuality.

It’s rugby kit reimagined for a generation that refuses to blend in. Call it the sidestep to convention with a vibrant celebration of freedom, individuality, and the multicultural heartbeat of Cape Town. If the home kit is the anthem, the away jersey is the remix.

DHL Stormers Director of Rugby John Dobson said that having adidas back on board is a big moment for the team and their supporters.

“We are all thrilled to have adidas back and we know that our fans will embrace this move and the incredible kit that we will be playing in this season.

“The two designs speak to the rich rugby heritage of this region. The iconic blue and white hoops are synonymous with the rich history of rugby in the Cape, while the away jersey pays homage to the Bo-Kaap which has produced so many passionate rugby people over the years, including those who were involved in some of the first organised matches on the Green Point Common, just a stone’s throw away from our stadium.

“Our players and supporters will wear this kit with pride this season and we can’t wait to get going,” he said.

Kit Built for Collisions

Of course, flair is nothing without function. These aren’t jerseys made to hang politely in sports shops but they’re engineered for bruising battles in the trenches.

Crafted from 100% recycled polyester doubleknit, they wick away sweat quicker than a winger spotting space in the backfield. Lightweight yet stubbornly durable, with reinforced stitching in high-stress zones, they’re designed to hold up against the dark arts of the scrum.

The athletic fit is snug but never strangling. Think of it as a jersey that knows how to tackle but can still dance.

The Comeback We’ve Been Waiting For

At R999, Stormers fans can finally pull on the stripes and hoops once more. The home jersey drops on 19 September, while the Bo-Kaap-inspired away kit lands on 3 October.

The home jersey is available from 19 September, and the away jersey is available from 3 October at stormersshop.co.za, select adidas retail stores, adidas.co.za, select sports retailers and at DHL Stadium on matchdays.

Eight years apart, and now reunited. The DHL Stormers and adidas are back together and ready to charge head-down into a new era.

Stripes and hoops, stitched for glory, built to withstand hits harder than a Frans Malherbe scrum.

Cape Town, your jersey has come home.

Battle for Squash Supremacy at SA Senior Nationals

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By Adnaan Mohamed

The glass courts at the V&A Waterfront are about to become a pressure cooker. From August 28 to 30, the Growthpoint Senior Nationals will see South Africa’s finest squash players chase silverware, sweat, and legacy in one of the sport’s most fiercely contested showdowns.

At the heart of the drama is defending champion Dewald van Niekerk. The Gqeberha-born powerhouse has turned this championship into his personal fortress.

Since 2021, no domestic player has managed to prise the trophy from his grasp. Now, at 28, he’s chasing a fifth consecutive title, a feat that would shatter Steve Coppinger’s streak of four and cement his place in squash history.

On paper, Van Niekerk is the immovable wall. In practice, he refuses to treat this as a forgone conclusion.

“Being the top seed doesn’t stop me from preparing thoroughly,” he said.

“This event is hugely important to me, and I always mark it as a priority on my calendar.”

That relentless reset has been his secret weapon. But history rarely comes easy, and his rivals are ready to rattle the fortress walls.

Chief among them is Northerns’ Damian Groenewald, the second seed who dragged Van Niekerk into a bruising four-game final last year.

“I have worked on my game in all aspects…mental, physical, tactical and technical,” said the SA Country Districts player, ranked 68 in the world.

If Van Niekerk is granite, Groenewald is the pickaxe.

“And I have developed a good level of confidence in my abilities.”

Add 2019 champion JP Brits to the mix, and the men’s draw looks primed for fireworks.

If Van Niekerk rules the men’s game, then the women’s side has its own queen.

Cape Town’s Alex Commins, once ranked 22 in the world, is chasing her sixth Growthpoint crown. Her first came a decade ago in 2015, her latest in 2024, and she shows no sign of slowing.

Unlike Van Niekerk, Commins competes with a different fire these days. Retirement from the PSA Tour has stripped away the grind while sharpening her joy.

“Fortunately, I haven’t lost that competitive edge, but I feel more relaxed since I retired,” she said.

“There is less pressure on training for matches and I am playing now because I enjoy it, so that’s been a really refreshing shift. I am still training hard and always on the go, but I do it now because I enjoy what I am doing and where I am at.”

It may sound like a softer approach, but opponents know better. Her chief challenger, Eastern Province’s Hayley Ward, ranked No 75 in the world, remains the one player who can push her closest. Last year’s 3–1 final showed Ward’s grit, but until she topples Commins, she’s still chasing shadows.

Their collision course is set once again, with Ward opening against Northerns’ Helena Hudson and Commins starting her campaign against Lara Patrick.

Yet the Nationals aren’t only about the heavyweights. Alongside the senior battles, South Africa’s rising stars will showcase their flair in the U15 section, where future champions take their first swings at glory.

Names like Milton Posthumus (WP), Cody Abrahams (Eden) and Rylee Howells (KZN) may one day echo in the same breath as Van Niekerk and Commins.

For Squash South Africa, the event remains a showpiece.

“Squash SA is looking forward to yet another successful tournament and we wish all participants the best,” said national manager Jennifer Sawyer.

Three days. Two reigning champions on the brink of history. A field of hungry rivals chasing them down. And a venue as iconic as the V&A Waterfront, where glass walls will turn into mirrors of ambition and pressure.

By the time the last ball dies in the nick, the question will be whether Van Niekerk and Commins extend their rule , or if a challenger finally smashes through.

Players to Watch

Dewald van Niekerk (SACD) – Four-time champ chasing history. The man to beat.
Damian Groenewald (Northerns) – Last year’s runner-up; fearless and fitter than ever.
JP Brits (SACD) – 2019 champion; knows what it takes to go all the way.
Alex Commins (WP) – Five-time women’s winner; relaxed but ruthless.
Hayley Ward (EP) – World No 75; Commins’ toughest rival.
Rylee Howells (KZN) – U15 top seed; the future star to keep an eye on.

The draws for Thursday, 28 August are:

Seniors:

Women: 12.00: 4-Teagan Russell (Joburg Squash) v 5-Shelomi Truter (SACD), 1pm 3-Alex Commins (WP) v 6-Lara Patrick (Northerns), 2pm: 2-Alexa Pienaar (SACD) v 7-Kim McDonald (Northerns), 3pm: 1-Hayley Ward (EP) v 8-Helena Hudson (Northerns).

Men: 12.30: 4-Luhann Groenewald (Northerns) v 5-Reuel Videler (SACD), 1.30pm: 3-JP Brits (SACD) v 6-John Anderson (Joburg Squash), 2.30pm: 2-Damian Groenewald (Northerns) v 7-Jonty Matthys (SACD), 3.30pm: 1-Dewald van Niekerk (SACD) v 8-Luke van Vuuren (SACD).

Juniors: U15

Girls: 8am: 1-Rylee Howells (KZN) v 8-Hanja Gildenhuys (Eden), 9am: 2-Alyssa Arcangeli (Northerns) v 7-Mienke Stander (Boland), 10am: 3-Genevieve Lang (WP) v 6-Nhlalala Masingi (Joburg Squash), 11am: 4-Jasmaine Rust (Free State) v 5-Faatima Packery (EP).

Boys: 8.30: 1-Liam Fehrsen (EP) v 8-Georg Hung (Free State), 9.30: 2-Cody Abrahams (Eden) v 7-Jeremy John (KZN), 10.30: 3-Tiaan Goosen (Northerns) v 6-Zander Smit (Boland), 11.30: 4-Milton Posthumus (WP) v 5-Ashton Burger (EP).

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Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon Passing the Baton to Stillwater Sports

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The Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon (TTOM), one of the world’s most iconic running events, has officially been confirmed for the weekend of 11-12 April 2026. The Board of the Two Oceans Marathon NPC today announced the appointment of Stillwater Sports as the official Staging and Commercial Partner. This partnership will ensure a world-class race experience for athletes, supporters, and the broader running community.

Widely known as “the world’s most beautiful marathon,” the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon continues to attract thousands of elite and recreational runners from across the globe. The confirmation of the 2026 event underscores a shared commitment by the Two Oceans Marathon NPC, and Stillwater Sports to elevate the race to new heights while celebrating its rich legacy.

“The Two Oceans Marathon has a proud history, and this partnership marks a significant step forward in ensuring its future as a world-class event,” says Chris Goldschmidt, Chairman of the Board of the Two Oceans Marathon NPC.

“We are confident that with Stillwater Sports’ proven expertise, alongside the continued support of Totalsports, the 2026 edition will set new benchmarks for excellence and inclusivity.”

With a reputation for delivering premier mass participation events, Stillwater Sports brings a wealth of expertise and innovation to the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon.

“We are honoured to be entrusted with the staging and commercial delivery of the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon,” says Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports.

“This is a landmark event on the global running calendar, and with the backing of the Two Oceans Marathon Board, and Totalsports, our focus will be on delivering an excellent runner experience, and importantly increasing the runner value. We look forward to getting to work immediately.”

Planning for the 2026 edition is already underway, with exciting announcements set to be made in the coming weeks.

EVENT INFORMATION: Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon

Events: Ultra Marathon / Half Marathon 
Date: 11-12 April 2026
Location: Cape Town South Africa

Facebook: Two Oceans Marathon

Instagram: Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon

Websites:  www.twooceansmarathon.org.za

SA Sport Awards – A Night of Sporting Glory

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By Adnaan Mohamed

The lights of the Sun City Superbowl burned brighter than stadium floodlights on finals day as South Africa’s greatest sporting warriors gathered for the 18th South African Sport Awards. It was a night that played out like a championship final, where medals were replaced with golden accolades and applause roared louder than any crowd.

Under the banner of “Celebrating Sporting Excellence”, the ceremony saluted those who lace up, line up, and lift up the nation through sheer grit and grace.

From athletes who’ve carried the weight of expectation like seasoned captains, to rookies breaking into the arena with the swagger of debutants who refuse to be daunted, the evening was a showcase of South Africa’s sporting heartbeat.

It was a relay between legacy and new blood, a reminder that the baton of excellence keeps moving forward.

And at the finish line of the night’s biggest honours stood Tatjana Smith, crowned Sport Star of the Year after swimming her way into the nation’s soul, and the 4x100m Men’s Relay Team, who sprinted into the record books, and into South African hearts, with their electrifying Olympic performance.

But this wasn’t just about the headline acts; it was about the unsung heroes in the trenches.

From administrators who set the playbook to journalists capturing moments like precision passes, from volunteers whose passion fuels the grassroots game to coaches drawing up masterstrokes on the chalkboard, each winner was a vital cog in the machine that keeps South African sport running at full throttle.

Here’s who made the podium at SASA 18:

Sport Administrator of the Year – Pholetsi Moseki (Cricket)
Recreation Body of the Year – Made for More Zama (Para Surfing)
Sport Volunteer of the Year – Phuti Lekoloane (Football)
Youth/Junior Sport Star of the Year – Simoné Kruger (Para Athletics)
Youth/Junior Sport Team of the Year – SA U19 Tug of War Men’s Team
Sport Visual Journalist of the Year – Roger Sedres
Sports Media Journalist of the Year – Palesa Manaleng
Technical Official of the Year – Ernesta Strydom (Para Cycling)
National Federation of the Year – South African Rugby Union
Sport Team of the Year – 4x100m Men’s Team (Paris Olympics)
Coach of the Year – Rocco Meiring (Swimming)
Sportswoman of the Year with a Disability – Simoné Kruger (Para Athletics)
Sportsman of the Year with a Disability – Mpumelelo Mhlongo (Para Athletics)
Sportswoman of the Year – Tatjana Smith (Swimming)
Sportsman of the Year – Alan Hatherly (Cycling)
Sport Star of the Year – Tatjana Smith (Swimming)

The evening was more than just a prize-giving; it was a huddle, a war cry, a collective fist pump for a nation whose sporting story keeps finding new chapters.

To every nominee and winner: your sweat is the ink, your discipline the pen, and together you are writing the playbook of South African greatness.

South Africa, take a bow. Your champions have spoken and they are, without question, #IzinjaZeGame.

Mr Podium claims hattrick in historic photo finish

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By Adnaan Mohamed

South Africa’s running sensation Kabelo Mulaudzi once again lived up to his nickname of “Mr. Podium” by achieving a hattrick of victories at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY TSHWANE 10K on Sunday morning.

The race drew an impressive field of 10 000 runners with participants gathering at the foot of the majestic Union Buildings to kick off the iconic race.

The 29-year-old showed why rivals fear his finishing kick when he edged Ethiopian challenger Asfaw Aklilu in a nail-biting photo finish that had the crowd holding its breath. Both men stopped the clock at 29:00, but the tape belonged to Mulaudzi.

Aklilu Asfaw and Kabelo Mulaudzi by Tobias Ginsberg

It was his seventh consecutive podium finish turning the series of five 10km races across the country into his personal playground.

“Honestly, I didn’t know if I had won,  it was that close,” he admitted, still catching his breath. 

“But I’m thrilled to make it three in a row. I’m speechless. I’m grateful to win because this is what I wanted. In 2023 I was meant to win three in a row, but I didn’t do it because I came third in my third race in Joburg. So I’m over the moon,” he said.

For the Alexandra-born star, it was the final step in a perfectly executed hat-trick, adding the Tshwane title to earlier triumphs in Cape Town and Durban.

The win not only pocketed him R30 000 but also underlined his reputation as the series’ relentless pacesetter.

The Ethiopians, however, didn’t make it easy. Aklilu, in Nedbank colours, pushed him to the very edge, while compatriot Mohamed Abdilmejid surged in for third in 29:10. Mulaudzi welcomed the heat, saying it forged his best effort yet.

“The race was tough, but I embraced it,” he said

 “I’m proud of what I achieved today. So far, my season is going really well, and I’m looking forward to what’s next.”

What’s next is the Hollywoodbets Durban 10km on August 30, where Mulaudzi will once again be the man to chase.

“I’ve been chasing this hat-trick for a long time, and finally achieving it feels amazing,” he said. “Now I’m hungrier than ever. If I can win in Durban next week, it will make this season even more special.”

In the women’s race, defending champion Glenrose Xaba dipped under 32 minutes for the second year running as she stopped the clock in 31:50 to eclipse her own course record.

Glenrose Xaba wins Absa RUN YOUR CITY TSHWANE 10K by Tobias Ginsberg

She was followed home by Kenya’s Rebecca Mwangi, who finished almost a minute later with a time of 32:41, while Selam Gebre rounded out the podium in 33:05.

“I’m happy with the result, and my body was responding very well,” said Xaba.

“The competition was strong, but the plan was to go through halfway in under 16 minutes which I managed to do. My message to all the young girls who are inspired by me is to keep pushing and to stay consistent.”

Elite Start Absa RUN YOUR CITY TSHWANE 10K by Tobias Ginsberg

RESULTS: 2025 Absa RUN YOUR CITY TSHWANE 10K

Date: Sunday, 24 August 2025

Start Time: 08:00

Start Venue: Stanza Bopape Street, Arcadia, Tshwane

Finish Venue: Stanza Bopape Street, Arcadia, Tshwane

ELITE MEN

1 Kabelo Mulaudzi (South Africa) 29:00, 2 Aklilu Asfaw (Ethiopia) 29:00, 3 Abdilmejid Mohammed (Ethiopia) 29:10, 4 Joseph Seutloali (Lesotho) 29:13, 5 Simon Sibeko (South Africa) 29:19, 6 Bennett Seloyi (South Africa) 29:22, 7 Pakiso Mthembu (South Africa) 29:32, 8 Namakoe Nkhasi (Lesotho) 29:37, 9 Chris Mhlanga (South Africa) 29:50, 10 Joel Mmone (South Africa) 29:55

ELITE WOMEN

1 Glenrose Xaba (South Africa) 31:50, 2 Rebecca Mwangi (Kenya) 32:41, 3 Selam Gebre (Ethiopia) 33:05, 4 Karabo Mailula (South Africa) 33:40, 5 Irvette Van Zyl (South Africa) 33:41, 6 Karabo More (South Africa) 34:03, 7 Cacisile Sosibo (South Africa) 34:37, 8 Carina Swiegers (South Africa) 35:15, 9 Zanthe Taljaard (South Africa) 35:24, 10 Florence Nyaingiri (Kenya) 35:30