Author: Tanika Laskey

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Nedbank Running Club Invests in the Future of South African Running

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Nedbank Running Club Invests in the Future of South African Running
Nedbank Running Club is proud to announce a wave of exciting new signings for the 2026 season, reaffirming our commitment to the future of South African athletics. As one of the country’s most successful and respected running clubs, we believe that investing in young, emerging talent is the key to sustaining our nation’s proud tradition of excellence on the roads, tracks, and trails.
 

The foundation of our club’s legacy lies in discovering and developing future stars. Champions like Sipho Ngomane, Joseph Molaba, Claude Moshiywa, Bongmusa Mthembu, Ludwick Mammabolo, Gerda Steyn and Farwa Mentoor, Charne Bosman, Caroline Wostman —All of them household names in South African running—rose to prominence through the support and development opportunities that Nick B Sport incorporating Harmony and Nedbank Running Club’s offered them,” says Nick Bester, Nedbank Running Clubs National Manager, adding, “By focusing on talent identification and athlete development, we continue to set the pace for the sport nationwide.”

This year, we are especially excited to unveil a strong squad from the home ground of the Comrades marathon Association -KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), a region brimming with untapped potential like Bongmusa Mthembu and hunger for success. Athletes such as Sithembiso Mqhele, Musawenkosi Mthalane, Sinethemba Tshangase, Bonginkosi Mavuso, Thokozani Mbambo, Nathi Khanyezi ,Jenna Challenor , Fikile Mbuthuma ,Msawenkosi Nsibande and Dion Ross have joined the club, eager for the opportunity to highlight their talent on the biggest stages. We believe that with the right support and guidance, these runners will become household names in the years to come.

To support our athletes’ ambitions, Nedbank Running Club is investing in a series of high-performance training camps across the country:

–  Comrades and Two Oceans training camp in the Drakensberg mountains in Underberg and Bulwer, managed by Mthandeni Nene, is providing vital altitude and endurance preparation for our elite squad.

– Comrades training camp in Klerksdorp under the guidance of Pio Mpolokeng, featuring standout athletes such as ‘Onalenna Khonkhobe, Lucky Mohale, the Sibeko brothers (Samuel and Simon), Puseletso Mofokeng, Thabang Mosiako, and others, is sharpening the team’s competitive edge for the year’s biggest ultra.

– Two Oceans training camp in George, led by Lloyds Bosman, brings together a group of upcoming talented Nedbank RC stars, including Francois Maqhosa and Selwyn Mathews, to prepare for the unique demands of the Cape’s iconic race.

– Comrades training camp in Dullstroom where we combine our National athletes with our international athletes:

Names like Deanne Laubscher, Dominika Stelmach, Piet Wiersma etcetera.

Looking ahead to South Africa’s premier ultra-distance events, Nedbank Running Club is proud to highlight

Onalenna Khonkhobe and George Kusche as strong contenders for the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon (TOM) and the iconic Comrades Marathon. Their performances and dedication position them among the top athletes to watch this season.

At the same time, we wish to acknowledge the departure of two of South Africa’s most celebrated ultramarathoners, Tete Dijana and Edward Mothibi. While their contracts have not been renewed due to their requested retainer rates exceeding what the club can sustainably offer, we hold the deepest respect for their achievements and contributions to the green dream. We wish Tete and Edward everything of the best as they continue their remarkable journeys.

Nedbank Running Club remains steadfast in its mission: to discover, develop, and champion the very best in South African running. Our investment in emerging talent today is an investment in the champions of tomorrow.

For more information on their athletes, events, and club initiatives, visit Nedbank Running Club’s website or follow them on social media.

Nick Bester-National Manager of the Nedbank Running Clubs.

Biogen Half Marathon: Gauteng’s Premier 21km

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Biogen Half Marathon: Gauteng’s Premier 21km

The Biogen Half Marathon and SmectaGo 5km presented by Momentum Multiply took place on 11 January 2026. The twenty fourth edition of Gauteng’s premier half marathon is proudly hosted by Bedfordview Athletics Club for novice and seasoned runners to enjoy at the start of the year. Participants enjoyed perfect running weather for a scenic and challenging route through Bedfordview and Primrose. 

The first big race of the year set the tone, and the winning male and female runners respectively were George Kusche from Nedbank Running Club with a time of 01:05:32, and Irvette Van Zyl from Hollywood Athletics Club CGA, who finished with a time of 01:17:01, both beating the previous years times. Second place male was taken by Namakoe Nkhasi from Nedbank Running Club Lesotho and female Nobukhosi Thuma from Entsika Athletics Club. Congratulations to the overall and respective age category winners. Over R60k in prize money was paid out.

Thank you to the sponsors Biogen, Momentum Multiply, Dis-Chem and all the co-sponsors SmectaGO, Gillette, Old Spice, Norflex Gel, Transact, Essentiale Extreme and Heneways who make races like ours possible for all runners to enjoy. The sponsors bring incredible value to the runners, including the race shirts, goody bags, medals, activations, product samples and services.

Brandon Fairweather, Biogen Brand Manager said, ‘Congratulations to all participants of the Biogen Half Marathon presented by Momentum Multiply, as well as the SmectaGo 5km dash! We are inspired to see so many people starting the year on the right foot, and a healthier note, with clear intentions to live and be their best in the months ahead. Special thanks to Bedfordview Athletics Club and community, as well all our co-sponsors, staff, teams and volunteers that make Gauteng’s Premier Running race possible. Wishing you strength, health and happiness! May you all continue to #UpYourStandards in 2026. 

Damian McHugh, Chief Marketing Officer at Momentum Health said, ‘Momentum Multiply is proud to partner with Biogen and Dis-Chem to support the incredible 2026 Biogen 21K presented by Momentum Multiply. This race embodies determination, perseverance, and community, values that closely align with who we are at Momentum Multiply. Congratulations to all the runners who took on the challenge! We extend our heartfelt thanks to the organisers at Bedfordview Athletics Club, as well as the dedicated volunteers and enthusiastic supporters. Your efforts bring events like these to life. The 2026 Biogen 21K presented by Momentum Multiply is a fantastic way to kick-start the year, embracing the journey of health, wellness, and living your healthiest 2026.’

‘We thank the communities in Bedfordview and Primrose for their patience on race day. We really appreciate Better Bedfordview, a non-profit organisation that assists us with clearing the route and fixing 15 dangerous potholes on route. A big thanks to the EMPD, SAPS, Bedfordview and Primrose CPFs, RAG, Blue Hawk Tactical and Spider Tactical Reaction security companies who offer us that extra security and assistance on the day,’ said race director Charnia Yapp from Bedfordview Athletics.

The race supports the Lambano Sanctuary and the Namaqua Dog and Donkey Foundation, which undertakes the sterilisation, vaccination and treatment of animals in informal settlements on the East Rand. A big thank you to the runners for their donations and the Dis-Chem Foundation, who matched these donations. R35570 was raised for Lambano Sanctuary and R30670 for Namaqua Dog and Donkey Foundation.

The race committee extends their gratitude to everyone who helped make the day possible, from the field set up team, registration crews, water points to the marshals on route. The visible patrolling of the race route by the SAPS, Road Rangers, Bedfordview and Primrose CPF and the security companies – BHT, RAG, BSG and Spider Tactical – was appreciated.

View the race results here www.biogen21.co.za

[email protected]

Puma Unveils New Levels Of Fast With Deviate Nitro™ 4 & Deviate Nitro™ Elite 4

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UMA has unveiled the latest evolution of its hero running franchise with the launch of the Deviate NITRO™ 4 and Deviate NITRO™ Elite 4.

The two new models build on PUMA’s position as pioneers of speed and innovation, underpinned by the brand’s best-in-class NITROFOAM™ technology.

Deviate NITRO™ Elite 4

Specially crafted for race-day, Deviate NITRO™ Elite 4 improves on its much-loved predecessor by returning even lighter and more efficient, thanks to enhanced NITROFOAM™ ELITE cushioning. The fit and feel build on the award-winning Deviate Elite NITRO™ 3, but the ride is now smoother, more responsive, and more stable across race-day distances.

The redesigned carbon fibre PWRPLATE is now stiffer and has been engineered to reduce stress in the metatarsal area. Its geometry has been optimized for efficient energy transfer, delivering a smoother, faster stride. It features gradual rib structuring to enhance stability by evenly distributing stress from lateral to medial motion, creating an efficient ride from start line to finish.

Adding to PUMA’s elite race-day range, the Deviate NITRO™ Elite 4 is a definitive option for high-cadence runners looking for a lightweight, responsive shoe that will help them unleash a new level of speed and feel beyond fast on race day.

Deviate NITRO™ Elite 4 launches globally on 12 February 2026, available to purchase on PUMA.com and PUMA retail stores.

Deviate NITRO™ Elite 4 Specifications:

  • Price: R5799
  • Weight: UK8: 170g/UK4.5: 140g
  • Stack Height: 32MM/40MM
  • Drop: 8mm

Deviate NITRO™ 4

Built for the everyday runner who is serious about getting faster, the Deviate NITRO™ 4 introduces an evolved NITROFOAM™ midsole featuring a new dual-layer, nitrogen-infused foam that delivers elevated rebound for a more energetic stride, giving runners the speed they crave, without compromising on the comfort they know and love.

The mesh upper offers lightweight breathability, while a plush collar and padded tongue provide all-round protection. Soft where it matters, supportive where it counts, the Deviate NITRO™ 4 locks the foot in place, letting runners focus on the run. Unwavering durability and comfort remain at the heart of the Deviate experience, providing consistency for everyday runs.

A reengineered PWRPLATE has been contoured to improve flexibility, while PUMA’s trusted PUMAGRIP outsole ensures traction across any surface, with coverage that can accommodate any footstrike pattern. This evolution delivers a more consistent, supportive ride while maintaining the natural feel needed for up-tempo training runs and everyday miles.

Deviate NITRO™ 4 Specifications:

  • Price: R3999
  • Weight: UK8: 250g/UK4.5: 205g
  • Stack Height: 30MM/38MM
  • Drop: 8mm

Deviate NITRO™ 4 launches in limited supply on 23 January, followed by a global release on 26 February 2026, and will be available to purchase on PUMA.com, PUMA retail stores, Totalsports, Sportsmans Warehouse and Takealot.

“We’re excited to bring our latest instalment of speed to the market with Deviate NITRO™ Elite 4 and Deviate NITRO™ 4. The Deviate franchise has been at the centre of our performance running business since our re-launch in 2021, winning multiple awards and helping athletes earn podiums,” said Erin Longin, Vice President, BU Run/Train, PUMA.

For more information, please visit: www.puma.com

HYROX Johannesburg 2025: Uniting South Africa’s Fitness Community

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on HYROX Johannesburg 2025: Uniting South Africa’s Fitness Community

HYROX returned to Johannesburg for the second time this year, welcoming many first-time participants. HYROX Johannesburg returned to the Johannesburg Expo Centre, marking a significant milestone as South Africa’s first two-day HYROX event in the city and drawing thousands of athletes from across the region to compete in one of the world’s fastest growing sports worldwide. The weekend featured a full slate of competitions across all divisions – including Individual Open and Pro races, Adaptive, Doubles, and Relay races – showcasing a broad spectrum of fitness levels and fostering an atmosphere of competition and community. From elite athletes chasing World Championship slots to everyday athletes taking on HYROX for the first time, HYROX Johannesburg delivered exciting and inspiring performances for all.

The second HYROX Johannesburg of 2025 was the first in the 25/26 Season. The event attracted 6,100 athletes, of which 54% were women and 46% were men, competing across all divisions. This gender split signifies a remarkable shift in South Africa’s fitness landscape, reflecting increased female participation and empowerment in competitive fitness. It also highlights HYROX’s role in promoting an inclusive and supportive environment that encourages all genders to excel in fitness challenges. This trend aligns with broader national movements toward gender balance and growing female engagement in health and fitness activities.

Notably, the event attracted many first-time participants, marking a significant milestone in growing the HYROX community in Johannesburg and South Africa as a whole. Race Director Simon Goldsbrough says: “It was incredible to have so many first timers, but also people returning for another bite of the cherry. As HYROX increases with popularity, we have to ensure that we give the athletes the best experience. This goes from registration, right through to the race floor and ensuring that HYROX movement standards are adhered to by all athletes.”

HYROX South Africa continues to draw a remarkable mix of people, embodying the nation’s diversity and passion for fitness. South African professional boxer Kevin Lerena competed in Mixed Doubles. Former cricket star Makhaya Ntini took part in Pro Doubles, marking his first HYROX event. Acclaimed actress Thando Thabethe represented in the HYROX Women’s category, this was her third HYROX event.

Coach and influencer Vusi Mavreka Hlabangwana, also made a significant impact in Mixed Doubles, inspiring many with his passion for the sport. HYROX Elite15 athlete Jake Dearden, who secured first place in Men’s Pro, further elevated the competition, exemplifying how HYROX attracts top talent crossing borders to compete on a global stage and raise the event’s competitive standard. Their presence highlights how HYROX brings together sports stars, influencers, fitness experts, and celebrities alike, all united by a shared love of challenge and community. This convergence reflects the true South African spirit, one of inclusivity and collective celebration through sport.

Spectator turnout was equally remarkable, with around 7,500 fans packing the venue throughout the weekend, creating a supportive energy for those participating. This vibrant gathering again reflected the unique essence of South African culture, where sport is a powerful force that unites people. Across the weekend, spectators delighted us with traditional dancing, volunteers cheered on athletes with unwavering enthusiasm, and a strong sense of community permeated the event. It was a true celebration of how sport brings South Africans together, fostering shared joy in a way that defines the nation’s inclusive character.

Central to this was our incredible support team, particularly the dedicated volunteers and judges. Their passion and commitment ensured flawless execution and upheld the highest standards throughout each workout, playing a vital role in the event’s success.

Building on the success of three events hosted in 2025, anticipation is high for upcoming HYROX events across South Africa in 2026. As the local participation rises steadily, the series promises greater opportunities for athletes to be part of the HYROX Community:

We extend our sincere gratitude to all who played a part in making the second HYROX Johannesburg such a standout achievement.

PUMA Athletes Soar To Record Times At Valencia Marathon

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PUMA athletes Amanal Petros and Chloe Herbiet have smashed their respective national records at the Valenica Marathon, cementing a place in the PUMA history books as the brand’s fastest ever male and female road runners.

Petros, a silver medallist at the 2025 Tokyo World Championships Marathon, delivered a spectacular second place performance in Valencia as well as a new German national record. He crossed the finish line in 2:04:04, surpassing his previous personal best of 2:04:58 set at the 2023 Berlin Marathon. This performance marks the fastest marathon ever run by a PUMA athlete and the third fastest ever marathon in European history.

“I’ve run many marathons but today I felt different. Everything aligned: the training, my pacing, the course. To break the German record is beyond anything I imagined,” said Amanal Petros.

It was double delight for PUMA, as Chloe Herbiet – the reigning European Half Marathon Champion – ran to a historic third place finish in a world class field. With a previous best of 2:24:56, Herbiet put in the performance of a lifetime to shatter that mark, crossing the finish line with a time of 2:20:38. The result makes the Belgian the sixth fastest European of all-time.

Both athletes powered to new records wearing the most coveted race day running shoe of the year, FAST-R NITRO™ Elite 3.

Rounding out the Top 10 in the women’s field for PUMA was Glenrose Xaba of South Africa with a sixth-place finish (2:23:22), followed by Meritxell Soler of Spain in ninth who set a new personal best (2:23:49).

For more information, please visit: www.puma.com

PUMA Unveils First-of-its-kind Deviate Nitro™ Elite HYROX

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on PUMA Unveils First-of-its-kind Deviate Nitro™ Elite HYROX
  • PUMA and HYROX take their global partnership to the next level with the reveal of the Deviate NITRO™ Elite HYROX
  • Specially engineered for HYROX competition, the footwear will debut on PUMA elite athletes at HYROX Melbourne this weekend, the second out of four Majors of the 2025/ 26 season
  • Deviate NITRO™ Elite HYROX launches globally on 19 February 2026

Global sports brand PUMA is ushering in a new era of performance, with the exclusive reveal of the hotly anticipated Deviate NITRO™ Elite HYROX – the first shoe purpose built for HYROX competition.

Using PUMA’s most advanced footwear innovation, Deviate NITRO™ Elite HYROX is tailored to elevate every stride, every push, and every rep. This breakthrough in footwear technology has cemented PUMA’s position as the number one brand in what is one of the fastest growing sports in the world.

Tried and tested by PUMA’s elite HYROX athletes, the Deviate NITRO™ Elite HYROX features an all-new, full-coverage, high traction PUMAGRIP outsole with a specially engineered lug pattern for multi-surface control.

The NITROFOAM™ Elite has been adapted to provide elite-level cushioning for maximum energy return; and sitting flush between the NITROFOAM™ Elite is a full-length, newly curated carbon fibre PWRPLATE that provides increased propulsion and support.

Wrapping the foot is a premium, feather-light ULTRAWEAVE upper for breathability and secure lockdown, powering athletes through runs, reps and everything in between.

“Having partnered with HYROX since their first ever race in 2018, we understand the needs of the athletes and community better than anyone. The result is this: a trailblazer in performance footwear. We’ve taken the very best ingredients from our fastest running shoes and engineered them to enhance your HYROX experience,” said Romain Girard, VP of Innovation at PUMA.

Deviate NITRO™ Elite HYROX will debut this week at HYROX Melbourne, appearing on PUMA elite athletes including Open Doubles world record holder, Jake Williamson; Hamburg Major winner, Joanna Wietrzyk; 3x HYROX World Champion, Hunter McIntyre; 2025 World Champion, Linda Meier; and Jake Dearden.

“HYROX athletes sit at the intersection of endurance, strength, and mental resilience. We are proud to support this growing global community and push the boundaries of innovation with the first shoe built specifically for their sport. The Deviate NITRO™ Elite HYROX reflects PUMA’s commitment to creating products that empower athletes to perform at their highest level, whatever the arena,” said PUMA CEO, Arthur Hoeld.

“Since 2018, our two brands have been on a shared journey – pushing each other, supporting each other, and raising the bar every year. Announcing our partnership extension in Hamburg in October for another five years was a milestone, and now launching the first-ever shoe built specifically for HYROX is another. It builds real credibility for our sport, and we can’t wait to see athletes train in them, race in them, and cross the finish line in them,” said Moritz Fürste, Co-founder and Chief Marketing Officer of HYROX.

PUMA’s legacy has always been defined by innovation and speed. As pioneers in performance and proud stewards of the HYROX global community, PUMA continues to shape the future of hybrid racing.

HYROX’s global footprint continues to grow rapidly, with participation, affiliate gym numbers, and international race locations increasing year-on-year. By the close of the 2025/26 season, HYROX is projected to welcome more than 1.3 million participants across over 85 cities and 30 countries, marking one of the fastest expansions in the functional fitness landscape since the sport’s launch in Hamburg in 2017.

The Deviate NITRO™ Elite HYROX will launch on 19 February, available to purchase on PUMA.com, PUMA retail stores and Totalsports. Price R6099.

For more information visit www.puma.com and follow @PUMATraining or visit www.hyrox.com and follow @hyroxworld.

Puma Athletes Win Athlete Of The Year Honours At 2025 World Athletics Awards

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Puma Athletes Win Athlete Of The Year Honours At 2025 World Athletics Awards

Global sports brand PUMA is celebrating a landmark moment as two of its elite athletes, Mondo Duplantis and Nicola Olyslagers, both won individual honours at the 2025 World Athletics Awards in Monaco.

Pole vault sensation Mondo Duplantis secured the Men’s World Athlete of the Year title after one of the most dominant seasons in the sports history. The accolade follows a year in which the Swedish star broke the world record four times, culminating in an extraordinary 6.30m clearance at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo – the 14 th world record of his career. Throughout the season he competed in PUMA’s EvoSPEED Naio NITRO™ Elite spikes, engineered to maximise runway speed and deliver the stability and explosive energy return required for world-record vaulting.

High-jumper Nicola Olyslagers was honoured with the Women’s Field Athlete of the Year award after a season defined by consistency and power. She secured both the indoor and outdoor world high-jump crowns and capped her campaign with the Diamond League title after clearing 2.04m – the highest jump of the year and a new Australian and Oceanian
record. Throughout her winning season, Nicola competed in the PUMA EvoSPEED NITRO™ High Jump Power spikes, which she relied on to deliver precision and unwavering confidence on the field.

The success of both athletes underscores PUMA’s ongoing commitment to excellence in track and field. With Duplantis and Olyslagers now recognised as the best in the world in their disciplines, PUMA reinforces its position as a leading partner in elite performance – and both athletes prove what’s possible when talent meets cutting-edge innovation.

Helplink Supports Entrepreneurs in PE2EL 250km Ocean Challenge

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Helplink, the AI-powered platform transforming South Africa’s informal economy, proudly announces its sponsorship of the Port Elizabeth to East London (PE2EL) Ocean Canoe Challenge taking place from the 3rd to 6th December 2025.  Widely regarded as the toughest ocean paddling race in the world, the 250-kilometre endurance event is a powerful, four-day metaphor for the entrepreneurial journey. Helplink’s involvement celebrates the shared values of resilience, grit, and growth that are vital both for conquering extreme sport and for building a successful business.

The four-day, 250-kilometre endurance event, often nicknamed “The Maker of Men” and “The Blood, Guts & Glory Race,” demands extreme physical and mental resilience. It is thus befitting that Helplink is sponsoring such a race (and two inspirational participants) as there are strong similarities in the challenges of building a compliant, formal business in South Africa.

Helplink’s involvement is powerfully embodied by three sponsored paddlers: Helplink graduate and brand ambassador Sibusiso Zulu, dedicated lifeguard Sandile Menjenjalo, and top sportsman Bevan Manson.

Helplink graduate and brand ambassador Sibusiso Zulu will participate in the race, representing thousands of emerging micro-entrepreneurs who embody the same courage and perseverance. This sponsorship creates a platform for live event engagement and human stories, connecting Helplink’s mission of formalising businesses to a broader audience of potential funders and partners through emotional storytelling.

“There is a direct and undeniable correlation between the sheer intensity of the PE2EL Challenge and the grit required to successfully launch and run a formal business in South Africa,” said Adelaide McKelvey, Executive Director – Helplink. “Sibusiso is a living testament to the transformation our programme achieves. He has navigated the tumultuous ‘waters’ of the informal economy to establish a solid business and is now applying that same perseverance to conquer the harshest coastline in the world. He represents every micro-entrepreneur who embodies courage, perseverance, and purpose.”

Helplink’s second sponsored paddler, Sandile Menjenjalo, a dedicated lifeguard from Orient Beach, adds a powerful dimension to this partnership. Through his sponsorship, Sandile gains access to the Helplink AI Course—a practical, SETA-approved programme building skills in adaptability, life-skills and career advancement for corporate and community environments.  His participation highlights the deep connection between Helplink’s beneficiaries and PE2EL paddlers and both rely on discipline, courage, mentorship, and mental resilience to succeed. Whether navigating unpredictable surf or career challenges, Sandile embodies the Helplink spirit: real growth occurs when grit meets guidance and learning fuel’s purpose.

Champion ocean paddler Bevan Manson has joined the lineup completing the dynamic trio. The accomplished athlete not only captained the South African national water polo team for several years but has also won the PE2EL race three times.  Bevan holds the World Ocean Canoe record of 243 km in one day and is renowned for excelling amid long hours of gruelling training and unforgiving ocean conditions. He shares a compelling story of perseverance that deeply resonates with young South Africans as they navigate careers or build businesses in the informal economy. A credible and inspiring role model, Bevan embodies grit, guidance and growth in every stroke.  “Through paddling, I’ve learned that pushing through the toughest waves builds the strength to achieve anything,” says Bevan Manson. “I’m excited to connect with others and help them chase their goals.”

The Entrepreneurial Challenge vs. The Ocean Challenge

The PE2EL race is a gruelling test along South Africa’s treacherous Sunshine Coast. Paddlers face notorious surf breaks, long, exposed open-ocean legs, and the psychological burden of four days of extreme endurance.
• Distance: 250 kilometres.
• Duration: 4 days of open-ocean racing.
• The Challenge: Battling unpredictable conditions, negotiating the massive surf at Woody Cape, and overcoming mental and physical fatigue—all challenges that mirror the uncertainty and resilience needed to build a thriving enterprise.

Sibusiso Zulu who successfully completed the Helplink programme, is leveraging the foundational skills he gained—discipline, strategic planning, and perseverance—to prepare for this epic undertaking.

“The Helplink programme taught me that endurance is not just physical; it’s about having the right strategy, mentors, and the mental fortitude to push past the breaking point,” said Zulu.  “Every day on the PE2EL race needs focus and proper commitment, just the same as in running my business. I am proud to represent the thousands of resilient micro-businesses in South Africa who are ready to make the leap into the formal economy.”

About Helplink: Fuelling Inclusive Growth

The informal economy receives minimal support from corporate SA, yet it is South Africa’s most underutilised engine for inclusive growth. Helplink is the ideal scalable tool to bridge this gap. Using its AI-powered platform, together with extensive mentoring – it fast-tracks the transformation of micro-businesses into compliant, fundable, and future-ready enterprises.

The programme offers:
• SETA Approved AI Training in financial literacy, compliance, and marketing.
• Access to professional mentors
• A substantial media budget and access to the Helplink Media Alliance, which boosts advertising exposure by up to 100%.
• A shared value strategic investment model for corporate partners that offers extensive media exposure and powerful brand association.

Helplink also offers an AI-powered training platform, empowering corporate employees to develop essential life skills to assist in their careers— from adaptability to strategic problem-solving.   Helplink is actively seeking funders and partners to empower not only their own employees but also micro-businesses from their supply chain. This is where compliance meets opportunity – a strategic investment that delivers visible, measurable impact and positive brand association.

Follow the Race and Helplink’s Journey:
For more information go to: https://helplinkai.co.za/

To follow the race please follow: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BhAJQPP1c/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Instagram: @helplinksa
YouTube: Helplink AI

Facebook : Helplink

LinkedIn:  Helplinksa
Race Updates: #HelplinkXPE2EL | #FormaliseFast | #GritMeetsGrowth | #LearnToEndure

South African Runner Makes History in the World’s Deepest Marathon

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In a remarkable display of endurance, grit, and courage, a group of 57 runners from around the globe descended 1,120 meters underground to take part in the world’s deepest marathon — a historic event held in the Garpenberg Zinc Mine in Sweden.

Organised by BecomingX in partnership with the International Council for Mining and Metals (ICMM), the “World’s Deepest Marathon” challenged participants to complete 11 laps around a subterranean route to cover the full 42.2 kmdistance.

The event is now poised to set two Guinness World Records — one for The Deepest Marathon and another for The Deepest Underground Marathon Distance Run (Team) — while raising funds for two charitable causes: the BecomingX Foundation and the Wild at Heart Foundation.

South Africa’s Representation Underground

Among the participants was Ledile Dikgale, Mining Section Manager at Kumba Iron Ore, who proudly represented South Africa and the Anglo American family in this groundbreaking challenge.

Reflecting on the experience, Dikgale described the marathon as both physically demanding and deeply rewarding.

“This is one of the most important achievements of my life — I am truly proud and exhilarated! It was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be part of a historic event, and to do it while raising funds for charity made it even more meaningful,” she said.

Dikgale explained that she was nominated by Kumba’s Executive Leadership to run on behalf of CEO Mpumi Zikalala, an honour she embraced wholeheartedly.

“With the support of my running community, I completed training runs in the dark to prepare for the underground conditions. I also had to acclimatise to the heat by running in the afternoons, simulating the temperatures we would face below the surface,” she added.

She expressed her gratitude to the Kumba Executive Leadership team, her family, friends, and running community for their support and encouragement throughout her journey.

A Testament to Courage and Grit

Kumba Iron Ore CEO Mpumi Zikalala praised Dikgale’s remarkable achievement, describing it as an embodiment of the resilience and spirit that define Kumba’s people.

“Ledile’s achievement is a powerful reminder of the courage and grit that define our people at Kumba and is testament to the incredible potential within our teams,” said Zikalala.

“Running a marathon more than a kilometre underground is extraordinary on its own, but doing so in support of a greater purpose makes it even more meaningful. We are incredibly proud of her for representing our business and our country with such heart, discipline, and determination.”

About the World’s Deepest Marathon

The event — hosted in one of Europe’s oldest active mines — pushed the boundaries of human endurance, testing athletes in conditions of limited light, high humidity, and elevated temperatures. Beyond the physical challenge, the marathon highlighted the commitment of the global mining community to teamwork, resilience, and purpose-driven initiatives.