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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

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on PUMA Athletes Soar To Record Times At Valencia Marathon

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

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on South African Runner Makes History in the World’s Deepest Marathon

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.

Entries Are Open For The Biogen Half Marathon and SmectaGO 5km

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The iconic Biogen Half Marathon and SmectaGO 5km Fun Run presented by Momentum Multiply continues to set the pace as Gauteng’s premier half marathon, attracting thousands of runners eager to kickstart their year with a challenging yet rewarding experience. With its scenic and hilly route weaving through Bedfordview and Primrose, participants can look forward to another unforgettable morning of fitness, fun, and community spirit.

Entries are open for the 24th edition of the race and will take place on Sunday, 11 January 2026, proudly hosted by Bedfordview Athletics at the Bedfordview Country Club.

Biogen Marketing Manager Brandon Fairweather said, ‘Biogen is proud to continue supporting an event that perfectly aligns with our mission to promote active living and performance. The energy, determination, and sense of achievement seen every year at this race are what we stand for — fuelling potential and inspiring healthier lifestyles.’

Head of Momentum Multiply, Maria Carpenter commented, ‘Momentum Multiply believes in health ownership and in partnering with South Africans to make healthier choices and reclaim their health. This event is a great way to do exactly that. We’re proud to be part of an experience that not only motivates individuals but also uplifts communities through its charitable initiatives.’

SmectaGO continues to support the 5km Fun Run. SmectaGO sachets are a ready to use medication for on-the-go relief from diarrhoea. For prescribing information click here.

The Biogen Half Marathon presented by Momentum Multiply (21.1km) offers 6,000 entries, each including a race T-shirt, medal, and goodie bag. The SmectaGO 5km Fun Run presented by Momentum Multiply returns with 1,000 entries, ensuring a fun, family-friendly option for all fitness levels. Each entry includes a race medal, and goodie bag.

– Date: Sunday, 11 January 2026
– Start Location: Riley Road, Bedfordview
– Start Times:
– 21.1km — 06:00
– 5km — 06:30
– Entries Close: 15 December 2025, or once sold out

Entry Fees:

– 21.1km Standard: R265.00
– Grandmaster/Junior: R235.00
– Great Grandmaster: R130.00
– 5km Fun Run: R120.00
(All prices exclude online transaction fees.)

In addition to celebrating fitness, the event raises much-needed funds for Lambano Sanctuary and the Namaqua Dog and Donkey Foundation. Every runner has the opportunity to make a difference — with the Dis-Chem Foundation matching all donations made during registration.

Race Director, Charnia Yapp said, ‘The Biogen Half Marathon has become a cornerstone of Gauteng’s running calendar, and 2026 will be no exception. We’re excited to once again welcome runners of all levels to Bedfordview for a race that blends community and running. This event sets the tone for an active year ahead.’

Entries are now open, but limited! Click here to secure your spot and be part of Gauteng’s ultimate running experience.

Bedfordview Country Club – Athletics
Race contact: WhatsApp 083 287 6792
[email protected]
www.biogen21.co.za

Sandton Mayhem Delivers Explosive Action

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Johannesburg, South Africa – 1 November 2025: Saturday evening’s Sandton Mayhem, hosted by Aquila Boxing Promotions at The Galleria in Sandton, delivered a spectacular night of world-class boxing that kept fans on their feet from the opening bell to the final knockout. With a sold-out crowd in attendance, the event lived up to its promise – showcasing South African boxing at its finest through a blend of raw power, technical precision, and undeniable heart.

The evening was spearheaded by Kevin Lerena, founder and face of Aquila Boxing Promotions, whose vision continues to elevate the sport locally by offering both established and rising fighters a world-class platform to perform and inspire.

Fight Highlights:

  • Tshegofatso Matlala suffered a tough loss in his bout against Mxolisi Lahliwe but displayed unwavering grit and the heart of a true warrior.
  • Liam Fox and Ntokozo Msibi went toe-to-toe in one of the night’s most talked-about encounters – a thrilling contest that ended in a majority draw, with both men showcasing exceptional skill and endurance.
  • Luke Hendrikz and Sabelo Ndwandwe delivered the fight of the night, leaving everything in the ring. Their relentless energy and technical brilliance earned them an additional R10 000.00  each, recognising their outstanding performance and sportsmanship.
  • Simnikiwe Bongco ignited the evening with a knockout victory over Siphelele Sindane just 1 minute and 4 seconds into the first round, setting an explosive tone that had the crowd roaring.
  • Gary van Staden went the distance in a fiercely contested bout against the DRC’s Ali Patsho Sambi, demonstrating tactical discipline, composure, and power to secure a hard-fought victory.
  • Leo Careri continued his rise as one of South Africa’s brightest prospects, knocking out Jackson Kaptein 1 minute and 21 seconds into the fourth round to a thunderous ovation.
  • Tiitestso Matikinca reaffirmed his reputation as one to watch, stopping Michael Davies just 57 seconds into the second round with a clean, clinical knockout.
  • In a defining moment of the night, Lindokuhle Khuzwayo captured the IBO All Africa Featherweight Title with a second-round knockout over Rilwan Lawal, solidifying his position as a top South African talent on the rise.
  • The main event saw Kaine “K9” Fourie face Argentina’s Claudio Daneff for the IBO Intercontinental Lightweight Title. Despite immense crowd support, Fourie was stopped 2 minutes and 1 second into the second round, as Daneff claimed victory with a decisive knockout.

Every fighter who entered the ring embodied the grit, passion, and skill that define South African boxing. The event not only showcased technical excellence but also reflected the depth of talent and heart driving the local boxing scene forward.

Gratitude to Sponsors:
We’re beyond grateful to have powerhouse partners in our corner – the kind that don’t just support the vision, they supercharge it. Massive thanks to the ABP sponsors: World Sports Betting, in association with Supersport, The world of champions; Tigris Wealth; JCP Steel; Meat world; Knox Hydration; HP; and Little Tuscany Boutique Hotel. Without your backing, this event wouldn’t be the premier, high-calibre showcase it has become. You don’t just elevate the event – you define it.

Speaking after the event, Kevin Lerena shared: “Sandton Mayhem was everything we envisioned – competitive, passionate, and a powerful reminder that South African boxing belongs on the global stage. Every fighter left their mark tonight.”

For those unable to attend the sold-out spectacle, SuperSport – The World of Champions broadcast the fights live, ensuring boxing fans across Africa could experience the excitement as it unfolded.

Once again, Sandton Mayhem proved that Aquila Boxing Promotions is redefining the local boxing landscape through elite event production, athlete development, and unforgettable matchups that position South African boxing firmly on the international stage. Cannot wait to see how they top this in 2026, WATCH THIS SPACE.

South African men make their ballsiest move yet

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Neighbourhoods, office parks, sports clubs and schools around South Africa turned a vibrant shade of purple today, as thousands of daredevils took to the streets to raise awareness about prostate and testicular cancer.

For the 16th year, the Hollard Daredevil Run has once again made its mark, uniting men from every province in the fight against male cancers. Corporates supported the event by sending their staff running teams in their numbers and even the jacaranda trees played along by providing shade plus purple love to the Daredevils in Johannesburg and Pretoria.

As early as 05:00 this morning, runners in Ermelo, Bethlehem and Durban North set the scene for an unforgettable day of purpose and awareness. By 06:00, the Western Cape locations as well as the Eastern Cape’s Hobie Beach in Gqeberha, all came alive with a sea of purple Speedos. Next was a team of 200 in Kimberley and another 200 in Mbombela, where Nelspruit Marathon Club, Legogote Villagers Club, City of Mbombela Marathon Club and Pumas Rugby Development joined forces.

What followed were runs across the country: from Khayelitsha, Mahikeng and Kimberley to Pretoria, Potchefstroom as well as Plettenburg Bay.

These hundreds of regional runs today have demonstrated that wherever the Hollard Daredevil Run goes, its message of early detection, life-saving screenings and raising awareness of prostate and testicular cancers resonates nationwide.

Thousands of men also gathered at Zoo Lake in Johannesburg, where the main run takes place every year. Present at this event were representatives from the Prostate Cancer Foundation and the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA), long-standing partners of the Daredevil Run and beneficiaries of all the funds raised, which goes towards increasing awareness and support as well as testing in under-resourced areas. 

“Last year alone, we conducted 1 000 PSA tests, trained 649 healthcare professionals and ran outreach programmes across rural and underserved areas. This funding is truly life-saving, allowing us to educate, screen and support men, as well as their families, to take control of their health” says Lorraine Govender, National Manager: Health Programmes at CANSA.

“The iconic purple Daredevil Speedo has become a symbol of hope. We couldn’t be prouder of the impact it has in raising awareness, encouraging early detection and ultimately saving lives across South Africa,” says Andrew Oberholzer, CEO of the Prostate Cancer Foundation of South Africa.

“At Hollard, we believe that by raising awareness, we can encourage early detection and make a real difference in saving lives,” says Hazel Chimhandamba, Group Chief Marketing Officer at Hollard.

“Understanding the symptoms and available tests as well as having access to testing facilities is crucial in the fight against prostrate and testicular cancers, which is why the Daredevil Run is such an effective platform: It gets people talking about men’s health in a fun, engaging and approachable way. We are truly humbled by the support received and the incredible numbers of participants who joined the cause.”

In South Africa, the lifetime risk of developing testicular cancer in men is approximately 1 in 1,750 and it remains one of the most common cancers affecting men between the ages of 15 and 49. Prostate cancer claims the lives of thousands of South African men each year. International data shows that approximately 1 in 4 black men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer versus 1 in 8 white males. A simple blood test can measure PSA levels, which can help detect prostate cancer early. For both prostate and testicular cancer are highly treatable when caught early.

With R1 million raised in 2024, Hollard is setting its sights on doubling the total this year. Those wanting to play their part can donate on the Hollard Daredevil BackABuddy platform and help save the lives of more men in South Africa. Hollard’s corporate partners like iTOO and C&R were amongst the first to pledge donations towards the Daredevil Run fund.

“Together we can make a real difference and drive meaningful impact. Thank you to all the Daredevils that set out in their Speedos today. See you next year and bring a friend”, says Chimhandamba.

About Hollard   

The Hollard Insurance Group (“Hollard”) is South Africa’s largest privately owned insurance group. Hollard provides short-term, life insurance and investment products to a diverse customer base. Hollard through Hollard International has access to 10 markets across the continent namely South Africa, Botswana, Ghana, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, Zambia, Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.