Author: Tanika Laskey

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Bedfordview Athletics Cancels Boroughs of Bedfordview Race

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Bedfordview Athletics Cancels Boroughs of Bedfordview Race

Bedfordview, Gauteng – Bedfordview Athletics regrets to announce the cancellation of the Boroughs of Bedfordview race, scheduled for 21 September 2025.

This community event was launched in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic as a way to reunite and re-energize runners through a traditional road race format. It was a celebration of resilience and community spirit during a time when the running world had been turned upside down.

With the road running calendar now fully restored and participation levels returning to pre-Covid norms, Bedfordview Athletics has made the strategic decision to streamline its efforts and resources. The club will now focus its energy on delivering an exceptional experience through its flagship event—the Biogen 21km Run, held annually in January.

“We’re incredibly proud of what the Boroughs of Bedfordview race represented and the role it played in helping bring our running community back together,” said Grant Panter, club chairman of Bedfordview Athletics. “Our priority is to ensure we continue to grow and improve the Biogen 21km, which remains a highlight on the national running calendar.”

Bedfordview Athletics extends its sincere thanks to all the athletes, volunteers, sponsors, and community members who supported the Boroughs of Bedfordview over the past few years. The club looks forward to welcoming runners from across the country to the Biogen 21km in January 2026.

For further information on the Biogen 21km, please visit
https://www.biogen21.co.za

 

Rolling with the Roving Cow: Grit, goggles, and a guide dog named Ginty

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Rolling with the Roving Cow: Grit, goggles, and a guide dog named Ginty

Kathleeen Amelia Flanagan was born with retinitis pigmentosa (RP). The condition slowly narrows the field of vision: in layman’s terms, it’s like having permanent tunnel vision. Despite this she’s never been one to shy away from a challenge — including when, as she got older, her vision deteriorated further. Now she’s storming the triathlon circuit, even earning a national title. Our Roving Cow Richard Laskey gets the full story.

Wild Frontiers Await: The Kruger2canyon Challenge

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Wild Frontiers Await: The Kruger2canyon Challenge

Calling all trail enthusiasts! The legendary Kruger2Canyon Challenge returns to the breathtaking landscapes of Hoedspruit from June 27-29, 2025, offering an adventure that combines majestic mountains with the raw beauty of African bushveld. Established in 2015, the K2C has earned its reputation as one of South Africa’s most spectacular trail events. What makes this challenge truly special? It’s the only race that takes you through the dramatic northern Drakensberg mountains and the wildlife-rich bushveld bordering Kruger National Park – all in one unforgettable weekend.

Day 1 tests your mettle on “The Mountain Day”, traversing the stunning Mariepskop and Blyde River Canyon with elevations that reward you with panoramic vistas stretching to the horizon. Day 2 shifts dramatically to “The Bush Day” at Moholoholo Mountain View, where your trail companions might include buffalo, hippo, leopard, and abundant plains game. This contrast of landscapes in a single event is simply unmatched anywhere else.

The K2C caters to all levels of trail adventurers with four distance options:

The ultimate 70km challenge (42km/2300m elevation + 28km/410m elevation)
The balanced 44km option (25km/1440m elevation + 19km/370m elevation)
The accessible 30km experience (16km/1080m elevation + 14km/280m elevation)
The introductory 20km adventure (10.1km/550m elevation + 10km/230m elevation)

Not ready for running? No problem! Hikers are warmly welcomed on the 30km and 20km routes, making this an inclusive event for all outdoor enthusiasts. Beyond the physical challenge, the K2C offers an immersive connection with two of South Africa’s most precious environments. Where else can you summit a mountain overlooking the world’s third largest canyon one day, then spot iconic African wildlife on the trail the next?

The Kruger2Canyon experience extends beyond the trail with a vibrant race village, excellent support stations, and an atmosphere that celebrates a competitive spirit and personal achievement.
Whether you’re seeking a qualifying race for bigger ultras, your first trail running adventure, or simply a unique active holiday in one of South Africa’s most beautiful regions, the K2C delivers an experience that will leave you changed.

Don’t miss your opportunity to experience this extraordinary challenge. 

Enter here: https://kruger2canyonchallenge.co.za/k2c-2025-entries/

Should You Run a Marathon If You’re Sick or Just Getting Over the Flu?

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Should You Run a Marathon If You’re Sick or Just Getting Over the Flu?

Last month we debated whether or not to do away with race tees and medals to lower race costs. This month we offer two points of view on another big topic: should you run a marathon if you’re sick or just getting over the flu? We have all been there —  but what should you actually do, run or rest?

Feel Calm, Run Easy: ASICS Launches Gel-Kayano™ 32

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Feel Calm, Run Easy: ASICS Launches Gel-Kayano™ 32

Delivering premium stability with plush comfort, the latest GEL-KAYANO™ model enhances your run.

ASICS announces the launch of the GEL-KAYANO™ 32 shoe, the latest evolution in its flagship stability running shoe series. Designed to elevate comfort and support, this new model features a refined midsole design and an updated upper to provide an even smoother and more adaptive running experience.

The GEL-KAYANO™ 32 shoe continues to build on the legacy of adaptive stability and premium comfort established by its predecessors. The 4D GUIDANCE SYSTEM™, developed through extensive research and testing, works in harmony with the body’s natural movement to provide dynamic stability when runners need it most. It helps guide the foot through a more efficient stride, delivering high levels of comfort and stability even in demanding conditions.

Staying true to the ASICS Design Philosophy*, the GEL-KAYANO™ 32 shoe introduces key refinements to enhance both comfort and stability. The midsole features updated FF BLAST™ PLUS cushioning, a lightweight and responsive material that delivers a soft feel with an energetic rebound. An additional 2mm of foam under the forefoot enhances softness and cushioning, while an updated midsole design with a lighter foam compound makes the shoe even lighter than the previous model. Additionally, PureGEL™ technology ensures superior shock absorption and smooth transitions, offering runners a more effortless ride.

The engineered mesh upper has been thoughtfully redesigned to deliver a softer, more comfortable feel throughout every run. Additionally, the reinforced stable tongue wing is crafted to adapt to the unique arch shape of each runner, offering enhanced midfoot support on the medial side. Together with the updated upper and tongue wing construction, the GEL-KAYANO™ 32 shoe provides an improved fit for an elevated running experience. The inclusion of HYBRID ASICSGRIP™ outsole enhances traction and durability, reinforcing stability with every stride.

Tomohiro Nishida, Performance Running Footwear, at ASICS, said: “ASICS has always strived to deliver premium running stability with unprecedented levels of comfort. With unique approaches like the 4D GUIDANCE SYSTEM™ and PureGEL™ technology, we have delivered adaptive stability and superior comfort. The GEL-KAYANO™ 32 shoe continues this journey of continuous improvement, incorporating impactful refinements to further enhance the comfort of the running experience. We are excited to see runners enjoy its plush cushioning, smooth ride, and trusted support.”

The GEL-KAYANO™ 32 shoe will be available globally at ASICS retail stores, online, and through specialist running outlets from June 1, 2025. To find out more about the products, please visit https://www.asics.com/gb/en-gb/

Maluadzi dedicates Absa Run Your City Cape Town 10K win to late mom on Mother’s Day

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Maluadzi dedicates Absa Run Your City Cape Town 10K win to late mom on Mother’s Day

By Adnaan Mohamed

In a touching tribute on Mother’s Day, Kabelo Maluadzi delivered a performance to remember, winning the 10th edition of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Cape Town 10K on Sunday. 

The 27-year-old from Alexandra stormed through the streets of the Mother City in a blistering 27:49, crossing the finish line on Lower Long Street to the cheers of thousands lining the route.

Running in perfect, windless conditions, Kabelo led a sold-out field of 15,000 participants who set off from Marine Drive in Milnerton. The former South African cross-country champion made his intentions clear early on, surging to the front and dictating the pace.

His closest challenger, Kamohelo Mofolo of Lesotho, stayed within striking distance and finished just four seconds behind in 27:53. Veteran South African distance runner Stephen Mokoka claimed third in 28:06, while national marathon record-holder Elroy Gelant, still recovering from setting a new SA record of 2:05:36 in Hamburg, took a respectable fourth in 28:08.

Kabelo, emotional at the finish, revealed the personal significance of the win.

“My mom passed away when I was still young. I was thinking about her as I crossed the line. This is the best gift I could give her,” he said.

After finishing 20th in last year’s edition due to injury, he knew this was his chance to shine. “I’m fit now, and I believed anything was possible.”

For being the first man across the line (R30 000) and breaking the 28-minute barrier (R40 000), Kabelo – the Boxer Athletics Club standout — coached by Richard Mayer — takes home a total of R70 000.

The women’s race saw Glenrose Xaba prove her dominance once again, winning in 32:00. Despite a challenging middle section between 3km and 5km, Xaba kept her composure and powered ahead of Ethiopian Selam Gebre, who finished second in 32:13. South Africa’s Lebo Phalula, at 40 years old, showed she’s still a force to be reckoned with, securing third in 32:50.

Glenrose, who also pockets R70 000 for winning the women’s race and finishing under the 32:08 incentive mark, dedicated her victory to all mothers, saying, “This is for the moms who do so much for their children. We can’t always run fast times, but I’m happy I could perform in a strong field today.”

The race, now firmly established as one of South Africa’s premier 10K events, once again showcased the continent’s elite talent in a celebration of endurance, resilience, and heartfelt moments.