Author: Tanika Laskey

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Helplink Supports Entrepreneurs in PE2EL 250km Ocean Challenge

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Helplink Supports Entrepreneurs in PE2EL 250km Ocean Challenge

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

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Entries Are Open For The Biogen Half Marathon and SmectaGO 5km

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

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Sandton Mayhem Delivers Explosive Action

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

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on South African men make their ballsiest move yet

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.     

 

Betway SA20 Season 4 tickets on sale!

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Betway SA20 Season 4 tickets on sale!

Fans have an opportunity to secure the hottest seats in town with tickets for Season 4 of Betway SA20 going on sale today. The anticipated fourth season will take place in a new festive window between 26 December 2025 and 25 January 2026, giving holiday-goers and those on staycations access to non-stop cricket action and entertainment. 

The opening match at Newlands on Boxing Day between defending Champions MI Cape Town and Durban’s Super Giants promises electrifying fireworks to start the season. The clash will set the tone for an exciting lineup of opening-week fixtures in Pretoria, Paarl, Durban, Gqeberha, and Johannesburg. All tickets can be purchased on www.SA20.co.za
and at all stadium ticket offices.

Following last season’s record-breaking attendance figures and ticket sales, the League returns with even more energy, thrilling matchups, and unforgettable fan experiences across the six stadiums in the country. Returning with an even bigger bang, fans can expect something for everyone: world-class cricket, IG-worthy vibes, dance-cam moments and more.  

“The opening of ticket sales is a true marker that Season 4 is around the corner,” Betway SA20 League Commissioner, Graeme Smith said. “It has been encouraging to see the demand for tickets during the exclusive pre-sale window, with the opening match and the Final at Newlands already drawing a lot of interest and demand. We’re looking forward to
being a part of everyone’s festive season plans.”

With all six 19-player squads confirmed following a record-breaking auction, the attention moves to the star quality of local and international players who will be lighting up the stage. Fans will be treated to some of world cricket’s superstars, with Kagiso Rabada, Jos Buttler, Dewald Brevis, Tristan Stubbs, David Miller and Faf du Plessis bringing their experience and flair to the competition. 

Off the field, the 20th Players will be giving fans a front-row voice and bringing them closer to the incredible action like never before. Each of the six 20th Players represent a city where the six teams are based and will lead the fan movement in their region through their diverse voices and entertaining online personalities.  Join Anele Mdoda (Gqeberha), Leandie du Randt (Pretoria), Moshe Ndiki (Johannesburg), Nadia Jaftha (Cape Town), Schalk Bezuidenhout (Durban) and Vafa Naraghi (Paarl) as they lead the chorus to get fans to put their hands up in the air in the stands and online.

From behind-the-scenes moments, social media takeovers, matchday fit-checks, competitions and activations, the 20th Players bring the Betway SA20 experience to life; keeping fans connected both in stadiums and online.

Tickets for all fixtures are available through SA20’s official ticketing partner, Ticketpro, via www.SA20.co.za and at the six stadium ticket offices.

After last season’s unprecedented demand, fans are encouraged to secure their seats early and follow @SA20_League on social media for updates on matches, giveaways, and exclusive 20th Player content. All news and fixtures can also be found at www.sa20.co.za

Notes:
For more information, follow #BetwaySA20 on all social media platforms.
Twitter: @SA20_League
Facebook: @SA20League
Instagram: @sa20_league
TikTok: @sa20_league
YouTube: @SA20_League

For Betway SA20 media queries contact
Lerato Malekutu-Zondi
[email protected]
083 452 6330

How teen motorbike racer Cayden Robert is turning pain into power

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on How teen motorbike racer Cayden Robert is turning pain into power

For most 16-year-olds, a ‘crash’ might mean a scraped knee and a bruised ego after falling off a bicycle. For King Price Xtreme’s Cayden Robert, it’s far more serious: A high-speed motorbike accident that left him with a back injury and a long road to recovery, both physically and mentally.

Cayden has spent nearly a decade chasing his dream of becoming a professional motorbike racer with a global track record. Since the age of six, he’s dedicated every day, every weekend, and every ounce of focus to racing. So, since his crash sidelined him in August, the biggest challenge hasn’t been the pain. It’s been the pause.

“The moment I hit the ground, I knew it was a big one,” Cayden recalls. “I was shocked, irritated, and just couldn’t believe it had happened.”

This disbelief quickly turned into disappointment. Simple things like bending over to tie his shoelaces were difficult, but what really hit hard was the loss of rhythm. “It’s frustrating not being able to ride or train like I’ve been doing for so long,” he says. “But I just keep telling myself to stay positive, because I will get back on the track.”

For a rider used to the fast lane, recovery has forced Cayden to slow down and look inward. The mental battle, he says, is tougher than the physical one: “Seeing my physical improvements day-by-day improves my mental state,” he explains. “The two go hand in hand. The better I feel physically, the stronger I feel mentally.”

Cayden leans on prayer and visualisation, spending quiet moments focusing on his goals and imagining himself back on the bike. “I talk to God a lot,” he says. “And I visualise where I want to be: Racing again. Doing what I love.”

For all his focus and drive, Cayden is quick to credit his support system for helping him stay grounded, saying that he wouldn’t have coped as well without it. “My parents and brothers, my mentors, my teammates, and the King Price Xtreme crew. We’re all one big family. This experience has brought us even closer and made us more determined than ever.”

Mental toughness is something most athletes develop over years. But for a teenager like Cayden, it’s already become a defining trait. “Racing teaches you a lot about resilience,” he says. “You have highs and lows all the time. But this crash has shown me how important it is to stay positive.”

Cayden’s story is a reminder that even the fastest riders sometimes need to slow down to find strength. It’s also a testament to the fact that real champions are built in the quiet moments between races, when faith, family, and fierce determination keep the engine running.

And, when Cayden’s finally fit to race again, it’ll be proof that champions are defined by comebacks, not setbacks.

Ultra Gobi 400km | Champions Crowned

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Ultra Gobi 400km | Champions Crowned

Junyue(CHN)

The champions of the 2025 Ultra Gobi 400km have been crowned!

The men’s title was decided yesterday, while the women’s champion emerged today after four intense days in the Gobi Desert.

Women’s Champion —Bib：230 Zheng Junyue (CHN)

Defending champion Zheng Junyue secured her second women’s title today, finishing 5th overall in 92:24:55 and earning the title of “Guanjun Marshall.”

Starting 41st, she moved steadily up the rankings from 13th to 5th. On the morning of October 5 at R4, she shared her race struggles. “I was fighting alone in the desert, completely cut off from the outside world. The path to R2 felt like it stretched straight up to the clouds. After leaving R2, I was supposed to turn, but I just kept going straight. Luckily, this mistake didn’t last long. Then I started searching for footprints like a wilderness hunter—I found quite a few at first, but after looking for a while, the footprints disappeared again,” Junyue said.

She emphasized that her focus was on enjoying the race rather than breaking records. After finishing, she explained her motivation: “Actually, there are so many people who take on crazy challenges in this world, but I’ve noticed few women would try this. I think I can say I’ve made an attempt this year, because I’m afraid I will lose my courage if I don’t.”

Junyue first joined Ultra Gobi in 2024, when she set a women’s event record of 79:43:19 and won the title after a dramatic race involving a wolf encounter and a final 13 km battle. “I will participate in the Ultra Gobi 400km a third time, but I’m not sure if I will do so next year,” she added.

Men’s Champion —Bib：236 Cody Poskin (USA)

Cody Poskin claimed the men’s title on October 6 with a time of 64:49:32, breaking the event record and earning the title of “Guanjun Marshall.”

In his first Ultra Gobi 400km, Cody led from the start and built a significant gap. On the evening of October 5, however, he ran into multiple navigation problems and his leg was cut by thorn bushes. Although he was upset, losing his temper and swearing loudly, he forced himself to calm down and find solutions each time.

Before the race, Cody had estimated a 60-hour finish, but the final 100 km proved much tougher than expected. His speed dropped to 70–80% of earlier pace, averaging just 5–6 km/h. “Before the race, I studied the maps. However, when I arrived at the actual race venue, I still relied on my on-the-spot improvisation to take the shortcuts I had planned beforehand,” Cody said.

Reflecting at the finish, he described Ultra Gobi 400km as an adventure about living life to the fullest. “Running 400km means adventure and exploration. It means grabbing life by the horns and making an intentional decision to live life to the fullest. Gobi is passion and freedom. Coming to China to compete this time is truly the right choice I’ve made in my life!” he said.

Text Credits: James Huang / Grace Gao
Photo Credits: Ultra Gobi

 

Junyue Repeats Last Year’s Victory at Ultra Gobi

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Junyue Repeats Last Year’s Victory at Ultra Gobi

On day four of the GOBI ULTRA 400, after the men’s podium was determined the previous day, the lady winner was also decided. Zheng Junyue, already last year’s fastest, triumphed in the competition, which is still in full swing even after the first eight out of 55 runners have arrived. The athletes have until 18:30 local time on Thursday to complete the 400 kilometres.

With a time of 92 hours, 24 minutes and 55 seconds, Junyue fell well short of her performance last year, but still secured victory in the women’s competition and fifth place overall.

In the mixed zone at Gobi Spring, the Chinese athlete said: ‘I value my success this year more than last year’s victory. Twelve months ago, the motto was ‘fast, fast, fast’. But this year, first place wasn’t even the main focus. I wanted to enjoy ULTRA GOBI. I took photos, chatted with volunteers and friends along the route and was really happy in this unique landscape. This is the real Gobi!’

‘Just under 40 kilometres before the finish line, I knew I was going to win. Sometimes I was in the flow; sometimes the saying applied: ‘If you face something strong, you get stronger.’”

About two hours later, John William Carey and Lucy Schodell reached the finish line together.

Carey said: ‘I’ve never felt better than I do right now. Lucy and I are like brother and sister; we run together a lot. When we signed up for the ULTRA GOBI 400, we knew we’d be competing and enjoying the race together from start to finish.’

Schodell finished seventh overall and second in the women’s classification, completing the race in 94 hours, 27 minutes and 58 seconds.

“I didn’t actually expect a podium finish. We worked hard throughout the race and enjoyed it at the same time.”

‘There were some difficult moments, too. The second night was very cold; we got lost in the mountains, climbed unnecessary elevation and saw a large lake that wasn’t marked on any map.’

Carey and Schodell emphasised the outstanding organisation and work of the volunteers. ‘They were so friendly and helpful at all the checkpoints and aid stations.’

He Zheng was the best Chinese male athlete to reach the finish line at Gobi Spring in eighth place. He is from Gansu and said, “My father died a few months ago, so I dedicate this race and this finish to him. My whole family has always been very supportive of my running.”

Text Credits: Egon Theiner

African Bank Soweto Marathon: Full steam ahead

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on African Bank Soweto Marathon: Full steam ahead

The 30th edition of The People’s Race is well and truly on track, powering forward with thanks to the thousands of eager runners entered to date. With the unwavering support of headline partners African Bank, as well as the City of Joburg, Athletics South Africa and Central Gauteng Athletics; the planning processes and procedures are well on track for an exceptional race day come 29 November 2025. 

In March this year, the Soweto Athletics Clubs passed a resolution that the proposed vehicle to administer the organisation of the 2025 Soweto Marathon race event would be a Non-Profit Company (NPC). This NPC was elected by a majority vote, with nine (9) out of eleven (11) Soweto Athletics Clubs in attendance at an official meeting held earlier this year. 

Due to conduct of certain individuals, specifically, Thulani Sibisi, Stan Itshegetseng and Ishe Sadiki, in April 2025 the Soweto Marthon (Pty) Ltd initiated a Court process against these individuals. It is therefore not true that either the (Pty) Ltd nor the NPC took the Soweto Marathon Trust to Court. The Soweto Marathon (Pty) Ltd and the Athletics Clubs of Soweto initiated a Court proceed where they sought certain interdictory reliefs against these individuals. The relief sought, amongst others, were as follows:

  • Directing that the respondents stop abusing the Soweto Marathon for nefarious gains and bringing the name of the Soweto Marathon into disrepute;
  • Directing that the respondents stop calling and convening meetings in the name of the Soweto Athletics Club and the name Soweto Marathon;
  • Directing that the respondents stop spreading false allegations against the Soweto Marathon (Pty) Ltd and its director, Thokozani Mazibuko; and
  • Directing that the respondents stop contacting stakeholders and presenting false and misleading information.

It is unfortunate that the matter was decided on a technical basis and same has left room for the individuals to continue with their propaganda campaign and spreading lies. The Court concluded that due to the fact of the abovementioned resolution taken in March, it could only be the NPC representing the clubs before it and not the Soweto Marathon (Pty) Ltd. wherefore, the Court made no ruling on the merits of the matter. We therefore wish to reiterate that there was never a Court process between the Soweto Marathon NPC or Soweto Marathon (Pty) Ltd against the Soweto Marathon Trust. Further, the Court case was not to determine who should organise the race. 

The race organising team, race office and all partners and sponsors remain unchanged and committed as per the hugely successful 2024 Soweto Marathon – the country’s biggest one day road race. With this in mind, the Soweto Marathon NPC would like to remind the valued running community of its objectives of ensuring good and proper governance and sound financial accountability.

Lastly, On 6 October 2025, the Central Gauteng Athletics (CGA) addressed a letter to the NPC recording that it is aware of the developments around the Soweto Marathon race and that things need to be sorted out. The letter records, amongst others, the following:

“It is unfortunate that those who are currently serving suspension by the country’s governing bodies, are being given any airtime whatsoever. Working together is what is needed here, and I remind every single person taking the time to read this that: The Athletics Clubs of Soweto own this race – and they will focus on the race organizing committee to run this race by the people, for the people.”

 CGA concludes by wishing the NPC well in its organizing the 2025 Soweto Marathon race.