Author: Tanika Laskey

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Perfect Score In SPAR Grand Prix For History-making Glenrose Xaba

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Perfect Score In SPAR Grand Prix For History-making Glenrose Xaba

Glenrose Xaba from Boxer made history as the first South African to win the SPAR Women’s Challenge Grand Prix title since 2019, when international athletes were first allowed to compete in the series. Xaba secured her victory on Sunday with a strong performance in the Jozi SPAR Women’s 10km Challenge at Marks Park.

Three-time SPAR Grand Prix champion, Tadu Nare from Nedbank, was bumped down to third place on the leaderboard by her fellow Ethiopian and teammate, Diniya Abaraya.

The Grand Prix winner is determined by each athlete’s top four performances, and Xaba finished with a perfect score of 120 points, earning maximum bonus points from all four of her wins. Xaba was also the last South African to win the SPAR Grand Prix, back in 2018.

Abaraya finished with 112 points, just one ahead of Nare, who had 111 points. Nare missed the Cape Town race, but won in Durban, placed third in Pretoria, and took second in Gqeberha and Johannesburg. Abaraya didn’t compete in the Tshwane race, but finished fifth in Durban, second in both Cape Town and Gqeberha, and third in Johannesburg. Currently, there is no Junior Grand Prix competition.

Cacisile Sosibo from Boxer came in fourth overall, with 72 points. Meanwhile, the Phalula twins, Diana-Lebo Phalula-Mzazi and Lebogang Phalula-Luthuli, also from Boxer, dominated the 40-49 age category. Phalula-Mzazi achieved a perfect score with four wins for a total of 40 points, while her sister earned 37 points with one win and four second-place finishes. Phalula-Mzazi finished seventh in the open category, and Phalula-Luthuli came in ninth.

In the 50-59 age group, Anne Stewart nearly had a perfect score, earning 39 points with three wins and one second-place finish. Judy Bird swept the 60-69 category, winning every race and securing the maximum points.

Vin.yards4Cancer Run Crew

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Hey, runners and community supporters! I’m Ethan Bain, one of the founders of Vin.yards4Cancer Run Crew, and I’m excited to share how this journey began and what it’s all about.

From a Bet to a Movement

It all started as a playful challenge between seven housemates. We dared each other to complete the Cape Town Marathon. But this challenge soon transformed into something much more meaningful when one of our housemates was diagnosed with cancer. We knew we had to do something bigger—to run for a purpose close to our hearts. That’s how our mission to support childhood cancer began.

Running With Purpose

Vineyards Run Crew runs for those who can’t. Our friend’s battle inspired us to dedicate our efforts to raising awareness and funds for children fighting cancer. Every kilometer we cover is about making a difference in their lives. What started as a friendly bet has grown into a passion-driven journey to support a cause that means the world to us.

The Commitment That Drives Us

Training with a purpose in mind keeps us going. It’s not about being professional runners (because trust us, we’re not!). It’s about showing up, pushing through, and reminding ourselves of the bigger picture: helping kids who face struggles far greater than running 42 kilometers. Our mantra? For those who can’t. It keeps us motivated every single day.

As university students, juggling studies and training isn’t easy, but we make it work. Weekends and evenings are our go-to for runs, and sticking together as a team helps us stay accountable. Our advice? Keep your goals in mind, plan your training, and run with a group—it makes all the difference.

Why Social Running Clubs Are Thriving

There’s been a huge shift toward social running clubs among young adults, and we’re proud to be part of that movement. These clubs aren’t about competition; they’re about community. They give you the flexibility to balance fitness with fun, creating an environment where everyone is welcome, no matter your pace. Social media platforms like Strava and Instagram have made it easier than ever to connect, track progress, and share our journey with a wider audience.

Our Training & How You Can Join Us

We’ve followed a 12-week training plan, running 4-5 times a week to prep for the marathon. Our weekday runs are shorter, ranging from 5km to 12km, and weekends are reserved for the long ones—21km or more, depending on how ambitious we’re feeling. It’s challenging, but the support from our community keeps us going.

Want to be part of the crew? We’d love to have you! Find us on Instagram or Strava under Vin.yards4Cancer  and join us for a run. Together, we’re making every step count—for our friend, for children battling cancer, and for the joy of running.

Tumi Sekhukhune Ready To Rise Again At The Icc Women’s T20 World Cup 2024

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Tumi Sekhukhune Ready To Rise Again At The Icc Women’s T20 World Cup 2024

As the Proteas Women gear up for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Tumi Sekhukhune finds herself at a defining moment in her career. After battling through injuries and missing the 2023 home World Cup, the seasoned seam bowler is ready to prove her worth and represent her community of Daveyton, Johannesburg, with pride.

Overcoming Setbacks

For Sekhukhune, missing last year’s T20 World Cup was a significant setback. “It wasn’t a nice experience for me, especially because it was at home. Playing on a global stage in front of my family would have been very special,” she shares. However, this disappointment spurred her to work even harder.

“I had to sharpen my skills and reflect on what I could offer to the team,” she says. The aftermath of her recurring groin injury in 2022 and her exclusion from the World Cup squad led to both mental and physical challenges. “I had a mental breakdown. Sometimes you feel like you’re not enough, or that your skills aren’t enough.”

Motivated by her teammates and provincial coaches, including former DP World Lions coach and new Proteas Women fielding lead Bongani ‘Coach Fantastic’ Ndaba, Sekhukhune found a way forward. “I had coaches who helped me improve in specific areas, and taking small steps helped me stay motivated,” she adds.

Despite the challenges of regaining fitness, she maintained her focus. “Some days, I didn’t feel like doing anything, but I told myself to take it one day at a time.”

Pride in Representing Daveyton

Daveyton, her hometown, has always played a significant role in Sekhukhune’s journey. “Growing up in Daveyton shaped the person I am today,” she reflects. A multi-talented athlete who participated in handball, volleyball, and netball in her youth, Sekhukhune’s transition to cricket allowed her to showcase her skills on an international stage when she made her debut in September 2018.

Representing her community in the World Cup fills her with pride. “It’s special to see people from Daveyton supporting me, posting messages on social media, and knowing they’re 100% behind me. That connection really means a lot to me.”

Preparing for the World Cup

Securing her spot in the 2024 T20 World Cup squad is a milestone for Sekhukhune. “One of my main goals was to get selected for the World Cup. Now that I have, my focus is on staying consistent, ensuring I’m prepared, and being ready to seize opportunities when they come.”

Sekhukhune has also tailored her training to adapt to the challenging conditions in the UAE. “I spent more time in the sun, trying to get used to the conditions. Our tour of Pakistan before heading to the UAE helped me adjust to the heat.” As a senior player, she knows her role goes beyond just bowling. “It’s important for me to contribute as much off the field as on it. My bowling style suits these conditions, and with the team’s success last year, there’s pressure, but I’m ready for it.”

Personal Growth and Reflection

The past few years have provided Sekhukhune with opportunities for personal growth. “I had to unlearn certain habits and adopt new ones. It wasn’t easy, but it helped me improve both as a cricketer and as a person.” Her time away from the game allowed her to reconnect with family and friends. “I spent more time with family, friends, and my dog, which helped me stay grounded.”

She also pursued her studies during recovery. “My injury gave me time to focus on finishing my degree in Supply Chain Management in Logistics, and my family motivated me to continue my education.”

Advice to Future Proteas

Sekhukhune has learned the value of patience and discipline in overcoming setbacks. “Sports come with challenges and injuries, but it’s important to stay grounded. Do your gym work, train hard, and fuel your body with the right nutrients. When setbacks come, be disciplined and trust the process.”

For young girls dreaming of playing for the Proteas, her message is clear: “Cricket is a rewarding game, filled with ups and downs. Keep working on your craft, stay patient, and even if you fall down, you’ll rise again. Believe in yourself, and know that you are going places.”

Ready to Shine Again

Sekhukhune’s journey back to fitness and form is a testament to her strength and determination. As she prepares for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024, she stands as a proud representative of her community, ready to make her mark once again. With the support of Daveyton and the lessons she’s learned along the way, Tumi Sekhukhune is poised to rise, carrying the heart of South Africa with her on the global stage.

PUMA Launches Latest Hyrox Collection

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PUMA Launches New HYROX Collection for Performance and Comfort

PUMA is excited to introduce the PUMA x HYROX collection, designed to boost your performance during HYROX competitions. With advanced features like CLOUDSPUN’s 4-way stretch fabric, this gear offers ultimate comfort and freedom of movement, helping you perform your best on race day.

HYROX is a high-intensity event that combines functional fitness and endurance, challenging participants to run 1km followed by a functional workout station, repeated eight times. Whether you’re competing solo, with a partner, or in a relay team, the PUMA x HYROX collection is built to keep you comfortable and focused.

As the official global partner of HYROX, PUMA has incorporated its innovative CLOUDSPUN technology into the collection. This moisture-wicking, stretchy fabric delivers a soft, cotton-like feel with a performance edge, allowing unrestricted movement during training and competition.

The collection will be available at the HYROX pop-up store in Cape Town on 21 September when HYROX comes to Africa for the first time. You can also find it online at PUMA.com and in select PUMA retail stores starting in October 2024. For more info, follow @pumatraining or visit PUMA.com.

Reebok continues momentum in running leadership with a fresh FloatZig 1 colourway and technical Apparel launch

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Reebok’s FloatZig 1 running shoe made a splash when it first hit the scene, with the running community quickly naming it the “Best Newcomer in 2024.” Now, Reebok is keeping the momentum going with the release of a bold new colorway: the FloatZig 1 Game Day, packed with the same top-tier performance technology that runners love.

What makes the FloatZig 1 stand out is its combination of Reebok’s signature Floatride Energy Foam and the iconic ZigTech midsole. The result? A shoe that’s lightweight, springy, and built to make every run feel smooth and effortless. Whether you’re just starting to explore running or gearing up for your next marathon, the FloatZig 1 Game Day is designed for runners of all levels to lace up and get moving.

This latest release is part of Reebok’s global campaign, “Running Hacks,” which aims to make running more fun and accessible to everyone. With a playful tone, the campaign encourages all kinds of movement and celebrates the joy of getting out there and running.

Here’s what you can expect from the FloatZig 1 Game Day:
– Floatride Energy Foam: This premium, lightweight foam enhances cushioning, boosts energy return, and delivers a smooth, unique underfoot feel.
– ZigTech Midsole: Designed to provide a springy, lightweight run for ultimate comfort.

Want to learn more? Check out the FloatZig 1 Game Day collection at [Reebok South Africa](https://www.reebok.co.za/collections/floatzig-game-day) or follow them on Instagram for updates and inspiration.

 

Boxer Super Run takes the excitement of 5km running to Tshwane!

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South Africa’s most social 5km run, the Boxer Super Run, is set to make its exciting debut in Tshwane on Sunday, 10 November 2024, at TUKS (Uitspan), with the action starting from 07:00. This highly anticipated event will bring together runners of all ages and abilities for a day of fun, fitness, and camaraderie in the nation’s capital.

As the 5km is the most popular distance globally, the Boxer Super Run welcomes everyone, from seasoned athletes to first-time runners. Tshwane is about to experience a world-class 5km road race like never before!

“The debut of the Boxer Super Run in Tshwane this November is a major milestone for us,” says Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports. “We’re beyond excited to bring this dynamic 5km experience to the Jacaranda City, offering runners of all abilities a chance to be part of something truly special. With Tshwane’s vibrant running culture and the unique format of the Boxer Super Run, we’re expecting an unforgettable day filled with energy, fun, and competition. We can’t wait to see what this city brings to the event!”

“We’re so proud to expand the Boxer Super Run to Tshwane in 2024, following the massive success of our Durban event in 2023,” adds Lee-Ann Pillay, Head of Marketing at Boxer Superstores. “This move highlights the growing popularity and appeal of the Boxer Super Run. It’s truly an event for everyone, and we’re excited to offer an experience that caters to the masses while also showcasing our elite Boxer Athletics Club athletes. We can’t wait to see Tshwane embrace this amazing event!”

“As Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa (CCBSA), we believe in partnerships that create a positive impact,” says Bame Modimogale, Head of Customer, Modern Trade. “The Boxer Super Run 2024 is a fantastic opportunity for us to connect with the communities we serve, allowing both serious runners and newcomers to shine while having fun.”

Event Information: 2024 Boxer Super Run

Whether you’re an elite athlete, casual jogger, or just joining for a fun day out with friends and family, the Boxer Super Run is open to participants aged 9 and up. The highlight of the day will be the Boxer Super Run ELITE RACE, where South Africa’s top athletes will compete for the prestigious titles of King and Queen of the 5K! But it’s not just about competition—it’s about achieving personal bests, having a blast, and sharing the experience on social media. Choose your wave, dress up or down, and enjoy the day! Every participant will receive a branded T-shirt, race number, a fantastic goodie bag, and a medal at the finish line.

Date: Sunday 10 November 2024 

Distance: 5km

Start Venue: TUKS (Uitspan), Koedoespoort 456-Jr, Pretoria, 0186

Finish Venue: TUKS (Uitspan), Koedoespoort 456-Jr, Pretoria, 0186

Event Waves & Start Times: 

– 07:00 / OPEN WAVE (Anyone and everyone, club runners, serious runners, schools, runners who prefer an early start, masses)
– 08:00 – 09:30 / SUPER SOCIAL WAVE (Dress up, groups, company groups, charities, runners who prefer a slightly later start)
– 09:45 / ELITE WOMEN
– 10:10 / ELITE MEN
– 10:30 / Young Stars 1km (U9/U10)

Entry Fee: R100 / R60.00 Temp License

Minimum Age of Entrant: 9 Years Old

Entries Open: Monday 09 September 2024

Entries Close: Tuesday 05 November 2024

Entries Include:
– Boxer Super Run Event Performance T-shirt
– Race Number
– Fantastic Goodie Ba
– Boxer Super Run Medal at the finish

Enter Online Via: www.webtickets.co.za

EXCITING NEWS: Discovery Vitality members can now earn Vitality points after completing the Boxer Super Run.

Under Armour joins Gun Run as technical sponsor

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In just over a week, Cape Town will come alive as thousands of athletes hit the streets for the 30th OUTsurance Gun Run – a must-do event on South Africa’s sporting calendar. This year, Under Armour, known for pushing the limits in athletic gear, is stepping up as the official technical sponsor, and they’ve chosen the UA Infinite Elite as the race’s official shoe.

Whether you’re tackling the 21km half marathon, the 17km trail run, or just enjoying the 5km fun run, there’s something for every runner. And with the stunning backdrop of Cape Town’s iconic scenery, participants are in for a real treat. Lacing up the UA Infinite Elite means runners can expect top-notch comfort, peak performance, and a sleek look as they chase their personal bests

Winning isn’t just about hard work and determination—it also comes down to the gear you’ve got on your feet. Over the past decade, we’ve seen a real shift in running technology, with advancements in shoes helping athletes push their limits like never before.

Under Armour has been leading the charge, focusing on perfecting the weight, cushioning, and flexibility of their shoes to elevate every run. Their latest creation, the UA Infinite Elite, is all about helping athletes break boundaries and chase new goals. At its core, Under Armour’s mission is simple: make runners better. They back athletes with the drive and determination to not just compete but to win.

Here’s the lowdown on the upcoming OUTsurance Gun Run:

Starting and finishing in Mouille Point, Cape Town, the Gun Run on the 14th and 15th of September is your chance to chase personal glory and better health. Whether you’re going for the 21km half marathon, the 17km trail run, the 10km run/walk, or even the 5km fun run or pet walk, having the right shoes makes all the difference.

Under Armour says: “To get to the next level, every athlete needs endurance and conditioning. That takes year-round effort, but also the right gear. Our Infinite Elites are built to help you run to win. The rest is up to you.”

The official race shoe – Under Armour Infinite Elite:

With HOVR Plus technology in the midsole, these shoes are softer, lighter, and built to last. The warm knit upper provides support for your heel and midfoot, while ensuring breathability to keep your feet cool with every stride. Plus, the beaded foam on top delivers excellent cushioning and energy return, making them perfect for both intense training and competitive races.

At the end of the day, Under Armour believes it’s all about mindset: “You are your greatest competition. Pushing past your limits isn’t just a skill, it’s a mentality. That’s what we design for—and why our athletes always run to win.”