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Mr O – Ramadan Night Runs

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Mr O – Ramadan Night Runs

Night runs start at 9.45pm
Afternoon runs start after ASR prayers

Sunday afternoon 2 March: 8km . From Sports Science Centre, Newlands

Monday 3 March: 8km + 12km . From Access Park Food Truck Village [ special menu to follow for post run treats ]

Wednesday 5 March: 8km + 12km . From Vida Imam Haron [ post run specials menu to follow for runners ]

Friday 7 March: 8km + 16km + 24km . From Primi Constantia Village [ menu to follow ]

Saturday 8 March: 10km + 15km + 20km . From On Point Market Sea Point [ food truck village ]

Sunday afternoon 9 March: 8km . From Sports Science Centre, Newlands

Monday 10 March: 8km + 12km . Grande Cafe [ special menu to follow for post run treats ]

Wednesday 12 March: 8km and 12km . From Vida Imam Haron [ post run specials menu to follow for runners ]

Friday 14 March: 8km + 16km + 24km . From Sports Science Centre, Newlands [ Coffee and food vendor on site ]

Saturday 15 March: 10km + 15km + 20km . From On Point Market Sea Point [ food truck village ]

Sunday afternoon 16 March: 8km . From Sports Science Centre, Newlands ]

Wednesday 19 March: 8km + 12km . From Vida Imam Haron [ post run specials menu to follow for runners ]

Friday 21 March: 8km + 16km + 24km . From Primi Constantia Village [ menu to follow ]

Saturday 22 March: 10km + 15km + 20km . From On Point Market Sea Point [ food truck village ]

Sunday afternoon 23 March: 8km . From Sports Science Centre, Newlands

Monday 24 March: 8km + 12km . Grande Cafe [ special menu to follow for post run treats ]

Wednesday 26 March: 8km + 12km . From Vida Imam Haron [ post run specials menu to follow for runners ]

Friday 28 March: 8km + 16km + 24km . From Sports Science Centre, Newlands [ Coffee and food vendor on site ]

Saturday 29 March: 10km + 15km + 20km . From On Point Market Sea Point [ food truck village ]

Sunday afternoon 30 March: 8km . From Sports Science Centre, Newlands

Head over to his Instagram, @ashraforrie, for updates on Training Run days 

Gloot Sets Its Sights on Global Growth in 2025

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Gloot Sets Its Sights on Global Growth in 2025

As 2025 kicks off, Gloot—one of South Africa’s fastest-growing health, wellness, and beauty brands—is gearing up for another exciting year of expansion, innovation, and community-driven success. After a record-breaking 2024, which saw phenomenal sales, strategic retail partnerships, and game-changing product launches, the brand is now setting its sights even higher—global expansion.

Reflecting on Gloot’s incredible journey, Greg Tinkler, CEO and Founder, shares:

“We started this brand in my spare bedroom with one goal—to create products that help women feel confident, healthy, and strong. Fast forward just a year, and Gloot has become a household name, with thousands of women making our products part of their daily routines. In 2025, we’re going bigger: We’re aiming to be the #1 brand in every category we compete in, expand into exciting new wellness spaces, and take Gloot global.”

A Year of Unstoppable Growth

Gloot made serious waves in retail and e-commerce in 2024, achieving:

#2 spot in sports nutrition & slimming at Clicks—with Flat Tummy Toner becoming the best-selling product across the entire Clicks group in under a year.

Massive success on Takealot, winning the Best Newcomer Award and landing Flat Tummy Toner among the platform’s top 10 most sold products of the year.

Expansion into 80+ Foschini stores and Botswana, with plans to roll out in Checkers Hyper in 2025.

Sellout launch on Bash.com, plus key partnerships with Food Lover’s Market and Shoprite Medirite.

E-commerce explosion, with Gloot hitting its first R1 million sales month just six months in—and now shipping over 6,000 orders per month.

What’s Next? Bigger, Better & More Innovation

Gloot isn’t slowing down. This year, the brand is launching Slim & Burn, a highly anticipated natural weight-loss solution that offers a cleaner, safer alternative to traditional options.

“Natural is the future,” says Tinkler. “Consumers want effective, science-backed alternatives to synthetic products. Slim & Burn is designed to support weight management using powerful natural ingredients—without the harsh side effects.”

Beyond weight management, 2025 will mark Gloot’s expansion into skin and beauty—a natural next step in its mission to support women’s wellness holistically. And on the global front, the brand is preparing to enter Africa, the Middle East, Australia/New Zealand, and the UK.

More Than Just Products: A Movement for Women

At its core, Gloot is about more than just supplements—it’s about building a movement. The Gloot Girl community has already grown to over 20,000 women, and in 2025, the brand is launching a dedicated Gloot Girl Community App. This platform will offer exclusive content, expert advice, and a space for women to connect and support each other on their health journeys.

“We’re not just selling products—we’re selling confidence, health, and beauty. Gloot is a lifestyle, and we’re here to help women feel their absolute best, every single day.”

About Gloot

Gloot is a leading female-focused health, wellness, and beauty brand dedicated to creating high-quality, natural solutions tailored to women’s unique needs. Our mission is simple: empower women to feel confident, healthy, and strong—inside and out.

Gloot products are available at www.glootnu.com, Clicks, Takealot.com, Bash.com, and select Foschini stores nationwide. 

Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES unveils R1.6M Prize Purse and groundbreaking SA Athlete Incentives for 2025

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES unveils R1.6M Prize Purse and groundbreaking SA Athlete Incentives for 2025

The Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES, South Africa’s premier road running series, is raising the stakes for 2025 with a massive combined prize purse of R1 610 000.00 and groundbreaking incentives designed to inspire top performances from SA athletes.

Since launching in 2015, the Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES has transformed road running in South Africa, bringing five world-class 10km events to five vibrant cities. The 2025 season kicks off in Gqeberha in April, followed by Cape Town in May, Durban in July, Tshwane in August, and wraps up in Johannesburg in September.

Big Rewards for Big Efforts

“We believe that a strong prize purse not only rewards dedication but also motivates athletes to push their limits,” says Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports and Series Founder. “We’re proud to announce a total prize purse of R1 610 000.00 for 2025, with each of the five events offering R322 000 in prize money.

From this, R252 000.00 is dedicated to the Open Category—R126 000.00 for the Top 10 Open Men and R126 000.00 for the Top 10 Open Women. The winners in each city will take home R30 000.00, with R25 000.00 for second place and R20 000.00 for third.

An additional R70 000.00 is allocated for Age Category prizes, rewarding the top three finishers in the Junior, 40–49, 50–59, 60–69, and 70+ age groups.”

Game-Changing Athlete Incentives

On top of the prize purse, Stillwater Sports has introduced an exciting SA Athlete Prize Incentive Schedule for 2025, rewarding standout performances at all five races.

For men, bonuses kick in for finishing times under 28 minutes, with a massive R200 000.00 payout for breaking the 27-minute mark. Women can start earning bonuses for times under 32:08, with a R200 000.00 incentive for breaking 30:23.

To raise the stakes even higher, any South African athlete who breaks the national 10km record at the time of the race will earn an extra R50 000.00 bonus. The current SA records stand at 27:35 (Precious Mashele, 2023) and 31:12 (Glenrose Xaba, 2024), both set at Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES events. The R50 000.00 will go to the fastest time recorded.

“The standard of South African road running is reaching new heights at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES,” adds Meyer. “In 2024, we paid out R610 000.00 in SA Athlete Incentives, and we’re determined to keep raising the bar in 2025. Our goal is to reward outstanding performances and elevate the level of competition in South African middle-distance running.”

A Star-Studded 2025 Lineup

To keep the momentum going, Stillwater Sports has been actively recruiting top talent for the 2025 series. One of the biggest announcements so far? Global running sensation Adriaan Wildschutt will make his series debut at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K on Sunday, 13 April 2025.

Wildschutt captured the world’s attention in August 2024 when he finished 10th in the Olympic 10 000m final, smashing his own SA record with a time of 26:50.64. With four national track records to his name, he’s now setting his sights on the SA 10km record at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K.

“We want to empower South Africa’s elite athletes to build successful careers without having to race overseas,” says Meyer. “These incentives will help attract top talent and inspire incredible performances throughout the 2025 series.”

SA 10km Champion Glenrose Xaba agrees, saying the series’ incentives push local athletes to perform at their best. “These rewards are linked to performance times, which is key for us. The better my time, the better my chances of competing internationally. Breaking my own record would be a dream come true—I’d be the happiest woman alive.”

Making his series debut, Wildschutt shares her enthusiasm: “These incentives are a great motivator. When I was starting out, financial support like this made all the difference. The Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES offers some of the best incentives in SA road running, which sets it apart.”

Mark Your Calendar: 2025 Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES

  1. Sunday 13 April 2025 – Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K

  2. Sunday 11 May 2025 – Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K

  3. Sunday 13 July 2025 – Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K

  4. Sunday 24 August 2025 – Absa RUN YOUR CITY TSHWANE 10K

  5. Wednesday 24 September 2025 – Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K

Running for a Cause

The Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES proudly supports CANSA (Cancer Association of South Africa) as the official charity partner. Since 1931, CANSA has been at the forefront of cancer research, education, and support. Runners can contribute to this important cause by donating when entering any of the events online.

Stay Connected

Facebook: @Gqeberha10k / @CapeTown10k / @Durban10k / @Tshwane10k / @Joburg10k
Instagram: @Gqeberha10k / @CapeTown10k / @Durban10k / @Tshwane10k / @Joburg10k
Hashtags: #RunYourCity #AbsaRunYourCity
WhatsApp Line: 072 042 7613
Website: www.runyourcityseries.com

Nedbank Running Club’s Top Contenders for the 2025 Pirates 21K Powered by Medshield

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Nedbank Running Club’s Top Contenders for the 2025 Pirates 21K Powered by Medshield

The 2025 Pirates 21K Powered by Medshield, nicknamed Joburg’s toughest half, has attracted some of the best runners that Nedbank Running Club has to offer. Offering excellent preparation for the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon later this year, the climb up to Northcliff Hill is set to challenge not only the elite but every runner brave enough to take it on. With a course record of 1:07:13 in the men and 1:18:00 in the women, our contenders are set to race hard to see if the Green Team can claim the top spots.

The Nedbank Running Club has selected a formidable team to contest top positions. Here’s a look at the club’s strongest contenders:

Onalenna Khonkhobe

2024 Two Oceans and Soweto Marathon Champion Khonkhobe has consistently delivered strong performances across many of South Africa’s biggest races. His half marathon PB is an impressive 1:03:13 set at the Nelson Mandela Bay Half Marathon in 2022. Last year’s victory at the 2024 Pirates Half Marathon puts him as a real contender to take down the long-standing men’s record of 1:07:13 set in 2013. “I will be racing, I will see on Sunday how I feel, but the record is a possibility. This is part of my preparation for Two Oceans, especially to improve my speedwork on the climbs.”

Lucky Mohale

New to the veteran category, Mohale’s is still aiming to compete overall. He continues to impress taking second place at this year’s Johnson Crane Half Marathon with a time of 1:07:27. While the course at Pirates is a lot harder, especially in terms of climbing, Mohale is confident about his chances.  “I am aiming for a podium at Pirates, my season has started well and while I am preparing for Two Oceans, this race is a good one to push and see where my training is.” 

Adele Broodryk

A standout performer in the women’s field, Broodryk boasts an impressive half-marathon best of 1:18:30, achieved in Port Elizabeth in 2023. While she is coming back from injury, Broodryk remains a strong and consistent runner, her comeback is set, and we are excited to see her back in form, ready to test her speed work on this course.

“This is a training run for me to see where I am post-injury, it is perfect to incorporate some much-needed hill training.”

Tiisetso Mokhoma

Mokhoma with a half-marathon PB of 1:08:20 has proven himself as a top-tier competitor. His recent results include fourth place at last year’s African Bank Soweto Half Marathon in 1:09:11 means he will be considered a real contender for the podium, given how tough the Soweto course is. 

Joel Mmone

Mmone brings an elite pedigree with a PB of 1:01:22 set at the 2019 Port Elizabeth Half Marathon. In 2024, he finished 7th at the Nelson Mandela Bay Half Marathon running a 1:04:34. His experience and tactical racing ability will be key factors on race day.

With such a talented lineup, the Nedbank Running Club is set to make a significant impact at the 2025 Pirates 21K. Whether vying for the top spots or pushing for personal bests, these elite athletes will undoubtedly add excitement to this race.

Nedbank Gravel Burn: A New Era For Gravel Racing

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Gravel Burn is thrilled to welcome Nedbank as its Title Sponsor, marking the start of an exciting new chapter for the seven-day, 850km stage race—now officially known as Nedbank Gravel Burn. Set to take place from 26 October to 1 November 2025, this epic race will lead riders through some of South Africa’s most breathtaking and untamed landscapes.

This landmark five-year partnership underscores Nedbank’s deep commitment to cycling, backing a bold and innovative event with the potential to redefine gravel racing. With an unprecedented $150,000 prize purse—the largest single-event payout in gravel racing history—Nedbank Gravel Burn is set to make waves on the international stage. Coupled with world-class race production and an extensive global media strategy, the event is primed to attract top professional and amateur riders alike.

“Nedbank Gravel Burn represents an exciting evolution in cycling,” says Jason Quinn, Chief Executive of Nedbank. “This partnership aligns perfectly with our vision to drive positive change, foster economic growth, and create lasting impact. By supporting initiatives that reflect our values, we aim to empower individuals and position South Africa as a global leader in gravel racing.”

Kevin Vermaak, Founder of Gravel Burn, adds: “This race takes everything we’ve learned from stage racing and applies it to a fast-growing discipline. With Nedbank on board from day one, we have a unique opportunity to build something truly special—an event that challenges riders, showcases South Africa’s diverse landscapes, and earns its place on the international gravel calendar.”

But Nedbank Gravel Burn is more than just a race—it’s a journey through history and landscapes few have experienced. Riders will traverse ancient trails where dinosaurs once roamed, cross historic battlefields, and camp beneath the vast Karoo night sky—one of the darkest in the world. Off the bike, the race village comes alive with cultural storytelling, local hospitality, and camaraderie, ensuring every moment is part of something bigger.

The event’s Founding Sponsors—Toyota, Assos, ChemChamp, Shamwari, and WeWork—played a pivotal role in bringing this vision to life. As the first brands to back the race, they will always be recognised as the pioneers who helped shape a world-class gravel racing experience.

With an unmatched rider experience, the sport’s biggest prize purse, and a commitment to pushing the boundaries, Nedbank Gravel Burn is set to raise the bar for gravel racing worldwide.

About Nedbank Group

Nedbank Group is one of Africa’s largest banking groups, listed on the JSE Limited with a market capitalisation of R137bn as of 31 December 2024. Operating across South Africa, Namibia, Eswatini, Mozambique, Lesotho, and Zimbabwe, as well as in key international financial centres like London and Dubai, Nedbank offers a comprehensive range of banking, insurance, asset management, and wealth management services. The group has maintained a level 1 BBBEE status for six consecutive years and ranks in the top quartile of local and international banks on ESG scores. Learn more at www.nedbankgroup.co.za.

About Gravel Burn

Gravel Burn is a seven-day, 850km gravel stage race that showcases South Africa’s extraordinary landscapes—from lush coastal forests to the vast Great Karoo. Riders experience remote camps under starlit skies and conclude their journey at Shamwari Private Game Reserve, where they encounter Africa’s iconic Big 5 wildlife. More than just a race, Gravel Burn is an adventure that inspires and challenges riders in equal measure.

For more details, visit www.gravel-burn.com.

Celebrate 10 incredible years of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES in Cape Town – entries are open!

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Celebrate 10 incredible years of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES in Cape Town – entries are open!

The Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES is turning 10! A decade of road running excellence calls for a celebration, and what better way to mark the occasion than with the 2025 Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K? Entries are officially open for this iconic race, happening on Sunday, 11 May 2025—so don’t miss your chance to be part of the action!

“Celebrating 10 years of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES in Cape Town is a huge milestone for us,” says Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports and Founder of the Series. “This race has become a staple in South Africa’s running calendar, blending elite competition, an electric atmosphere, and unbeatable views of the Mother City. We can’t wait to welcome runners of all levels—whether you’re chasing a PB, soaking in the city’s energy, or just enjoying the journey. This anniversary edition is going to be one for the books, so secure your spot early!”

Jabulile Nsibanyoni, Head of Sponsorships, Brand, and Marketing at Absa, adds: “Mother City, it’s time to hit the streets! The Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K is more than a race—it’s a movement. For every kilometer logged by Team Absa on Strava, we’ll donate R1 to our R1 campaign, ensuring we make a meaningful difference where it’s needed most. We can’t wait to celebrate your achievements and hear your stories at the finish line!”

This isn’t just any 10K. It’s a mass-participation race that winds through Cape Town’s most iconic landmarks, offering breathtaking scenery and an electric atmosphere. Whether you’re an elite athlete, a weekend warrior, or tackling your first race, this event is designed to inspire and challenge you in the best way possible.

“The City of Cape Town has been part of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES from the very beginning,” says JP Smith, Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security. “Over the past decade, this event has showcased our city’s beauty, energy, and love for sport. It’s a celebration of the thousands of runners who’ve taken part, those who’ve embraced a healthier lifestyle, and the unforgettable memories we’ve created along the way. We can’t wait to see athletes return to the iconic route in 2025 and experience the incredible vibe that brings our running community together.”

Western Province Athletics is also excited to be part of the milestone event. “The Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K continues to raise the bar for road running in our region,” says Farouk Mayer, President of WPA. “It’s an event that welcomes everyone—from elites to social runners—while championing health, fitness, and inclusivity. With entries now open, we encourage runners to sign up and be part of this special 10th-anniversary edition.”

2025 Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES – Event Dates

Sunday, 13 April 2025 – Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K
Sunday, 11 May 2025 – Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K

  • Start: Marine Drive, Milnerton
  • Finish: Lower Long Street, opposite Absa Building
  •  

Entry Fee:

  • Licensed Runners: R255.00
  • Temporary License: R60.00

What’s Included?

  • Performance T-shirt
  • Absa Entrant Gifts
  • Finisher’s Medal
  • Race Number & Timing Chip
  • Sponsor Activations
  • Entertainment & Refreshment Stations
  • Tog Bag Drop & Collection
  • Post-race festivities

Entries open: Monday, 10 February 2025
Entries close: Monday, 5 May 2025 (midnight) or once capacity is reached

Sunday, 13 July 2025 – Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K
Sunday, 24 August 2025 – Absa RUN YOUR CITY TSHWANE 10K
Wednesday, 24 September 2025 – Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K

Running for a Cause

The Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES is proud to support the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) as its official charity partner. CANSA has been leading the fight against cancer since 1931, funding research, raising awareness, and supporting those affected. When registering for an event, runners have the option to donate and contribute to a cancer-free future.

Cape Town, are you ready? Lace up, sign up, and be part of the 10th-anniversary edition of this incredible race.

Website:  www.runyourcityseries.com

TRACN4 Elands Marathon Attracts Nedbank Running Club’s Best

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on TRACN4 Elands Marathon Attracts Nedbank Running Club’s Best
Mpumalanga’s most scenic marathon is back. The TRACN4 Elands Marathon, hosted by the Nedbank LVCC Running Club and sponsored by Trans African Concessions (TRAC), takes place on Saturday 1 March 2025.

Set against the breathtaking Elands Valley, this event is a key qualifier for both the Comrades Marathon and the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon, making it a must-run for South Africa’s endurance runners.

Nedbank Running Club will be sending their best:

This year’s race promises thrilling competition, with top Nedbank athletes headlining the event. Tete Dijana, double Comrades champion, and Dan Matshailwe, the first South African and second-place finisher at the 2024 Comrades Marathon, will take to the starting line, adding prestige and excitement to the event. Joining them will be a host of aspiring Nedbank Running Club members and those hoping to qualify for Comrades.

Mandla Nxumalo of the Nedbank LVCC Running Club expressed excitement about the event’s economic benefits, urging out-of-town runners to secure accommodation early. The 2025 event is expected to attract an even larger field than previous years, featuring some of South Africa’s top road runners.

Key Details:

The 42.2km marathon starts at 05h30 from Laerskool Oosterlijn in Emgwenya (formerly Waterval Boven) and winds through picturesque landscapes, including the historic Waterval Boven Tunnel. Runners finish at the Sappi Skills Training Centre in Ngodwana. The entry fee for the 42.2km race is R420.

For those looking for shorter distances, there’s a 21.1km half marathon starting at 06h00 near the Fortis Malaga Hotel (R270) and a 10km route starting and ending at Sappi Skills Training Centre (R130). Both these races will provide a memorable running experience for all who take part.

Entry fees include the R60 for bus transport to the start, providing seamless logistics for participants. All distances also qualify for Vitality Points, adding extra incentive for fitness enthusiasts.

TRACN4 Elands Marathon Expo:

Runners can kick off their experience by attending the TRACN4 Elands Marathon Expo, on 28 February 2025 at Astron Energy Millys on the N4. Open from 11h00 to 20h00, the expo will be the hub for runners to collect their race numbers and explore the various brand activations and promotions. If you are unable to collect from Millys, your race number can also be collected at LVCC in Mbombela.

Where to Enter:

Online registration is open until 16 February 2025, with no late entries accepted. Participants can update their entries, or do substitutions, upgrades, or downgrades. Visit www.elandsmarathon.co.za for more details.

Whether you are running to qualify or for the love of the sport, the TRACN4 Elands Marathon is the ultimate challenge in one of South Africa’s most scenic regions.

For more information, contact [email protected] or call 082 801 3600.