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Africa leads Global Safe Sport Conversation in Cape Town

Adnaan MohamedFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Africa leads Global Safe Sport Conversation in Cape Town
By Adnaan Mohamed

The race to make sport safer is gathering pace, and in Cape Town the baton was firmly placed in African hands at the Safe Sport Global Conference,

More than 400 delegates from around the world converged on the University of Cape Town for the Safe Sport Global Conference, where World Athletics and World Rugby joined forces to strengthen safeguarding systems and elevate athlete welfare across the continent and beyond.

Held from 25 to 27 May and opening on Africa Day, the conference brought together researchers, policymakers, administrators and safeguarding practitioners in a shared pursuit of a sporting environment where athletes can thrive free from abuse, exploitation and harm. The workshops focused on transforming words into action by focusing on implementation and building systems.

At the heart of the gathering was a message that resonated through lecture halls and panel discussions alike.

“Safer sport is not built by one discipline, one organisation or one country alone. It depends on shared responsibility, deeper understanding, and stronger systems,” said Associate Professor David Maralack, Head of Department at the School of Management Studies at UCT.

In many ways, the conference embodied that philosophy.

Like teammates linking arms in a defensive line or runners working together through a punishing headwind, World Athletics and World Rugby used the event to create new partnerships, share expertise and strengthen safeguarding networks throughout Africa.

Maralack also highlighted the significance of hosting the conference on African soil.

“Hosting the conference at UCT placed African scholarship and lived experience at the forefront of this important dialogue, challenging the historical dominance of perspectives shaped elsewhere.”

For years, safeguarding conversations have often been driven by frameworks developed in Europe and North America. In Cape Town, African experiences moved from the margins to the centre of the field.

The three-day programme examined how safeguarding commitments can be transformed from policy documents into everyday practice. Research presentations, workshops, stakeholder dialogues and keynote sessions tackled topics ranging from athlete welfare and leadership accountability to international cooperation and policy implementation.

World Athletics and the Athletics Integrity Unit contributed expertise through discussions on continental safeguarding networks, trauma-informed case management and the relationship between integrity and athlete protection.

Away from the formal programme, 15 safeguarding leads from African athletics federations met to exchange ideas, discuss challenges and build relationships designed to strengthen athlete protection across the continent. Working alongside World Rugby representatives, delegates forged connections that organisers hope will outlast the conference itself.

The importance of collaboration emerged as one of the event’s defining themes.

Neal Andersen, CEO of Safe Sport International, said that at its core “safe sport is the only sport that matters”.

National Athletics Association of Zimbabwe safeguarding officer Tawanda Mutero said the conference demonstrated growing global commitment to athlete safety.

“It emphasised listening to athletes and putting them first. Collaboration was highlighted as key to making sport safer for everyone.”

Athletics Namibia safeguarding officer Victoria Tilovanhu Katukula echoed those sentiments.

“The Safe Sport Conference provided a valuable opportunity for networking with professionals committed to creating safer sporting environments. My takeaway is that safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility and it is not done overnight.”

That message became the conference’s enduring refrain.

Safeguarding is not a sprint to be won in a single season. It is a marathon requiring patience, vigilance and collective effort. Strong policies matter, although culture, education and accountability ultimately determine whether athletes feel protected.

As delegates departed Cape Town, the conference concluded with a call to carry the Safe Sport legacy forward.

The final whistle may have sounded on three days of discussion, although the real work has only begun.

If the conference achieved one thing, it was reinforcing a simple truth. Athlete safety is not the responsibility of a select few. It belongs to everyone who shares the field, the track and the future of sport.

Oldest (84) and Youngest (20) conquer 2026 Comrades

Adnaan MohamedColumns, Comrades Marathon, Features, NewsLeave a Comment on Oldest (84) and Youngest (20) conquer 2026 Comrades
By Adnaan Mohamed

The 2026 Comrades Marathon delivered many memorable performances on the gruelling 85.777km journey from Durban to Pietermaritzburg, though few stories captured the spirit of the race quite like those of Johannes Mosehla and Bailey O’Leary.

Separated by 64 years in age, the pair finished the 99th edition of the Ultimate Human Race as its oldest and youngest official finishers.

Mosehla, 84, crossed the line in 11:12:26 on Sunday to break his own record as the oldest finisher in Comrades history. In doing so, the Polokwane Running Club member finished ahead of thousands of runners many decades his junior.

The veteran runner, who began his running journey in 1963, said the achievement was a source of pride and gratitude.

“To be the oldest finisher at Comrades is a great honour,” said Mosehla.

“This race continues to inspire me every year. Running has given me so much throughout my life. I hope my journey encourages people to stay active, stay disciplined and keep chasing their goals regardless of age.”

Mosehla credits his remarkable longevity to consistency, moderation and a healthy lifestyle.

“You must listen to your body, eat well, rest properly and enjoy what you are doing. Running should bring happiness. I still love training in the mountains and spending time outdoors.”

While Mosehla represented experience and endurance, O’Leary embodied youthful ambition.

The 20-year-old, who lives in the United Kingdom and whose parents are both originally from Durban, finished her Comrades debut in 10:42:51 to become the youngest female finisher in this year’s race.

Her first Comrades was made even more special by sharing the journey with her father, Jon O’Leary.

Proud dad Jon O’ Leary with his daughter Bailey O’ Leary at the Comrades Winners breakfast on Monday 15 June 2026. Photo: Adnaan Mohamed

“I grew up supporting my dad and listening to stories about Comrades,” said Bailey.

“He inspired my love for the race and it was always my dream to run my first Comrades with him. He helped me a lot, especially in the first half, and crossing the finish line was incredibly special.”

For Jon, the day was about far more than another medal.

“It was one of the proudest moments of my life,” he said.

“Comrades means so much to our family. To see Bailey achieve her goal and share the experience with her from start to finish was unforgettable.”

As the Comrades Marathon prepares to celebrate its centenary in 2027, both runners have already confirmed their intention to return.

Mosehla will aim to extend his remarkable record, while O’Leary hopes to secure a special back-to back medal awarded to novices for consecutive finishes.

Bailey O’ Leary in action on the 2026 Comrades Marathon Up Run Route Photo: Supplied

Their stories served as a powerful reminder that Comrades remains a race where generations meet, dreams endure and the finish line belongs to anyone willing to keep moving forward.

Virgin Active HYROX Jo’burg Makes History as Africa’s Largest Fitness Race

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Virgin Active HYROX Jo’burg Makes History as Africa’s Largest Fitness Race

The global fitness racing phenomenon reached historic heights as the Virgin Active HYROX Johannesburg event completely rewrote the record books over the weekend of 30 – 31 May 2026. Taking over the expansive halls of the Johannesburg Expo Centre at Nasrec, the event officially became the largest HYROX competition on the African continent to date, proving that the local appetite for fitness racing is growing at an unprecedented rate. 

As the official title partner, Virgin Active anchored an electric, high-octane weekend that brought together elite competitors, first-time racers, and a massive community of fitness enthusiasts. 

The weekend delivered staggering participation across the board, setting a soaring new benchmark for African fitness racing. Over 8,100 athletes stepped into the Roxzone to conquer the signature HYROX format (alternating eight 1km runs with eight grueling functional workout stations) to form the largest starting field in South African history. Among them were 595 competitors who took on the Pro divisions, battling both the ticking clock and Johannesburg’s notorious 1,750-meter altitude. 

This historic turnout also signaled a powerful shift in the sport’s demographics. Women made up an impressive 55% of the total field, while the highly competitive 30–34 age bracket emerged as the weekend’s largest contingent, accounting for more than 21% of all racers. Proving the event’s massive regional draw, this competitive spirit extended far beyond South African borders, pulling in prominent athlete squads and roaring support crews from Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe, and Eswatini. 

The incredible athletic performance was matched point-for-point by the supportive energy of the spectators. A record-shattering crowd of over 9,000 passionate spectators packed the Expo Centre, making it the largest spectator turnout the event has ever seen, turning the venue into a roaring cauldron of support. 

“Eight thousand one hundred athletes is the largest crowd we’ve ever seen at a HYROX event on this continent,” said Dean Kowarski, Group CEO of Virgin Active. “That’s a signal worth paying attention to. People want more than just a place to train, they want community, a challenge, and a wellness ecosystem that supports all of it. And we’re proud that Virgin Active is built for exactly this moment.” 

Simon Goldsbrough, HYROX South Africa Race Director, echoed this excitement: “Johannesburg completely raised the bar. The energy inside the Expo Centre across both days

was absolutely magic. To achieve a 55% female field and our highest athlete count to date shows that the ‘sport of the everyday athlete’ has found a massive, permanent home in South Africa. We are deeply grateful to our partners and the roaring crowd that carried these competitors across the finish line.” 

The historic scale and smooth execution of the race were made possible through the collaboration of major global and local lifestyle brands. Alongside title partner Virgin Active, an incredible roster of event partners brought world-class activation zones, recovery lounges, and nutritional support to the venue. 

With record participation, a female-led field, a massive cross-border turnout, and unparalleled crowd support, the May 2026 Virgin Active HYROX Johannesburg event solidifies fitness racing not just as a passing trend, but as one of the fastest-growing mainstays in African sports culture. 

About HYROX: 

HYROX is the Global Fitness Race for Every Body. Launched in 2017, HYROX has become the world’s largest indoor fitness race, hosted in over 30 countries. The standardised format allows athletes of all levels to compete against their own personal bests and a global leaderboard. 

About Virgin Active: 

Virgin Active is South Africa’s leading health and wellness club network. Through its multi-year partnership with HYROX, Virgin Active provides specialised training programmes, accredited trainers, and world-class recovery facilities to support the fitness journey of every South African athlete. 

For more information, race results, or to register for upcoming events, visit www.hyroxsa.com. Media Contact: 

Corlia Meyer 

[email protected]

Picture credit: HYROX South Africa – Fahwaaz Cornelius

Sea of Pink, Stories of Strength: Cancer Survivors Inspire at Totalsports Women’s Race

Adnaan MohamedFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Sea of Pink, Stories of Strength: Cancer Survivors Inspire at Totalsports Women’s Race
By Adnaan Mohamed

The countdown to the 2026 Totalsports Women’s Race has begun, and while thousands will toe the start line in Durban, Cape Town and Johannesburg this August, some participants are already carrying victories far greater than any finish medal.

For cancer survivors such as Selina Govender, Rayghanah Cassiem and Ntokozo Dludla, every kilometre covered is a declaration of resilience. Their stories form part of the beating heart of an event that continues to blend fitness, friendship and fundraising through its partnership with PinkDrive.

Set to take place on three consecutive Sundays in August, the race has become a moving mosaic of courage, where the famous sea of pink flows through city streets like a river of hope.

Govender, from Merebank in Durban, was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer with widespread bone metastasis in August 2021 at the age of 37. What followed was a marathon few could imagine: a mastectomy, lymph node removal, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, bone-strengthening infusions and ongoing endocrine therapy.

Selina Govender Photo: Supplied

“Almost five years later, my scans remain clear. I continue with endocrine therapy and bone infusions. Cancer taught me that we can’t always control what life throws at us, but we can control how we rise above it. Pay attention to your body. Listen to the small signs. Never skip your check-ups and, above all, never lose hope,” said Govender.

A regular participant since 2017, she will once again line up for the 10km event in Durban.

“I walk due to no longer being able to run. The movement helps with circulation and supports keeping my bones strong and the rest of my body healthy. The Totalsports Women’s Race is a powerful celebration of women that focuses on health and charity. It is a ‘must-do’ event for women in South Africa, offering a fun, well-organised, and meaningful experience that blends healthy living with a powerful message of empowerment. I’m always in awe of the atmosphere, especially the ‘sea of pink’ and camaraderie among participants. Not forgetting the amazing views along the route, which remind us just how beautiful Durban is.”

In Cape Town, Cassiem’s journey reads like a script that repeatedly refused to follow its expected ending. Diagnosed with breast cancer during Women’s Month in 2005 at age 46 and given five years to live, she has now spent more than two decades proving predictions can sometimes stumble while determination keeps running.

Rayghanah Cassiem Photo: Supplied

“Being given a second chance at life changed everything for me,” said Cassiem. “Before my diagnosis, I was simply existing as a mother and wife. Afterward, I truly started living, appreciating life’s simple blessings and embracing new challenges. I took up hiking, dragon boat paddling, and road running, things I never imagined I would do.”

Her journey later included a recurrence that advanced to stage 4 disease.

“At 50, I experienced a recurrence of breast cancer in my sternum, which took me to Stage 4. I was told it was advanced and incurable, instead of giving up, it strengthened my resolve to live fully.”

Today she volunteers in cancer care outreach programmes, carrying hope like a relay baton.

“Today, I dedicate my time to outreach programmes at cancer care homes, using my journey to inspire and give hope. Cancer has taught me not to take a single day for granted. I have participated in the Totalsports Women’s Race for many years. It has become a special part of my journey. Reconnecting with familiar faces and the shared sense of purpose is incredibly uplifting. Sport helps me cope with the challenges of cancer and supports my physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. It reminds me that my body is still strong and capable.”

Johannesburg entrant Dludla knows the emotional turbulence that arrives with a diagnosis.

“It was an overwhelming experience, fear and confusion all came rushing at once. The unknown was the hardest part,” she admitted.

“The journey was not easy: doctor’s appointments, tests, and treatment. It felt like my life revolved around hospitals and waiting rooms. My support system became my anchor, and family, friends, and even strangers showed me kindness and love in ways I will never forget. They reminded me that I am not alone in this fight.”

Her message to fellow patients is simple.

“Cancer can feel overwhelming when you think too far ahead. My advice is to focus on getting through one appointment, one treatment, and one moment at a time.”

For Nikki Crous, Head of Marketing at Totalsports, these stories embody the race’s deeper purpose.

“The Totalsports Women’s Race is built on the strength, courage, and resilience of women like Selina, Rayghanah, and Ntokozo, whose stories continue to inspire and unite us. This event is far more than a race, it is a powerful platform for awareness, connection, and hope. Through our partnership with PinkDrive, we are reminded of the importance of early detection, ongoing education, and support, while celebrating the incredible spirit of women who continue to show up, push forward, and uplift one another in the face of adversity.”

As race day approaches, the roads of Durban, Cape Town and Johannesburg are preparing for more than a running event. They are preparing to host thousands of footsteps carrying stories of survival, strength and stubborn hope. In a world that often sprints past life’s important lessons, these women are setting the pace.

Visit PinkDrive and Totalsports Women’s Race for further information.

PUMA Debuts ‘fast-xp’ Collection In Cape Town – Speed Driven Innovation

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on PUMA Debuts ‘fast-xp’ Collection In Cape Town – Speed Driven Innovation

For the first time on African soil runners can experience The Future of Fast when PUMA exhibits its most daring innovation yet: the FAST-XP Collection of five concept shoes on Friday 22 May and Saturday 23 May at The Burrow, the Loop Street clubhouse of iconic run crew The Nine Four.

The exhibit, which is open to the public, features a radical lineup of hybrid innovation shoes designed to redefine speed and performance. Built through NITRO Lab – the brand’s elite innovation engine – the collection translates the cutting-edge technology of PUMA’s existing innovation into futuristic, never-before-seen running models. In the same way racing car manufacturers use concept cars to test boundary-pushing ideas before they hit the road, PUMA has created the collection to showcase the next generation of speed-driven innovation.

Each shoe draws inspiration from PUMA’s most advanced track technologies, re-engineered for both track and field, and road running.

Full details of each ‘concept car’ in the FAST-XP collection are listed below.

  • FAST-XP SPT

Inspired by the Berserker – the spike worn by 400m hurdle world record holder Karsten Warholm – the FAST-XP SPT is purpose-built for a 200m and 400m sprinter. With a split, asymmetrical 3D PWRPLATE for banking efficiency on curves, NITROFOAM™ Elite pod for explosive energy return, and a posterior heel wedge to support longer sprint events, it’s engineered to amplify every stride, from the blocks to the finish line.

  • FAST-XP LVT

Taking cues from 13-time world record holder Mondo Duplantis’ pole vault spike, the FAST-XP LVT reimagines vertical propulsion for the road. With a dual-density midsole, full-length carbon PWRPLATE spine, and hollow heel geometry, it blends cushioning, stiffness, and reduced weight for elite-level responsiveness mile after mile.

  • FAST-XP PLS

Born from the Berserker’s propulsive DNA, the FAST-XP PLS transforms sprint innovation into a high-performance road shoe. Featuring cascade-shaped NITROFOAM™ geometry paired with NITROFOAM™ Elite and PWRPLATE stability, it

delivers plush cushioning, high energy return, and efficient propulsion for long-distance speed.

  • FAST-XP SPG

Evolving from the FAST RB NITRO™ Elite, the SPG mirrors the explosive rebound of a springboard. Its dual-plate construction, forefoot rocker apex, and strategic NITROFOAM™ Elite pods maximize energy storage and release for fast runners chasing their edge.

  • FAST-XP BLD

Inspired by the dynamics of carbon blades, the FAST-XP BLD is engineered for aggressive propulsion. A stiffer heel with midfoot rocker works in harmony with flexible forefoot elements and a PWRPLATE-enhanced NITROFOAM™ system, enabling rapid transitions and powerful push-offs.

Anyone looking to experience the FAST-XP Collection can do so on Friday 22 May from 7pm – 10pm at The Burrow, 34 Loop Street, Cape Town.

The Nine Four will be hosting a weekend of running and culture, with the unveiling of the FAST-XP Collection just one of the highlights. Events include the premiere of The Good Run; an original film exploring one simple question: what does a good run really mean?

The crew will also host the Nine Four Mother City Shake Out on Saturday 23 May, the definitive pre-race morning for runners who know that the last miles before a marathon should feel like a celebration. From 8am to noon, The Burrow becomes the heartbeat of marathon weekend, including a post-run DJ set on the legendary Nine Four balcony to bring it all home.

On Sunday 25 May, The Nine Four and Ses’fikile close out in style at Botanik Social House where DJs soundtrack the night as runners, crews, and creative souls from Cape Town and beyond gather to mark the end of marathon weekend.

For more information please visit: www.puma.com

PUMA INTRODUCE ALL-NEW DEVIATE PURE NITRO™

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on PUMA INTRODUCE ALL-NEW DEVIATE PURE NITRO™

PUMA has revealed the all-new Deviate Pure NITRO™ – a non-plated running shoe that injects speed into everyday runs and is the missing piece to your shoe rotation.

The latest addition to the award-winning Deviate franchise, this is the first shoe in the line-up to be built using an evolved NITROFOAM™ but does not feature PUMA’s PWRPLATE. For runs with purpose, Deviate Pure NITRO™ strips back speed to its purest form, delivering a smooth, responsive and energy-fuelled ride that eats up the miles, getting faster with every step.

Light on your feet and easy on your legs, Deviate Pure NITRO™ weighs in at 220 grams – 30 grams lighter than its carbon plated sister shoe, Deviate NITRO™ 4, making this the perfect partner for smooth tempo runs.

The engineered mesh upper is breathable, with a plush collar and padded tongue that offer support and comfort. PUMA’s industry-leading PUMAGRIP outsole enables runners to hit the road with confidence, picking up speed whatever the weather.

“Deviate has been our leading franchise since PUMA relaunched in road running,“ said Romain Girard, VP Innovation at PUMA. “Our ambition with Deviate Pure NITRO™ was to make speed more accessible but still retain the performance benefits that have made Deviate loved by runners across the globe. The result isn’t just a run; it’s an experience of natural speed.“

Deviate Pure NITRO™ Specifications

  • Price: R3199
  • Weight:
    • UK8 (M): 220g
    • UK4.5 (W): 180g
  • Stack Height: 38MM/30MM
  • Drop: 8mm

Deviate Pure NITRO™ launches globally on 4 June and will be available to purchase on PUMA.com, in PUMA Retail stores, Totalsports, Sportsmans Warehouse and Takealot.

For more information please visit: www.puma.com

Team South Africa secure double silver as records tumble in Gaborone

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, News, RacingLeave a Comment on Team South Africa secure double silver as records tumble in Gaborone

Picture credit: Anton Geyser for Athletics South Africa

Team South Africa will leave Botswana with two silver medals, US$40,000 in prize money and three new national records after the World Relays came to an end in Gaborone on Sunday.

The fierce rivalry between the host nation and the South Africans delivered a dramatic 4x400m final with Botswana getting the upper hand this time around.

The team of Lee Eppie, Letsile Tebogo, Bayapo Ndori and Collen Kebinatshipi delivered the perfect ending to the championships, sparking wild celebrations in the passionate home crowd. They crossed the finish line in a new championship record of 2 minutes 54.47 seconds with the South Africans taking over two and a half seconds off their previous national record to secure the silver in 2:55.07.

The massive SA record was due in large part to Pillay’s unprecedented split of 42.66 in the second leg, making him the fastest ever in 4x400m relay history.

Earlier in the afternoon, SA’s men’s 4x100m team of Mvuyo Moss, Cheswill Johnson, Bradley Nkoana and Akani Simbine had set the tone by securing the silver behind the USA (37.43), also in a new national record.

Their new SA and African record of 37.49 eclipsed the record set by Bayanda Walaza, Shaun Maswanganyi, Nkoana and Simbine on their way to Olympic silver in Paris in 2024.

Simbine stormed past several teams down the home straight and just ran out of metres to overtake the USA’s Pjai Austin, who had the South African star hot on his heels.

The third SA record of the championship belonged to the SA women’s 4x100m team of Viwe Jingqi, Kayla la Grange, Gabriella Marais and Joviale Mbishe, who didn’t manage to reach the final but still had plenty to celebrate after breaking the 26-year-old record in the heats in a time of 43.22 seconds.

The other notable performance came from the mixed 4x400m team of Gardeo Isaacs, Rogail Joseph, Bradley Maponyane and Marlie Viljoen. 

Despite running close to the SA record in the heats, they just missed out on a place in the final but made the most of their second chance to qualify for the 2027 World Athletics Championships in Beijing in Sunday’s repechage, where they needed a top-two finish. 

They crossed the line first, winning in 3:12.77 to book their tickets to China alongside the SA men’s 4×100 and 4x400m squads. By reaching their respective finals, the SA men’s squads have also secured their qualification at the inaugural World Athletics Ultimate Championship in Budapest this September.

 

Teenage footballer Emile Witbooi seals major Nike deal

Adnaan MohamedFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Teenage footballer Emile Witbooi seals major Nike deal
By Adnaan Mohamed

Cape Town City teenager Emile Witbooi has taken another step forward in his fast-rising career after securing a partnership with Nike.

The 17-year-old has signed a boot and apparel agreement that will see him represent the brand on and off the field, further underlining his growing reputation as one of South Africa’s brightest young prospects.

Witbooi, who has already made history as Cape Town City’s youngest debutant, continues to build an impressive profile. He has also featured prominently for South Africa’s U17 and U20 national teams, showing maturity and technical quality beyond his years.

The deal was facilitated by Roc Nation Sports International, which represents the attacking midfielder as his career continues to gain momentum.

“Growing up, I always saw some of the world’s best players wearing Nike, and to now be part of that same legacy is incredibly motivating,” Witbooi said.

The partnership places him among a group of elite athletes associated with the global brand, known for its influence across football and sport culture.

Emile Witbooi

“This partnership is more than just about boots and gear; it’s another significant step in my journey that will help me elevate as an athlete and reach the goals I’ve set for my career,” he added.

Witbooi’s rise has been steady, with the Cape Town-born player establishing himself as a key figure at youth international level while gaining valuable experience in senior football.

“I’m grateful to Nike for believing in my potential and to my team at Roc Nation Sports International for making this possible,” he said.

The agreement signals growing confidence in Witbooi’s future, as he continues to develop into a player with the potential to make a lasting impact both locally and beyond.

Comrades 2026 field finalised after entry rush

Adnaan MohamedComrades Marathon, Features, NewsLeave a Comment on Comrades 2026 field finalised after entry rush
By Adnaan Mohamed

The battle to secure a place at the 99th edition of the Comrades Marathon proved as demanding as the race itself, with the newly introduced ballot system placed under immediate pressure by overwhelming demand.

The 2026 Up Run from Durban to Pietermaritzburg (Approximately 87 km – 89 km) which takes place on Sunday, 14 June 2026 is capped at 22 000 entries. The race had already sold out its full quota in a single day in (under 10 hours) on 3 November 2025, underlining the enduring appeal of the ultra-marathon.

A total of 4 832 runners applied for 2 444 substitution entries, which became available after withdrawals between 16 and 30 March. Those entries were funnelled into a draw, replacing the previous first-come system that had long drawn criticism.

Comrades Marathon Association race director Sue Forge (pictured above) said the shift to a ballot was necessary to create a more equitable process.

“In previous years, substitutions operated on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning a runner’s chance of securing an entry depended largely on being the quickest to log in,” Forge said.

“This system was not fair, as many runners have limited or inconsistent access to the Comrades Marathon website or app, and payment processing difficulties also placed some runners at a disadvantage.”

Forge said the ballot system ensured that every applicant had an equal opportunity.

“This year we introduced a ballot system in which all available entries were placed into a draw, giving applicants an opportunity to secure one of the available entries.”

Despite the revised approach, the imbalance between supply and demand remained stark.

“Unfortunately, with 4 832 applicants competing for 2 444 entries, some runners were inevitably left disappointed,” she said.

The substitution process unfolded in phases, with the application window closing on 2 April before the ballot draw was conducted. Successful applicants were notified via email, with entry fees automatically debited in scheduled cycles.

Entries linked to failed payments were returned to the pool and redrawn, with the process repeated multiple times to ensure all available slots were filled. Organisers also contacted runners directly where necessary.

“Our entries office went the extra mile throughout these processes,” Forge said.

“Our goal was to ensure that all available entries were allocated, and that every runner seeking an entry had a fair opportunity of getting into the 2026 race.”

Forge acknowledged the disappointment among those who missed out and encouraged them to look ahead to next year’s milestone event.

The substitution ballot entry period for the 2026 Comrades Marathon saw 2,444 runners secure a substitution entry. Photo Credit: Comrades Marathon Association

“We acknowledge that some runners remain very disappointed after missing out, and we sincerely hope they will try again in 2027, when we celebrate the centenary edition of this incredible race,” she said.

“Importantly, all runners wishing to be part of the 100th edition next year will once again have a fair chance of securing an entry. Participation in the 2026 race will not influence eligibility or selection in the 2027 process.”

With the field now finalised, attention turns to compliance requirements ahead of race day on 14 June.

Runners must submit qualifying details, complete the compulsory medical questionnaire and update their profiles by 4 May or risk disqualification.

“The entry process is now officially closed and the CMA will not be undertaking any further entry processes or ballot draws after the May 4 deadline,” Forge said.

“Finally, I would like to thank all runners for their passion, enthusiasm, and ongoing support of the Comrades Marathon. Your commitment to the race continues to inspire us and remains at the heart of everything we do.”

Aquila Boxing Promotions launches Knockout Chaos 1 with explosive 2026 fight night line-up

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Aquila Boxing Promotions launches Knockout Chaos 1 with explosive 2026 fight night line-up

Aquila Boxing Promotions opened its 2026 campaign with the official launch of Knockout Chaos 1, setting the scene for a fight card that already feels like it will carry real consequence early in the year.

Khotso Rammopo led proceedings as MC, keeping the room engaged from the first introduction through to the final face-offs, while Mandla Ntlanganiso, COO of Boxing South Africa, helped guide the formalities alongside sponsors whose presence continues to underline the steady backing behind the professional game. From the outset, there was a clear sense that this was more than a standard fight announcement. It carried weight, urgency and intent for the year ahead.

Kevin Lerena, ABP Ambassador and current WBC Bridgerweight Champion, stepped in to outline the thinking behind Knockout Chaos and the Knockout Clock. He spoke about the round-based incentives in practical terms, how they reward activity and force intent, and why that matters for fighters trying to build momentum rather than stall between bouts. It was less about theory and more about what actually happens when fighters are given a reason to push the pace.

The card itself began to take shape with the junior lightweight bout between Alexander Meyer and Msawakhe Mncwabe. Both spoke about the usual mix of anticipation and pressure, but it was their face-off that shifted the mood slightly. Meyer stood planted, while Mncwabe edged forward just enough to test the space. Neither overdid it. The silence from the media said enough.

Simnikiwe Bongco and Ntanganedzeni Mohane followed in the super welterweight division. There was no attempt to sell the fight with words. Bongco kept his gaze fixed ahead, while Mohane spoke briefly about discipline and control, the kind that gets tested once the pace lifts. It felt measured, almost deliberate.

Bantamweight prospect Tiisetso Matinkinka, a name Kevin Lerena continues to flag as one to watch, stepped up alone with Sabelo Cebekhulu still on the road. He carried himself with quiet assurance, didn’t try to fill the space unnecessarily, and answered each question on its own terms. Composed throughout, he made it clear he’s prepared for whoever stands across from him on fight night.

The super middleweight division delivered one of the more charged moments of the afternoon as Gary “G Unit” van Staden and Mxolisi Lahliwe came face to face. Their stare down held a fraction longer than expected. Van Staden stepped in, Lahliwe met him without hesitation, and for a moment neither gave ground. No theatrics, just a clear line drawn. The exchange between Leo “The Chosen One” Carreri and seasoned campaigner John Bopape brought a different contrast. Carreri spoke with intent, using his hands as he held the floor, while Bopape stayed still, absorbing it without reaction. When they came together, the space closed quickly. Both walked up to face one another with purpose,
closing the space between them before settling into an intense, unbroken stare. Carreri stared hard as he held the moment, using his powerful stance to emphasise his words, while Bopape remained composed and still, giving very little away and letting his presence do the talking.

One of the standout bouts on the card was confirmed at cruiserweight, where Thabiso Mchunu will meet Kareb Shitana, who was also travelling during the press conference. Mchunu’s arrival on stage brought a noticeable shift in respect, with Kevin Lerena joining on stage in a moment that reflected their long history in shared camps and sparring rounds. Lerena spoke highly of the matchup, highlighting that connection, the mutual shared respect and the role both men have played in each other’s development. He also reflected on a broader concern within the sport, noting how inactivity can quietly derail even the most promising careers and stressing the importance of consistent competition for athlete longevity.

The welterweight division followed with Kaine “K9” Fourie set to face Bilal Johnson. Fourie, now campaigning at a higher weight class, took the stage alone and used the moment to speak directly about the move up in division. His tone was steady and confident as he described a demanding training camp and a clear intention to make a statement on fight night. With Johnson not yet present, Fourie remained composed throughout, leaning slightly into the microphone at
moments as he made it clear this was a step he had prepared for thoroughly.

Closing out the fight card, the heavyweight clash between Keaton Gomes and Youssof Mwanza drew strong attention. Their face-off was respectful but firm, both men nodding slightly as they came together, acknowledging their shared history in training environments. Gomes referenced familiarity with Mwanza’s style while Mwanza responded with a brief smile before the two separated, both agreeing in their own way that they know what to expect from each other.

The press conference concluded with a focused conversation between WBC Bridgerweight Champion Kevin Lerena and his trainer Peter Sniper Smith, centred on Lerena’s upcoming WBC title defence against Ryad Mehry in Belgium. The bout will mark Lerena’s 37th professional fight and another significant international test as he travels into Mehry’s home territory for the rematch – 22 Title fights & 14 world title fights under his belt.

Lerena reflected on his current form, stating that he believes he is entering the most complete stage of his career both physically and mentally. He spoke openly about the discipline that followed his previous setback, describing a continuous return to training and a renewed focus on refinement across all areas of his preparation.

He also touched on his time in camp with Tyson Fury, describing the heavyweight champion as both a fierce competitor and one of the most grounded individuals in the sport. Lerena highlighted not only the professional lessons learned but also the personal respect and friendship that has developed over time 

With six weeks remaining until his world title defence, Lerena confirmed that his focus remains fully locked into camp and preparation. However, attention now shifts to Knockout Chaos 1, with fight week officially underway.

Final preparations continue with the official weigh in scheduled for Friday, where tensions are expected to rise ahead of Saturday night’s action. Knockout Chaos 1 will be broadcast live on SuperSport’s World of Champions, bringing fans across the continent front row access to one of the most anticipated fight cards of the year.

ABP proudly sponsored by – World Sports Betting, Tigris X Discovery, Supersport World of Champions, Meatworld, South Side Hard soda, .Team Lerena, Heerschop Pienaar, KC Pinnacle Holdings, Johnny’s Liquor.