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Smith Strikes Gold as SA Swimmers Make Waves in World Cup Opener

Adnaan MohamedFeatures, News, SwimmingLeave a Comment on Smith Strikes Gold as SA Swimmers Make Waves in World Cup Opener

By Adnaan Mohamed

South Africa’s swimmers made a splash at the opening leg of the 2025 World Aquatics Swimming World Cup in Carmel, Indiana, surfacing with one gold and three bronze medals after three days of fierce racing.

The team finished 10th overall, but the ripples they created hinted at much deeper tides to come.

Leading the charge was 19-year-old Chris Smith, who powered through the men’s 50m breaststroke final like a torpedo, touching the wall in 25.75 seconds.

It was the fastest short course time in the world this year. He edged out the Netherlands’ Caspar Corbeau by a fingertip – a mere three hundredths of a second. Belarusian Ilya Shymanovich took bronze in 25.79.

For Smith, it was the first major international title of his career after years of circling the podium.

“I’m very proud of Chris, that he finally got it. He really deserved it this time,” said his longtime coach Michelle Vlasakova of the Alcatraz Swimming Club in Centurion.

“He’s been so close at the last two big international meets. We both believed he could do it, and I told him after the heats: ‘You can go so much faster.’”

Vlasakova credited Smith’s mental fortitude as his secret weapon beneath the waves.

“I think that’s what Chris is best at. He’s very mentally strong. When he puts his head to something, no one can tell him otherwise.”

Now, the pair are setting their sights on breaking Cameron van der Burgh’s national and continental records and riding this wave all the way to the Commonwealth Games and Olympics.

“If he keeps believing in the programme and the coaching,” Vlasakova said, “I think he’s unstoppable.”

Meanwhile, Rebecca Meder was also in buoyant form, scooping two bronze medals and shattering an African record. The 23-year-old clocked 2:18.14 for third in the women’s 200m breaststroke, just a splash behind Olympic champion Kate Douglass (2:13.97) and Germany’s Anna Elendt (2:17.80).

Rebecca Meder

She then stormed to another bronze in the 200m individual medley, rewriting her own African record with 2:05.56.

“I’m happy with the times I posted,” said Meder.

“Obviously, I always want more. I’m chasing those African records, especially in the 200 and 100 breaststroke. I’m just so grateful to race these girls and see how I progress through the series.”

Veteran Chad le Clos, the most decorated male in World Cup history, added another medal to his treasure chest. He claimed bronze in the 100m butterfly (49.57) behind Switzerland’s Noe Ponti and Canada’s Ilya Kharun.

Chad le Clos – 100m butterfly bronze

As the first leg wrapped, the South Africans left Carmel with their heads above water and spirits soaring.

With Smith heading home and Meder diving into the next leg in Westmont, Illinois where South Africa’s swimmers would be looking to continue the current of momentum.

 Photo credits: World Aquatics

Ryan and Glenrose blaze to glory at Boxer Super Run

Adnaan MohamedFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Ryan and Glenrose blaze to glory at Boxer Super Run
By Adnaan Mohamed

Durban’s beachfront turned into a runway of dreams on Sunday morning as 5,000 runners thundered down Snell Parade like a sea of determination, chasing glory beneath the coastal sunrise. But it was Ryan Mphahlele and Glenrose Xaba who broke the tap with record-shattering runs at the 2025 Boxer Super Run 5K.

Mphahlele, in his debut at the event, scorched the tar in 13:37, setting a new course record and becoming the fastest South African ever on African soil over the distance.

“The last time that I ran a 5km was two years ago,” he said with a grin as wide as the promenade.

“The opportunity came especially in Durban, a coastal area. So I thought, let me come and top it. It was like a fitness run to me, to see where my fitness is at this time of the year.”

Ryan Mphahlele wins Boxer Super Run Durban by Anthony Grote

The 27-year-old from Thembisa treated the elite men’s race like a tactical tempo session, easing in, then dropping the hammer when it mattered most.

“Elroy was my toughest competition and of course Kabelo Mulaudzi really showed up. When I looked back, I saw Kabelo was moving closer, so I just had to take the sting out of him,” Mphahlele explained.

“It was my goal to win today, and it feels very good to cross the finish line first. I love Durban, I love the weather, and I’ll be back next year.”

Mulaudzi (13:39) crossed the line second, with veteran Elroy Gelant (13:42) rounding off the podium.

The women’s elite race was an equally fierce sprint for supremacy. Glenrose Xaba, unleashed her trademark kick to win in 15:27, holding off her Boxer training partner Karabo More (15:34) and Hollywood AC’s Tayla Kavanagh (15:35) in a thrilling chase to the finish.

“Today’s race was good. The pace was too fast,” said a jubilant Xaba, who is tuning up for the Valencia Marathon.

“I recovered very well after two long runs in preparation. I went with my coach’s strategy to just sit behind, but when you take the move, take it and don’t think about your training partner.

“It feels good to be back and on the podium. There’s a lot that I enjoy about the Boxer Super Run: the support, the atmosphere, the fans. It’s my second home here, so it’s nice to run at home again.”

Glenrose Xaba wins Boxer Super Run Durban 2025 by Anthony Grote

Launched in 2023 by Stillwater Sports, Boxer Superstores, and Coca-Cola, the Super Run has become a must-run fixture on the national calendar. It’s part sprint, part celebration and all spirit.

“What an incredible day of racing,” said Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports.

“From the country’s top elites to the thousands of everyday runners, today was a true celebration of running. Congratulations to Ryan and Glenrose on your remarkable victories. Your performances set a benchmark for the stars of tomorrow.”

Lee-Ann Pillay, Boxer Superstores’ Head of Marketing, added:

“Ryan and Glenrose took elite racing to the next level. Well done to Ryan on becoming the fastest South African on African soil. The vibe in Durban was fantastic. We can’t wait to build on this momentum as we look ahead to the Boxer Super Run’s Johannesburg debut.”

With a R147,200 prize purse and waves for every kind of runner, from elites chasing records to weekend joggers chasing PBs, the Boxer Super Run once again proved that Durban’s promenade isn’t just a stretch of road. On Sunday, it was a launchpad for history.

ELITE MEN’S WAVE Start by Anthony Grote

TOP 10 RESULTS: ELITE WAVES

Elite Men
1 Ryan Mphahlele 13:37, 2 Kabelo Mulaudzi 13:39, 3 Elroy Gelant 13:42, 4 Musawenkosi Mnisi 13:49, 5 Chris Mhlanga 13:51, 6 Zenzile Pheke 13:54, 7 Bongelani Mkhwanazi 13:54, 8 Simon Sibeko 13:56
Elite Women
1 Glenrose Xaba 15:27, 2 Karabo More 15:34, 3 Tayla Kavanagh 15:35, 4 Carina Viljoen 16:00, 5 Kyla Jacobs
16:13, 6 Cacisile Sosibo 16:23, 7 Danielle Verster 16:40, 8 Bathobile Mhkize 16:49

FIND ALL YOUR BOXER SUPER RUN RESULTS HERE

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.

Ultra Gobi 400km Day 3

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Ultra Gobi 400km Day 3

Breaking the event record & A New Brotherhood is Born

Ultra Gobi 2025 — Men’s Podium Decided

The top three finishers of the Ultra Gobi 400km have been confirmed, with all three athletes delivering extraordinary performances in this year’s grueling race across the Gobi Desert.

Cody Poskin (Bib 236, USA)
Cody Poskin claimed the Ultra Gobi 400km championship title, crossing the finish line in 64 hours, 49 minutes, and 32 seconds. His exceptional performance broke the event record, earning him the prestigious title of “Guanjun Marshall.”

Jovica Spajić (Bib 240, Serbia)
Jovica Spajić secured second place with a finish time of 68 hours, 20 minutes, and 38 seconds, and was honored with the title of “Cheji Marshall.”

Aaron Kubala (Bib 234, USA)
Aaron Kubala rounded out the men’s podium, finishing in 68 hours, 28 minutes, and 38 seconds, and was awarded the title of “Zhenjun Marshall.”

Meanwhile, Zheng Junyue (Bib 230, China) made a strong push in the latter stages of the race, overtaking Ni Yusheng to temporarily move into 5th place overall.

A New Brotherhood at Ultra Gobi

Jovica Spajić (Serbia) and Aaron Kubala (USA) finished the race together, placing second and third respectively, but their journey became much more than a battle for podium positions.

The two athletes teamed up at Checkpoint 14 / Rest Point 4, located at the 161 km mark. Kubala had reached the checkpoint with a slight lead and was preparing to leave when Spajić arrived.

“Shall we run together?” the Serbian asked.
“How long do you need to get ready again?” the American replied.
“Five minutes.”

And so began a partnership that would last for the next two days and 240 kilometers, laying the foundation for a lifelong friendship.

“We became brothers,” Spajić declared.

“We experienced highs and lows at different times and helped each other out of the pain cave,” said Kubala.
“Aaron led the way through the nights, and when he was in trouble, I was there for him. I didn’t want to leave him,” Spajić added.

In such a competitive race as the Ultra Gobi 400, the two had to maintain a relentless pace to hold off Sangé Sherpa, who was both kilometres away and yet dangerously close behind.

“It was an emotional journey and a true adventure. Now I have a new brother. During our joint efforts, everything came naturally; nothing was forced. Our teamwork was a gift from God,” said Spajić.
“We ran together for hours without talking. Everything was relaxed, and we enjoyed every moment.”

Kubala reflected on the shared experience:

“The sunrises and sunsets were exceptional, and I felt so well supported by my family and girlfriend, even though they were far away.”

Spajić expressed pride in representing Serbia on the global stage through this prestigious event:

“This race is tough. The scenery is wonderful, and it’s worth seeing — but you really have to be well prepared to finish it.”

Glenrose Returns to Durban’s Boxer Super Run

Adnaan MohamedBoxer Super Run, Features, NewsLeave a Comment on Glenrose Returns to Durban’s Boxer Super Run
By Adnaan Mohamed

Like a champion runner returning to her favourite stretch of road, Glenrose “Supercharger” Xaba as well as the cream of South Africa’s top female athlete’s are coming back to participate in Durban’s Boxer Super Run on Sunday, 12 October 2025.

Two years ago, she lit up Snell Parade like sunrise breaking over the ocean, flying home in 16:03 to become the fastest South African woman over 5km on local soil.

Last year she traded that sharp burst of speed for the long, patient drumbeat of marathon miles and the gamble paid off, her feet writing history across Cape Town’s streets in 2:22:22, a record carved into the national story.

“I missed out on the 2024 race because I was training for my marathon debut and aiming for the SA record, which God blessed me with,” Xaba reflects, her words steady as a stride on the back straight.

“This year at the Boxer Super Run in Durban, I just want to enjoy myself and see what my legs can do. The 5km distance is special because it’s all about speed from the first kilometre to the finish. I look forward to running against training partners like Karabo More.”

Beside her, the field is rich with Tayla Kavanagh, Durban’s own racing the road she knows like the back of her hand.

Glenrose Xaba Photo: Anthony Grote

“Recently I’ve run a number of 10km races, and I have decided to use the Boxer Super Run 5K to enjoy a shorter distance on the road and see what I can do,” she says. “It’s a challenging distance but I enjoy a challenge… The local support on a hometown race is always super special.”

Debutant Karabo Motsoeneng all the way from Hammanskraal in Pretoria is ready to test her mettle against the tide:

“The Boxer Super Run is a great opportunity for people to have fun while showcasing their talents. The 5km distance is short but fast. My goal is to run a PB on the day. I’m looking forward to seeing the elite runners break records and set new PBs.”

And for Carina Swiegers, the race is a celebration of joy as much as speed:

“The Boxer Super Run is just a quick and fun day out for family and friends. It’s something different from the usual 10km or 21.1km road races, and the vibe and organisation are top class. I absolutely love it. It’s just long enough but also short enough to run really fast.”

The sponsors too are in step with the excitement.

“We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Glenrose Xaba back to the Boxer Super Run in Durban… It’s also fantastic to have Karabo Motsoeneng and Carina Swiegers joining the field,” said Lee-Ann Pillay, Head of Marketing.

“It’s set to be an exciting event for everyone!”

Race Day Notes — 2025 Boxer Super Run Durban

  • Date: Sunday, 12 October 2025
  • Distance: 5km — a dash as brief as a heartbeat, as fierce as a sprint to the tape
  • Start & Finish: Snell Parade to Blue Lagoon Park, where the city’s surf meets the runners’ rhythm
  • Waves:
    • 07:00 — Open Wave: the city’s morning chorus, thousands of feet drumming in unison
    • 08:00–09:30 — Super Social Wave: costumes, laughter, and joy carried on the ocean breeze
    • 09:45 — Elite Women: a ballet of speed, every step chasing history
    • 10:00 — Elite Men: the closing crescendo, a sprint to glory
  • Prize Purse: R147,200 — gold for those who can turn sweat into flight
  • Gifts: T-shirt, medal, goodie bag, and the memory of Durban’s seafront rising to cheer every stride

Ultra Gobi 400km Day 2

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Ultra Gobi 400km Day 2

Sportsmanship and the Countdown to the Finish Line

On Day 2 of the Ultra Gobi 400km race, the Gobi Desert became the stage for a moving display of sportsmanship. The athletes currently in second（bib 240 Jovica Spajić Serbia）and third place(bib 234 Aaron Kubala USA) encountered each other on the course and decided to join forces, running side by side for more than 80 km. In this extreme endurance challenge, they are not only fierce competitors but also companions on the journey—embodying the true spirit of “friendship through competition.”

Race leader Cody Poskin (bib 236, USA) has maintained his lead from the start and has now reached Checkpoint R7/CP25. According to calculations from the race control center, Cody is expected to arrive at the finish line around 7:00 AM Beijing Time on October 6, just as the Mid-Autumn Festival sunrise lights up the desert sky. He is on track to break the course record if all goes well. Meanwhile, the logistics and checkpoint teams are racing against time to set up R8 before he arrives.

Close behind, Jovica Spajić and Aaron Kubala are currently sharing second and third place. After entering Rest Station 6 together, they refueled, checked mandatory gear, and received warm encouragement from volunteers. Jovica took a quick 10-minute power nap before the duo set off again, with roughly 130 km remaining to the finish.

Running in fourth place is the legendary bib 215 Sange Sherpa Nepal. After two days and nights on the course, his mental toughness is on full display. Despite his fatigue and the accumulated toll of a summer packed with ultramarathons, he never doubts for a second that he will finish.

As the Mid-Autumn sunrise approaches, the race is entering its most thrilling phase. Tomorrow morning, all eyes will be on the finish line as Cody chases history, and every runner continues their epic journey across the Gobi.

More flashquotes from the Course：

Carla André, Portugal, at kilometer 155

“I’m in a good mood and good shape. Of course, I’m tired, but that’s okay. I manage my pace consciously. The only thing I want is to finish, and therefore I’m taking enough rest during the competition.”

“I saw very beautiful places, but I have to underline what a wonderful and professional job the organisers are doing. Staff and volunteers are amazingly friendly and attentive.”

“The rocky descent from the highest point of the course was challenging. I’m used to everything, but I did not expect such a section here at Ultra Gobi 400.”

“October 5th is a very special day for me — it’s my brother’s birthday, and I sent him best wishes in Chinese. Also, 20 years ago, I had a very serious car accident. In a certain way, it’s like my second birthday today.”

Julian Veermeer, South africa, at kilomter 157

“Others may complain, but for me, the mountains are the highlight of Ultra Gobi 400 so far. It may be confusing at times, but in the end the track is quite logical — just follow the water flow. And this area would be great for an epic mountain bike event, too!”

“I have some blisters, and it’s a pity that the organisers do not offer footbaths. These are just my two cents — overall, the organisation is grandiose.”

“Ultra Gobi is a huge learning curve for me. I see what is involved and that the weight of the material is key to perform. If I come back again, for sure I’ll be better prepared.”

Sona Kopcokova, Slovakia, at kilometer 161

“The switch between really hot and really cold is tiring.”

“The navigation can become quite difficult — that’s why it’s good to pair up with Melissa Venables.”

“I’m happy to be here, and I’m happy that I do not have trouble with nose bleeding yet, something that usually happens to me in hot and dry conditions.”

Melissa Venables, Great Britain, at kilometer 161

“The track is relentless in all senses — it offers a lot of challenges and a lot of beauty as well. Honestly, it is harder than expected. You always have to concentrate on something, like the navigation for example, and at the same time on the very varied terrain. There is soft sand, and in the next section, rocks.”

“In the mountains, we struggled a bit. I think we lost about two hours there.”

Text Credits:  Daniel Keppler / Egon Theiner / James Huang
Photo Credits:  Daniel Keppler / Ultra Gobi

 

Glenrose seals clean sweep at Spar Grand Prix

Adnaan MohamedFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Glenrose seals clean sweep at Spar Grand Prix
By Adnaan Mohamed

Glenrose Xaba once again showed her class when she blazed through the Jozi SPAR Women’s 10 km Challenge winning her fifth consecutive race in the highly popular sold-out event across the country.

Glenrose Xaba winner Jozi SPAR Photo: Greg Caldecott

After winning the Cape Town, Durban, Pretoria and Gqeberha legs of the 2025 Spar Grand Prix Series, Glenrose stormed across the finish line at Marks Park Sports Club on Sunday morning in Emmarentia over a toughy hilly course. She blitzed the route in 33:07 to leave her rivals trailing in her wake.

Ethiopian Diniya Abaraya (Nedbank) clocked 33:42 for second, while Irvette van Zyl (Hollywood) claimed third in 34:35.

The evergreen Van Zyl,38, came out of the blocks like a bullet, setting the early tone before easing off and letting the race settle. That’s when Xaba hit her stride.

She went shoulder-to-shoulder with Abaraya and her compatriot Selam Gebre, until the six-kilometre mark, when she broke free like a sprinter pulling clear on the final bend.

Glenrose Xaba and Irvette van Zyl surrounded by a trio of Ethiopian athletes. Photo: Greg Caldecott

“Irvette got us to a very fast start, and I am grateful for that. Then Selam and Diniya forced the pace until about four kilometres,” said Glenrose.

“From six kilometres, I just focused on my splits and on my own running,” she said.

“I am very happy to be the first South African to win all five SPAR Grand Prix races this year, and to have won the SPAR Grand Prix for the third time.”

Five SPAR victories in one season, three Grand Prix titles overall, was a clear reminder that Glenrose Xaba is setting the benchmark for women’s road running in South Africa.

Abaraya, showing strong form after a year of consistent improvement, admitted the Jozi route was no walk in the park.

“I had a good race today, although I found the hills very challenging,” she said.

Van Zyl, meanwhile, was thrilled to be back in the mix. Her trademark grit shone through even after a shaky buildup.

“I went into the race with no expectations. I felt horrible yesterday and even wondered if I would be able to run. I just wanted to do my best.”

A veteran of the series and a three-time Grand Prix champion herself, Van Zyl credited Xaba for elevating the competition.

“Glenrose has given everyone the belief that they can do better, and I think the international athletes will soon struggle to win the SPAR Grand Prix again,” said Van Zyl.

Further back in the field, Gerda Steyn, South Africa’s ultra marathon marvel, treated the 10km as a tune-up for the upcoming Sanlam Cape Town Marathon on Sunday, 19 October. Despite experiencing an injury setback that threatened her participation in the race, she still pitched up to finish in 11th position.

“I always look forward to the SPAR Women’s Jozi race,” she said.

“I love the vibe and the experience of running in a women’s only race. I find lining up with thousands of other women inspirational.”

Gerda Steyn at the finish of the Spar Jozi 10k Photo: Adnaan Mohamed

That energy was everywhere with 12,000 women pounding the pavement in the 10km Challenge and 5km Fun Run, turning the streets into a celebration of strength and solidarity.

Among those cheering was Deputy Sports, Arts and Culture Minister Peace Mabe, who praised SPAR for championing women’s sport and social causes.

JOHANNESURG, SOUTH AFRICA – OCTOBER 05: during the 2025 SPAR Womens Grand Prix 10km Challenge and 5km Fun Run at Marks Park Sports Club on October 05, 2025 in Johannesburg, South Africa. (Photo by Reg Caldecott/Gallo Images)

“It’s only through sponsorship that women’s sports will flourish,” she said.

“I would like to congratulate SPAR for their support for women’s road running and netball, but also for their campaigns to end gender-based violence and period poverty.”

ULTRA GOBI has begun, and everyone is already captivated

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on ULTRA GOBI has begun, and everyone is already captivated

These are images that you rarely, if ever, see: Five thousand runners preparing for an event that could change their lives and certainly boost their self-confidence. DJs are getting the runners going three hours before the start. Videographers and photographers in their droves in the crowd. And then, when the event starts right on time, there are over 30 camera drones in the air.

ULTRA GOBI series 2025 began on schedule today (1 October) with the first competitions(A: 121km team / B: 121km stage / C: 17km), but the ‘experience day’ wasn’t necessarily about the results. It was exciting to observe the orderly chaos instead. Each participating working group has its own colour: green stands for media professionals and blue for volunteers, for example. Around 238 volunteers were needed, and 2611 people applied to be involved.

One of the lucky ones is Linying, a dentist from Shandong who has taken time off from her job at a hospital in Chengdu to be here again. “I like the spirit of the event, and I want to play my part in making it a success.” Perhaps she will compete in one of the upcoming editions herself. Linying completes the half marathon in under 90 minutes and the full marathon in under four hours. “ULTRA GOBI motivates and inspires a healthy lifestyle!”

Hailing also from Chengdu, Huang Jiang is a data analyst at UESTC. Today, however, he is sweating his way through the first of four stages in the 121 km team competition in temperatures of 30°C. ‘ULTRA GOBI is a great experience; it’s already worth every drop of sweat,’ he says. He and his colleagues have big sporting ambitions: “We want to finish in the top ten!”

The destination for the first day is in the middle of nowhere, where a tent city has been set up for the 5,000 participants. This includes restaurants, activity zones, and everything else you could need. Spectacular images are also captured here by camera drones. And this is only the beginning of the journey.