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Young gun takes aim at established stars at Hollywoodbets Joburg 10K

Adnaan MohamedFeatures, News, PreviewLeave a Comment on Young gun takes aim at established stars at Hollywoodbets Joburg 10K
By Adnaan Mohamed

A rising star, a seasoned campaigner and a defending champion will bring three very different ambitions to the starting line when the sold-out Hollywoodbets Joburg 10km unleashes 12,000 runners at Nasrec on Sunday morning.

Twenty-two-year-old Sibusiso Msibi is hungry to announce himself on the big stage, Hollywood Athletics Club veteran Stephen Mokoka is chasing another strong finish, and Nedbank Running Club speedster Thabang Mosiako must decide how much his body has left after a demanding marathon in Germany.

The third edition of the race starts at 07:30, with the winner’s prize climbing to R40,000, making it the richest-paying 10km race in South Africa. With the stakes rising and the field packed, the road to glory promises to be anything but a Sunday stroll.

Rising Star: Sibusiso Msibi

For Msibi, the race represents a golden ticket to a bigger stage.

The University of Johannesburg athlete, who won the 2025 ASA 4km cross-country title, has spent much of his development focusing on track and cross-country. His speciality is the 1,500m and 5,000m, and he is now stretching his ambitions onto the road.

Speaking at Friday’s pre-race media conference in Hyde Park, the Tembisa-born runner made no secret of his intentions.

“I feel if I do good on Sunday, it will open opportunities for me. This is special for me. I am going all out and I am expecting a podium finish.”

Msibi has watched Mokoka and Mosiako from afar, drawing inspiration from the very athletes he will now measure himself against. A 10km encounter with Mokoka at a Region 5 event last year left a lasting impression.

“I remember watching them on TV and wishing to be like them,” he said. “He actually spoke to me during the race, but at the time I was ‘suffering’. That told me to go back and work harder at training.”

His focus remains on cross-country and University Sports South Africa competition next year, while bigger road races are firmly on his horizon. Balancing studies and athletics adds another layer to his challenge, although he says he is coping.

Mosiako, meanwhile, arrives with a title to defend and tired legs to manage.

Defending champion Thabang Mosiako

The former South African half-marathon champion pocketed R37,500 for winning last year’s race. However, his marathon outing in Cologne, Germany, two weeks ago has complicated his Johannesburg campaign.

The 31-year-old is still assessing his recovery and rates his chances at 50/50, wary of pushing too hard and risking injury. His usual end-of-year peak has also been disrupted by bringing his marathon plans forward.

He has even identified Msibi as a serious threat.

“I don’t think I’m going to defend this title with this young man next to me because I saw he can sprint that final 5km,” Mosiako said. “I’m still in my marathon mindset so I’m going to go with the flow and then we’ll see how the race unfolds.”

Mokoka brings a wealth of experience to the contest. The 41-year-old improved from eighth in the inaugural edition to third last year and wants to maintain that upward trajectory.

Accomplished veteran: Stephen Mokoka

“My target this year is to be able to maintain being in the top six from last year in Durban,” he said, reflecting on his recent results.

Mokoka also has reason to feel satisfied with his season after clocking 2:10:48 at the Cape Town Marathon, where he finished 13th.

At Nasrec, youth, experience and endurance will collide over 10 kilometres. Msibi wants a breakthrough, Mosiako hopes his marathon-weary legs can still deliver a title defence, and Mokoka has the experience to read every twist in the race.

The stopwatch will have the final say. For Msibi, though, Sunday could be the morning his name moves from the margins of South African distance running into the spotlight.

  • Venue: Johannesburg Expo Centre NASREC.
  • Start Times: The 10km race starts at 07h30. The 5km fun run follows at 08h00.
  • Race Pack Collection: Today (Saturday, 17 October) is the final day to collect your race number and pack. Collections are open at NASREC until 18h00. Note that there are strictly no race-day entries or number collections tomorrow morning.
  • Strict Rules: Running with headphones, earphones, or pets is strictly prohibited for safety reasons.
  • Cut-off Times: The 10km route has a hard cut-off at 09h00 (1 hour 30 minutes course time), and the 5km cut-off is at 09h30.

Gerda Steyn chases Hollywoodbets Joburg 10K glory

Adnaan MohamedNewsLeave a Comment on Gerda Steyn chases Hollywoodbets Joburg 10K glory

By Adnaan Mohamed

Gerda Steyn is accustomed to conquering the long road, but at the Hollywoodbets Joburg 10k on Sunday, the queen of South African ultra-running will need to summon her speed, sharpen her instincts and keep her rivals firmly in her sights.

The race starts at 7:30am at Nasrec, where 12 000 entrants are expected to turn the occasion into a celebration of running, community and personal achievement. At the sharp end of the elite women’s contest, Steyn faces a compelling challenge from Hollywood Athletics Club teammate Neheng Khatala and UK-born athlete Emma Pallant-Browne.

With defending champion Fridah Ndinda absent, the battle for the title is wide open. Steyn finished second behind the Kenyan last year and will be determined to go one better in the third edition, with R40 000 awaiting the winner.

The seven-time Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon and five-time Comrades Marathon champion has built a reputation on

endurance, resilience and an ability to deliver when the kilometres begin to bite. Yet she is taking nothing for granted over a distance where the pace is fierce and the margin for error is razor-thin.

The Hollywood AC star made it clear that a podium finish would represent a significant achievement.

“The 10km race dynamic is very unpredictable, and I know that there will be strong competition on Sunday. Yes, the previous winner is not here, but there are many other elite runners, so just to finish on the podium will be an amazing achievement for me.”

Khatala’s presence adds an intriguing club dimension to the contest, while Pallant-Browne brings another formidable challenge to a race that should demand speed and tactical nous from the opening strides.

Steyn has increasingly embraced the 10km as an important part of her racing calendar, using the shorter distance to develop speed and maintain her competitive edge ahead of a demanding 2027 season.

“It’s very exciting for me to line up in yet another 10km race because I always find the 10km race distance so challenging and so different to the marathons and ultra-marathons. These races play a very specific role in my preparation throughout the year.

“You have to challenge yourself at a much faster pace and you have to remain focused during each and every single second of the race.”

Her training has also taken a new direction this year, with trail running added to the mix as she prepares for the challenge of a 100km trail race next year. It is another test of versatility for an athlete whose appetite for endurance challenges appears boundless.

For Steyn, Sunday is an opportunity to turn that preparation into a performance and test herself against quality opposition on a faster stage.

She also has an encouraging message for the thousands of recreational runners lining up at Nasrec, particularly those tackling their first 10km.

Enjoy the experience, trust your preparation and make the most of the opportunity to be part of one of South Africa’s biggest road-running events.

Whether chasing a personal best, completing a first 10km or racing for the R40 000 prize, every runner will have a finish line worth celebrating.

For Steyn, though, the mission is clear: turn last year’s silver into gold. With Khatala and Pallant-Browne in the mix, the road to victory promises to be anything but a Sunday stroll.

Dr Insaaf Levy gets Springbok Women call-up for Ireland Tests

Adnaan MohamedNews, Racing, Springbok WomenLeave a Comment on Dr Insaaf Levy gets Springbok Women call-up for Ireland Tests
By Adnaan Mohamed

The balancing act between medicine and international rugby awaits newly qualified doctor Insaaf Levy after she was named in the Springbok Women squad for their two-Test series against Ireland in Cape Town.

The DHL Western Province player was named in the Springbok Women squad for their two-Test series against Ireland in Cape Town. Levy is among two additions to the squad announced by co-coaches Laurian Johannes-Haupt and Franzel September for the encounters at Athlone Stadium on 24 and 31 October.

Anacadia Minnaar also returns after missing the recent European tour, with the EP Queens back replacing Felicia Jacobs. Levy comes in for the injured Ayanda Malinga.

For Levy, who has two Test caps, the call-up brings another opportunity to advance her rugby career while navigating the demands of life as a newly qualified medical doctor.

Her rugby résumé includes appearances in two of South Africa’s three Rugby Africa Women’s Cup Tests in Kenya in May, followed by a tour of Brazil with the SA Women A side in August.

The latest selection places her in the frame for the Springbok Women’s final assignments of the year, with Ireland providing a significant test of South Africa’s progress.

The hosts return from Europe after securing victories over Italy and Spain during a demanding tour that also included a match against Wales. Johannes-Haupt and September have opted for continuity, retaining the bulk of the group that finished the trip strongly.

“We opted for continuity as we have good momentum from the last couple of matches on tour, hence the call to stay with the same group of players,” Johannes-Haupt said.

She welcomed Minnaar’s return and explained the thinking behind Levy’s inclusion.

Dr Insaaf Levy

“Anacadia could unfortunately not travel to Europe, but we are happy to have her back, while we also want to bring Insaaf closer to the action and tap into her skill set,” she said.

Ireland, ranked fifth in the world, will offer a demanding examination as the Springbok Women look to build on their European results and close the season successfully on home soil.

“Ireland are not the fifth-ranked team in the world for nothing. They will really test us,” Johannes-Haupt said.

The two Tests will conclude the 2026 WXV Global Series for South Africa, with both matches scheduled to kick off at 15:00.

Johannes-Haupt believes Athlone Stadium provides an ideal setting for the team’s final international outings of the year.

“We are pleased on how the season progressed and want to finish it strong at home,” she said.

“Athlone Stadium has been a happy hunting ground for us in recent years and it is a perfect setting for us to close out the season.”

Free State Women centre Aisha Camara and DHL Western Province prop Anothando Katshwa have also been invited to train with the squad throughout the camp.

Anacadia Minnaar of South Africa with the ball during the Women’s International test match between South Africa and New Zealand at FNB Stadium in Johannesburg, South Africa. (Photo by Sydney Seshibedi/Gallo Images)

For Levy, the immediate challenge is to make the most of her opportunity in a settled Springbok Women group while balancing the responsibilities of her medical profession with the demands of elite rugby.

Tickets for the matches on 24 and 31 October are sold separately and available exclusively through Ticketmaster: https://springboks.tmtickets.co.za/Events.

Pieter Coetze breaks 50m backstroke World Record

Adnaan MohamedNews, SwimmingLeave a Comment on Pieter Coetze breaks 50m backstroke World Record
By Adnaan Mohamed

South African swimming sensation Pieter Coetze has officially entered the record books, slicing through the water to shatter the men’s 50m backstroke world record in Tashkent on Friday with a blistering 22.09 seconds.

The 22-year-old’s lightning -fast performance eclipsed Russian Kliment Kolesnikov’s previous global benchmark of 22.11, set in 2022, and carved 0.42 seconds off Coetze’s own personal best of 22.51, which he recorded last week.

After coming agonisingly close to the 100m backstroke record at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow earlier this summer, the reigning 100m backstroke world champion finally landed his golden moment, leaving a world-class field floundering in his wake.

“Seeing that time on the board, it didn’t even click that it was a World Record,” Coetze said. “And then, like, a second later, I was like… ‘the World Record was 22.1.’ So… not many words to describe that. It’s crazy.”

The race delivered a breathtaking finish. Russia’s Egor Kornev, who was ahead of world-record pace at the halfway mark, mistimed his final strokes and touched in 22.29 for silver. compatriot Pavel Samusenko claimed bronze in 22.35, while former record-holder Kolesnikov languished in sixth in 22.88.

Coetze’s breakthrough adds another jewel to a remarkable year following his 100m backstroke world title in 2025 and two 51.7-second swims in Glasgow that threatened the longer-distance record.

His new status as world-record holder will put a target squarely between his shoulder blades as the Silk Road Tour continues in Kazakhstan next week.

Yet Coetze insists the record will not turn his head.

“I don’t think it changes much,” he said. “My mindset normally stays the same, no matter what the race is, because, you know, at this level everyone is always close. I mean, the world-record holder was there, and look how close it was. So, no, you can never get too comfortable. I’ll just keep doing the same.”

Fellow South African Michael Houlie ensured the national flag flew high again, winning the men’s 50m breaststroke final in 25.67 seconds. The performance placed him 16th on the all-time list despite battling lower-back pain and food poisoning.

“I think, in spite of all of that, I’ve been able to overcome it and swim the way I swam today,” Houlie said. “That takes courage, and I’m just… I’m grateful. Grateful to be here.”

Coetze’s historic splash was the Silk Road Tour’s first outright world record. Kornev had matched the 100m freestyle world record the previous week, but could not lower it.

Now South Africa has a new record-breaking name in the swimming spotlight, and Coetze has shown the world that when he hits top gear, even history struggles to keep its head above water.

Dayimani’s Diamond shines bright in Springbok shop window

Adnaan MohamedNews, Rugby, SpringboksLeave a Comment on Dayimani’s Diamond shines bright in Springbok shop window
By Adnaan Mohamed

Hacjivah Dayimani is making a compelling case for greater recognition after back-to-back Man of the Match performances for the Stormers.

The loose forward scored twice in the 39-22 URC derby victory over the Sharks, showcasing his growing physicality, leadership and versatility.

With 43,000 supporters roaring beneath the shadow of Table Mountain, the 28-year-old diamond in the Stormers’ pack glittered brighter than the opposition’s star-studded Springboks as the hosts revived their famous Men in Black swagger.

The Sharks arrived unbeaten and loaded with heavyweight international firepower. They left nursing a bruising defeat, their coastal rivals having turned the scrum into a Cape Town battering ram.

While the return of several Springboks dominated the pre-match chatter, it was the Stormers’ collective muscle that stole the show. Wilco Louw, André-Hugo Venter and Ntuthuko Mchunu gave Thomas du Toit, Eduan Swart and Ox Nche a torrid afternoon in the front row.

Behind that demolition crew, Dayimani, Siya Kolisi and Paul de Villiers hunted at the breakdown like hungry predators.

Dayimani supplied the glitter.

He powered over from a maul in the 36th minute before crossing again after the interval, helping the Stormers build a commanding advantage and ultimately secure a bonus-point victory. Seabelo Senatla, Venter, Leolin Zas and JJ Kotzé also crossed the whitewash as the hosts avenged last season’s back-to-back derby defeats.

EXCLUSIVE VIDEO | Hacjivah Dayimani says it would be nice being part of the Bomb Squad

For Stormers director of rugby John Dobson, Dayimani’s growing influence has become impossible to overlook.

“We have a players’ Man of the Match, which always differs from what SuperSport comes up with. In the first two games, Hacjivah was a convincing winner,” Dobson said.

The coach believes the forward has added precious steel to his trademark sparkle.

“What’s changed about Hacjivah is his stopping power; I don’t know whether it’s because he’s decided what the gym is or because he’s got more determined.”

Dobson also praised Dayimani’s leadership, revealing that he has taken charge during training sessions involving the Currie Cup players.

That is music to the ears of Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus, who values players capable of covering multiple positions.

Dayimani has started three consecutive matches at No 8, can operate across the back row and has even played on the wing, including against the All Blacks. His experience with French club Racing 92 also adds versatility to his rugby résumé.

“He’s metamorphosised,” Dobson said.

“At 28 years old and when you talk about hybrids, a guy who can run 10.80 and has stopping power has got to be in anybody’s [selection] frame eventually.”

There is, however, a catch in this tale of glittering ambition.

Dobson insists Dayimani must maintain his current standards over an entire season, acknowledging that previous flashes of brilliance have not always developed into sustained excellence.

“He’s had flashes of brilliance. He needs to build a proper innings. He’s just at the start of it. If he carries on like this, I’ve got no doubt about it.”

Those words should ring in Dayimani’s ears louder than Saturday’s thunderous applause.

The Stormers star has the speed, the flair and, increasingly, the muscle to make a compelling case. His challenge is to turn dazzling cameos into a season-long exhibition of consistency.

The Springbok jersey remains the prize, and competition for places is fierce. Yet another performance of this calibre will make it harder for the selectors to ignore the diamond shining in black.

Dayimani has struck gold in the opening rounds. Now he must keep mining his rich vein of form.

The sparkle is undeniable. The real test is whether this diamond can shine long enough to earn its green-and-gold setting.

STORMERS – Tries: Seabelo Senatla, Hacjivah Dayimani (2), André-Hugo Venter, Leolin Zas, JJ Kotzé. Conversions: Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu (3). Penalty: Feinberg-Mngomezulu.
SHARKS – Tries: Manu Tshituka, Matt Romao, Phepsi Buthelezi. Conversions: Gianni Lombard (2). Penalty: Lombard.

38 Springboks, Two URC Derbies, One Massive Saturday

Adnaan MohamedNews, Preview, Rugby, SpringboksLeave a Comment on 38 Springboks, Two URC Derbies, One Massive Saturday
By Adnaan Mohamed

South African rugby is rolling out the heavy artillery on Saturday, with 38 Springboks spread across two United Rugby Championship derbies promising a feast of collisions, bruising set pieces and simmering provincial pride.

The Stormers host the Sharks at DHL Stadium Cape Town, while the Bulls welcome the Lions to Loftus Versfeld for the latest chapter in the Jukskei rivalry. With 24 Springboks involved in the coastal showdown and another 14 at Loftus, the domestic stage will resemble a Test-match shop window with provincial colours.

The scene is set for the strongest exhibition of South Africa’s locally based Test quality this season.

The Cape derby carries extra theatre. The Stormers revive their famous Men in Black jersey, welcome 50 former players and their families, and celebrate Siya Kolisi’s return to familiar territory.

Sentiment will fill the stands, but the scoreboard will demand hard currency.

Kolisi’s presence adds leadership and emotional weight to a Stormers side featuring 11 Springboks in its match-day squad. Wilco Louw returns to the Cape franchise for the first time since 2020, setting up a heavyweight scrum engagement with Sharks prop Ox Nché.

Their duel deserves a prize-fight billing. One dominant shove, one mistimed bind or one costly penalty could swing territory, momentum and the match. In the front row, reputations are built one brutal reset at a time.

The Sharks arrive with a dangerous memory: their 30-19 victory in Cape Town on 24 January and two wins over the Stormers last season. JP Pietersen’s side knows the coastal road can be travelled successfully, making the derby a stern examination of John Dobson’s returning Springbok contingent.

Dobson has selected his strongest available team, while the Sharks bring their own international firepower, including Nché and Eben Etzebeth. The aerial contest and forward exchanges could turn DHL Stadium into a pressure cooker where every loose ball carries the threat of an explosive counterattack.

The Jukskei derby brings its own combustible ingredients. The Bulls and Lions have contrasting provincial identities and plenty of incentive to seize bragging rights in Pretoria. Last season, the Lions won at Loftus, while the Bulls triumphed at Ellis Park, proof that familiar surroundings offer no guaranteed shelter.

Beyond the established Springboks, both derbies give members of South Africa’s successful Under-20 teams a valuable measuring stick against players who have conquered the international arena. For Rassie Erasmus and his coaching staff, the evidence will be found in the details: decision-making under pressure, physical resilience, tactical discipline and the ability to deliver when the contest tightens.

The next generation will have to earn every centimetre. Reputation might open the door, but performance determines who owns the jersey.

Saturday’s double bill is a celebration of local rugby’s depth and a reminder that provincial loyalty remains a powerful force. The Stormers want their black strip to become a symbol of renewed authority; the Sharks will arrive eager to spoil the homecoming. At Loftus, the Bulls and Lions will fight for control of a rivalry that rarely travels quietly.

Thirty-eight Springboks provide the star power. Two derbies supply the combustible atmosphere. The rest is up to the players, the pressure and the occasional referee’s whistle that will send an entire stadium into a philosophical debate.

South African rugby has cleared the stage. Now the derbies must deliver the fireworks.

JUKSKEI DERBY

Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria – Kick-off: 13.30

Teams: 

Bulls: 15 Willie le Roux, 14 Canan Moodie, 13 Stedman Gans, 12 Harold Vorster, 11 Sebastian de Klerk, 10 Curwin Bosch, 9 Paul de Wet, 8 Cameron Hanekom, 7 Hanro Liebenberg (captain), 6 Jeandre Rudolph, 5 JF van Heerden, 4 Ruan Vermaak, 3 Francois Klopper, 2 Johan Grobbelaar, 1 Gerhard Steenekamp
Replacements: 16 Marco van Staden, 17 Alu Tshakweni, 18 Khutha Mchunu, 19 Cobus Wiese, 20 Elrigh Louw, 21 Keagan Johannes, 22 Handre Pollard, 23 Cheswill Jooste

Lions: 15 Quan Horn, 14 Kelly Mpeku, 13 Ethan Adams, 12 Henco van Wyk, 11 Richard Kriel, 10 Chris Smith, 9 Morne van den Berg, 8 Francke Horne (captain), 7 Siba Qoma, 6 JC Pretorius, 5 Hyron Andrews, 4 Dylan Sjoblom, 3 Sebastian Lombard, 2 PJ Botha, 1 Boan Venter
Replacements: 16 Morne Brandon, 17 SJ Kotze, 18 RF Schoeman, 19 JP du Preez, 20 Batho Hlekani, 21 Siba Mahashe, 22 Nico Steyn, 23 Boeta Chamberlain.

Referee: Hanru van Rooyen (South Africa)
Assistant referees: Christopher Allison (South Africa), Jonathan Lottering (South Africa)
TMO: Aimee Barrett-Theron (South Africa)

COASTAL DERBY

DHL Stadium, Cape Town – Kick-off: 16.00

Teams: 

Stormers: 15 Damian Willemse, 14 Seabelo Senatla, 13 Ruhan Nel (captain), 12 Jonathan Roche, 11 Leolin Zas, 10 Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, 9 Cobus Reinach, 8 Hacjivah Dayimani, 7 Siya Kolisi, 6 Paul de Villiers, 5 JD Schickerling, 4 Adré Smith, 3 Wilco Louw, 2 André-Hugo Venter, 1 Ntuthuko Mchunu.
Replacements: 16 Deon Fourie, 17 Vernon Matongo, 18 Neethling Fouché, 19 Riley Norton, 20 Connor Evans, 21 Evan Roos, 22 Haashim Pead, 23 Wandisile Simelane.

Sharks: 15 Zekhethelo Siyaya, 14 Edwill van der Merwe, 13 Jurenzo Julius, 12 Andre Esterhuizen (captain), 11 Ethan Hooker, 10 Vusi Moyo, 9 Jaden Hendrikse, 8 Phepsi Buthelezi,7 Manu Tshituka, 6 Matt Romao, 5 Darrien Landsberg, 4 Eben Etzebeth, 3 Thomas du Toit, 2 Eduan Swart,1 Ox Nche
Replacements: 16 Esethu Mnebelele, 17 Cameron Dawson, 18 Vincent Koch, 19 Jason Jenkins, 20 Stephan Lewies, 21 Nick Hatton, 22 Ivan van Zyl, 23 Gianni Lombard

Referee: Morné Ferreira (South Africa)
Assistant referees: Griffin Colby (South Africa), Stephan Geldenhuys (South Africa)
TMO: Quinton Immelman (South Africa)

Haashim Pead: Stormers boss sees Antoine Dupont potential

Adnaan MohamedNews, RugbyLeave a Comment on Haashim Pead: Stormers boss sees Antoine Dupont potential
By Adnaan Mohamed

CAPE TOWN – Haashim Pead has barely pulled on a DHL Stormers jersey and already John Dobson has placed an intriguing name alongside his: Antoine Dupont.

The 21-year-old Bo-Kaap scrumhalf is set to make his Stormers debut from the replacements bench against the Hollywoodbets Sharks at DHL Stadium on Saturday, with Dobson comparing his potential with the French superstar who previously won the Junior World Championship Player of the Tournament award.

It is a remarkable reference point for a youngster whose own global breakthrough came at the 2025 World Rugby Under-20 Championship, where Pead was named Player of the Tournament after producing electric running, rapid service and instinctive attacking rugby.

“We went to a lot of trouble to get him,” Dobson said.

“He’s world-class … I don’t want to use that term glibly, but he’s a high-quality player.

“With all respect to Stef [Ungerer] and André [Warner], Haashim is the future. The quicker we get him on the field and develop him, the better.”

That is a sizeable endorsement before Pead has even played his first senior match for the Stormers.

The Lions moved quickly to sign him after his Junior World Championship heroics, although opportunities in Johannesburg were limited. His four-year Stormers deal has now brought him back to Cape Town, the city he calls home and the team he dreamed of representing as a child.

The geography adds another layer to the story.

Pead grew up on the cobbled streets of Dorp Street in the Bo-Kaap, less than 2km from DHL Stadium. On Saturday, he could walk onto the pitch in the Stormers jersey he once imagined wearing as a youngster.

He will deputise for two-time Rugby World Cup winner Cobus Reinach, giving the teenage sensation a front-row view of the demands of elite professional rugby.

Pead’s challenge is now to turn potential into production.

The scrumhalf has the speed to exploit broken-field opportunities and the passing game to accelerate the Stormers’ attack. The Sharks derby will offer a very different examination from the junior international stage.

The Stormers have surrounded him with serious experience, naming 11 Springboks in their match-day squad. Seven returning internationals are set to make their first Stormers appearances of the season.

Damian Willemse starts at fullback, Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu partners Reinach at halfback and Siya Kolisi moves to blindside flank. Wilco Louw is also set for his first Stormers appearance since 2020.

Then there is the bench.

Fourie, who has 141 Stormers caps, provides veteran guidance alongside Evan Roos, Riley Norton, Connor Evans, Neethling Fouché, Vernon Matongo and Wandisile Simelane.

The Stormers will also wear their new black kit, reviving the iconic 1999 Men in Black campaign.

Dobson expects the occasion to resonate with supporters.

“This weekend we also play our first match in the new Men in Black kit, which is a great nod to our past and something which resonates deeply with our fans.”

For Pead, the symbolism is even stronger.

The world has already seen his potential.

Now Cape Town gets its first look.

And if Dobson’s Dupont comparison proves to be more than a headline, the Bo-Kaap boy could be at the beginning of something extraordinary.

DHL Stormers:
15 Damian Willemse, 14 Seabelo Senatla, 13 Ruhan Nel (captain), 12 Jonathan Roche, 11 Leolin Zas, 10 Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, 9 Cobus Reinach, 8 Hacjivah Dayimani, 7 Siya Kolisi, 6 Paul de Villiers, 5 JD Schickerling, 4 Adré Smith, 3 Wilco Louw, 2 André-Hugo Venter, 1 Ntuthuko Mchunu.

Replacements:
16 Deon Fourie, 17 Vernon Matongo, 18 Neethling Fouché, 19 Riley Norton, 20 Connor Evans, 21 Evan Roos, 22 Haashim Pead, 23 Wandisile Simelane.

Mphahlele returns to defend Boxer Super Run Durban title

Adnaan MohamedFeatures, News, PreviewLeave a Comment on Mphahlele returns to defend Boxer Super Run Durban title
By Adnaan Mohamed

Ryan Mphahlele will defend his Boxer Super Run Durban 5km title on 18 October knowing he is not at the fitness level that powered him to victory a year ago.

The Tembisa-based runner won both Durban and Johannesburg in 2025, but says this year’s race will serve as a measure of where he stands against a strong elite field.

“Whenever I line up at a race, I want to win,” Mphahlele said. “But my fitness isn’t anywhere near where it was at this time last year. I’ll definitely compete for the win, but I’ll also use the race to see where my fitness is now and how I compare with the other athletes.”

Mphahlele returns to a fast, flat Durban course he favours, although his previous victory offers little comfort ahead of another fiercely contested race.

Last year’s win required a fight to the finish, and the defending champion expects the competition to be tougher this time.

“I enjoy the fast, flat course and expect the tactics to be similar to last year,” he said. “The standard was already very high, and the win didn’t come easily.”

The attractive prize purse adds another incentive to an elite race that has already attracted a sold-out field.

Stillwater Sports managing director Michael Meyer said Mphahlele’s return would add further intrigue to the contest, particularly given his candid assessment of his preparation.

The elite women’s race starts at 09:45, with the elite men following at 10:00 at Snell Parade near Blue Lagoon Park.

For Mphahlele, the race offers two targets: another title and an answer to a more immediate question about his form.

The stopwatch will provide the answer.

The Boxer Super Run Johannesburg takes place on Sunday, 15 November, with entries also sold out.

Glenrose makes history, then finds her grandmother

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By Adnaan Mohamed

JOHANNESBURG – “Something must be done about the horrific levels of gender-based violence in South Africa.” Gerda Steyn’s powerful words set the tone for the final SPAR Women’s Grand Prix race in Johannesburg on Sunday, where thousands of women turned the City of Gold into a moving sea of solidarity before Glenrose “Supercharger” Xaba powered her way into the history books.

Steyn led a moment of silence before the race to honour victims of gender-based violence and femicide, while the elite athletes wore black armbands in solidarity with women living under the shadow of violence.

Hollywood AC’s Hollywood AC’s Irvette van Zyl, Makhosi Mhlongo and Gerda Steyn at the start of  the 2026 SPAR Women’s Grand Prix and 10km Challenge and 5km Fun Run at Marks Park Sports Club (Photo by Reg Caldecott/Gallo Images)

“Women should be able to go about their daily lives without fear, and if they want to run, they should be free to do so without wondering whether they will get home safely,” said Steyn.

The message carried extra weight on a morning when about 15 000 women took to the streets for the Jozi SPAR Women’s 10km Challenge.

Then came the moment that mattered more than the stopwatch.

Xaba had already etched her name into SPAR Grand Prix history when she stormed across the Marks Park finish line in 32:26 to win the fifth and final race of the series and secure an unprecedented fourth Grand Prix title.

Seconds later, the 29-year-old Boxer athlete found her 89-year-old grandmother, Elizabeth Xaba, and wrapped her in an emotional embrace.

It was the first time Elizabeth had watched her granddaughter race live.

The stopwatch recorded 32:26. The embrace recorded something far more personal.

“My grandma is a special lady to me. She’s very close to my heart and I’m so happy that she’s there to witness the thing that I’m doing,” Xaba said.

“She taught me very well and she always believes in me and always motivates me all the time. If I’m feeling down, she’s always there for me.

“I can say that I love her so much and she loves me too. And I’m glad that she’s there today.”

Xaba’s victory completed a remarkable season in which her trademark acceleration once again turned the final kilometres into a launching pad.

Glenrose Xaba celebrates her 2026 SPAR Women’s Grand Prix victory with her grandmother Elizabeth Xaba at Marks Park Sports Club. (Photo by Reg Caldecott/Gallo Images)

Her Boxer teammate Karabo More followed her home in 33:36 for second place, with Selam Gebre of Nedbank third in 33:52. Esther Borura finished fourth in 34:25, followed by Irvette van Zyl in 34:42.

More, who has repeatedly shown her resilience throughout the series, said she was proud of another podium finish after a demanding week.

“I’m really proud of myself. It was a very challenging week. I think I had to push from start to finish,” she said. “It’s all about your mental state. If it’s very strong, you can fight. By God’s grace, I was able to get another podium finish.”

Karabo Mailula was sixth in 35:14, Steyn seventh in 35:23, Kyla Jacobs eighth in 35:25, Emma Browne ninth in 35:31 and Dirbe Dagne 10th in 35:51.

On a morning when running became a platform for solidarity, Xaba supplied the history and her grandmother supplied the heart.

The final image was fitting: a champion who had spent 10km chasing the clock finally stopped to embrace the person who had helped her believe she could outrun it.

CHECK YOUR RESULTS OF JOZI SPAR WOMEN’S 10KM CHALLENGE PART OF THE SPAR GRAND PRIX HERE

OPEN: 1. Glenrose Xaba (Boxer) 32:26; 2. Karabo More (Boxer) 33:36; 3. Selam Gebre (Nedbank) 33:52; Esther Borura (Super Eagles) 34:25; 5. Irvette van Zyl (Hollywood AC) 34:42; 6. Karabo Mailula (Boxer) 35:14; 7. Gerda Steyn (Hollywood AC) 35:23; 8. Kyla Jacobs (Boxer) 35:25; 9. Emma Browne (Peak RC) 35:31; 10. Dirbe Dagne (Nedbank) 35:51

JUNIOR 1. Dirbe Dagne (Nedbank) 35:51; 2. Mpho Katiso (TUT) 38:03; 3. Megan Waller (Nedbank) 39:19

40-49 1. Este van Tonder (Nedbank) 38:53; 2. Makhosi Mahlongo (Hollywood AC) 39:45; 3. Tebogo Mokgosinyane (Nedbank) 40:44

40-59 1. Charne Bosman (Tuks) 41;30; 2. Elizabeth Potter (Boxer) 42:16; 3. Janene Carey (Boxer) 43:23

60-69 1. Judy Bird (Boxer) 44:08; 2. Dalene Sonnekus (Nedbank) 46:54; 3. Elmarie Pretorius (RWFL) 49:28

70+ 1. Frances van Blerk (Nedbank) 57.42; Claudette McLean (Mercury) 1:10:18; Serene Netshiaulu (RAC) 31:11:38

From 16 to 30:50: Tayla Kavanagh makes history

Adnaan MohamedFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on From 16 to 30:50: Tayla Kavanagh makes history
By Adnaan Mohamed

At 16, Tayla Kavanagh began her journey over 10km. Nine years later, the South African star has stormed through the 31-minute barrier, turning a teenage running chapter into a history-making triumph.

Every great running story begins somewhere. For Tayla Kavanagh, it began at 16, with the 10km distance stretching ahead like an open road and a future waiting to be discovered.

Nine years later, the 25-year-old Hollywood Athletics Club Purple Elite star has made that same distance her own, obliterating the South African women’s 10km road record with a sensational 30:50 at the Brasov Running Festival in Romania on Sunday.

The stopwatch blinked. The record book trembled. South African athletics had a new landmark.

“I’m incredibly proud and it feels really special,” Kavanagh said after slicing 22 seconds off the previous national record of 31:12.

“I knew I wasn’t that far off the record previously so I came into the race with the mindset of running as fast as I could today. So breaking the record felt extra special and it was an absolute privilege to get the opportunity to line up and race against a world-class field.”

Her performance made her the first South African woman to break the 31-minute barrier over 10km. She finished fifth in a quality international field, clocking a time that will echo through the country’s distance-running community long after the finishing-line tape has fallen silent.

Kavanagh also shredded her previous personal best of 31:26 by 36 seconds. For an elite distance runner, that is a sizeable leap, the equivalent of finding another gear when the engine is already roaring.

And the timing was extraordinary.

Only 15 days earlier, she had rewritten the South African women’s 5km road record with 14:51 at the World Road Running Championships in Copenhagen. Two national road records in barely a fortnight have turned her 2026 campaign into a purple patch of historic proportions.

“2026 has been a dream year come true for my running career,” she said.

“I’m so incredibly happy. I’m incredibly happy with my performance and I’m really proud of myself for putting myself in the race and racing competitively with the international ladies.”

The breakthrough has been years in the making. Earlier this season, Kavanagh claimed South African titles over 5 000m and 10 000m. Her 14:58.52 over 5 000m made her only the third South African woman to break the 15-minute barrier.

She has shown grit on the roads, too. At the Hollywoodbets Durban 10km in August, an early fall threatened to derail her race. She picked herself up, found her rhythm and stormed to victory in 31:39, setting a course record.

In Brasov, she took that momentum and put the national mark through the wringer.

Her record-breaking run also raises an exciting question: how much faster can she go as she continues to test herself against the world’s best?

For now, the woman who began running 10km as a teenager is ready to trade racing shoes for recovery time.

“Breaking the SA record today means a lot to me,” she said. “I’m proud with what I have achieved, I’ll now be taking an offseason which I’m really looking forward to, for not just a physical, but also a mental break.”

She was equally quick to acknowledge the team behind her progress.

“I’m always so thankful for the support, encouragement and cheers I receive from my Hollywood Athletics Club. It’s incredibly motivating to have so much support behind you and it really does go a long way in helping you feel valued and appreciated.”

From her first 10km miles at 16 to a record-smashing 30:50 at 25, Kavanagh has travelled a remarkable road. Her latest performance is a milestone built on years of work, belief and the courage to chase a faster finish.

The teenager who once took on 10km has become the woman setting the pace for South Africa. The road ahead is wide open, and the stopwatch may yet have more surprises in store.