Category: News

‹ Back

Biogen Half Marathon: Gauteng’s Premier 21km

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Biogen Half Marathon: Gauteng’s Premier 21km

The Biogen Half Marathon and Smecta 5km presented by Momentum Multiply took place on 11 January 2026. The twenty fourth edition of Gauteng’s premier half marathon is proudly hosted by Bedfordview Athletics Club for novice and seasoned runners to enjoy at the start of the year. Participants enjoyed perfect running weather for a scenic and challenging route through Bedfordview and Primrose. 

The first big race of the year set the tone, and the winning male and female runners respectively were George Kusche from Nedbank Running Club with a time of 01:05:32, and Irvette Van Zyl from Hollywood Athletics Club CGA, who finished with a time of 01:17:01, both beating the previous years times. Second place male was taken by Namakoe Nkhasi from Nedbank Running Club Lesotho and female Nobukhosi Thuma from Entsika Athletics Club. Congratulations to the overall and respective age category winners. Over R60k in prize money was paid out.

Thank you to the sponsors Biogen, Momentum Multiply, Dis-Chem and all the co-sponsors SmectaGO, Gillette, Old Spice, Norflex Gel, Transact, Essentiale Extreme and Heneways who make races like ours possible for all runners to enjoy. The sponsors bring incredible value to the runners, including the race shirts, goody bags, medals, activations, product samples and services.

Brandon Fairweather, Biogen Brand Manager said, ‘Congratulations to all participants of the Biogen Half Marathon presented by Momentum Multiply, as well as the Smecta 5km dash! We are inspired to see so many people starting the year on the right foot, and a healthier note, with clear intentions to live and be their best in the months ahead. Special thanks to Bedfordview Athletics Club and community, as well all our co-sponsors, staff, teams and volunteers that make Gauteng’s Premier Running race possible. Wishing you strength, health and happiness! May you all continue to #UpYourStandards in 2026. 

Damian McHugh, Chief Marketing Officer at Momentum Health said, ‘Momentum Multiply is proud to partner with Biogen and Dis-Chem to support the incredible 2026 Biogen 21K presented by Momentum Multiply. This race embodies determination, perseverance, and community, values that closely align with who we are at Momentum Multiply. Congratulations to all the runners who took on the challenge! We extend our heartfelt thanks to the organisers at Bedfordview Athletics Club, as well as the dedicated volunteers and enthusiastic supporters. Your efforts bring events like these to life. The 2026 Biogen 21K presented by Momentum Multiply is a fantastic way to kick-start the year, embracing the journey of health, wellness, and living your healthiest 2026.’

‘We thank the communities in Bedfordview and Primrose for their patience on race day. We really appreciate Better Bedfordview, a non-profit organisation that assists us with clearing the route and fixing 15 dangerous potholes on route. A big thanks to the EMPD, SAPS, Bedfordview and Primrose CPFs, RAG, Blue Hawk Tactical and Spider Tactical Reaction security companies who offer us that extra security and assistance on the day,’ said race director Charnia Yapp from Bedfordview Athletics.

The race supports the Lambano Sanctuary and the Namaqua Dog and Donkey Foundation, which undertakes the sterilisation, vaccination and treatment of animals in informal settlements on the East Rand. A big thank you to the runners for their donations and the Dis-Chem Foundation, who matched these donations. R35570 was raised for Lambano Sanctuary and R30670 for Namaqua Dog and Donkey Foundation.

The race committee extends their gratitude to everyone who helped make the day possible, from the field set up team, registration crews, water points to the marshals on route. The visible patrolling of the race route by the SAPS, Road Rangers, Bedfordview and Primrose CPF and the security companies – BHT, RAG, BSG and Spider Tactical – was appreciated.

View the race results here www.biogen21.co.za

[email protected]

When Matric Meets the Stormers: Markus Muller’s Results Day Scrum

Adnaan MohamedFeatures, News, RugbyLeave a Comment on When Matric Meets the Stormers: Markus Muller’s Results Day Scrum
By Adnaan Mohamed

Most matriculants spent results day pacing the house, refreshing WhatsApp and bargaining with the rugby gods. Markus Muller? He was at Stormers training.

Yes, while his classmates waited nervously for envelopes and emojis, the Paarl Gymnasium captain and South Africa Under-18 centre had his boots on and his head down at his first Stormers session, leaving his mom to do the official results run.

“I asked my mom to collect my results,” Muller laughed in an entertaining interview conducted by veteran prop Neethling Fouche using a Red Bull energy drink can as a microphone.

“During training, when I had time off, I looked at my phone, and my mom sent me a picture.”

Welcome to modern rugby: professional contracts, professional gyms and matric results via WhatsApp.

Muller passed, and passed the vibe check too.

“I was ‘quite’ happy with having passed his matric exam,” he said.
“I was a bit nervous, but it was fun.”

The timing could not have been more poetic. On the same day his school chapter closed, a professional one cracked open. Like a winger ditching the safe kick for touch and backing himself, Muller chose the Stormers call over the school hall queue.

Markus Muller at the Stormers High Performance Centre in Bellville on Tuesday Photo: Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Images

He is one of a bumper crop of schoolboy stars already snapped up by the Cape franchise for 2026 and beyond. Joining Muller from Paarl Gym is loose forward Quintin Potgieter, while the wider class includes Alutha Wesi (Rondebosch Boys), centres Randall-John Davids, prop Matt van der Merwe and wing Jordan Steenkamp, hooker Altus Rabe and loose forward Gert Kemp (Paul Roos).

Wynberg Boys flyhalf Yaqeen Ahmed, Boland Landbou scrumhalf Jayden Brits and Grey College lock AJ Meyer are the other prodigies on the Stormers books.

These names might sound that is comes from a matric class list. However, it’s more like a Craven Week highlight reel.

Stormers wing Leolin Zas has already had his first look at the teenage midfield star, having watched him shine at Craven Week. His first impression? Talent, nerves and plenty of upside.

“His first day was yesterday [Tuesday], and he looked a bit nervous,” said the 30-year-old back of the 18-year-old.
“I can’t wait to share some things with him.”

Muller, described as the best schoolboy centre in the country last year, is already talking like a team man rather than a headline hunter. If the Stormers need him to do the dirty work, he’s keen.

The young midfielder said he would happily answer the Stormers’ call to pack down in a scrum if the need arises, but he would like to be part of a maul as well.

In other words: give him a jersey and tell him where to push.

Stormers Director of Rugby John Dobson says the flood of local talent is no accident, but a carefully built pathway that keeps Western Cape rugby feeding itself.

“Our contracting model is to look at local talent from the region first as a way to keep strengthening the pathway system,” Dobson said.

He believes the current intake shows the production line is alive, well and hitting peak form.

“The strong intake of local talent is extremely encouraging as the Stormers look to build significant depth by drawing on the best that the schools in the Western Cape have to offer,” he said.

“We have seen a few big success stories in recent years, with the likes of Damian Willemse, Salmaan Moerat, Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, JD Schickerling and Suleiman Hartzenberg all coming through our system to become household names.

“We expect the same to happen with many of these players who will join our environment next year and we are not done here, with a few more significant names set to be added to this list in the near future.”

As for Muller, his matric certificate may still be at home, but his boots are already in the Stormers locker room. One chapter closed, another opened. No study leave required.

Gerda Steyn Reflects on Totalsports Two Oceans Blue Number Club Honour

Adnaan MohamedNews, Totalsports Two Oceans MarathonLeave a Comment on Gerda Steyn Reflects on Totalsports Two Oceans Blue Number Club Honour

By Adnaan Mohamed

Gerda Steyn has added another milestone to her storied running career, earning membership of the prestigious Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon Blue Number Club (BNC).

Steyn’s remarkable running journey has unfolded like a perfectly paced ultra, patient beginnings, relentless consistency, and a finishing strength that leaves spectators breathless.

With six Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon victories and three course records, she has mastered the art of winning. Yet the honour that resonates deepest is not measured in minutes or medals, but in colour: blue.

Despite multiple victories and course records, Steyn describes receiving her Blue Number, her first permanent race number, as one of the most meaningful honours of her career.

Gerda Steyn TTOM Blue Number 6067 by Adnaan Mohamed

“Receiving my Blue Number at the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon was my first ever permanent race number, so it was a huge honour,” says Steyn. “It means that I am invested in the race in the same way as those who have completed it ten times or more.”

Chris Goldschmidt, Chairperson of the Two Oceans Marathon NPC, praised Steyn’s impact on the sport.

“Gerda is affectionately known by many nicknames: from ‘The Smiling Assassin’ to ‘The Darling of South African Road Running,’ ‘The Queen of SA Running,’ ‘The People’s Champion,’ and ‘Sunshine Lady.’ Each name tells a story of her talent, her dedication, and the joy she brings to the sport,” says Goldschmidt.

“Beyond her many nicknames and titles, what truly stands out is the way Gerda has captured the hearts of runners and fans across the country. Her achievements are matched only by the inspiration she provides to the running community.”

Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon General Manager Wade Bromfield added:

“Gerda embodies the spirit of this race. Her consistency, humility and record-breaking performances continue to raise the bar and inspire every runner who lines up on race day.”

Steyn, who claimed her first Ultra victory in 2018, says the Blue Number symbolises long-term commitment rather than speed alone.

“Being part of the BNC reminds me that running is deeply rooted in me and that I’m in it for the long term. No matter life’s circumstances, I’ve always been drawn back to this one start line.”

She also paid tribute to fellow BNC members, including runners with decades of finishes.

“They are the true heroes of the Two Oceans Marathon. Their achievements are beyond imagination and inspire everyone around them.”

The Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon will take place from 10–12 April 2026 in Cape Town.

For more info visit:  www.twooceansmarathon.org.za

Chery South Africa Renews Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series Partnership for Three Years

Adnaan MohamedNewsLeave a Comment on Chery South Africa Renews Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series Partnership for Three Years

Chery South Africa has announced the renewal of its sponsorship of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series, extending the partnership for an additional three years from 2026. The renewal follows four successful years of collaboration and coincides with the fourth anniversary of Chery’s relaunch in South Africa.

The partnership has played a key role in the continued growth and success of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series, with Chery South Africa serving as the Official Vehicle Partner. Chery’s fleet supports event logistics and operations across all host cities, contributing to a seamless race experience from build-up week through to race day.

“Chery’s commitment, innovation and enthusiasm have helped elevate the series year after year,” says Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports.

“We are proud to welcome them for another three years as we continue to deliver world-class running events across South Africa.”

Wade Bromfield and Verene Petersen by Ray van Breda

Tony Liu, CEO of Chery South Africa, says the brand is excited to continue the journey. “Over the past four years, we’ve built a strong partnership and created memorable experiences for runners and Chery owners alike. We look forward to further strengthening our connection with the running community and the cities we celebrate.”

Chery at Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series by David-Sullivan

The Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series features five major 10km races in Gqeberha, Cape Town, Durban, Tshwane and Johannesburg. The renewed partnership will continue to focus on innovation, performance and enhanced runner and supporter experiences.

For more information, visit www.runyourcityseries.com.

Puma Unveils New Levels Of Fast With Deviate Nitro™ 4 & Deviate Nitro™ Elite 4

Tanika LaskeyNewsLeave a Comment on Puma Unveils New Levels Of Fast With Deviate Nitro™ 4 & Deviate Nitro™ Elite 4

UMA has unveiled the latest evolution of its hero running franchise with the launch of the Deviate NITRO™ 4 and Deviate NITRO™ Elite 4.

The two new models build on PUMA’s position as pioneers of speed and innovation, underpinned by the brand’s best-in-class NITROFOAM™ technology.

Deviate NITRO™ Elite 4

Specially crafted for race-day, Deviate NITRO™ Elite 4 improves on its much-loved predecessor by returning even lighter and more efficient, thanks to enhanced NITROFOAM™ ELITE cushioning. The fit and feel build on the award-winning Deviate Elite NITRO™ 3, but the ride is now smoother, more responsive, and more stable across race-day distances.

The redesigned carbon fibre PWRPLATE is now stiffer and has been engineered to reduce stress in the metatarsal area. Its geometry has been optimized for efficient energy transfer, delivering a smoother, faster stride. It features gradual rib structuring to enhance stability by evenly distributing stress from lateral to medial motion, creating an efficient ride from start line to finish.

Adding to PUMA’s elite race-day range, the Deviate NITRO™ Elite 4 is a definitive option for high-cadence runners looking for a lightweight, responsive shoe that will help them unleash a new level of speed and feel beyond fast on race day.

Deviate NITRO™ Elite 4 launches globally on 12 February 2026, available to purchase on PUMA.com and PUMA retail stores.

Deviate NITRO™ Elite 4 Specifications:

  • Price: R5799
  • Weight: UK8: 170g/UK4.5: 140g
  • Stack Height: 32MM/40MM
  • Drop: 8mm

Deviate NITRO™ 4

Built for the everyday runner who is serious about getting faster, the Deviate NITRO™ 4 introduces an evolved NITROFOAM™ midsole featuring a new dual-layer, nitrogen-infused foam that delivers elevated rebound for a more energetic stride, giving runners the speed they crave, without compromising on the comfort they know and love.

The mesh upper offers lightweight breathability, while a plush collar and padded tongue provide all-round protection. Soft where it matters, supportive where it counts, the Deviate NITRO™ 4 locks the foot in place, letting runners focus on the run. Unwavering durability and comfort remain at the heart of the Deviate experience, providing consistency for everyday runs.

A reengineered PWRPLATE has been contoured to improve flexibility, while PUMA’s trusted PUMAGRIP outsole ensures traction across any surface, with coverage that can accommodate any footstrike pattern. This evolution delivers a more consistent, supportive ride while maintaining the natural feel needed for up-tempo training runs and everyday miles.

Deviate NITRO™ 4 Specifications:

  • Price: R3999
  • Weight: UK8: 250g/UK4.5: 205g
  • Stack Height: 30MM/38MM
  • Drop: 8mm

Deviate NITRO™ 4 launches in limited supply on 23 January, followed by a global release on 26 February 2026, and will be available to purchase on PUMA.com, PUMA retail stores, Totalsports, Sportsmans Warehouse and Takealot.

“We’re excited to bring our latest instalment of speed to the market with Deviate NITRO™ Elite 4 and Deviate NITRO™ 4. The Deviate franchise has been at the centre of our performance running business since our re-launch in 2021, winning multiple awards and helping athletes earn podiums,” said Erin Longin, Vice President, BU Run/Train, PUMA.

For more information, please visit: www.puma.com

Stormers Furious Over Pitch After Smith’s Hospitalisation

Adnaan MohamedNews, RugbyLeave a Comment on Stormers Furious Over Pitch After Smith’s Hospitalisation
By Adnaan Mohamed

What should be a fortress has become a minefield.

Stormers Director of Rugby John Dobson has launched a blistering broadside at the Cape Town Stadium pitch, blaming its deteriorating condition for an alarming injury toll that has now left lock Adré Smith hospitalised with a serious knee infection.

“We were promised a world-class pitch, and we certainly don’t have one,” Dobson said, his words cutting sharper than a loose stud.

Speaking from London, where the Stormers are preparing for a pivotal Champions Cup clash against Harlequins on Sunday, a visibly agitated Dobson revealed that Smith is undergoing intensive medical treatment after suffering a deep knee wound during last weekend’s gritty 13–8 win over the Bulls.

Smith, who came off the bench in the bruising North–South derby, split his knee open on what Dobson described as a surface more suited to a ploughed field than elite rugby.

“There is no way to beat around the bush, or be polite about it,” Dobson said. “He split his knee and got an infection, where the field wasn’t adequately covered with grass. The doctors put it directly down to the condition of the field.”

Smith has already spent two days in hospital and is expected to remain under close medical supervision for at least another two, as the Stormers count the cost of what Dobson labelled an “enormous frustration” for management.

The lock is not alone. Dobson confirmed multiple players have emerged bloodied and burned by the abrasive surface, with turf toe, severe abrasions and infections becoming increasingly common.

“We’ve seen turf toe injuries, abrasions, infections and even an increased risk of concussion on an unpadded surface,” Dobson said. “Player safety is the biggest concern.”

The pitch woes trace back to the World Supercross Championship staged at the stadium on December 13, an event that ripped up the surface and left it struggling to recover. Despite that, 53,000 supporters packed the stands just three weeks later to witness the Stormers edge the Bulls, even as the grass remained thin, brown and bare.

World Supercross Championships

Stormers Rugby CEO Johan le Roux previously described the surface as “absolutely sad”, while Cape Town Stadium Chief Operating Officer Louw Visagie has insisted the pitch is fit for purpose and meets World Rugby standards. It’s a view Dobson clearly does not share.

As if the surface scars were not enough, the Stormers’ casualty ward continues to swell. Veteran prop Ali Vermaak has ruptured his Achilles, while combative loose forward Ruan Ackermann faces months on the sidelines with a serious neck injury.

“Ali has ruptured his Achilles, which is a serious injury for any rugby player,” Dobson said. “It’s incredibly disappointing because of how popular and effective he’s been for us.

“Ruan has a bulging disc in his neck. Those injuries can be three months if you’re very lucky, but they can also be longer. I’d say it’s a good few months, which is a massive blow because he was exceptional, especially on defence.”

For a team built on physical dominance and relentless pressure, the Stormers now face a battle on two fronts, one against elite European opposition, and another against a home surface Dobson believes is breaking his players faster than any opponent ever could.

Olympic Heavyweight Damien Joly Dives into 2026 Midmar Mile

Adnaan MohamedNews, SwimmingLeave a Comment on Olympic Heavyweight Damien Joly Dives into 2026 Midmar Mile
By Adnaan Mohamed

The ripples around Midmar Dam are already growing, and February is still weeks away. French swimming starDamien Joly has confirmed he will line up at the 2026 aQuellé Midmar Mile, injecting Olympic pedigree into one of the world’s most iconic open-water swims from 5–8 February in KwaZulu-Natal.

A three-time Olympian and Olympic finalist, Joly’s entry adds another powerful current to a race famed for blending elite speed with mass-participation spirit. Like a seasoned marathon swimmer slipping from the calm of the pool into open water, the Frenchman is relishing the challenge of something different.

Damien Joly

“The Midmar Mile is a very well-known race in South Africa, and I was happy to be invited to take part. It’s a great opportunity to race in a different environment, experience a new competition format, and enjoy a strong and passionate swimming community,” Joly said.

The aQuellé Midmar Mile annually draws thousands of swimmers from nervous first-timers to hardened professionals, all funnelled into the same stretch of water. Joly has long heard that the event’s atmosphere swells like a tide.

“I’ve heard that it’s much more than just a race,” he explained. “The crowd, the energy around the dam, and the number of participants make it very special. It’s also known for being extremely competitive at the front while remaining very inclusive, which is quite unique.”

South Africa is familiar water for Joly. He previously trained in Johannesburg and Pretoria, and his memories extend beyond the pool deck.

“I also had the opportunity to visit the country and go on safari, which were incredible experiences. It’s a beautiful country, and everything went really well during my time there,” he recalled.

At 33, Joly arrives with a résumé as deep as the endurance events he dominates. Beyond three Olympic appearances, he is a 2022 World Short Course Championships silver medallist and European Championships bronze medallist in the 1500m freestyle, and the French national record holder in the event — credentials that mark him as a front-pack threat.

Yet for Joly, Midmar is not just about chasing the fastest line through the water.

“I’m really looking forward to racing in such a legendary event and feeling that atmosphere first-hand. Competing against strong international swimmers in an open water setting like Midmar is something I’m very motivated by,” he said.

Asked about his winning prospects, Joly struck a balance between confidence and caution, the hallmark of an experienced open-water racer.

“I always approach races with confidence in my preparation, but also with a lot of respect for my competitors. Open water racing can be unpredictable, so the focus is on executing a smart race and giving my best on the day.”

What truly sets the Midmar Mile apart, in Joly’s eyes, is its rare ability to hold elite intensity and community warmth in the same stroke.

“That’s one of the things that makes Midmar so special. To share the same start line with first timers, passionate amateurs, and elite athletes is a reminder of why we swim in the first place: for the love of the sport and the challenge it brings.”

Beyond podiums and placings, the Frenchman sees the event as a chance to broaden his horizons.

Damien Joly (L) claims silver at 2022 world short course champs

“I hope to gain experience, memories, and inspiration. Racing at Midmar is also an opportunity to step out of my usual competitive environment and grow as an athlete and as a person.”

With Joly now confirmed, the 2026 aQuellé Midmar Mile promises to be a meeting of global class and grassroots passion, a vast, shared lane where Olympic currents mingle with everyday courage.

Entries for the 2026 aQuellé Midmar Mile remain open at www.midmarmile.com.

The 2026 Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon Journey begins on the Training Run Circuit

Adnaan MohamedNews, Totalsports Two Oceans MarathonLeave a Comment on The 2026 Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon Journey begins on the Training Run Circuit
By Adnaan Mohamed

For runners eyeing the 2026 Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon (TTOM), the first chapters are already written with six official TTOM Training Runs preparing athletes for one of the most iconic weekends on the global running calendar.

From January to March 2026, these guided training runs will crisscross South Africa with steady climbs, rewarding flats, and plenty of shared momentum along the way.

Six Stops on the Road to the World’s Most Beautiful Marathon

Hosted in collaboration with running clubs nationwide, the TTOM Training Runs kick off in Cape Town on 25 January, before moving through Johannesburg, Durban, Pretoria, and Stellenbosch, with a second Cape Town run keeping the coastal heartbeat strong.

Each run offers a 21km or 12km option, giving runners the chance to test fitness, build confidence, and rehearse race-day rhythm in a supportive, high-energy environment.

“This series is about more than fitness,” explains Chris Goldschmidt, Chairperson of the Two Oceans Marathon NPC.

“It’s about bringing runners together and celebrating the passion that defines the Two Oceans community.”

Built for Momentum, Powered by Community

Two Oceans Marathon Trail Run by Devin Paisley

These official training runs are exclusive to 2026 Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon entrants and are free of charge, though capacity is limited and advance registration is required.

According to Wade Bromfield, General Manager of the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon, early date announcements allow runners to plan with purpose. Start venues will be revealed closer to each run via social media, ensuring routes that reflect local flavour, safety, and crowd energy.

2026 TTOM Training Run Schedule

Free | Limited capacity | Pre-registration required

  • Sunday, 25 January 2026 – Cape Town
  • Sunday, 1 February 2026 – Johannesburg
  • Sunday, 8 February 2026 – Durban
  • Sunday, 22 February 2026 – Cape Town
  • Sunday, 8 March 2026 – Pretoria
  • Sunday, 22 March 2026 – Stellenbosch

Further details and sign-up links will be shared on official TTOM social platforms closer to each date.

The Finish Line Awaits: 2026 Race Weekend

All roads lead to April, when runners toe the line across three unforgettable days:

  • Friday, 10 April 2026 – Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon Trail Run
  • Saturday, 11 April 2026 – Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon
  • Sunday, 12 April 2026 – Totalsports Two Oceans Half Marathon

What’s New for 2026: Extra Miles of Value

The runner experience in 2026 gets a boost with the following:

  • Exclusive event-specific T-shirt included for all Ultra, Half, and Trail Run entrants
  • Limited-edition TTOM Versus Quarter Running Socks for every participant
  • Upgraded Blue Number Club benefits, delivering premium rewards throughout race weekend

Stay in the Loop

Meet the adidas Dropset 4 – One Shoe. Every Move.

Adnaan MohamedAdvertorial, NewsLeave a Comment on Meet the adidas Dropset 4 – One Shoe. Every Move.
By Adnaan Mohamed

Training doesn’t move in straight lines and neither should your footwear.

The adidas Dropset 4 is built for athletes who shift gears without slowing down. From heavy lifts to explosive jumps and short sprints, it delivers the stability of a strength shoe with the energy return of a runner, carrying you through every phase of your workout like a perfectly paced final lap.

Born from a simple truth that 7 in 10 gym-goers train in the wrong shoes. The Dropset 4 cuts through the clutter with a single solution. No swapping. No compromise. Just one shoe designed to handle it all.

Stability When It Counts. Energy When You Need It.

Underfoot, full-length Repetitor foam keeps you grounded yet responsive, helping you stay strong deep into your sets. Energyrods channel force like a well-timed stride, stabilising heavy lifts while propelling take-offs on box jumps, skips and fast accelerations.

The Continental and Adiwear rubber outsole grips the floor when the weight stacks up — from sled pushes to loaded lunges, while the Footadapt sockliner sharpens balance and control, keeping every movement dialled in.

Up top, a haptic-printed upper adds durability without sacrificing breathability, built to survive the grind of high-intensity sessions and the sweat that comes with them.

Built for the Full Training Journey

Aimee Arana, adidas Global General Manager for Sportswear & Training, explains the vision behind the Dropset 4:

“We know our community has embraced functional training as an important part of their routine and needs a shoe that will support them with the demands of their entire workout, from warm-up to cool-down.
We are proud to offer them an improved solution that truly meets their different needs during training: the Dropset 4 is built to be sturdy and stable enough for those big compound strength moves, while still delivering the cushioning and energy return essential for explosive actions like box jumps or even a warm-up run.”

Tested by Those Who Train Without Compromise

From elite athletes to everyday gym-goers, the Dropset 4 has been pushed to the limit. Hungarian competitive training athlete Laura Horvath wore the shoe to victory on one of the world’s most demanding fitness stages in Aberdeen, proving it performs when it matters most.

Brazilian fitness star Caio Cabral sums it up:

“When I train, I’m always pushing my limits whether on big compound moves or intense sprints, so I need a shoe that can handle it all without slowing me down.
The Dropset 4 is made for intensity, which is exactly how I like to train, giving me the perfect mix of stability, grip and comfort, no matter what the workout looks like.”

Actor Emilio Sakraya adds:

“My training keeps me ready for any role, so I need footwear I can rely on.
The Dropset 4 doesn’t force me to compromise — it’s light enough to accelerate, solid enough when I land and versatile enough to keep up on explosive moves.”

All You Need. Anywhere You Train.

The adidas Dropset 4 is available from 8 January 2025 at selected retailers and online at adidas.co.za.

Train harder. Move faster. Change direction without hesitation.
Dropset 4 – All You Need.

Cian Oldknow set for comeback as Team SA gears up for World Cross Country Champs

Adnaan MohamedCross Country, NewsLeave a Comment on Cian Oldknow set for comeback as Team SA gears up for World Cross Country Champs
By Adnaan Mohamed

Cian Oldknow is back on the start line as Team South Africa prepares to tackle the World Cross Country Championships in Tallahassee, Florida on Saturday.

After an injury- and illness-disrupted 2025 season, the Olympian’s is primed for a return to action on the world stage.

Oldknow is part of a strong senior women’s squad contesting the demanding 10km, headlined by Glenrose Xaba, Cacisile Sosibo, Kyla Jacobs, Karabo Mailula and Zanele Maisa.

For Oldknow, Tallahassee represents the first competitive stride back after a year spent battling setbacks rather than chasing finish tapes. The Johannesburg-based athlete burst onto the marathon scene in 2024, winning three races over 42.2km, qualifying for the Paris Olympic Games and finishing as South Africa’s top marathoner ahead of Irvette van Zyl and Gerda Steyn. Momentum stalled in 2025, but not belief.

“This will be my first race back after quite a difficult year in 2025, so I’m hoping to start on a positive note,” said Oldknow.

“I really enjoy wearing the South African colours and take a lot of pride in representing my country. I know I’ll have to dig deep, even though I’m not in the best place yet, but I think we can take pride in what we do as a team.”

While the women’s squad gathers pace, the men’s team has been forced to adjust its rhythm. South Africa’s plan to field its strongest senior men’s outfit was disrupted when reigning SA 10km cross country champion Kabelo Mulaudzi was ruled out with injury. Mulaudzi, one of the form distance runners of recent seasons with three sub-28-minute 10km performances last year, will focus on rehabilitation ahead of 2026.

The men’s 10km team features Adriaan Wildschutt, Bennett Seloyi, Chris Mhlanga, Sanele Masondo and Musawenkosi Mnisi, with Jayde Roslee stepping in after the withdrawal of Mulaudzi.

Adriaan Wildschutt Photo: Team SA

“We can confirm that Mulaudzi is injured,” said ASA Cross Country Chairperson and Team Manager Jakes Jacobs.

“He is replaced by Jayde Roslee who finished in the top twenty in the junior race in Australia in 2023. He was the official reserve after his performance at the trials. The good thing is that Jayde is based in the US. So, he will represent the country on behalf of Kabelo.”

On the women’s side, national 10km champion Glenrose Xaba returns to the World Cross Country Championships for the first time since stepping up to the marathon. Fresh off a sixth-place finish at the Valencia Marathon, Xaba is aiming to better her 32nd-place showing in Serbia two years ago, and she believes the legs are ready.

“I did not train that much because I was already fit,” said Xaba.

“So, I rested and spent the rest of December polishing up because you can’t just come from a marathon and jump into another training programme. I will do my best to go with the East Africans because it’s something that I’m used to doing. I just want to improve and finish very strong. I’m feeling very good. No injury. I just want to do my best.”

With a 28-member squad spread across senior, junior and relay events, Team South Africa arrives in Florida with depth, resilience and runners eager to test themselves against the world’s best.

TEAM SA – WORLD CROSS COUNTRY CHAMPIONSHIPS

Tallahassee, Florida | 10 January 2026

Senior men (10km)

  • Adriaan Wildschutt
  • Bennett Seloyi
  • Sanele Masondo
  • Chris Mhlanga
  • Musawenkosi Mnisi
  • Jayde Roslee (replacement)

Senior women (10km)

  • Glenrose Xaba
  • Karabo Mailula
  • Cacisile Sosibo
  • Kyla Jacobs
  • Cian Oldknow
  • Zanele Maisa

Senior mixed relay (4x2km)

  • Karabo More
  • Carina Viljoen
  • Luan Munnik
  • Christopher Swart

Junior men (8km)

  • Anele Matsoso
  • Tshepang Tshivhula
  • Beautin van der Westhuizen
  • Olerato Mosiloane
  • Benkosi Maqwara
  • Junior Noah

Junior women (6km)

  • Ithuteng Khiba
  • Lara Stander
  • Lara van der Merwe
  • Andrea Steynberg
  • Omaatla Dikao
  • Leandri Pretorius

Featured images: Michael Scott, TEAM SA