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Tarboton Smashes Record as Simpson Seals Hat-Trick in Historic Otter Trail

Adnaan MohamedNews, TrailLeave a Comment on Tarboton Smashes Record as Simpson Seals Hat-Trick in Historic Otter Trail
By Adnaan Mohamed

History was rewritten on the rugged cliffs and forests of the Otter TERREX Trail as Bianca Tarboton shattered the women’s course record and Scotland’s Robbie Simpson completed an unprecedented men’s hat-trick.

Tarboton dominated from the moment record-holder Toni McCann limped out at 7km with an ankle injury. By halfway she had a 12-minute cushion and by the finish she was nearly 49 minutes clear of Rebecca Watney.

Her winning time of 4:30:55 slashed 14 minutes off her own 2021 mark, securing a fourth Otter crown and making her the first woman to clinch a treble.

Bianca Tarboton crosses the finish line with a record-breaking victory – obliterating the Classic Record as well as claiming the title of the first runner to win 4 Otters. Photo: Fahwaaz Cornelius

“I’m on cloud nine,” Tarboton said.

“It still hasn’t sunk in, but I know I am completely over the moon with that race.”

Simpson, meanwhile, kept his cool in the men’s race despite local star Robbie Rorich breathing down his neck at Andre Hut, 8km from the finish.

The Scot dug deep on the final stretch to win in 4:04:59 in a time eight minutes faster than his previous best, with Rorich and Kane Reilly completing the podium.

Robbie Simpson claiming the first back-to-back-to-back victory. Photo: Fahwaaz Cornelius

“It’s a tough race and nothing is a given,” Simpson said.

“You just have to keep fighting for it.”

Rorich laughed about cooling his cramping legs in the river crossings.

“It gave me time for the mind reset,” he said.

The Otter also saluted its stalwarts: Mvuyisi Gcogco notched his 10th consecutive finish, Ralph Enslin collected his 13th, while Juan Ferreira extended his record tally with a 15th start.

Prize money added extra sparkle: Tarboton banked R190,000 with bonuses for her record, while both winners pocketed R100,000 in cash and equities.

“I hope they retire comfortably with their investment safely in the bank,” quipped EasyEquities CMO Carel Nolte.

But the loudest roar came not for records or podiums, but for the last runner home. Sias Esterhuizen sprinted across the line just seconds before the cut-off bell, collapsing in relief.

“I didn’t think I was going to make it,” he gasped.

“It’s just awesome to have done that.”

From hat-tricks to heartbreaks and records to rescues, the Otter once again lived up to its billing as the “Grail of Trail.”

It’s a race where grit, glory and human spirit collide on one of the toughest 42km routes in the world.

Mvuyisi Gcogco, running his tenth Otter race. Photo: Caleb Bjergfelt
Click here for full 2025 Race Results

Men

1. Robbie Simpson (04:04:59); 2. Robbie Rorich (04:12:23); 3. Kane Reilly (04:12:38); 4. Marcel Hoeche (04:15:00); 5. Jacques Buys (04:27:46); 6. Mvuyisi Gcogco (04:38:19); 7. Admire Muzopambwa (04:47:28); 8. Gabriel Kriel (04:49:31); 9. Oliver Munnik (04:51:43); 10. Thabang Madiba (04:58:06)

Women:

1 Bianca Tarboton (04:30:55); 2 Rebecca Watney (05:09:08);  3 Robyn De Groot (05:35:18) ; 4 Amelia Bergh (05:52:54); 5 Estee Cockcroft (05:56:13); 6 Naomi Brand (06:07:39); 7 Ingrid Shaw (06:28:05); 8 Georgina Els (06:31:21) ; 9 Jenna Snyman (06:40:18); 10 Lana Cronje (06:40:19)

Mashele, Mulaudzi and Mhlanga Primed for Boxer Super Run Durban

Adnaan MohamedBoxer Super Run, NewsLeave a Comment on Mashele, Mulaudzi and Mhlanga Primed for Boxer Super Run Durban
By Adnaan Mohamed

Boxer Athletics Club’s star trio of Precious Mashele, Kabelo Mulaudzi and Chris Mhlanga will return for another crack at the Boxer Super Run 5km on Durban’s promenade this Sunday.

Last year, the three turned the beachfront into a Boxer sweep, with Mashele storming to victory in 13:39, chased by Mulaudzi (13:40) and Mhlanga (13:43).

The clean sweep set the tone for one of the toughest 5km races in the country.

“Last year, I won the Boxer Super Run in Durban on my birthday, which was very special for me,” Mashele said.

“Winning the race has meant a lot to me because I used the prize money to continue building my house in Limpopo.

“This year, I’ve been struggling with injury, so I’m motivated to come back strong and win my club race to thank Boxer and Ntate [Rhyn] Swanepoel for all their support during difficult times.”

Precious Mashele in action at the Boxer Super Run Durban in 2023 Photo: Anthony Grote
Mulaudzi, second last year, believes Durban suits his racing instincts.

“The 5km and 10km are my favourite distances, so the Boxer Super Run Durban is an event I really look forward to. My goal is a win and a personal best. I think I have a good chance, but part of my success comes from being very respectful of my opponents,” he said.

Known for his devastating kick, Mulaudzi added:

“I try to stay flexible with my tactics, but generally my strength and speed in the last 2km help me perform well. Durban has always been a special venue for me. The course and the beachfront always fill me with excitement.”

To social runners, he had simple advice:

“Don’t start too fast. It’s always better to finish strongly than to charge at the start and struggle in the second half.”

Mhlanga, who rounded off last year’s podium, is ready to fight again.

“The Boxer Super Run is special because, as Boxer AC athletes, we get to showcase our talent in our very own biggest 5km. My goal is to finish on the podium again. It’s not an easy course, yet we still manage our best times.”

Boxer’s Head of Marketing, Lee-Ann Pillay, summed up the anticipation:

“It was such a proud moment in 2024 to see Boxer Athletics Club round off the Elite Men’s podium. We are thrilled to welcome back Precious, Kabelo and Chris in 2025. These three top contenders are true inspirations for the sport.”

With R147 200 in prize money on the line, Sunday’s race promises fireworks on the Durban seafront. Expect another fast, furious finish, and perhaps, a repeat of Boxer’s podium parade.

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.”

A legend is Lost, Sudden Passing of Former Winner and Chair Cheryl Winn

Roxanne MartinNewsLeave a Comment on A legend is Lost, Sudden Passing of Former Winner and Chair Cheryl Winn

Following a release from the Comrades Marathon Association, we are saddened to publish that Cheryl Winn, the 1982 women’s winner, a former Chair of the CMA Board, passed away on Sunday, 5 October. Tragically, she passed away while pursuing one of her passions, nature photography, on a family holiday in the Drakensberg.

Running Career and Victory

Cheryl Winn began her involvement in running in the early 1970s while at university in the United States, initially jogging simply as a social activity. Upon discovering the sport, she found a natural talent for competition. She became deeply involved in the sport, noting, “If you suddenly discover that late in life, when I hadn’t been good in any sport ever in my life, and you suddenly discover something that you’re good at. I mean, obviously, it just grabs you. And that’s what happened with me.”

Her running progression led her inevitably to the Comrades Marathon, which, at the time, “totally dominated the running scene. It’s the reason why groups of people got together to train. In fact, the entire road running calendar was built around building up towards the Comrades Marathon.”

Cheryl ran the Comrades Marathon six times between 1978 and 1984, consistently placing near the front of the women’s field. She finished fourth in her first race, was runner-up twice in 1980 and 1981, and ultimately claimed the women’s title in 1982. She often attributed her success to mental fortitude, stating in a podcast with Cherie Turner: “I think what I had was more determination. I had what it took in my head more than anything else.”

Leadership and Administration

Even while still competing, Winn became involved in the administration of athletics, initially at the club and provincial level, working alongside her late husband, Mick Winn, himself a former CMA Chairman. She served extensively within the national federation, the South African Road Running Association (SARRA), which later became Athletics South Africa (ASA).

Her commitment to the race she conquered only deepened on the administrative side. In 2017, she was elected as the Chairperson of the CMA Board, becoming the only person in the race’s history to have won the Comrades Marathon and subsequently held the top administrative post. She considered this role a privilege and a duty, reflecting: “I sincerely regard this latest development at Comrades, not as an achievement, but a humble responsibility I have been entrusted with by my colleagues to lead softly, contribute and pass on the knowledge and experience I have accumulated over many years.”

Cheryl was a dedicated disciple of transformation in sport, embracing changes within the structure of athletics, believing that true leadership demanded “humility, empathy, trust, and respect.”

Reflecting on the transformative power of the race, she said in a podcast with Cherie Turner: “There’s something about committing yourself to something as big as the Comrades Marathon that does sort of change your perception of yourself. It changes what you believe about yourself.” She continued to serve the CMA after stepping down as Chairperson in 2021, holding positions on the Finance, Marketing & Membership, Heritage & Traditions, and Elders Committees.

The sport has lost a tremendous woman; our sincere condolences to Cheryl’s family during this hard time.

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.

Tayla Kavanagh as well as many of SA’s to female athletes are set for the Boxer Super Run Durban. Photo: Gavin Ryan

“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

 

Chaumeton Smashes SA 10km Record with Historic Sub-27 Run

Adnaan MohamedNewsLeave a Comment on Chaumeton Smashes SA 10km Record with Historic Sub-27 Run
By Adnaan Mohamed

South African distance running entered a new era on Sunday morning as Maxime Chaumeton shattered the national 10km record at the tRUNsylvania International 10K in Brașov, Romania, clocking a blistering 26:55 to become the first South African in history to dip under the 27-minute barrier.

The 23-year-old speedster produced a performance of rare quality, storming to second place in a world-class field. In doing so, Chaumeton wiped 33 seconds off the previous South African record of 27:28, set by Adrian Wildschutt in Gqeberha earlier this year.

Chaumeton’s run not only redefined the limits of South African road racing but also signaled his arrival among the world’s elite. Breaking the 27-minute barrier is a milestone reserved for the sport’s very best, and his achievement is likely to reverberate through the athletics community.

“I knew I was in good shape, but to run under 27 minutes. It’s something I’ve always dreamed of,” said a visibly elated Chaumeton at the finish.

“To be part of South African running history is an incredible feeling.”

Wildschutt, who has been a trailblazer for South African distance running in recent seasons, graciously acknowledged the record-breaking performance.

“Records are meant to be broken, and Maxime has raised the bar. It’s fantastic to see South African athletes pushing each other to world-class levels,” he said.

Chaumeton’s breakthrough adds fresh fire to an already exciting rivalry between him and Wildschutt, with both athletes driving South African distance running into unprecedented territory.

With global competitions looming, the prospect of two sub-27 men in the green and gold is a tantalising one for the nation’s medal hopes.

For now, Chaumeton stands atop the record books, his name etched in history as the first South African to run 10 kilometres in in under 27 minutes and change, a landmark moment that will inspire a generation.

SEE FULL 10K RACE RESULTS HERE

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.”

Golden Girl Gerda to Test Her Speed at Jozi SPAR Women’s Challenge

Adnaan MohamedNewsLeave a Comment on Golden Girl Gerda to Test Her Speed at Jozi SPAR Women’s Challenge
By Adnaan Mohamed

When Gerda Steyn toes the line at the Jozi SPAR Women’s Challenge on Sunday morning in Johannesburg, it will be the final speed test for South Africa’s golden girl of distance running ahead of her biggest marathon of the year.

The multiple Comrades and Two Oceans champion confirmed she will use the 10km race at Marks Park Sports Club as her last tune-up before the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon in two weeks’ time.

For Steyn, renowned for her endurance over gruelling ultra distances, the SPAR race offers the perfect chance to sharpen her speed against the country’s and continent’s best.

“The SPAR race is special because it is women only. I am always in Johannesburg at this time of year and so I always try to run it. The route is lovely, and the spirit is awesome.”

“I love running the Jozi SPAR Women’s Challenge,” said Steyn.

Her presence adds extra lustre to an event already buzzing with anticipation. While defending champion Glenrose Xaba will chase a clean sweep of five out of five SPAR Grand Prix titles in 2025, much of the spotlight will inevitably fall on Steyn.

The 34-year-old’s ability to bring marathon strength and ultra-marathon grit into the fast-paced world of 10km road racing makes her an irresistible drawcard.

For fans, Steyn’s participation is not just about whether she can crack the podium on Sunday, but about witnessing the careful fine-tuning of an athlete at the peak of her career.

She will be joined by her Hollywood AC teammate and fellow road-running star Irvette van Zyl, a three-time SPAR Grand Prix champion making a return to the series.

With Cape Town looming large, every stride in Johannesburg will be a statement of intent.

Together, they bring both experience and prestige to a sold-out field of 12,000 runners.

The single-lap 10km course through Emmarentia, Greenside, Linden and Parkview, with its steady climbs and long straights, promises to be a fitting stage for Steyn’s final dress rehearsal before the marathon spotlight shifts to the Mother City.

In a field featuring Ethiopian and Kenyan contenders, as well as South African frontrunners like Xaba and Karabo Mailula, the race will be fiercely contested

Yet, for many eyes will be fixed on national icon Steyn using the SPAR challenge not only to test her legs but to inspire thousands of women running alongside her.

Stormers eye Ospreys scalp in URC showdown

Adnaan MohamedNews, RugbyLeave a Comment on Stormers eye Ospreys scalp in URC showdown

By Adnaan Mohamed

The Stormers have never beaten the Ospreys in the United Rugby Championhip (URC). On Friday night at DHL Stadium, John Dobson’s men intend to smash that hoodoo.

Fresh off a 35-0 demolition of defending champions Leinster, the Capetonians know there’s no room for complacency.

“We saw how well Ospreys played in Pretoria and we know our record against them is a draw and two losses,” Dobson warned.

“The feeling is one of desperation to back up last week because you don’t want it to be a fluke.”

The clash doubles as a milestone night: veteran scrumhalf Dewaldt Duvenage earns his 100th Stormers cap, while lock Adré Smith reaches 50.

Duvenage replaces Stef Ungerer, Connor Evans takes the No 7 jersey ahead of Ben-Jason Dixon, and Marcel Theunissen comes in for Paul de Villiers.

Dobson hammered home the stakes:

“If something goes wrong [against the Ospreys], we’d have to win every game on tour. So it’s very, very important from that point of view.”

With props Ali Vermaak and Sazi Sandi set for their first outings of the season, the Stormers want another statement win before their European road trip

“While we were happy with the result last week, we know that there can be no complacency heading into this match against an Ospreys side that have proven tough customers for us in the past,” Dobson stressed.

The Stormers know they must strike hard and early to exorcise their Ospreys ghost. Victory would not only break the hoodoo but also give them a flying start before Europe beckons.

STORMERS
15 Wandisile Simelane, 14 Seabelo Senatla, 13 Ruhan Nel (c), 12 Dan du Plessis, 11 Leolin Zas, 10 Jurie Matthee, 9 Dewaldt Duvenage, 8 Evan Roos, 7 Connor Evans, 6 Marcel Theunissen, 5 JD Schickerling, 4 Adré Smith, 3 Neethling Fouché, 2 André-Hugo Venter, 1 Vernon Matongo.

Bench: 16 JJ Kotze, 17 Ali Vermaak, 18 Sazi Sandi, 19 Ruben van Heerden, 20 Ben-Jason Dixon, 21 Paul de Villiers, 22 Stefan Ungerer, 23 Clinton Swart.