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In-form Kusche returns to Two Oceans Half with confidence

Adnaan MohamedNews, Totalsports Two Oceans MarathonLeave a Comment on In-form Kusche returns to Two Oceans Half with confidence
By Adnaan Mohamed

George Kusche’s recent results place him among the runners to watch at the Totalsports Two Oceans Half Marathon on 12 April, though the Nedbank Running Club athlete prefers to keep his attention on the work rather than the predictions.

The 27-year-old heads into the Cape Town race on the back of a strong stretch of form over the past year. He finished fourth at the African Bank Soweto Marathon in November in 2:20:48, claimed victory and set a course record at the hilly Biogen 21km in Johannesburg in January in 1:05:32, and delivered a breakthrough marathon performance with a 2:15:02 win at the Balwin Run Series Peninsula Marathon in February. The result trimmed more than five minutes off his previous personal best.

Kusche believes the improvement has come through steady consistency.

“I’ve been slowly getting better. I haven’t changed anything in my training, I’ve been doing what I’ve been doing and it’s compounding. So I’ve been feeling stronger,” he said.

His running journey began at Die Afrikaanse Hoër Seunskool in Pretoria where he established himself as a leading middle-distance athlete. His performances attracted attention from American college scouts and he moved to the United States to compete for Northern Arizona University in the NCAA system.

Kusche returned to South Africa as a sub four minute miler with a 5000m personal best of 13:28.95. The experience still influences the way he approaches the sport.

“I’m very grateful for my experience in the US. I enjoyed it a lot and had some good experiences with some great coaches and athletes. I’m coaching myself now, so it certainly helps me to look back at the training I did and try and recreate those circumstances.”

After returning home, Kusche stepped away from competition during 2023 before returning to racing in 2024. He shifted his focus to road running and quickly made an impact.

His debut at the Totalsports Two Oceans Half Marathon that year produced an immediate result. Kusche led the race until the halfway point before being passed by eventual winner Thabang Mosiako. He finished second in 1:05:31 after edging Lesotho’s Kamohelo Mofolo in a sprint to the line.

The experience left a strong impression.

“I actually wasn’t a big road running fan because I’d never done it before, though as I’m getting into it I’m starting to enjoy it now,” said Kusche.

“Two Oceans is one of those races that everybody wants to run. It’s a big race and everybody has a family member or a friend competing in either the 21km or the 56km. When I ran it for the first time I was excited because I knew there would be a lot of people competing. It’s always fun when a lot of people compete. Two Oceans is one of the races you have to run.”

Kusche’s primary target this season remains the Comrades Marathon. His approach reflects the same philosophy that has guided his steady rise.

“I want to do my best at Comrades. There’s no point in talking about the outcome. All I need to do is focus on the process. If I start talking about the outcome that’s when things start going wrong. So I keep my back against the wall and keep on working hard.”

Two Oceans Marathon NPC chairperson Chris Goldschmidt said Kusche’s presence strengthens the field for the half marathon.

“George Kusche’s entry adds real depth and excitement to this year’s field. His performances over the past 12 months have been exceptional and we are thrilled to welcome an athlete of his calibre to the start line of the Totalsports Two Oceans Half Marathon.”

Race general manager Wade Bromfield said Kusche has established himself among the country’s leading road runners.

“His recent results including a record breaking victory at the Biogen 21km and a dominant performance at the Balwin Run Series Peninsula Marathon underline his potential. We are excited to have him back at the Totalsports Two Oceans Half Marathon where his passion for the event and competitive spirit will undoubtedly make for an exciting race.”

The Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon takes place in Cape Town from 9 to 12 April and carries a combined prize purse of R2.6 million across the ultra marathon and half marathon events.

Khatala chasing another podium at Two Oceans Ultra

Adnaan MohamedFeatures, News, Totalsports Two Oceans MarathonLeave a Comment on Khatala chasing another podium at Two Oceans Ultra
By Adnaan Mohamed

Lesotho distance-running star Neheng Khatala is gathering momentum ahead of the 2026 Two Oceans Ultra Marathon, with the versatile runner targeting a top-two finish when the race unfolds in Cape Town on Saturday, 11 April.

Nicknamed the World’s Most Beautiful Marathon, the 56km test along the Cape Peninsula demands endurance, strength and tactical patience. Khatala arrives with confidence growing stride by stride after a strong start to her season.

The Olympian recently used the Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K as a key fitness checkpoint, finishing fourth in 32:43 despite carrying heavy training miles in her legs.

“I really ran well to be honest and I’m grateful about the work I did that day especially because the last 3km were quite windy,” said Khatala. “I’m particularly happy with my performance because I didn’t taper. The week of the race I did a 45km long run so I went into the race with heavy legs.”

The performance highlighted the range that has become Khatala’s trademark. Few athletes move as smoothly between shorter races and the grinding demands of ultra-distance events.

The Hollywood Athletics Club runner recently demonstrated that versatility when she claimed victory at the demanding Pirates 21K Powered by Medshield, finishing ahead of South African ultra star Gerda Steyn on a challenging course.

Khatala attributes her steady progress to the training programme designed by coach Andrew Booyens, which blends hill work, endurance training and speed sessions.

“I think my training is balanced and structured in such a way that it allows me to run hilly routes as well as fast and flat courses all at the same time,” she said. “It’s all about the effort I put in. Whether it’s a tough course or a flat course I always put in effort to ensure that I remain consistent even if I don’t always win.”

Her disciplined approach produced a third-place finish in 3:40:38 at last year’s Two Oceans Ultra Marathon, placing her firmly among the contenders for the 2026 edition.

“My aim is to improve. Last year I finished in third position, so this year I must target a win or second position,” she said. “The point is to improve last year’s performance and if I can achieve that, it would be a huge blessing.”

Race organisers believe the Lesotho athlete could play a significant role when the field tackles the demanding course through Cape Town’s mountain passes and coastal roads.

Neheng Khatala by Action Photo

“Neheng Khatala is a remarkable athlete whose versatility and dedication make her a standout entrant for the Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon,” said Chris Goldschmidt, chairperson of the Two Oceans Marathon NPC.

“Her performances over the last twelve months, from track races to ultra marathons, demonstrate the discipline and focus required to excel at this level.”

Event general manager Wade Bromfield believes her preparation places her among the pre-race favourites.

“Khatala’s approach to training and racing is what makes her a true contender at the Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon,” he said. “Her structured preparation, combined with a third-place finish last year, positions her as one of the pre-race favourites.”

With form building kilometre after kilometre, Khatala now sets her sights on Cape Town’s sweeping coastal route, where another podium finish may await if her rhythm holds across the 56km journey.

Why Kipchoge will run his first African marathon in Cape Town

Adnaan MohamedNewsLeave a Comment on Why Kipchoge will run his first African marathon in Cape Town
By Adnaan Mohamed

When marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge steps onto the start line of the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon on 24 May 2026, it will mark far more than another race on a decorated résumé. It will be the first time the two-time Olympic champion runs a marathon on African soil.

For the Kenyan icon, the moment carries deep personal and symbolic meaning for the sport that has carried him across the world’s greatest marathon stages.

“Africa is where my journey as a runner began and where the foundation of my success is deeply rooted,” said Kipchoge.

“To start this World Tour in Cape Town is very special. It is about celebrating the strength of African running and inspiring the next generation. To race my first ever marathon on the African continent holds deep meaning for me. I cannot wait.”

Kipchoge confirmed that Cape Town will host his first race of the year and the opening stride of his ambitious project, Eliud’s Running World, which will see him complete seven marathons across all continents.

“As far as the worldwide tour is concerned, on 24 May 2026 my first outing for the year will be in Cape Town,” he said. “It is one of the oldest places in Africa. I decided to start with my own continent. That’s where I’m really starting.”

For decades, African runners have dominated the global marathon scene, filling podiums from Boston to Berlin. Kipchoge believes the time has arrived for Africa itself to stand at the centre of the global running map.

“This means a lot for me,” he said. “This is my first marathon to run in Africa and I’m really happy to run in Cape Town. I want to bring excitement and bring people to Africa.”

The Kenyan star hopes the race will act like a starting pistol for a broader movement across the continent.

“Our idea is to create movement in this world, create movement in Africa and create movement across all the continents,” he said. “My people in Africa have been watching me on television, listening on radio and seeing me on social media. Now it is time to come and run with them, chat with them and be with them.”

Unlike many of his previous races, which focused on chasing records and titles, Kipchoge says his Cape Town run will carry a deeper purpose.

“In many races I competed for world records, victories and course records,” he explained. “This time I run for purpose. I run to inspire people, motivate people and make people move.”

That purpose includes raising funds for the Eliud Kipchoge Foundation, which supports environmental conservation and education initiatives.

“In Africa we are still vulnerable as far as education is concerned,” he said. “Our planet is our home and we need to make it clean.”

The Cape Town event itself is gathering momentum on the international stage. More than 27,000 runners are expected to take part in 2026 as organisers pursue recognition in the Abbott World Marathon Majors, a step that would give Africa its first Major marathon.

Race CEO Clark Gardner believes Kipchoge’s presence will echo far beyond the finish line.

“Eliud represents the very best of what running can inspire,” Gardner said. “To see him race our streets and engage with young runners across the city will be incredibly powerful.”

For the sport, the image of the world’s greatest marathon runner gliding through the streets beneath Table Mountain could feel like a starting gun for a new era. African athletes have long powered the global marathon engine. Kipchoge’s historic run places the continent firmly on the road map of the sport’s future.

adidas launches Supernova Rise 3 in new Glow Blue colourway

Adnaan MohamedNewsLeave a Comment on adidas launches Supernova Rise 3 in new Glow Blue colourway
By Adnaan Mohamed

Runners chasing smooth kilometres have a fresh companion on the road as adidas unveils the Supernova Rise 3 in a striking Glow Blue colourway.

The latest update expands the brand’s comfort-focused Supernova franchise, a range designed for everyday runners who log steady miles through training blocks, recovery jogs and early morning pavement sessions.

First launched in December 2025, the Supernova Rise 3 builds on the blueprint of its award-winning predecessor with a series of design refinements aimed at delivering a softer and more natural stride.

The shoe has also received the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association, recognition that highlights its support for healthy foot function during regular running.

At the heart of the update sits a reworked full-length Dreamstrike+ midsole, the cushioning engine designed to absorb impact like a sponge soaking up rain on a winter training run. The updated foam formula brings a lighter and softer ride, with adidas reporting five percent less weight, 20 percent softer cushioning and 16 percent more foam underfoot.

That combination aims to help runners maintain rhythm across long training runs where tired legs often search for smooth momentum.

Above the midsole sits a newly engineered Primeweave upper, a woven structure designed to wrap around the foot with a secure yet flexible fit. The material adapts to movement in a way that mirrors the natural flex of a runner’s stride, offering support without restricting motion.

Beneath the shoe, the Lightraxion outsole introduces rod-like sculpting inspired by the anatomy of the foot. The pattern works to guide transitions from heel strike to toe-off, creating a rolling sensation similar to a runner flowing down a gentle downhill stretch.

The Supernova Rise 3 also includes several elements developed specifically around women’s biomechanics.

These features include a shoe last shaped to match the average structure of women’s feet, along with a central landing platform designed to promote stability during impact. Designers also incorporated an improved heel bevel built around insights into women’s landing angles.

Additional support arrives through a sock liner that places thicker foam beneath the arch, offering targeted cushioning during long runs.

Together these refinements shape a shoe that aims to keep runners moving smoothly through daily training mileage, where comfort often determines whether the final kilometres feel like a grind or a glide.

The Supernova Rise 3 in Glow Blue retails for R2 999 and is available in stores and online through adidas retail channels.

Roving Cow Review: Running in the NewBalance 1080 v15

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Roving Cow Review: Running in the NewBalance 1080 v15

There’s something reassuring about a proper everyday running shoe. Not a flashy racing shoe, not something overly complicated, just a comfortable pair you can lace up and head out the door in. That’s exactly where the New Balance 1080 v15 fits in.

I gave the 1080 v15 a proper test, not just a quick jog around the block. It went through two half marathons with me, one in miserable wet and windy conditions and another in proper Highveld heat. If a shoe can handle both those extremes, you get a good sense of what it’s made of.

This is what you’d call a daily trainer, basically a shoe designed for most of your runs. Whether you’re heading out for a relaxed jog, building up distance for your first race, or just trying to stay fit, this is the kind of shoe that’s meant to handle it all.

First Feel

The first thing you notice when you put them on is the cushioning. There’s plenty of it, and you sit fairly high off the ground, but the shoe still feels stable and secure. Sometimes heavily cushioned shoes can feel wobbly, but these stay nicely planted on the road.

Even though there’s a lot of cushioning, the shoe never felt heavy or clumsy. On longer runs especially, that softer feel helps take the sting out of the tar, which your legs definitely appreciate later on.

The Ride

The cushioning feels soft without feeling like you’re sinking into the shoe. There’s a bit of bounce there too, which makes the run feel smoother and slightly more energetic than older versions of this shoe.

It’s not a fast racing shoe, but it doesn’t feel dull either. It’s happiest when you’re just cruising along at a comfortable pace, which is where most runners spend majority of their time anyway.

For newer runners especially, that softer and more forgiving feel can make a big difference. It helps reduce that harsh pounding feeling on the legs and makes longer runs feel more manageable.

Wet Run Test

The first half marathon was done in cold, wet and windy conditions, the kind where you question your life choices halfway through.

Grip on the road was solid. No slipping on corners and no sketchy moments on wet tar. Even through puddles, the shoes handled things well and didn’t turn into soggy sponges.

The cushioning also helped on the downhills when the legs started taking strain, which is usually where you really start noticing what shoes you’re wearing.

Hot Run Test

The second half marathon was the complete opposite, proper heat.

The upper (the material around your foot) is soft and comfortable with good padding around the heel and tongue. It feels premium and sits nicely on the foot without rubbing or causing hotspots.

It does run a bit warm in the heat, but nothing unbearable. On the plus side, the comfort stayed consistent the whole way through, which is what really matters on longer runs.

Fit and Comfort

The fit feels secure without being tight, and once the laces are set, the shoe stays nicely in place. There’s enough structure around the heel to keep your foot stable, which helps a lot in a well-cushioned shoe like this.

Overall comfort is where this shoe really shines. It’s the kind of shoe you can forget about while you’re running, which is usually a good sign.

On the Road

Most runners spend their time on tar, and that’s clearly what this shoe is designed for. It grips well and feels durable in the areas that take the most impact.

After plenty of kilometres, it still felt consistent underfoot, which is exactly what you want from a daily running shoe.

Who This Shoe Works For

The 1080 v15 is a great option for everyday running. It works well for shorter runs, longer runs, and everything in between. If you’re training for a race, whether it’s your first 5km or a half marathon, this kind of shoe makes the process a lot more comfortable.

It’s especially good for runners who just want something reliable and comfortable without overthinking things.

Final Thoughts from the Roving Cow

After two half marathons in completely different conditions, the 1080 v15 proved itself as a proper workhorse.

It’s comfortable, well cushioned, and easy to run in. The cushioning helps keep the legs happy, especially on longer runs, and the ride feels smooth and consistent from start to finish.

It’s the kind of shoe you grab when you just want to head out for a run without worrying about what’s on your feet.

And honestly, for most of us, that’s exactly what we need.


Trade the treadmill for the open air: NPL’s FemmeFit Fest is back

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Trade the treadmill for the open air: NPL’s FemmeFit Fest is back

On Saturday, 28 March 2026, hundreds of women will gather beneath the trees at Syringa Park, Avianto Estate, not for competition, but for something far more compelling: a shared commitment to strength, stamina and self-respect. FemmeFit Fest, hosted by leading sports nutrition brand Nutritional Performance Labs (NPL), is back with limited tickets and a clear invitation for women ready to step out of routine and into a charged, collective training ground.

Fitness events often promise intensity. Few deliver an atmosphere that feels both charged and genuinely welcoming. FemmeFit Fest has built its following by striking this balance, creating a space where experienced athletes train alongside women who may be rediscovering movement after months, or even years, away.

The March 2026 FemmeFit Fest programme features four guided fitness events designed to encourage participation without intimidation. Expect music, expert instruction and the unmistakable lift that comes from moving in unison with a crowd determined to show up fully.

Every ticket includes a goodie bag valued at over R1000, packed with sought-after health, beauty and training products. Spot prizes will be awarded throughout the morning, keeping energy levels high long after the warm-up ends.

For NPL, the event reflects a deeper understanding of how women are approaching wellness today.

“Women are no longer waiting for the right moment to prioritise their health. They are making the decision and acting on it,” says Cherrie Blackmore, Head of Marketing for NPL. “FemmeFit Fest captures that momentum. It is a morning that invites women to train with intent, enjoy the experience and recognise what they are capable of achieving when they step into a supportive environment.”

Interest in preventative health and performance nutrition continues to shape consumer behaviour, with more women investing in habits that support long-term vitality. Events such as FemmeFit Fest support that vision with experiences that encourage lasting lifestyle change.

Set within one of Gauteng’s most attractive outdoor venues, the festival offers a refreshing alternative to enclosed training spaces. There is room to breathe, space to move and every reason to stay present.

Event Details:

Date: 28 March 2026

Venue: Syringa Park at Avianto Estate

Check-in: 07h45

Start Time: 09h30

Bring a training mat, water and sunscreen. Then arrive ready to move.

Tickets are now available, and numbers are strictly limited. Secure a place at: https://www.npl.za.com/products/femmefit-fest

For more information about NPL visit https://www.npl.za.com/

Road to 30: Eleven runners chase Triple Blue at Two Oceans 2026

Adnaan MohamedNews, Totalsports Two Oceans MarathonLeave a Comment on Road to 30: Eleven runners chase Triple Blue at Two Oceans 2026
By Adnaan Mohamed

Longevity will take centre stage at the Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon on 11 April 2026 when eleven seasoned campaigners line up with one goal in mind: a 30th finish and entry into the race’s prestigious Triple Blue Number Club.

To date, only 98 runners have completed 30 or more Two Oceans ultras, 95 men and three women. This year’s intake could grow by eleven if Robert Button (66), Lawrence Ashworth (69), David Beard (62), Denzil Abrahams (66), Ravi Govender (54), Christiaan Steyn (65), Arthur Valasis (74), Deon Pienaar (69), Mark Carlson (55), Curtis Rajoo (53) and Kim Pain (59) successfully navigate the 56km route.

Among them, Rajoo and Govender are the youngest men chasing the milestone.

Rajoo, who made his Two Oceans debut in 1995 at 22, says the race has become inseparable from his life.

“As they say, TTOM is the most beautiful race, but it’s also tough,” says Rajoo. “Reaching 30 is big for me. It was always a goal. After so many years, I can’t imagine not running TTOM. If I’m not on that start line, what would I even be doing that day?”

Govender’s relationship with the race stretches beyond the clock. For more than three decades, he and two close friends have driven from Johannesburg to Cape Town for race weekend, turning the annual trip into tradition.

Ravi Govender by Action Photo

“It’s the people and that feeling of crossing the line,” says Govender. “That euphoria when you’ve beaten the clock, when you’ve conquered the mountains and conquered yourself.”

He credits longtime friend George Tadden, 75 and already a 30-time finisher, for ongoing motivation. “We travel together every year. Seeing what’s possible keeps you motivated.”

For Celtic Harriers stalwart Abrahams, the 30th start carries deep personal meaning. In 1993 his father, Edward Abrahams, died suddenly at the age of 54.

“The year I finished my first Two Oceans Ultra; I started asking questions about my eternal destiny,” says Abrahams. “I immediately drew a parallel with my love for endurance in running and as a believer. My love for TTOM just grew and grew.”

Denzil Abrahams by Action Photo

Family support has been central to his journey.

“I am now married for 40 years, and I am very thankful that for 30 years my wife Debbie has been part of my Two Oceans journey,” he says.

After failing to qualify for the ultra in 2025, Abrahams ran the Half Marathon alongside his daughter, Linzi Coller. He returns in 2026 determined to secure his place in the Triple Blue ranks.

Pain will be the only woman on the 2026 start list aiming for a 30th ultra finish. In a club where women remain underrepresented, her consistency over decades stands out as a marker of durability and commitment.

“Reaching 30 Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathons is a rare mark of durability and commitment. Best of luck to Robert, Lawrence, David, Denzil, Ravi, Christiaan, Arthur, Deon, Mark, Curtis and especially Kim Pain, an athlete whose consistency over the years embodies the spirit of this race,” says Chris Goldschmidt, chairperson of the Two Oceans Marathon NPC.

General manager Wade Bromfield added: “We wish Robert, Lawrence, David, Denzil, Ravi, Christiaan, Arthur, Deon, Mark, Curtis and Kim Pain all the best as they attempt to complete their 30th Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon. Here’s to an incredible milestone and another memorable race!”

The 2026 Two Oceans weekend programme:

  • Thursday 9 April: International Friendship Run
  • Friday 10 April: Trail Run
  • Saturday 11 April: Ultra Marathon
  • Sunday 12 April: Half Marathon

For eleven runners, Saturday’s ultra is more than another medal chase. It is the culmination of three decades of discipline, sacrifice and loyalty to a race widely regarded as the world’s most beautiful marathon.

Wildschutt defends Gqeberha 10K crown despite challenges

Adnaan MohamedNewsLeave a Comment on Wildschutt defends Gqeberha 10K crown despite challenges
By Adnaan Mohamed

In road running, even the best-laid pacing plans can unravel like a frayed shoelace. On Sunday morning in Nelson Mandela Bay, that is exactly what happened to Adriaan Wildschutt at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K.

What was meant to be a historic charge at the sub-27-minute barrier on African soil turned into a tactical chess match when pacemakers Ryan Mphahlele and Luan Munnik withdrew hours before the start due to illness and injury. With the wind sweeping across the coastal route, the clock became a stubborn rival.

Wildschutt adjusted.

The 27-year-old, born in Ceres and based in the United States, shifted from record hunter to race tactician. With no pace setters and the breeze tugging at every stride, he made his move just before halfway, surging clear of Kenya’s Isaac Kibet Ndiema, the fastest man in the field on paper with a 26:55 personal best.

Wildschutt powered home in 27:47 to defend the title he claimed last year. Ndiema followed in 28:01, with debutant Tshepo Tshite third in 28:09.

Elite Men Isaac Ndiema (KEN), Adriaan Wildschutt (RSA) and Tshepo Tshite (RSA). PHOTO CREDIT: Action Photo

Afterwards, Wildschutt was candid about the curveball that reshaped his race.

“The organization is great, and it has nothing to do with them when pacemakers cancel. It’s not in their control. These were just the circumstances. I was like, there’s no way I’ll run sub-27 alone on a windy day as well. But I gave up a lot of time to be here, so I didn’t want to be a quitter,” he said.

His ambition remains firmly set on cracking 26 minutes on African soil.

“If I have the right training partners, pacemakers and good conditions then it is possible. Absolutely possible! There are few things that I want to experiment with. Hopefully, I’m going to get another opportunity.”

Series founder and Stillwater Sports managing director Michael Meyer praised the adaptability that defines elite runners.

“Initially Adriaan’s goal was to break 27 minutes. Unfortunately, both of the pacers we had secured withdrew at the last minute, one due to illness and the other due to injury. That naturally shifted the race dynamic and Adriaan had to adjust his strategy from chasing the clock to racing for the win.

“That’s the mark of a true professional – he assessed the situation, adapted, and still delivered fantastic racing for everyone out on the course. It’s always an honour to have an athlete of his calibre lining up in the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series. He brings intent, professionalism and excitement to every race,” said Meyer.

“Brenda also produced an exceptional performance.”

That performance belonged to Kenya’s Brenda Jepchirchir, who came within touching distance of history in the women’s race.

On debut in “The Friendly City”, Jepchirchir blazed through halfway in 14:49, shadowed by training partner Faith Cherono and paced by local favourite Melikhaya Frans. The wind stiffened over the final five kilometres, yet she drove on to claim victory in 30:15, one second outside the South African All-Comers record set by Christine Njoki last August.

Kenyans Faith Cherono Melikhaya Frans and Brenda Jepchirchir by Anthony Grote

Cherono clocked 30:44 for second, while South Africa’s Glenrose Xaba secured third in 32:13, her fourth podium in her past five series appearances.

“I was looking to run sub 30 minutes but because of the wind in the last 5km it was tough for me,” Jepchirchir said. “But I’m still feeling good and I want to come back to run the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series again in Cape Town in May.”

Meyer underlined the significance of her run.

“Jepchirchir came incredibly close to becoming the first woman to run under 30 minutes on African soil, which speaks volumes about the level of competition we witnessed today. We’d like to extend our sincere thanks to both athletes, all of our elite competitors, every entrant who took part, and our valued sponsors and partners. Their collective contribution is what makes days like this so special and adds to the excitement and success of the event.”

In the end, Gqeberha delivered no record-breaking stopwatch fireworks. It delivered something else: resilience, recalibration and racing of the highest order.

Elite Women Faith Cherono (KEN), Brenda Jepchirchir (KEN) and Glenrose Xaba.  PHOTO CREDIT: Action Photo

RESULTS: 2026 Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K

Date: Sunday 01 March 2026

Start & Finish Venue: Beach Road, Humewood, Gqeberha

Start Time: 07:00

ELITE MEN

1 Adriaan Wildschutt (RSA) 27:47, 2 Isaac Ndiema (KEN) 28:01, 3 Tshepo Tshite (RSA) 28:09, 4 Kamohelo Mofolo (LES) 28:25, 5 Zenzile Pheko (RSA) 28:44, 6 Ambrosi Amma (TANZANIA) 28:47, 7 Leonard Pkorir (KEN) 28:52, 8 Stephen Mokoka (RSA) 28:55, 9 Musawenkosi Mnisi (RSA) 29:06, 10 Cwenga Nose (RSA) 29:07

ELITE WOMEN 

1 Brenda Jepchirchir (KEN) 30:15, 2 Faith Cherono (KEN) 30:44, 3 Glenrose Xaba (RSA) 32:13, 4 Neheng Khatala (LES) 32:43, 5 Meselech Gedefaw (ETH) 33:07, 6 Karabo Mailula (RSA) 33:20, 7 Nthabiseng Letokoto (LES) 33:26, 8 Cacisile Sosibo (RSA) 33:28, 9 Irvette Van Zyl (RSA) 33:57, 10 Agnes Mwaghui (TAN) 34:05

Wildschutt targets sub-27 milestone in Gqeberha

Adnaan MohamedNewsLeave a Comment on Wildschutt targets sub-27 milestone in Gqeberha
By Adnaan Mohamed

South African multiple record holder Adriaan Wildschutt will toe the line at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K on Sunday morning determined to make history, while keeping his emotions in check.

The US-based runner has spent an extended training block in Potchefstroom ahead of the 7am start in Nelson Mandela Bay, fine-tuning the engine that powered him to a then national 10km record of 27:28 in Gqeberha last year.

That mark was eclipsed five months later when Maxime Chaumeton clocked 26:55 in Romania, leaving Wildschutt with a fresh target. His focus now is clear: become the first athlete to break 27 minutes for 10km on African soil in the country of his birth.

Yet, as race day approaches, he admits the magnitude of the task has been hard to ignore.

Wildschutt said he is doing everything possible not to overthink the opportunity.

“I never even thought about that to be honest because Ive realised in the last few years that you can break so many records only for them to be broken the next day, so I’m not so focused about records any more. There are a lot of things I do in my life and things I’m interested in because if you are going to obsess over records, it’s just going to result in sadness at the end of the day.

“For me, I just want to run sub-27, and I think it’s going to be a mental thing because it will be the first time that’s been done on African soil.”

Wildschutt, who finished tenth in the men’s 10 000m final at the Paris Olympics, believes familiarity with the Gqeberha course could prove decisive. Having made his race debut there last year, he returns with a clearer understanding of the coastal conditions.

“I know the course now and know which direction the wind blows unless it changes again because you never really know. We also have pacers now, and there is a person we are confident in that can push all the way to 5km, because last year we were well off pace early on and that made it so much harder to run by yourself. In that department, we are already better and hopefully my fitness is good enough.”

Last year he voiced frustration at the early pace. This time, the experienced Kenyan Isaac Kibet Ndiema, who owns a 26:55 personal best, is expected to help drive the tempo at the front.

Even so, Wildschutt insists his race will be dictated by execution rather than rivalry.

At Friday’s pre-race press conference, he underlined his readiness.

“I had a great experience here in Gqeberha last year. It’s a world class event happening in a great city. I’m feeling good and hopefully I can deliver on Sunday,”

He also acknowledged the formula required for something special.

“To run fast anywhere in the world you need a high level of competition, great pace making and good weather. I’m not saying that to be arrogant, but rather acknowledging that I need other people to work with to help me to achieve this tough goal. I’m grateful to Absa for making it happen. If I can manage to do it, it would be the second best performance of my career behind the Olympics,”

For Wildschutt, discovered as a teenager by Zola Budd and now one of the country’s most accomplished distance runners, Sunday is less about reclaiming a record and more about crossing a psychological frontier.

Women’s field chasing history

The women’s contest carries similar weight.

Kenya’s Brenda Jepchirchir arrives as the 10km world leader after running 29:25 in Valencia in January. She is targeting the first sub-30 minute performance by a woman on African soil.

“Running my first sub 30 minute race to win the Valencia 10K was so emotional. I’m happy to be here to race in South Africa because I hear that it’s a fast course. My aim is to break my personal best time and hopefully make history by running the fastest time on African soil.”

She heads a deep field that includes fellow Kenyan Faith Cherono, South African record holder Glenrose Xaba, and Lesotho national record holder Neheng Khatala.

Series opener sets the tone

The Gqeberha race launches the 2026 Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series, which will travel to Cape Town, Durban, Tshwane and Joburg later in the year. The five-race circuit boasts a combined prize purse of R1 686 000, with incentives aimed at unlocking elite performances from South African athletes.

On Sunday, though, the mathematics are simple. Twenty-seven minutes stands as the line in the sand for Wildschutt. If the pacemakers hit their marks and the coastal breeze plays along, Gqeberha could witness a breakthrough that reshapes the African 10km narrative.

Kim Pain eyes rare 30th Two Oceans Ultra finish

Adnaan MohamedNews, Totalsports Two Oceans MarathonLeave a Comment on Kim Pain eyes rare 30th Two Oceans Ultra finish
By Adnaan Mohamed

When the Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon (TTOM) gets underway on 11 April 2026, Kim Pain will line up as the only woman in the field chasing a 30th finish.

At 59, the Jeppe Quondam Athletics Club stalwart is on the brink of earning “triple blue” status in the Blue Number Club, a milestone reached by very few women in the race’s history.

Only three female runners sit ahead of her on the all-time list: Lucille Damon and Sharon Bosch, both on 32 finishes, and Matilda le Roux, who completed her 30th ultra in 2024. Damon and Bosch are set to chase their 33rd finishes this year, while le Roux will not compete in 2026.

Pain’s association with the race stretches back 36 years. She made her debut in 1990 as a 23-year-old, finishing in 4:56:36. After returning in 1993, the race became a permanent fixture on her calendar. She earned her Blue Number in 2002 following her 10th finish.

“I don’t think I was ever chasing 30,” Pain said. “I always chose to run TTOM and enjoy a weekend away.”

Family has played a central role in her journey.

“My mom and dad, Alf and Wendy Pain, have always been my greatest supporters,” she said. “My dad especially has been my inspiration. We came down to Cape Town as a family in 1990, and that’s where my TTOM journey began.”

Among her standout memories is her 20th ultra in 2012, run in cold and wet conditions.

“It was so cold, wet and muddy at the finish. It was pouring with rain, and I was lucky to have my parents supporting on the side of the road,” she recalled.

Her 25th finish in 2017 proved significant. Pain crossed the line alongside ultra-running figures Barry Holland, Alan Robb, Bruce Fordyce and Gareth Griffiths.

Kim Pain and Gareth Griffiths from Jeppe AC at TTOM 2025 by Action Photo

“I was very taken aback when the organisers gave me a congratulatory letter and a small trophy,” Pain said. “I think it was a very cool gesture; it also meant that after finishing my 25th, I was exempt from paying entry fees. That only motivated me to get to my 30th.”

Her surname often draws comment on the road.

“Yes, that’s the standard comment I often get. You’ve got the right surname,” she laughed. “Often, when I’m running and I’ve got runners around me, they’ll come up to me and they’ll say, when did you start running? You must have started when you were very young because you have so many ultras behind your name.”

Two Oceans Marathon NPC chairperson Chris Goldschmidt believes Pain’s milestone attempt reflects the spirit of the event.

“Kim Pain embodies the spirit of the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon. Her 30th appearance is a testament to decades of dedication and endurance, inspiring every runner on the start line,” he said.

General manager Wade Bromfield added: “Reaching 30 Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathons is extraordinary. Kim’s journey reflects resilience, consistency, and the heart of this iconic race, reminding us of what decades of running can achieve.”

If she reaches the finish line in April, Pain will add her name to one of the most exclusive lists in South African ultra-distance running.