The marathon’s ultimate barrier finally cracked on Sunday as Sabastian Sawe produced a run for the ages to win the London Marathon 2026 in a scarcely believable 1:59:30.
On a cool spring morning that quickly turned electric, the 30-year-old Kenyan sliced through 42.195km with ruthless precision to become the first athlete to go under two hours in a certified race.
Sawe’s time obliterated the previous world record of 2:00:35 set by Kelvin Kiptum in 2023, lowering it by a staggering 65 seconds in what will be remembered as a seismic moment in road running.
“I am feeling good, I am so happy,” Sawe told BBC Sport. “It is a day to remember.
“We started the race well and approaching the end of the race, I was feeling strong and I remember the Ethiopian was so competitive. I think he helped me a lot. Finally, reaching the finish line, I saw the time, I was so excited.
“Today showed me there is time for everyone. I am so happy. I was well prepared. Coming to London for the second time was important to me.
“I want to thank the crowd for cheering for us. I think they had a lot for me because I feel so happy and strong and [was] pushing. What happened today was not for me alone, but for everyone in London.”
If Sawe’s performance lit the fuse, Yomif Kejelchapoured fuel on the fire.
The Ethiopian, making his marathon debut, clocked 1:59:41 to finish 11 seconds adrift, ensuring that two men broke the mythical two-hour mark in the same race. His relentless presence in the latter stages helped turn the closing kilometres into a high-speed duel against both the clock and convention.
Further back, Jacob Kiplimo underlined the extraordinary pace by finishing third in 2:00:28, a time faster than the previous world record.
We’re going to need a few days to recover from this one… 😮💨
2 men under 2 hours. 3 men breaking the world record.
Eluid Kipchoge congratulates Sawe and Kejelcha on breaking sub-2 hours in London
The sub-two-hour milestone had long stood as the sport’s holy grail. Eliud Kipchogedipped below it during the INEOS 1:59 Challenge, though that effortfell outside official record conditions. In London, the barrier gave way under the weight of a competitive race, pending ratification by World Athletics.
Kipchoge, now easing away from elite racing, hailed the breakthrough.
“Today is a historical day for marathon running!” he said.
“Seeing two athletes break the magical 2-hour barrier at London Marathon is the proof that we are just at the beginning of what is possible when talent, progress and an unwavering belief in the human potential come together. My deepest congratulations to both Sabastian Sawe and Yomif Kejelcha.
“Breaking the sub-two-hour barrier in the marathon has long been a dream for runners everywhere, and today, you’ve made that dream come true.
“During the INEOS 1:59 Challenge we showed the world that it was possible and it has always been my hope to see another athlete continue with this belief and break this magical barrier in a city marathon.
“Let this achievement inspire the next generation and remind everyone in the world that No Human Is Limited.”
Sabastian Sawe storms to 1:59:30 in London, breaking the marathon’s ultimate barrier. Photo: https://x.com/WorldAthletics
Beyond the history, there was also a significant payday. Sawe earned $55,000 for the win, along with a $125,000 world record bonus and a further $150,000 incentive for breaking 2:02, taking his confirmed earnings to around KSh 42.3 million, excluding sponsor deals with brands such as Adidas.
Earlier, the women’s race delivered another record-breaking display as Tigst Assefa successfully defended her title in 2:15:40, trimming 10 seconds off her own world record.
She held off a strong challenge from Hellen Obiri, who finished in 2:15:53, with Joyciline Jepkosgei completing the podium.
With two official sub-two performances on the cards and records tumbling across both races, London 2026 may well be remembered as the day the marathon’s limits were redrawn.
TheStormersdelivered a ruthless reminder of their championship pedigree, dismantling the Glasgow Warriors 48-12 in a high-octaneUnited Rugby Championship (URC) clash in Cape Town to surge to the top of the standings.
A week ago, after a stuttering home defeat to Connacht, the Stormers looked adrift of the title conversation. A week later, the narrative has flipped completely. As the old sporting cliché goes, momentum can turn in an instant, and here it arrived like a rolling maul with venom.
Roared on by 23,740 fans at Cape Town Stadium, John Dobson’s side produced the cold-blooded performance demanded in the build-up, combining forward muscle with backline incision to overwhelm Franco Smith’s charges.
They burst from the blocks like a backline move off first phase. Loosehead prop Ntuthuko Mchunu crashed over twice inside the opening quarter, each carry a thunderclap at scrum time where the Stormers held a decisive edge. Flyhalf Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu added a penalty and both conversions to push the hosts into a 17-0 lead after just 15 minutes.
Glasgow refused to be passengers. Wing Ollie Smith capitalised on a rare lapse – sparked by a misjudged attacking kick from Feinberg-Mngomezulu – to score and breathe life into the contest. Hooker Gregor Hiddleston later finished a driving maul, with Adam Hastings converting as the visitors clawed back to 24-12 at the break.
Yet even during that resurgence, the Stormers looked the sharper blade. Their defence held firm, their scrum creaked Glasgow backwards, and their decision-making – bar the odd misfire – was largely on point.
The defining moment of the first half arrived when Feinberg-Mngomezulu’s sleight of hand released Evan Roos, who surged clear for the Stormers’ third try. It was a glimpse of the attacking clarity that had been missing the previous week.
After halftime, the contest tilted decisively. Captain Ruhan Nel powered over after a pinpoint grubber from Feinberg-Mngomezulu, stretching the lead to 34-12. From there, the Stormers tightened their grip like a choke tackle.
Feinberg-Mngomezulu, orchestrating proceedings with poise, marked his 50th appearance with a try of his own before replacement Keke Morabe added the finishing touch. The flyhalf was flawless from the tee, slotting six conversions and two penalties in a 26-point haul that underlined his influence.
There was also a moment for the future, as teenage sensation Markus Muller became the youngest player in franchise history, stepping onto the field to a warm reception.
Glasgow were shut out in the second half, their challenge blunted by a Stormers side that was dominant at the set piece, disciplined on defence and clinical in execution. It was a complete performance – the kind that fuels belief of another title run reminiscent of 2021/22.
Two-try prop Mchunu walked away with Man of the Match honours, but this was a collective statement. The Stormers now hold their playoff destiny in their own hands as they head into their final tour fixtures against Ulster and Cardiff, chasing top spot and home-ground advantage through the knockouts.
The Junior Springboks will look to light the first fire of their Under-20 Rugby Championship campaign when they face Argentina in Gqeberha on Monday, withflyhalf Yaqeen Ahmed expected to play a central role in shaping South Africa’s attacking edge.
Ahmed, known to many as“The Chef”, has earned a reputation for stirring defences with a blend of vision, timing and composure. The former Wynberg Boys’ High playmaker, now aligned with the Stormers, steps into the No 10 jersey with the responsibility of directing traffic against a Los Pumitas side known for its physical edge and structured set piece.
Kick-off at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium is scheduled for 16h10, with the match broadcast live on SuperSport.
Captain Riley Norton leads a side that combines continuity with emerging talent. Norton, who skippered the Junior Boks to World Championship success in Italy last year, anchors the pack alongside lock partner Heinrich Theron, while the front row of Rambo Kubheka, Liam van Wyk and Danie Kruger is tasked with providing a stable platform.
In the backline, Ahmed will link with scrumhalf Hendré Schoeman in a pairing that balances tempo with control. Out wide, Jack Benade is rewarded for his Varsity Cup form, joining Lindsey Jansen on the wings, while Ethan Adams and Samuel Badenhorst combine in midfield.
At fullback, Alzeadon Felix completes a back three that offers both counter-attacking threat and defensive cover.
Junior Bok coach Kevin Foote expects a demanding contest against Argentina, who have consistently tested South Africa at this level.
“They are known for their physicality and their solid set piece, so we know we will have to steady ourselves for a very tough contest,” said Foote.
“Our recent contests have been very close – they played exceptionally well against us in this tournament last year, and we had to dig very deep to overcome them in the semi-final of the World Championship last year in Italy.”
The breakdown is likely to be a key battleground, with loose forwards Luke Canon, Kebotile Maake and Thomas Beling carrying the responsibility of slowing Argentina’s momentum while securing quality possession.
Foote indicated that the tempo of the match could be high, in line with the approach favoured by southern hemisphere teams.
“Argentina, like the other southern hemisphere sides, prefer a high-tempo game with plenty of ball in play,” he said.
“They are a battle-hardened, tenacious outfit, and we will have to work extremely hard throughout the contest if we want to impose ourselves.
“Our DNA is our physicality, and we are looking forward to playing an exciting brand of rugby.”
South Africa will be without a handful of players due to injury and senior commitments, though the squad retains depth. Vusi Moyo returns from injury and is expected to provide cover at flyhalf from the bench, while Oliver Reid adds experience in the front row.
Earlier on Monday, Australia and New Zealand will open the tournament, which features the leading Under-20 sides from the southern hemisphere.
For the Junior Boks, the focus will be on execution and control. If the forwards establish a foothold, Ahmed’s ability to read space and manage territory could prove decisive in setting the tone for the campaign.
Junior Springboks team vs Argentina U20
Starting XV 15. Alzeadon Felix, 14. Jack Benade, 13. Samuel Badenhorst, 12. Ethan Adams, 11. Lindsey Jansen, 10. Yaqeen Ahmed, 9. Hendré Schoeman, 8. Kebotile Maake, 7. Thomas Beling, 6. Luke Canon, 5. Riley Norton (c), 4. Heinrich Theron, 3. Danie Kruger, 2. Liam van Wyk, 1. Rambo Kubheka
The Fidelity SecureDrive Lionswill look to strengthen their push for a Vodacom United Rugby Championship playoff place when they host Irish side Connacht in their Round 16 clash at Ellis Park on Saturday.
With the Race to the Eight entering its decisive phase, every result carries significant weight in the battle for knockout qualification and potential European competition spots. The Johannesburg side return home on the back of encouraging form, having built momentum with an attacking approach that has yielded results in recent weeks.
Connacht, however, arrive with a clear game plan and will be confident of challenging in the Highveld conditions, where accuracy and tempo often prove decisive.
Lions head coach Ivan van Rooyen has made four changes to his side, including a positional switch that sees Springbok forward Ruan Venter move into the second row. Batho Hlekani comes into the starting line-up at flank as the hosts look to maintain balance between physicality and mobility.
The match will also mark a significant milestone for hooker PJ Botha, who is set to earn his 100th cap for the franchise.
“When I was still at school, I thought it would be nice to maybe play one or two matches for a franchise in an international competition,” Botha said.
“To now reach 100 is incredible. The time has flown. It’s a privilege for me to reach this milestone, and I’m grateful that it will happen in a home match.”
Botha’s role at the set piece is expected to be key as the Lions aim to establish a solid platform against a Connacht side known for their structured play and attacking intent.
Scrum coach Julian Redelinghuys believes the visitors will pose a similar challenge to one the Lions handled effectively in their previous outing.
“We know what they will bring. We know their game model. It’s not easy to defend or attack against it, but if we do what we need to do well, I am sure there will be opportunities,” he said.
The Lions will again rely on their forward pack to provide momentum, while their backline looks to capitalise on scoring chances. Maintaining the intensity shown in their previous performance will be crucial against a Connacht outfit that thrives on quick ball and spatial awareness.
Morne Brandon returns to the matchday squad and is expected to provide impact off the bench, while Siba Qoma offers additional cover in the second row.
Fidelity SecureDrive Lions Match 23
Starting XV
1. SJ Kotze, 2. PJ Botha (100), 3. Asenathi Ntlabakanye, 4. Ruan Venter, 5. Darrien Landsberg, 6. Siba Mahashe, 7. Batho Hlekani, 8. Francke Horn (captain), 9. Morne van den Berg, 10. Chris Smith, 11. Erich Cronje, 12. Richard Kriel, 13. Henco van Wyk, 14. Angelo Davids, 15. Quan Horn
Replacements 16. Morne Brandon, 17. Eddie Davids, 18. Sebastian Lombard, 19. Reinhard Nothnagel, 20. Siba Qoma, 21. JC Pretorius, 22. Nico Steyn, 23. Kelly Mpeku
Cape Town City teenager Emile Witbooihas taken another step forward in his fast-rising career after securing a partnership with Nike.
The 17-year-old has signed a boot and apparel agreement that will see him represent the brand on and off the field, further underlining his growing reputation as one of South Africa’s brightest young prospects.
Witbooi, who has already made history as Cape Town City’s youngest debutant, continues to build an impressive profile. He has also featured prominently for South Africa’s U17 and U20 national teams, showing maturity and technical quality beyond his years.
The deal was facilitated by Roc Nation Sports International, which represents the attacking midfielder as his career continues to gain momentum.
“Growing up, I always saw some of the world’s best players wearing Nike, and to now be part of that same legacy is incredibly motivating,” Witbooi said.
The partnership places him among a group of elite athletes associated with the global brand, known for its influence across football and sport culture.
Emile Witbooi
“This partnership is more than just about boots and gear; it’s another significant step in my journey that will help me elevate as an athlete and reach the goals I’ve set for my career,” he added.
Witbooi’s rise has been steady, with the Cape Town-born player establishing himself as a key figure at youth international level while gaining valuable experience in senior football.
“I’m grateful to Nike for believing in my potential and to my team at Roc Nation Sports International for making this possible,” he said.
The agreement signals growing confidence in Witbooi’s future, as he continues to develop into a player with the potential to make a lasting impact both locally and beyond.
The battle to secure a place at the 99th edition of the Comrades Marathon proved as demanding as the race itself, with the newly introduced ballot system placed under immediate pressure by overwhelming demand.
The 2026 Up Run from Durban to Pietermaritzburg(Approximately 87 km – 89 km) which takes place on Sunday, 14 June 2026 is capped at 22 000 entries. The race had already sold out its full quota in a single day in (under 10 hours) on 3 November 2025, underlining the enduring appeal of the ultra-marathon.
Entrant Statistics for Sold Out 2026 Comrades Marathon
Pietermaritzburg, South Africa: With general entries having closed for the 2026 Comrades Marathon in less than one day – a new record for the event – the Comrades Marathon Association (CMA) can now share some of the… pic.twitter.com/YpV77vwKoB
A total of 4 832 runners applied for 2 444 substitution entries, which became available after withdrawals between 16 and 30 March. Those entries were funnelled into a draw, replacing the previous first-come system that had long drawn criticism.
Comrades Marathon Association race director Sue Forge(pictured above) said the shift to a ballot was necessary to create a more equitable process.
“In previous years, substitutions operated on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning a runner’s chance of securing an entry depended largely on being the quickest to log in,” Forge said.
“This system was not fair, as many runners have limited or inconsistent access to the Comrades Marathon website or app, and payment processing difficulties also placed some runners at a disadvantage.”
Forge said the ballot system ensured that every applicant had an equal opportunity.
“This year we introduced a ballot system in which all available entries were placed into a draw, giving applicants an opportunity to secure one of the available entries.”
Despite the revised approach, the imbalance between supply and demand remained stark.
“Unfortunately, with 4 832 applicants competing for 2 444 entries, some runners were inevitably left disappointed,” she said.
The substitution process unfolded in phases, with the application window closing on 2 April before the ballot draw was conducted. Successful applicants were notified via email, with entry fees automatically debited in scheduled cycles.
Entries linked to failed payments were returned to the pool and redrawn, with the process repeated multiple times to ensure all available slots were filled. Organisers also contacted runners directly where necessary.
“Our entries office went the extra mile throughout these processes,” Forge said.
“Our goal was to ensure that all available entries were allocated, and that every runner seeking an entry had a fair opportunity of getting into the 2026 race.”
Forge acknowledged the disappointment among those who missed out and encouraged them to look ahead to next year’s milestone event.
The substitution ballot entry period for the 2026 Comrades Marathon saw 2,444 runners secure a substitution entry. Photo Credit: Comrades Marathon Association
“We acknowledge that some runners remain very disappointed after missing out, and we sincerely hope they will try again in 2027, when we celebrate the centenary edition of this incredible race,” she said.
“Importantly, all runners wishing to be part of the 100th edition next year will once again have a fair chance of securing an entry. Participation in the 2026 race will not influence eligibility or selection in the 2027 process.”
With the field now finalised, attention turns to compliance requirements ahead of race day on 14 June.
Runners must submit qualifying details, complete the compulsory medical questionnaire and update their profiles by 4 May or risk disqualification.
“The entry process is now officially closed and the CMA will not be undertaking any further entry processes or ballot draws after the May 4 deadline,” Forge said.
“Finally, I would like to thank all runners for their passion, enthusiasm, and ongoing support of the Comrades Marathon. Your commitment to the race continues to inspire us and remains at the heart of everything we do.”
Aquila Boxing Promotions opened its 2026 campaign with the official launch of Knockout Chaos 1, setting the scene for a fight card that already feels like it will carry real consequence early in the year.
Khotso Rammopo led proceedings as MC, keeping the room engaged from the first introduction through to the final face-offs, while Mandla Ntlanganiso, COO of Boxing South Africa, helped guide the formalities alongside sponsors whose presence continues to underline the steady backing behind the professional game. From the outset, there was a clear sense that this was more than a standard fight announcement. It carried weight, urgency and intent for the year ahead.
Kevin Lerena, ABP Ambassador and current WBC Bridgerweight Champion, stepped in to outline the thinking behind Knockout Chaos and the Knockout Clock. He spoke about the round-based incentives in practical terms, how they reward activity and force intent, and why that matters for fighters trying to build momentum rather than stall between bouts. It was less about theory and more about what actually happens when fighters are given a reason to push the pace.
The card itself began to take shape with the junior lightweight bout between Alexander Meyer and Msawakhe Mncwabe. Both spoke about the usual mix of anticipation and pressure, but it was their face-off that shifted the mood slightly. Meyer stood planted, while Mncwabe edged forward just enough to test the space. Neither overdid it. The silence from the media said enough.
Simnikiwe Bongco and Ntanganedzeni Mohane followed in the super welterweight division. There was no attempt to sell the fight with words. Bongco kept his gaze fixed ahead, while Mohane spoke briefly about discipline and control, the kind that gets tested once the pace lifts. It felt measured, almost deliberate.
Bantamweight prospect Tiisetso Matinkinka, a name Kevin Lerena continues to flag as one to watch, stepped up alone with Sabelo Cebekhulu still on the road. He carried himself with quiet assurance, didn’t try to fill the space unnecessarily, and answered each question on its own terms. Composed throughout, he made it clear he’s prepared for whoever stands across from him on fight night.
The super middleweight division delivered one of the more charged moments of the afternoon as Gary “G Unit” van Staden and Mxolisi Lahliwe came face to face. Their stare down held a fraction longer than expected. Van Staden stepped in, Lahliwe met him without hesitation, and for a moment neither gave ground. No theatrics, just a clear line drawn. The exchange between Leo “The Chosen One” Carreri and seasoned campaigner John Bopape brought a different contrast. Carreri spoke with intent, using his hands as he held the floor, while Bopape stayed still, absorbing it without reaction. When they came together, the space closed quickly. Both walked up to face one another with purpose, closing the space between them before settling into an intense, unbroken stare. Carreri stared hard as he held the moment, using his powerful stance to emphasise his words, while Bopape remained composed and still, giving very little away and letting his presence do the talking.
One of the standout bouts on the card was confirmed at cruiserweight, where Thabiso Mchunu will meet Kareb Shitana, who was also travelling during the press conference. Mchunu’s arrival on stage brought a noticeable shift in respect, with Kevin Lerena joining on stage in a moment that reflected their long history in shared camps and sparring rounds. Lerena spoke highly of the matchup, highlighting that connection, the mutual shared respect and the role both men have played in each other’s development. He also reflected on a broader concern within the sport, noting how inactivity can quietly derail even the most promising careers and stressing the importance of consistent competition for athlete longevity.
The welterweight division followed with Kaine “K9” Fourie set to face Bilal Johnson. Fourie, now campaigning at a higher weight class, took the stage alone and used the moment to speak directly about the move up in division. His tone was steady and confident as he described a demanding training camp and a clear intention to make a statement on fight night. With Johnson not yet present, Fourie remained composed throughout, leaning slightly into the microphone at moments as he made it clear this was a step he had prepared for thoroughly.
Closing out the fight card, the heavyweight clash between Keaton Gomes and Youssof Mwanza drew strong attention. Their face-off was respectful but firm, both men nodding slightly as they came together, acknowledging their shared history in training environments. Gomes referenced familiarity with Mwanza’s style while Mwanza responded with a brief smile before the two separated, both agreeing in their own way that they know what to expect from each other.
The press conference concluded with a focused conversation between WBC Bridgerweight Champion Kevin Lerena and his trainer Peter Sniper Smith, centred on Lerena’s upcoming WBC title defence against Ryad Mehry in Belgium. The bout will mark Lerena’s 37th professional fight and another significant international test as he travels into Mehry’s home territory for the rematch – 22 Title fights & 14 world title fights under his belt.
Lerena reflected on his current form, stating that he believes he is entering the most complete stage of his career both physically and mentally. He spoke openly about the discipline that followed his previous setback, describing a continuous return to training and a renewed focus on refinement across all areas of his preparation.
He also touched on his time in camp with Tyson Fury, describing the heavyweight champion as both a fierce competitor and one of the most grounded individuals in the sport. Lerena highlighted not only the professional lessons learned but also the personal respect and friendship that has developed over time
With six weeks remaining until his world title defence, Lerena confirmed that his focus remains fully locked into camp and preparation. However, attention now shifts to Knockout Chaos 1, with fight week officially underway.
Final preparations continue with the official weigh in scheduled for Friday, where tensions are expected to rise ahead of Saturday night’s action. Knockout Chaos 1 will be broadcast live on SuperSport’s World of Champions, bringing fans across the continent front row access to one of the most anticipated fight cards of the year.
ABP proudly sponsored by – World Sports Betting, Tigris X Discovery, Supersport World of Champions, Meatworld, South Side Hard soda, .Team Lerena, Heerschop Pienaar, KC Pinnacle Holdings, Johnny’s Liquor.
From 3-5 April 2026, the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) was transformed into a high-octane arena for the third edition of HYROX Cape Town, and the first edition of Virgin Active HYROX Cape Town. Marking a historic milestone for the sport in Africa, the 2026 event expanded to a three-day format for the first time, welcoming a record-breaking community of athletes and spectators to the “Mother City.”
The atmosphere inside the CTICC was, as always, electric, fueled by the athletes’ energy and a diverse field of competitors ranging from first-time Open category participants to elite Pro athletes. This year’s event saw 6,520 athletes cross the finish line – maintaining an incredible 99.2% finishing rate – supported by over 12,000 roaring spectators over the three days.
Virgin Active HYROX Cape Town also marked the most inclusive race in South African history. The event hosted a deaf/hard of hearing relay team, as well as the largest number of adaptive athletes to date. Highlighting the spirit of the competition, the crowd cheered on a visually impaired participant who completed the course twice. First competing in the Adaptive division and the next day returning to the floor for a Mixed Doubles race with a family member.
“HYROX is more than just a race, it’s a global movement that celebrates the ‘everyday athlete,'” says Mlondi Mashinini, Managing Director of HYROX South Africa. “Seeing the growth from our first event, less than two years ago, to this massive three-day festival at the CTICC proves that South Africans have a massive appetite for functional fitness. The partnership with Virgin Active has been instrumental in preparing our athletes to compete at this level.”
The reach of the event extended well beyond South African borders, drawing athletes from across the continent, including Botswana, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Republic of the Congo, Kenya, Lesotho, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
The collaboration with Virgin Active was felt throughout the venue, most notably in the Recovery Village. Here, athletes transitioned from the intensity of the race to expert-led recovery sessions, featuring contrast therapy, stretching, and nutritional support from partners like Kauai.
Following the success in Cape Town, the HYROX tour now looks toward the high-altitude challenge of Johannesburg. With thousands of lives already impacted by the 2026 season kick-off, the momentum for functional fitness in South Africa has never been stronger.
About HYROX:
HYROX is the Global Fitness Race for Every Body. Launched in 2017, HYROX has become the world’s largest indoor fitness race, hosted in over 30 countries. The standardised format allows athletes of all levels to compete against their own personal bests and a global leaderboard.
About Virgin Active:
Virgin Active is South Africa’s leading health and wellness club network. Through its multi-year partnership with HYROX, Virgin Active provides specialised training programmes, accredited trainers, and world-class recovery facilities to support the fitness journey of every South African athlete.
For more information, race results, or to register for upcoming events, visit www.hyroxsa.com.Media Contact:
Herzogenaurach, April, 2026 – PUMA is gearing up to steal the show, starting this Spring with the launch of an iconic SHOWTIME race day running collection.
Set to dominate the streets of Boston and London, SHOWTIME is running at its rawest; high-energy, vibrant and unapologetically loud.
Inspired by the boldest moments in PUMA’s rich history and made for the biggest stages of sport, the mismatched neon pink, blue and yellow are an expressive collision of colour that is impossible to ignore.
Available in PUMA’s most innovative race day silhouettes – Fast-R NITRO™Elite 3 and Deviate NITRO™Elite 4 – these cutting-edge hues grace the same trailblazing technology that is designed to shave minutes off your race time, allowing runners to carry energy onto the road and steal the streets in emphatic fashion.
Fast-R NITRO™ Elite 3
The most talked about race day shoe of the past year, Fast-R NITRO™ Elite 3 is PUMA’s race day icon, engineered to aid your pursuit of a new personal best.
Combining state-of-the-art technology with cutting-edge design, Fast-R NITRO™ Elite 3 provides runners a rate of efficiency that could shave minutes off your race day records – evidenced in a research study conducted by the University of Massachusetts, Amherst.
Price: €300
Weight: 170g (UK8)
Stack Height: 40mm/32mm
Drop: 8mm
Deviate NITRO™ Elite 4
PUMA goes beyond fast with the launch of the Deviate NITRO™ Elite 4. This lightweight supershoe deliver an explosive, energetic ride that improves on its award-winning predecessor. The definitive option for high-cadence runners, upgrades include a dual-layer NITROFOAM™ ELITE cushioning system and redesigned carbon-fiber PWRPLATE.
Entries officially open today (Monday 20 April 2026) for South Africa’s premier Women’s Month celebration, the Totalsports Women’s Race, that will take place on three consecutive Sundays in August with the action kicking off in Durban on 2 August, followed by Cape Town on 9 August, and culminating in Johannesburg on 16 August 2026.
Thousands of women from across the country are expected to once again unite in celebration of movement, camaraderie, and empowerment, choosing between scenic 5km and 10km routes in each host city.
Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports, shares his excitement on entries opening: “The opening of entries for the Totalsports Women’s Race is always special to us. We encourage women of all ages and fitness levels to secure their place on the start line and be part of something truly meaningful. Whether you’re chasing a personal best or simply enjoying a walk with friends, this event offers an inclusive and inspiring space for every participant to celebrate Women’s Month in a powerful way.”
The Totalsports Women’s Race will once again support PinkDrive in 2026, contributing to the ongoing fight against breast cancer and raising awareness around early detection.
Meyer adds: “From a performance perspective, the Totalsports Women’s Race offers South Africa’s elite athletes an exceptional opportunity to compete in a world-class, women-only event on home soil. Spanning three cities, the series sets the stage for exciting head-to-head competition, complemented by an inspiring and energetic race-day atmosphere.”
Building on this sentiment, Nikki Crous, Head of Marketing at Totalsports, highlights the broader impact of the event:
“Entries opening signals the start of an incredible journey that brings women together from all walks of life. The Totalsports Women’s Race is more than just a race – it’s a celebration of strength, unity, and shared experiences. Each city offers its own unique energy, from Durban’s coastal charm to Cape Town’s iconic scenery and Johannesburg’s vibrant spirit. We encourage women to enter early, gather their friends and family, and be part of this unforgettable Women’s Month celebration.”
With limited entries available and high demand expected, participants are urged to act fast to secure their spot on the start line of one of South Africa’s most iconic women’s events.
Totalsports Women’s Race Cape TownStart Venue: 10km Start: Darling Street, Cape Town5km Start: Castle StreetFinish Venue: Grand Parade, Cape Town
Sunday, 16 August 2026
Totalsports Women’s Race JoburgStart Venue: Orange Road and Buffalo Road Junction, Marks ParkFinish Venue: Orange Road and Buffalo Road Junction, Marks Park
ENTRIES OPEN:
Monday, 20 April 2026.
ENTRIES CLOSE:
Durban: Thursday 02 July 2026, or once capacity has been reached. Cape Town: Monday 27 July 2026, or once capacity has been reached.Joburg: Monday 03 August 2026, or once capacity has been reached.
CHARITY SUPPORT: The Totalsports Women’s Race proudly supports PinkDrive, a non-profit company (NPC) dedicated to increasing breast cancer awareness, providing education, and offering free services to medically uninsured individuals across South Africa.
Like our Facebook page: Women’s Race / The PinkDrive
