Category: News

‹ Back

Fynbos Money and SkyRun join forces to back the long game

Tanika LaskeyNewsLeave a Comment on Fynbos Money and SkyRun join forces to back the long game

Image Credit – Craig Kolesky/ Nikon

South African money platform becomes presenting sponsor of SkyRun as iconic mountain race celebrates 30 years of endurance

There are some things that cannot be rushed. Building financial security takes time. So does preparing to run 100 kilometres through some of South Africa’s most unforgiving mountain terrain. Both demand discipline, resilience and the willingness to keep going long after the initial excitement has worn off.

It is this shared belief in the value of the long game that has brought South African financial platform Fynbos Money and iconic mountain running event SkyRun together, with Fynbos Money becoming the presenting sponsor of SkyRun as the legendary race celebrates its 30th year.

For Fynbos Money, the partnership represents an opportunity to support a uniquely South African event whose philosophy aligns closely with its own approach to helping people build their financial futures. “SkyRun has been going for thirty years, which tells you something about what endurance really looks like. We are a South African company backing a South African race that celebrates the long game. It is the same mindset we believe in when it comes to growing your money,” says Adrian Hope-Bailie, co-founder and CEO of Fynbos Money.

Fynbos is an investment and savings platform built to make growing and managing money simpler for South Africans. Its focus on helping people build towards the future, rather than chasing short-term wins, is a philosophy that feels particularly at home at SkyRun.

SkyRun’s origins date back to New Year’s Eve in 1991, when adventurer John Michael Tawse completed a pioneering traverse of the Witteberg Mountains from Lady Grey to the Wartrail Country Club. The first official SkyRun followed in 1997, with just 15 runners taking on the challenge. Three decades later, SkyRun has become a fixture on the South African ultra-running calendar, attracting experienced mountain runners and first-time adventurers. Yet its essence remains unchanged: a demanding journey through spectacular and unpredictable mountain country, where runners must rely on preparation, judgement and determination.

The 100km SkyRun is renowned for testing far more than physical fitness. Its remote and challenging route requires runners to navigate and largely support themselves, while shorter distances offer others the opportunity to experience the same landscape and spirit of adventure.

For SkyRun race organiser Adrian Saffy, reaching the 30-year milestone is a celebration of the people and values that have sustained the event. “SkyRun has always been about the long game,” says Saffy. “It takes months of preparation to get to that start line, and then on race day it comes down to taking one step, one decision and one challenge at a time. That is what makes this partnership with Fynbos such a natural fit. We share a belief that meaningful things are built over time, through consistency, resilience and a willingness to keep going when the easy option would be to stop.”

For more information, please visit www.skyrun.co.za

Nedbank Gravel Burn and Open Cycles Brand Collab Announced – Limited Edition Open WIDE 2.0

Tanika LaskeyNewsLeave a Comment on Nedbank Gravel Burn and Open Cycles Brand Collab Announced – Limited Edition Open WIDE 2.0

Nedbank Gravel Burn has partnered with pioneering bike company Open Cycles to create a Limited Edition Nedbank Gravel Burn x Open WIDE 2.0 bike package. Born out of a longtime friendship between respective founders, this collaboration represents their intersecting philosophies – both pushing the frontiers of innovation, adventure and competition in the growing gravel category. 

Open Cycles supported the event during its initial development phase, providing a fleet of Open WIDE 1.0 bikes for route testing across the demanding Karoo terrain. Following the successful performance of the platform, the friendship and partnership has expanded into an official product co-development initiative.

Nedbank Gravel Burn founder, Kevin Vermaak said, “Andy and I have been friends for 14 years and Open supported us even before we’d actually launched the event. They helped us by providing 10 gravel bikes for our test riders to try out some proposed routes – our Trial Burn in 2014. They handled the rigours of the Karoo superbly. Recently, Open launched their new WIDE 2.0 and we agreed that a collab would be a great idea – a very special Limited Edition package.”

Open’s co-founder Andy Kessler said, “Two years ago Kevin told me about his idea of the race and he didn’t have to convince me of the idea for even a minute, and we became a ‘Founding Friend’ of the event. It all came together very last-minute, but I knew that if Kevin was building it, this would be an amazing adventure – and it is.”

Like with all their gravel offerings, Open’s new WIDE 2.0 pushes industry boundaries, combining aerodynamic features with race-ready geometry plus the ability to fit up to 66mm (2.6-inch) tyres – ready to tackle the toughest races.

Even after only one edition, the seven-day, 750km gravel stage race, held in South Africa’s Karoo region, is known as a “frontier-gravel” racing adventure experience, characterised by wild terrain and unpredictable conditions, including rugged road surfaces. The new Open WIDE 2.0 delivers the ideal bike solution for these conditions. The design provides a ride quality that better “insulates” the rider from the rough surfaces over seven consecutive days of racing.

Kessler said, “The collab model had to be the new WIDE 2.0 – the perfect bike, with generous tyre clearance ensuring more comfort on the rugged Karoo roads, while still being a genuinely fast race bike.”

The limited-edition frame features custom artwork inspired by the textures and palette of the Karoo landscape and the bonfires lit in the remote Burn Camps where riders congregate and share the experience, celebrating the unique aesthetic and identity of the event.

Vermaak said, “This livery features hand-painted details showing the textures of the Karoo, the hues of the gravel we ride on and the luminescence of the fires we sit beside at night – all reflecting on this unique journey we embark on each year.”

The Nedbank Gravel Burn Limited Edition Open WIDE 2.0 is offered as a complete package, including a custom-designed Open WIDE 2.0 with component spec tailored to individual rider preferences, exclusive Open x Nedbank Gravel Burn cycling kit made by Assos and one Nedbank Gravel Burn race entry, redeemable within three years. Package pricing from $11900 (US) and €11500. 

For complete info on the Open WIDE 2.0 model and specification options, visit opencycle.com. For further details and to order, contact Open Cycles co-founder Andy Kessler directly at [email protected].

For information on Nedbank Gravel Burn including race entries, visit www.gravel-burn.com

About Nedbank Gravel Burn

Nedbank Gravel Burn is a seven day, 750km gravel stage race set entirely in South Africa’s Eastern Cape. Starting in the historic Robert Sobukwe Town / Graaff Reinet, the race journeys deep into remote semi-desert landscapes, with all riders staying together in the purpose-built Burn Camps. The route spans the Great Karoo, concludes in Big 5 territory at Shamwari Private Game Reserve. Designed as a true pro-am experience, Nedbank Gravel Burn brings elite and amateur riders together in a shared journey defined by scale, remoteness and connection.

For media enquiries, please contact: Sarah Harrop at [email protected]

About Open Cycles

OPEN Cycle is a next generation bicycle brand founded by two bicycle industry pioneers and are guided by the philosophy of “working hard to stay small”. By stripping away corporate overheads and marketing noise, OPEN channels all its resources into pure product development and customer support – designing the bikes the team wants to ride and delivering them directly to riders and via independent bike shops. Learn more at www.opencycle.com 



Force USA Launches Partnership with Sportsmans Warehouse

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Force USA Launches Partnership with Sportsmans Warehouse

The global fitness brand brings its All-In-One trainers and wider strength, cardio and conditioning range to South Africa, giving consumers more options for training at home.

Expanding Access to Quality Home Gym Equipment

Force USA, a fitness brand built around making serious training more accessible without the need for a commercial gym budget or footprint, has officially launched in Sportsmans Warehouse nationwide.

Founded on the belief that effective training equipment should deliver more without taking up unnecessary space, Force USA created the All-In-One training category, bringing multiple training functions together in a single system. This approach allows users to build more complete training setups without the need for multiple machines or a large dedicated training space.

The launch marks a new retail partnership between Force USA and Sportsmans Warehouse, bringing the global fitness brand into the retailer’s offering for the first time. The partnership gives South African consumers a new way to access Force USA’s range and experience its approach to flexible, performance-led training.

“For years, people in South Africa who wanted commercial-grade training results have had to choose between a full gym membership or settling for entry-level home equipment. Force USA closes that gap. Our All-In-One trainers give people the depth of a fully equipped gym in a fraction of the space, and launching with Sportsmans Warehouse means South Africans can finally access that experience at home,” says Simon Heinrich, International Sales Manager at Force USA.

Built Around the All-In-One Trainer

Two products anchor the South African launch and demonstrate what sets Force USA apart:

  • C10 All-In-One Trainer & Sliding Bench: The C10 features a patent-pending central cable system, six pulley stations and dual 200-degree adjustable upright pulleys, together with the C10 Sliding Bench. Designed to offer a well-rounded training experience in one setup, it brings a broad range of training options to a compact footprint.
  • G3 All-In-One Trainer: The G3 combines a Smith Machine, Functional Trainer, Power Rack, Core Trainer and Multi-Grip Chin-Up Station, with optional upgrade kits available.

Together, the C10 and G3 demonstrate Force USA’s approach to bringing multiple training capabilities into a single system.

The Wider Range: Strength, Cardio and Conditioning

Beyond its All-In-One trainers, Force USA’s wider range covers strength, cardio and conditioning, offering equipment for different training goals:

  • Strength: The Force USA range includes versatile equipment designed to support a variety of strength-training needs, including the C10 Functional Trainer, G3 All-In-One Trainer and Compact Leg Press & Hack Squat.
  • Cardio and Conditioning: The range also includes equipment such as the Stepper, designed for high-intensity cardiovascular conditioning, alongside other cardio and conditioning solutions for a complete training setup.

“The arrival of Force USA marks an exciting new addition to the Sportsmans Warehouse offering. We’re proud to bring the brand into our fitness range, giving our customers access to quality home gym equipment for those who want more from their training. With a focus on quality, versatility and performance, Force USA offers equipment designed to help take home training to the next level,” says Nicole Schumann, Marketing Manager at Sportsmans Warehouse.

Availability

The Force USA collection is now available to explore at Sportsmans Warehouse nationwide, in stores and online, giving consumers the opportunity to find equipment suited to their individual training goals. From building strength and improving conditioning to creating a more complete training setup, the range offers solutions for taking training further, without requiring a commercial gym environment.

CYCLE LAB – WEST RAND STORE EMPORIUM

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on CYCLE LAB – WEST RAND STORE EMPORIUM

Cycle Lab is proud to announce the opening of its newest store at The Falls Shopping Centre in the West Rand. A self-contained retail space paired with a full-fledged workshop, the launch marks the continuation of Cycle Lab’s mandate to bring world-class cycling facilities closer to the people who love the sport.

Launch Details

  • Launch Event: Opening dinner-time launch at 17:30 on 8 October 2026, featuring deep discounts across the range to kick off trading.
  • Location: The Falls Shopping Centre, West Rand, Johannesburg.
  • Trading Hours: Monday to Saturday from 09:00 to 18:00, and Sunday from 09:00 to 15:00. The store will be open 362 days a year, closing only on Easter, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.

Strategic Location & Riding Hotspots

The West Rand has become a firm favourite among Gauteng cyclists, with the Cradle of Humankind and Cradle Moon Mountain Bike Park among the region’s standout riding destinations, alongside a broader network of gravel and mountain bike routes across the area’s smallholdings and reserves. Positioned at The Falls Shopping Centre, the new emporium puts Cycle Lab at the heart of this riding community, easily accessible for both established riders and newcomers to the sport.

Why This Store Matters

  • Prime Location: The West Rand’s trails are rated among Gauteng’s best, providing instant access to the top riding that locals crave.
  • Ready-to-Go Workshop: From fitting to full repairs, the on-site workshop gives every rider the on-hand expertise that backs the brand’s reputation for “unintimidating” service.
  • Community Focus: A safe, welcoming space for riders of all levels, with the shop actively partnering with local clubs and training groups.
  • Expertise from Zero to Hero: Designed to make every visit welcoming and educational, helping newcomers overcome any intimidation when stepping into a bike shop.

“Our focus wasn’t to just open a store in the West Rand, we wanted to build a home for the local cycling community,” says Marketing Manager, Taryn Logan. “With the Cradle of Humankind and surrounding trails right on the doorstep, this is one of the most active riding regions in Gauteng, and the emporium lets us match that energy — with a full retail range, a proper workshop, and a coffee shop where people can actually hang around before or after a ride.”

“Whether it’s a family getting their kids on bikes for the first time, or someone chasing their next big upgrade, our team will be there with the range and the knowledge to help,” Logan adds. “We can’t wait to welcome the West Rand cycling community through our doors.”

Meet the Expert Team

The new store brings substantial industry depth to the West Rand:

  • Deane Poulter (Store Manager): A seasoned rider and mechanic with experience working at the Absa Cape Epic, Deane serves as the face of the shop and the technical backbone of the crew.
  • Ellick “Boeta” Steyn (Community & Technical Liaison): Brings 12 years of mechanical experience, including four years as a UCI professional mechanic, national duty at the 2024 Commonwealth Games and the 2023–24 Africa Championships, alongside UCI road and mountain bike team support.
  • Christo (Sales Lead): Brings fresh energy to the customer service experience.
  • Deon (Sales Team Lead): A top-performing Sales Consultant transferred from the Fourways store to ensure high service standards from day one.
  • James (Technical Specialist): Oversees bike fitting and repairs.

Much of the proven Fourways crew’s sales and technical experience has transferred across to ensure the store opens with a team local riders can trust immediately.

Premium Brands & Stock Selection

The emporium stocks road, mountain, gravel, eBike, and children’s bikes from Giant, SCOTT, Silverback, Liv, Marvel, Merida, Orbea, and Titan Racing.

  • Apparel & Helmets: Apparel is available from Ciovita, Wattz, Assos, and First Ascent, alongside helmets from MET, SCOTT, Leatt, Giro, and Oakley.
  • Tech & Nutrition: GPS bike computers and indoor trainers sit alongside nutrition from Biogen, Maurten, Cadence, and more to keep riders fuelled through the season.
  • Components & Fitment: Component upgrades from PRO and saddles from Fizik and Selle Italia round out the store’s fitting and performance offerings.

Media & Contact Information

Cycle Lab invites riders from Johannesburg, the West Rand, and beyond to experience a store that blends world-class facilities, highly trained staff, and a culture that celebrates every twist of the route.

Contact: Taryn Logan, Marketing Manager, Cycle Lab

Email: [email protected]

Phone: +27 11 563 5000

Glenrose Xaba unleashes another 10km masterclass in rainy Gqeberha

Adnaan MohamedFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Glenrose Xaba unleashes another 10km masterclass in rainy Gqeberha
By Adnaan Mohamed

GQEBERHA: Glenrose Xaba may have arrived in Gqeberha with tired legs after her World Half Marathon Championship outing in Copenhagen, but the South African road-running sensation left the rain-soaked streets with another piece of history.

The Boxer Athletics Club star scorched her way to a breathtaking 31:16 victory in Saturday morning’s SPAR Women’s 10km Challenge, producing the third-fastest 10km time ever recorded by a South African woman.

The clock was cruelly close to another national record.

Xaba finished only four seconds outside her South African record of 31:12, set at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K on 7 July 2024.

GQEBERHA, SOUTH AFRICA – SEPTEMBER 26: Glenrose Xaba Boxer AC – AGN during the 2026 SPAR Women’s Grand Prix 10km Challenge and 5km Fun Run at Pollock Beach Grass Area Summerstrand on September 26, 2026 in Gqeberha, South Africa. (Photo by Michael Sheehan/Gallo Images)

That performance in Durban saw Xaba shatter the long-standing national record of 31:13 held by iconic South African distance runner Elana Meyer for 23 years.

In Gqeberha, the weather offered little assistance. Overcast skies, humidity and persistent rain turned the course into a slippery test of speed and strength, but Xaba treated the conditions as little more than another hurdle to clear.

Her 31:16 was a powerful statement so soon after representing South Africa at the World Half Marathon Championships in Copenhagen.

The stopwatch dangled history in front of her again in Gqeberha.

“I’m just happy and a little bit disappointed because I saw that I was not sure that I was in the SA record time when I was running,” Xaba said. “But when it was 50 metres to 100 metres, I saw that I was inside the record time, but when I crossed the finish line is where I got disappointed because I just missed it.”

There was little sympathy from the weather gods.

Yet Xaba described the course as “a bit challenging but very fast”, adding that she believed it could produce multiple records in future.

“I think it’s the route that can produce multiple records in future and if we can host the world champs, I don’t know when, road running, I think it will be the best route for us.”

Fresh from representing South Africa at the World Half Marathon Championships in Copenhagen, Xaba had every reason to feel the weight in her legs. Instead, she attacked from the gun.

“I just did from gunpoint because I was chasing a bonus time so that I can have the good results and good points,” she said. “I only did two races. This one is a dead one, so I’m chasing the points. I’m glad that everything went according to the way I did in the race.”

Behind her, teammate Karabo More produced one of the day’s biggest breakthroughs, finishing second in 32:21, a 12-second personal best.

More deliberately stepped beyond her comfort zone.

“I think my plan was to come here and run a PB. I’ve always been scared to go in front and go with the girls. So today it was all about risking it and seeing how far I can go,” she said.

“And it worked to my advantage because I was able to fight from start to finish. So for today I’m sure and proud that I started something I was able to finish.”

More said the weather was manageable and revealed how she approached the closing kilometres.

“My coach once told me, with the 10 kilometres, the most important kilometres of the 10 kilometres are the last three. So you need to run smart and try and push to the end.”

At seven kilometres, those words became her fuel.

“I knew then that you just have to move, regardless of how you’re feeling, just try and finish, you’re almost there.”

More said her ambition was to learn from racing closer to athletes of Xaba’s calibre.

GQEBERHA, SOUTH AFRICA – SEPTEMBER 26: Karabo More Boxer AC – AGN during the 2026 SPAR Women’s Grand Prix 10km Challenge and 5km Fun Run at Pollock Beach Grass Area Summerstrand on September 26, 2026 in Gqeberha, South Africa. (Photo by Michael Sheehan/Gallo Images)

“At the end of the day you have to risk it and see where it’s going to take you,” she said. “Each and every kilometre was all about getting faster than the one I did.”

Ethiopian Selam Gebre of Nedbank completed the podium in 32:33, but the loudest statement belonged to Boxer AC.

For Xaba, however, the job remains unfinished.

She is chasing a fourth Grand Prix crown, but refused to assume history is already hers.

“I’m not sure yet that I’m going to win the Grand Prix,” she said. “But to make history, it will for me to be not my history alone. It will be the history of everyone that loved running.”

“It will be inspiration for the young ones and older ones that they look up to me.”

Her victory was not another routine entry in the record books. It was a reminder that South African women’s distance running has a formidable engine at its front, and Xaba continues to push the needle.

The stopwatch says four seconds separated her from her own national record.

The bigger picture says Xaba remains within striking distance of history.

And with the SPAR Grand Prix season gathering pace, the race against the clock has only begun.

The City of Gold now holds the final piece of the puzzle

Gqeberha could make or break Glenrose’s historic title chase

Adnaan MohamedFeatures, News, PreviewLeave a Comment on Gqeberha could make or break Glenrose’s historic title chase
By Adnaan Mohamed

Glenrose Xaba’s Spar Grand Prix dream is heading into dangerous territory.

The Boxer Athletics Club star has a shot at becoming the first woman to win four SPAR Grand Prix titles, but Saturday’s penultimate race in Gqeberha could send the championship race into overdrive.

Xaba currently shares the record of three Grand Prix crowns with fellow South Africans Rene Kalmer and Irvette van Zyl, and Ethiopia’s Tadu Nare.

A victory in this year’s series would put her alone at the top.

But the road to history is littered with potholes.

Cacisile Sosibo, Xaba’s Boxer teammate, leads the standings on 80 points, with Hollywood Athletics Club’s Tayla Kavanagh on 60 and Xaba third.

Kavanagh will miss Gqeberha after staying in Europe following the World Road Running Championships in Copenhagen, where she smashed Elana Meyer’s South African 5km record with a sensational 14:51.

That absence has opened the door for the chasing pack.

And they are coming.

Ethiopian Selam Gebre, currently fourth, will be among those hunting points, while Karabo Mailula, sixth, arrives after finishing fifth in Thursday’s Absa RUN YOUR CITY Joburg 10K in 34:44.

Irvette van Zyl, another three-time Grand Prix champion, clocked 34:51 in Joburg and sits 10th overall.

Neheng Khatala, Cian Gerber (Oldknow) and Karabo More are also expected to throw themselves into the points battle.

Xaba, meanwhile, is carrying serious form into Gqeberha.

She finished 13th in the Copenhagen half marathon in 1:07:49, the second-fastest 21km time of her career.

Sosibo was 70th in 1:14:00 and will be determined to protect her championship lead.

Then there is the course.

SPAR Grand Prix technical consultant Brad Glasspoole says the new route could produce a furious finish.

“The new Gqeberha route starts at Pollok Beach and avoids the city centre. This reduces traffic, turns and twists,” Glasspoole told Modern Athlete

“There is a 550m climb on 10th Avenue, followed by a 450m descent. The final 2.5km is flat and fast.”

That final stretch could become a sprinting lottery, with tired legs and championship points fighting for the same piece of road.

About 6,000 runners are expected, with wet and windy conditions forecast.

Glasspoole believes the new qualification rule could make Saturday even more important.

“This is a new rule we introduced this year to make the series more competitive. With Johannesburg as the final leg after Gqeberha, Saturday’s points could be decisive.”

Athletes must complete at least three races to qualify for the Grand Prix title.

The five-race series visits Cape Town, Durban, Tshwane, Gqeberha and Johannesburg, with R1,967,500 in total prize money and up to R212,000 available per leg for the South African competition.

Caster Semenya at starting line during the 2025 SPAR Women’s 10km Challenge and 5km Fun Run at Green Point Common Sports Ground on March 30, 2025 in Cape Town, South Africa. (Photo by Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Images)

Xaba, Sosibo, Mailula and More are coached by former Olympic 800m champion Caster Semenya and her wife Violet Semenya.

Saturday is therefore no ordinary 10km.

For Xaba, it is another step towards history.

For Sosibo, it is a chance to tighten her grip.

And for the chasing pack, it is open season.

Gqeberha is ready. The title race is on.

Kabelo Mulaudzi defends Joburg 10K crown

Adnaan MohamedFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Kabelo Mulaudzi defends Joburg 10K crown
By Adnaan Mohamed

Kabelo Mulaudzi made his move when it mattered to defend his Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K title on Heritage Day, winning in 28:48 as Kenya’s Deborah Chemutai claimed her first Series victory in 32:50.

Mulaudzi raised his arms in celebration as he crossed the finish on Rahima Moosa Street after a tactical race on a hilly course in hot conditions.

The Boxer Athletics Club runner, who won four of the five Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series races last year, stayed in the chasing bunch behind early pace-setter Dolphine Chelimo of Uganda before making his move in the final 3km.

He surged past Chelimo and held on to finish nine seconds outside his course record of 28:39.

“I wanted to defend my title because everyone had forgotten about me. I’m happy to be back. It’s my first win of the year and in the series. I’m very happy,” Mulaudzi said.

The 28-year-old has endured a frustrating season with a hamstring injury, but said the problem was no longer troubling him.

“I’ve been struggling this year but I’m happy with my performance and defending my title. The injury is fine. It’s just that the race was tactical because it’s high altitude, it’s hot and you are running fast and slow. So, you have to adjust.”

Mulaudzi finished four seconds ahead of teammate Zenzile Pheko, who secured his second consecutive runner-up finish after also placing second in Tshwane.

Kenya’s Stephen Kangethe matched Pheko’s 28:52, taking third after a sprint finish.

Mulaudzi thanked coach Richard Mayer, Series founder Michael Meyer, sponsor PUMA SA and Boxer for their support.

“I would like to thank my coach and Ntate Michael Meyer for organising such a good race, as well as my sponsor PUMA SA and club Boxer for their support.”

Chemutai strikes Joburg gold

Chemutai produced a commanding run to win the women’s race in 32:50, improving on the third place she achieved in Tshwane in August.

The Kenyan led a clean sweep of the podium, with compatriot Mercy Jelimo second in 33:10 and Esther Borura third in 33:27.

Great Britain’s Emma Pallant-Browne was fourth in 34:15, followed by Kenya’s Dorcus Chepkwemoi in 34:21.

Defending champion Karabo Mailula was the leading South African in sixth in 34:44, with Hollywood Athletics Club’s Irvette van Zyl seventh in 34:45.

“I’m happy to win the Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K. The race was hard but I tried. It was my second 10km race,” Chemutai said.

“The course was hard and it was a little bit windy but I’m happy I won.”

Joburg was the fifth completed stop on the 2026 Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series after Gqeberha, Durban and Tshwane, with Cape Town cancelled because of severe weather forecasts.

The Series heads to Bloemfontein on 25 October for the inaugural Absa RUN YOUR CITY MANGAUNG 10K, with the race starting at 07:00 and entries closing on 8 October or when capacity is reached.

The event also featured a Chery vehicle giveaway, with Prudence Gumbi winning a new vehicle valued at R269,900.

CLICK  HERE FOR YOUR RESULTS:

RESULTS: 2026 Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K

Date: Thursday 24 September 2026

Start Line: Lilian Ngoyi Street

Finish Line: Rahima Moosa Street

Start Time: 08:00

ELITE MEN

1 Kabelo Mulaudzi (South Africa) 28:48, 2 Zenzile Pheko (South Africa) 28:52, 3 Stephen Ngigi Kangethe (Kenya) 28:52, 4 Dolphine Chelimo (Uganda) 28:59, 5 George Kusche (South Africa) 29:00, 6 Onalenna Khonkhobi (South Africa) 29:10, 7 Bennett Seloyi (South Africa) 29:12, 8 Tumelo Motlagale (South Africa) 29:17, 9 Chris Mhlanga (South Africa) 29:37, 10 Musawenkosi Mnisi (South Africa) 29:40

ELITE WOMEN

1 Deborah Chemutai (Kenya) 32:50, 2 Mercy Jelimo (Kenya) 33:10, 3 Esther Borura (Kenya) 33:27, 4 Emma Pallant-Browne (Great Britain) 34:15, 5 Dorcus Chepkwemoi (Kenya) 34:21, 6 Karabo Mailula (South Africa) 34:44, 7 Irvette van Zyl (South Africa) 34:51, 8 Dirbe Techanie Dagne (South Africa) 34:55, 9 Zanele Maisa (Ethiopia) 36:01, 10 Malineo Mahloko (Lesotho) 36:27

Rassie unleashes Malcolm Marx flank Masterplan

Adnaan MohamedNews, Preview, Rugby, SpringboksLeave a Comment on Rassie unleashes Malcolm Marx flank Masterplan
By Adnaan Mohamed

Rassie ready to unleash World Player of the Year in new role against Wallabies

Rassie Erasmus is cooking up another Springbok surprise, and this one could see the World Player of the Year, Malcolm Marx, packing down far from his usual hunting ground.

Erasmus continues to redefine squad management, introducing 13 changes for the Test against Australia while building leadership depth through Andre Esterhuizen’s appointment as captain.

Malcolm Marx has been named among the replacements for Sunday’s showdown with Australia in Perth, but Erasmus has revealed the wrecking-ball hooker could be unleashed at flank when he storms onto the field.

Yes, flank.

The revelation adds serious spice to an already radically reshuffled Bok pack as Erasmus attempts to keep his warriors fresh while building the depth he believes will be crucial at the next World Cup.

“Even later in the game, if Ox Nché comes on, Jan-Hendrik might move to hooker, and we’ve been trying Malcolm on the flank as well,” Erasmus said.

That means Marx could swap the No 2 jersey for the loose-forward trenches, where his ferocious carrying, physicality and breakdown work could give the Wallabies another headache.

And if that sounds like classic Rassie rugby roulette, it is.

The Boks have also thrown another curveball at No 8, with Marco van Staden packing down at the back of the scrum alongside Elrigh Louw and Paul de Villiers.

But Erasmus made it clear that Van Staden’s biggest assignment is not wearing the traditional No 8 hat.

“There’s not a specific role for the eighthman apart from scrumming,” the Bok boss said.

The real battlefield will be the breakdown.

“If you take Paul, Marco, Elrigh, Jasper [Wiese] if he comes on, André Esterhuizen and others, I think the breakdown battle is going to be massive.

“Marco will have a massive impact there. Like Fraser McReight and the guys in their team, there are certainly guys who can disrupt a defensive breakdown. They’re really good at that and hopefully Marco can help sort that out for us.”

With Australia boasting breakdown pests of their own, Van Staden has been handed the dirty-work job.

The Boks have also built a safety net should the pack start falling apart.

If Louw or De Villiers are forced off, Franco Mostert can move into the loose-forward mix, while captain André Esterhuizen can shift to either blindside or openside.

Then there is Jasper Wiese, waiting in the wings for his 50th Test cap.

Jasper Wiese will earn his 50th Springbok cap from the bench Photo: X.com

Erasmus admitted he would have preferred to start the powerful No 8, but wanted insurance on the bench if the new-look starting combination hits turbulence.

“We’d have loved to start Jasper, but we need some security on the bench,” he said.

“We’re sure the guys who are going to start are going to be a little bit energetic and haven’t played for a while. There might be some combination hiccups.”

Up front, Jan-Hendrik Wessels and Zachary Porthen will pack down either side of hooker Johan Grobbelaar.

The selections are part of Erasmus’ bigger body-management operation, with Grobbelaar getting his opportunity after Deon Fourie played three Tests in succession at 39.

“[Deon Fourie] playing three Test matches in a row at the age of 39, Grobbies deserves a chance now.”

Erasmus also stressed that Wessels and Grobbelaar have experience against Australia, adding another layer to the selection gamble.

“We’re trying to save the bodies, and manage the guys while winning but also building some squad depth.”

In Perth, therefore, the Boks are not merely taking a hammer to the Wallabies.

They are sharpening every blade in the toolbox.

And if Marx really does appear at flank, Australia could discover that Rassie’s bench has teeth in places nobody expected.

Sunday’s contest, kicking off at 11:45 SA time on SuperSport, is more than another Test. It is another examination of Erasmus’ greatest creation: a Springbok system where stars rest, leaders emerge and the conveyor belt never stops moving.

SPRINGBOKS – 15 Aphelele Fassi, 14 Edwill van der Merwe, 13 Canan Moodie, 12 André Esterhuizen (c), 11 Ethan Hooker, 10 Handré Pollard, 9 Herschel Jantjies, 8 Marco van Staden, 7 Elrigh Louw, 6 Paul de Villiers, 5 Franco Mostert, 4 Eben Etzebeth, 3 Zachary Porthen, 2 Johan Grobbelaar, 1 Jan-Hendrik Wessels.
Bench: 16 Malcolm Marx, 17 Ox Nché, 18 Wilco Louw, 19 Lood de Jager, 20 Jasper Wiese, 21 Morné van den Berg, 22 Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, 23 Quan Horn.

Dobson reveals Stormers’ Springbok strategy

Adnaan MohamedNewsLeave a Comment on Dobson reveals Stormers’ Springbok strategy
By Adnaan Mohamed

The DHL Stormers are taking a more measured approach to managing their Springboks this season, with coach John Dobson determined to avoid the disruption caused by wholesale player changes during the previous United Rugby Championship campaign.

The Stormers have named a squad containing a significant Springbok contingent, creating the familiar challenge of balancing provincial ambitions with international commitments during a World Cup year.

Stormers director of rugby John Dobson said the biggest availability concerns would come during periods surrounding international rugby, although he expects his leading players to be available when the URC reaches its decisive stages.

“I think we have our players always around the playoff times,” Dobson said.

“It’s this period that’s challenging around post-Rugby Championship, what is traditionally normally not this year, the Nations Cup, but normally by the end of the November 12th. That period is very tricky.”

The Stormers also expect complications during the current period, with their Springboks returning from the four-Test series against New Zealand and preparing for further international commitments.

Dobson acknowledged that the issue is not unique to Cape Town.

“As regards players being invested towards the sharp end, that applies across every team in every tournament, from English Premiership to Irish.”

The difference this season will be the Stormers’ attempt to manage those transitions more deliberately.

Rather than returning their internationals as a single group, the franchise intends to phase them back into the squad while maintaining an approximate 80% strength team. The objective is to preserve combinations and avoid the loss of structure experienced last season.

Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu will be one of the players carefully managed after accumulating substantial minutes during the Springboks’ recent series against the All Blacks. He will not start all four of the Stormers’ October fixtures.

The Stormers have also invested heavily in their performance structures through what they describe as Project 29.

Steph du Toit returns as the franchise’s fitness specialist, while a performance psychologist and Australian rules consultant Steve Boris have also been added. Leonora Osborne will serve as acting manager, while the academy continues under Jacques Hanekom, who brings experience from Leinster.

The Stormers believe the investment can help them close the gap on a URC field where Dobson estimates that 14 or 15 teams are capable of challenging for a top-eight place.

Leinster remains the benchmark.

The Stormers’ Currie Cup campaign, despite ending before the semi-finals, also provided valuable evidence of their depth, with Vernon Paulo, MK and Tom Barnard among those to emerge as players capable of contributing at URC level.

Several younger players, including Markus Muller, Josh Boulle and Jonathan Roche, are also being integrated into the midfield, while the highly rated “Robertson Express” (Lleyton Davids) is being developed without being rushed into URC rugby this season.

There is less positive news surrounding Ben Jason, who remains with the squad after missing the Australian tour because of delayed concussion symptoms.

“He’s battling with delayed concussion symptoms. So he hasn’t gone to Australia. So he’s here,” Dobson said.

Jason is training with the Stormers but has not yet been cleared to play.

“Hopefully, he gets cleared in time for Connacht, but he’s with us at training with us at the moment. But he’s not cleared yet.”

For the Stormers, the challenge is therefore bigger than assembling a talented squad.

They need to keep it together.

With Springbok commitments, international workloads, injuries and a fiercely competitive URC, Dobson’s latest plan places cohesion at the centre of the Stormers’ pursuit of a first URC title.

Netball Warriors dressed to kill

Adnaan MohamedNetball, NewsLeave a Comment on Netball Warriors dressed to kill
By Adnaan Mohamed

The Proteas have a new look. Now the pressure is on to make it mean something.

South Africa’s netball warriors are stepping onto the international battlefield dressed in national colours and carrying expectations that weigh far heavier than a kit bag.

PUMA and Netball South Africa have unveiled the new Home and Away strips for the SPAR Proteas and Protea Warriors ahead of the 2026 Africa Netball Cup and the 2026/27 international season.

And this kit is not shy.

The Home strip explodes in green and yellow, while the Away version cuts a cleaner figure in white. Both are splashed with angular geometric graphics that appear to slice through the fabric like lightning across a stormy Cape Town sky.

The message is unmistakable: move forward, aim higher and never stop.

The upward-pointing arrowheads represent growth, ambition and evolution, while the zigzag graphics are designed to capture the speed, movement and intensity of netball.

It is a striking visual statement.

Now comes the difficult part.

The players must give it a heartbeat.

Netball South Africa president Mami Diale believes PUMA has delivered more than sporting fashion.

“Netball South Africa is delighted with the new home and away kits for the SPAR Proteas and Protea Warriors for the 2026 Africa Netball Cup and beyond,” said Diale.

“We are confident that our kit partner PUMA has created a design that is both stylish and functional. We believe that the team will perform at their best in these new kits.”

Diale said the design also carries cultural and sporting significance.

“As a passionate sport, we believe the design encompasses a touch of African tradition, a variety of sports, lifestyle and performance elements.”

PUMA South Africa marketing director Brett Bellinger said the strip captures the identity of the national teams.

“The design embodies the spirit of the Protea men’s and women’s teams, bringing together performance, national identity and contemporary sporting style,” he said.

“The new kits celebrate the movement and passion that make netball such a growing and powerful part of South African sport.”

That growth brings scrutiny.

A beautiful kit cannot win a centre pass, produce a defensive turnover or bury the winning shot. Those jobs still belong to the warriors wearing it.

But clothing has power in sport. It can become armour, identity and a rallying cry.

The arrows on these shirts point upwards.

Now South Africa’s netball stars must follow them.

#UnitedWarriors