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PUMA Athletes Smash Their Half Marathon Records In Berlin

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on PUMA Athletes Smash Their Half Marathon Records In Berlin

It was a historic day in Berlin as PUMA athlete Amanal Petros once again raised the bar on home soil. Racing in the FAST-R NITRO™ Elite 3, Petros shattered his own national record and clocked a personal best of 59:22.

His third-place finish was nine seconds faster than his 2025 performance, proving that his recent training block in Kenya is paying off in a big way.

A Record-Breaking Day in Berlin

Petros wasn’t the only one celebrating a career-defining run. The PUMA women’s roster also turned heads with massive performances:

  • Esther Pfeiffer (Germany): The four-time national champion shaved three seconds off her PB, finishing 5th with a stellar time of 67:25.

  • Chloe Herbiet (Belgium): In a truly standout performance, Herbiet sliced over two and a half minutes off her previous best. Her time of 67:32 set a new Belgian national record.

“To hit such a big personal best and set a new national record feels amazing,” said Herbiet. “I came into today feeling confident after training with the PUMA Elite Running Team in North Carolina, but this even exceeded my own expectations.”

The Tech Behind the Speed

These results continue to cement the FAST-R NITRO™ Elite 3 as the shoe to beat. Engineered specifically to “obliterate personal bests,” it has become the most coveted piece of gear in the PUMA lineup over the last year.

What’s Next?

The momentum is clearly building for the rest of the 2026 season. Petros is already eyeing the podium at the London Marathon next month, while Herbiet looks to carry this energy into a massive year of racing.

With stars like Fiona O’Keeffe and Rory Linkletter also on the roster, the PUMA team is looking faster than ever.

Want to learn more about the gear? Check out www.puma.com for the latest updates.

Mosiako in top form ahead of 2026 Totalsports Two Oceans half marathon showdown

Adnaan MohamedFeatures, News, Totalsports Two Oceans MarathonLeave a Comment on Mosiako in top form ahead of 2026 Totalsports Two Oceans half marathon showdown
By Adnaan Mohamed

Thabang Mosiako has timed his run into form with precision ahead of the Totalsports Two Oceans Half Marathon on 12 April, delivering back-to-back performances that underline his intent to challenge for the title in Cape Town.

The Nedbank Running Club athlete produced a commanding victory at the Phakamile Mabija Human Rights Half Marathon in Kimberley, clocking 1:04:37 to set a new course record. He finished 1 minute and 23 seconds clear of teammate Joel Mmone.

“What a great race,” said Mosiako. “The road was smooth and safe, it was well organised and everything was indeed perfect. Overall, I am happy with my performance.”

That result followed a strong showing at the Paris Half Marathon on 8 March, where he ran 1:00:44 to finish third, the third fastest 21km time of his career.

The 31-year-old, who is the 2023 South African half marathon champion and one of the country’s fastest ever over the distance, believes improved race management has played a key role in his current form following his recent marathon campaigns.

“I think this time around I was smarter after my second marathon. I took enough rest, that’s why I didn’t struggle with the buildup phase and that led me to the shape I have now.”

Mosiako will return to Cape Town aiming to improve on last year’s fifth-place finish and replicate his victory in 2024.

“I’m going for the Two Oceans Half Marathon again to correct the mistake I made last year,” he said. “I’m just praying to remain injury free and to have consistency in training. I’m really happy about what’s coming my way.”

Two Oceans Marathon NPC chairperson Chris Goldschmidt believes Mosiako will be among the leading contenders.

“We’ve been watching Thabang Mosiako’s recent performances with great interest. His form in the lead-up to the Totalsports Two Oceans Half Marathon powered by BYD certainly suggests that he is ready to challenge strongly for the title again. With athletes of this calibre lining up, we can expect an exciting and highly competitive race on 12 April.”

Race general manager Wade Bromfield echoed those sentiments.

“Thabang has shown impressive determination since finishing sixth last year, and his recent results indicate that he’ll arrive at the start line full of confidence. Performances like these add to the anticipation surrounding the Totalsports Two Oceans Half Marathon powered by BYD, and we’re looking forward to seeing how the race unfolds with such a strong field competing for top honours.”

The 2026 event carries a combined prize purse of R2.6 million, with the half marathon offering R422 600, adding further incentive to an already competitive field.

Event Information

  • Thursday, 9 April: International Friendship Run
  • Friday, 10 April: Trail Run (07:00)
  • Saturday, 11 April: Ultra Marathon (05:15)
  • Sunday, 12 April: Half Marathon (06:15)

Total Prize Purse (2026): R2.6 million

  • Ultra Marathon: R2 177 400
  • Half Marathon: R422 600

Tayla Kavanagh stuns Glenrose Xaba in dramatic Cape Town SPAR 10km Challenge finish

Adnaan MohamedNewsLeave a Comment on Tayla Kavanagh stuns Glenrose Xaba in dramatic Cape Town SPAR 10km Challenge finish
By Adnaan Mohamed

Tayla Kavanagh delivered a breakthrough performance to win the opening leg of the SPAR Grand Prix series in Cape Town on Sunday, outsprinting defending champion Glenrose Xaba in a gripping finish in Green Point.

The 24-year-old from Hollywood Athletics Club in KwaZulu-Natal clocked a personal best 31:33, timing her charge to perfection over the final 50 metres to edge Xaba by five seconds. It marked a significant statement at the start of the national women’s road running series.

Xaba, a three-time SPAR Grand Prix winner representing Boxer Athletics Club Gauteng North, crossed in 31:38 after a sustained duel with Kavanagh in the closing stages. Her teammate Kayla Jacobs secured third place in 32:16.

Kavanagh executed a measured race, staying within striking distance before lifting the pace in the final kilometre. The contest tightened approaching the last corner, where she committed to a decisive surge.

“No, I knew I was coming into the race in pretty good shape, but I never expected to win the race today,” said Kavanagh.

“I kind of just stuck to my plan, and I felt good in the last 1K. From about 9Ks, I just started to surge a bit. Glenrose came back at me, and I thought, ok let me keep trying. And as we took the last corner, I was like, I still got some gas in the legs, let me try.

“So, I took the risk and I brought it home. I was really happy to get a bit of a gap and to win. I’m super happy.”

Her focus this season has been consistency following a strong 2025 campaign.

“I had a really good year last year. So going into this season, I really wanted to build some consistency again. I was trying to continue that and it’s exactly what I managed to do today, so I’m really happy.”

Behind the leading trio, Karabo More (32:34) and Cacisile Sosibo (32:42) rounded out the top five in a competitive field that set a high standard for the series opener.

Double Olympic 800m gold medallist Caster Semenya (35:44), who coaches Xaba with her wife Violet Semenya finished in a credible 12th place.

Kavanagh’s victory reshapes the early Grand Prix standings and signals a potential shift in the competitive order, with Xaba set to respond as the series progresses.

A record 18000 women took to the streets of the Mother City to participate in perfect weather conditions on a fast, flat circular route that started in Vlei Road at the DHL Stadium and finished at Green Point. Common Fields.

Top 10 Results – SPAR Women’s 10km Challenge (Cape Town)

  1. Tayla Kavanagh – 31:33
  2. Glenrose Xaba – 31:38
  3. Kyla Jacobs – 32:16
  4. Karabo More – 32:34
  5. Cacisile Sosibo – 32:42
  6. Karabo Mailula – 33:28
  7. Irvette van Zyl – 33:43
  8. Zanthe Taljaard – 34:23
  9. Carina Swiegers – 34:47
  10. Elizabeth Hutamo – 35:09
  11. Deanne Launscher – 35:41       
  12. Caster Semenya -35:44

Top three: Tayla Kavanagh (center), Glenrose Xaba (left) andKayla Jacobs (right) finished on the podium at the Spar 10km Challenge in Cape Town on Sunday morning.
Photo Credit: Adnaan Mohamed

Glenrose Xaba targets record fourth SPAR Grand Prix crown

Adnaan MohamedNews, PreviewLeave a Comment on Glenrose Xaba targets record fourth SPAR Grand Prix crown
By Adnaan Mohamed

Defending champion Glenrose Xaba will begin her bid for a record-breaking fourth SPAR Grand Prix title when the 2026 series opens in Green Point on Sunday.

No athlete has won the competition four times since its inception 18 years ago. Xaba, already a three-time winner, now has the opportunity to stand alone at the top of that list.

The opening race has been reshaped by the absence of Ethiopian runners Diniya Abaraya and Salem Gebre, who finished second and third respectively in last year’s standings. Both were unable to secure the necessary visas and clearance documents, their club confirmed earlier this week.

Their withdrawal strengthens the prospects of South Africa’s leading contenders and is expected to intensify competition among the local elite field.

“The SPAR Grand Prix has become very important to me,” said Xaba.
“I am very proud to be the first black South African to win it three times. I hope my achievements are an inspiration to young girls living in poverty as I was, who see what I have done and believe they can do the same.”

Xaba said she was in good condition ahead of the season opener.

“I am ready to run my best and I am looking forward to the competition. I just want to achieve good results in 2026,” she said.

Among those expected to challenge are Karabo Mailula, Irvette van Zyl and Tayla Kavanagh, along with Xaba’s training partners Karabo More and Cacisile Sosibo.

The SPAR Grand Prix consists of five races, with stops in Cape Town, Durban, Tshwane, Gqeberha and Johannesburg.

This year’s series offers a total prize purse of R2 million. The overall winner will earn R210 000, with additional incentives available to the top South African finishers.

Attention will also turn to the age-group categories. Junior champion Chanel Groenewald starts as favourite in her division. Anne Stewart will defend her 50-59 title, with Elizabeth Potter among her challengers. In the 60-plus category, Judy Bird is set to face strong competition from record holder Margie Saunders.

Sunday’s race follows a fast coastal route, starting near Green Point and running along the Sea Point Promenade before finishing at the Green Point Common.

For Xaba, the campaign begins with a clear objective: to convert consistency into history.

Simbine and Van Niekerk headline SA squad for Commonwealth Games 2026

Adnaan MohamedNewsLeave a Comment on Simbine and Van Niekerk headline SA squad for Commonwealth Games 2026
By Adnaan Mohamed

Akani Simbine, South Africa’s 100m record holder, headlines a squad that features nine other national record holder for the 2026 Commonwealth Games, set to take place in Glasgow, Scotland, from 23 July to 6 August.

The group has been trimmed from the initial 72 athletes announced in December, with the latest selection comprising 44 men and 24 women as preparations intensify.

Among those included are three athletes who reached the podium at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham: 100m star Simbine, long jumper Jovan van Vuuren and 400m hurdles specialist Zenéy Geldenhuys.

Wayde van Niekerk, the world record holder over 400m, has been selected in the 200m, while Tshepo Tshite (1500m), Adriaan Wildschutt (10,000m), Antonio Alkana (110m hurdles), Luvo Manyonga (long jump), Marioné Fourie (100m hurdles), Miné de Klerk (shot put), and marathon runners Elroy Gelant and Glenrose Xaba are also among the country’s record holders in the squad.

The provisional team further includes Olympic silver medallist Jo-Ané du Plessis (javelin), former world indoor champion Prudence Sekgodiso (800m), and ultra-distance specialist Gerda Steyn.

The final team to travel to Scotland will be confirmed at a later stage by the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC).

ASA provisional Commonwealth Games squad

Men:
Akani Simbine (100m/4x100m), Shaun Maswanganyi (100m/4x100m), Gift Leotlela (100m/4x100m), Abduraghmaan Karriem (100m/4x100m), Retshidisitswe Mlenga (100m/4x100m), Tsebo Matsoso (100m/4x100m), Karabo Letebele (100m/4x100m), Bradley Nkoana (100m/4x100m), Bayanda Walaza (100m/4x100m), Sinesipho Dambile (200m/4x100m), Wayde van Niekerk (200m/4x400m), Naeem Jack (200m), Leendert Koekemoer (400m/4x400m), Matt Nortjé (400m/4x400m), Udeme Okon (400m/4x400m), Zakithi Nene (400m/4x400m), Lythe Pillay (400m/4x400m), Gardeo Isaacs (400m/4x400m), Mthi Mthimkulu (400m/4x400m), Tumisang Shezi (400m/4x400m), Tshepo Tshite (1500m), Ryan Mphahlele (1500m), Adriaan Wildschutt (10,000m), Antonio Alkana (110m hurdles), Mondray Barnard (110m hurdles), John Adesola (110m hurdles), Njabulo Mbatha (400m hurdles), Sabelo Dhlamini (400m hurdles), Jovan van Vuuren (long jump), Cheswill Johnson (long jump), Luvo Manyonga (long jump), Kyle Blignaut (shot put), Aiden Smith (shot put), Victor Hogan (discus), Brian Raats (high jump), Kyle Rademeyer (pole vault), Douw Smith (javelin), Elroy Gelant (marathon), Adam Lipschitz (marathon), Thabang Mosiako (marathon), Tumelo Motlagale (marathon), Melikhaya Frans (marathon), Regan Magwai (marathon), Bennett Seloyi (marathon).

Women:
Miranda Coetzee (400m/4x400m), Shirley Nekhubui (400m/4x400m), Precious Molepo (400m/4x400m), Zenéy Geldenhuys (400m hurdles/4x400m), Hannah van Niekerk (400m hurdles/4x400m), Rogail Joseph (400m hurdles/4x400m), Marlie Viljoen (400m/4x400m), Prudence Sekgodiso (800m), Aviwe Hoboloshe (800m), Charné du Plessis (800m), Marioné Fourie (100m hurdles), Danielle Nolte (long jump), Miré Reinstorf (pole vault), Miné de Klerk (shot put), Ashley Erasmus (shot put), Colette Uys (shot put), Jo-Ané du Plessis (javelin), Mckyla van der Westhuizen (javelin), Jana van Schalkwyk (javelin), Jessica Groenewald (35km walk), Glenrose Xaba (marathon), Cian Oldknow (marathon), Dominique Scott-Efurd (marathon), Gerda Steyn (marathon).

History for Matt and Tristan, First Cape Epic Title for Candice

Roxanne MartinNewsLeave a Comment on History for Matt and Tristan, First Cape Epic Title for Candice

Matt Beers and Tristan Nortje made history on Sunday by becoming the first all-South African team to win the Absa Cape Epic after a dramatic final stage in Stellenbosch.

Starting the day just 13 seconds behind overnight leaders Luca and Simone, the Toyota Specialized Imbuko pair raced aggressively from the start and overturned the deficit to secure the overall title. While Sam and Luca claimed the stage win, Matt and Tristan did enough with their third-place finish to wrap up a famous victory.

It was Matt’s fourth Cape Epic title and Tristan’s first — and it didn’t come easily.

The South Africans put pressure on early and had built a strong advantage before Tristan crashed heavily midway through the stage, injuring his elbow and bruising his leg. With Luca and Simone closing fast in the final kilometres, Matt helped pace and push his teammate all the way to the finish as they held on for a memorable win.

“You can’t get bigger than this,” said Tristan. “There are so many emotions right now. I think about all the sacrifices made by family, friends and the team that have supported me. Today was about doing it for them and for the people of South Africa. It’s very special.”

Matt said the result meant even more because of what it represented.

“It’s a special one because we have done what a lot of South Africans have been trying to do for a long time,” he said. “Tristan has ridden amazingly all week and showed true character pushing through.”

In the women’s race, Candice Lill finally claimed her first Absa Cape Epic title after five previous runner-up finishes, teaming up with Alessandra Keller to dominate the race from start to finish.

Candice and Alessandra won seven of the eight stages, including the final stage, to seal an emphatic overall victory. Monica and Tessa finished second on the day, with Hayley and Haley in third.

“It’s been a long time coming,” said Candice. “But sometimes you have to go through those deep, dark situations to get to where I am today. It makes it sweeter.”

It was a breakthrough win for Tristan, a fourth title for Matt, and a long-awaited moment of triumph for Candice — making it a Cape Epic to remember for South African cycling.

Sikhakhane seeks redemption at Two Oceans Ultra after 2025 heartbreak

Adnaan MohamedNews, Totalsports Two Oceans MarathonLeave a Comment on Sikhakhane seeks redemption at Two Oceans Ultra after 2025 heartbreak
By Adnaan Mohamed

Sboniso Sikhakhane is confident he can finally deliver the breakthrough victory at the Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon powered by BYD in 2026.

The 35-year-old Entsika Athletics Club runner will return to the gruelling 56km race Saturday, 11 April with unfinished business after last year’s agonising runner-up finish.

In 2025 Sikhakhane clocked 3:11:18, crossing the line only 31 seconds behind Lesotho’s Joseph Khoarahlane Seutloali after a gripping duel over the closing kilometres of the 56km race.

The narrow defeat still lingers in his memory.

“I still think I should have won the Two Oceans Ultra Marathon last year,” Sikhakhane said.

“I had a good strategy on how to attack the race from the start to the end. It all worked out well till the latter stages of the race.”

A late miscalculation ultimately proved costly.

“I made a huge mistake when I went to fetch a water bottle where I wasn’t supposed to. I gave Khoarahlane an opportunity to open a gap which made it hard for me to recover,” he explained.

“But I have moved past it as everything is planned by God.”

Under the guidance of coach Hendrick Ramaala, the 2004 New York Marathon champion, Sikhakhane has opted for a familiar preparation path ahead of this year’s race.

The Newcastle-born runner again used the FNB Kazungula Marathon in Botswana as a key build-up race, a strategy that produced encouraging results.

He finished second in 2:19:17, more than five minutes quicker than the 2:24:53 he recorded at the same race in 2025 when he placed seventh. Zimbabwe’s Isaac Mpofu took the victory.

“I didn’t see a reason to change what worked for me last year, which is why I decided to participate in the Kazungula Marathon just like I did last year,” Sikhakhane said.

“I love that race; it gives me the clear indication on where to adjust my training going forward.”

The race also confirmed his current fitness.

“The conditions were hot on race day, but I did well to adapt. My aim was to go there and clock two hours and 20 minutes, which I managed to achieve. I now have to discuss with coach where we can strengthen to be fully ready for Two Oceans.”

Sikhakhane has steadily built a strong record at the iconic Cape Town ultra.

He finished third in 2022 in 3:11:30, before improving to runner-up last year, performances that have strengthened his belief that victory could be within reach.

“I think I’m in the best shape of my life,” he said.

“My body has been responding well to training. Plus my mind is also strong as I have battled in the past two years.

“My target is to clock a better time than I have done in the past. I believe it is time for me to win a big race in this country.”

The experienced road runner says the lessons from previous campaigns have sharpened his approach.

“In the past I have made mistakes, but I have learned from them. Winning would be a dream come true as I have been knocking on the door for too long.”

Race organisers believe Sikhakhane’s determination adds another compelling storyline to the 2026 edition of the race often dubbed the World’s Most Beautiful Marathon.

“Sboniso Sikhakhane’s determination and consistency over the years make him a true contender for this year’s Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon powered by BYD,” said Chris Goldschmidt, chairperson of the Two Oceans Marathon NPC.

“Having finished second last year, it’s inspiring to see him so focused on claiming his first victory.”

Wade Bromfield, general manager of the race, echoed that sentiment.

“Every year the Ultra Marathon brings out remarkable stories of resilience and ambition,” Bromfield said.

“Sboniso’s drive to turn last year’s near-miss into a win perfectly embodies the spirit of the Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon powered by BYD.”

The 56km Ultra Marathon starts at 05:15 on Saturday, 11 April, forming the centrepiece of the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon weekend, which also includes the Trail Run on Friday and the Half Marathon on Sunday.

For Sikhakhane, the goal is simple when the starting gun fires before dawn in Cape Town.

Finish the race he believes slipped away last year.

Event Information

Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon powered by BYD

Thursday, 9 April 2026
Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon International Friendship Run

Friday, 10 April 2026
Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon Trail Run
Start Time: 07:00

Saturday, 11 April 2026
Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon
Start Time: 05:15

Sunday, 12 April 2026
Totalsports Two Oceans Half Marathon
Start Time: 06:15

2026 Prize Purse

The iconic event boasts a combined prize purse of R2.6 million in 2026.

  • Ultra Marathon: R2 177 400
  • Half Marathon: R422 600

More information:
www.twooceansmarathon.org.za

History For Beers and Nortje and Firsts for Lill and Keller

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on History For Beers and Nortje and Firsts for Lill and Keller

Matt Beers and Tristan Nortje became the first all-African team to win the Absa Cape Epic on Saturday after a drama-filled final stage. Trailing by 13 seconds behind overnight leaders Luca Braidot and Simone Avondetto, the South Africans finished third on the day behind stage winners Sam Gaze and Luca Schwarzbauer but, more importantly, finished ahead of the Italians for Beers to secure his fourth title and Nortje his first. In the women’s elite race, South Africa’s Candice Lill finally won her first title with newbie Alessandra Keller after the two won their seventh stage out of eight.

With just 13 seconds separating the first two teams on the men’s overall classification, the final day of the 2026 Absa Cape Epic was set to deliver a dramatic finale as South Africans Matt Beers and Tristan Nortje (Toyota Specialized Imbuko) bid to become the first all-local team to win the race in its 22-year history.

Italians Luca Braidot and Simone Avondetto (Wilier-Vittoria) were still the team to beat despite losing 1 minute 37 seconds to the African jersey wearers on Saturday’s penultimate stage, and it was all to play for over the final 58km stage around Stellenbosch on Sunday.

Within the first 10km the local favourites had already put 35 seconds into the Italians on the long climb up to Saaltjie, but in a dramatic second half in which Nortje crashed heavily, the Italians fought back from a two-minute deficit to within 40 seconds in the final 10km.

In the end, an injured Nortje, helped by his senior teammate Beers, managed to hold their lead and finish third behind stage winners Sam Gaze and Luca Schwarzbauer (Canyon).

With the Italians eventually finishing fourth, 1 minute behind, the 32-year-old Beers and an emotional 24-year-old Nortje were finally able to celebrate a historic win, 1:04 ahead of Wilier-Vittoria with Gaze and Schwarzbauer filling the final podium spot 3:33 behind.

In the women’s race, South African champion Candice Lill finally realised her dream of winning the Absa Cape Epic, after finishing second five times, as she and Dutch partner Alessandra Keller cruised to their seventh win in eight stages ahead of Monica Caledron and Tessa Kortekaas (Massi Isb Sport) and Chemchamp Honeycomb’s Hayley Preen and Haley Smith.

After the She Sends Foundation team of Greta Seiwald and Kate Courtney was eliminated from the race after Seiwald fell ill on Saturday, Preen and Smith moved up to second overall, 52 minutes 58 seconds behind. The ever-consistent Torpado FSA Kenda team of Katazina Sosna-Pinele and Giorgia Marchet were third, over an hour behind.

 

Men’s Race

With big crowds lining and cheering along the route, Beers and Nortje were quick to attack the lead of Wilier-Vittoria on the first climb of the day to the upper contour above Stellenbosch. While Gaze and Schwarzbauer were powering away for the stage win, Beers and Nortje were only focused on the fight for the yellow jersey.

The Toyota Specialized Imbuko pair peeked out a 30-second gap before Beers was forced to stop briefly and fix an issue with his derailleur. The tall South African quickly remounted, charged past the Italians, and caught Nortje as the race headed into the famous local tracks, including the Neverending Trail in Jonkershoek. With Braidot clearly struggling, the expected race looked to be over before it even started as the rampant locals powered clear and had stretched their gap to two minutes by the 32km mark.

But there was drama still to come.

Just after halfway, Nortje clipped his pedal on a tree, went over the bars and fell heavily on his right side, cutting his right elbow and bruising his right leg.

“I knew it was a big crash,” Nortje said. “I hurt my elbow quite badly and my right leg hit a rock. It was just dead and numb after that and I couldn’t really pedal properly anymore.”

But as he has shown throughout the week, Nortje soldiered on, helped by Beers.

“It’s why I have this tattoo on my arm (Nortje has a tattoo on his left inner arm which reads: Never Give up). We had so much bad luck this week, but we kept on believing.”

Beers resorted to pushing his partner whenever he could, while Toyota Specialized Imbuko teammates, Marco Joubert and Travis Stedman, were always in close attendance, encouraging and setting the pace up front when they could.

With Nortje struggling, the Italians seemed to find a second wind and the gap shrank to 40 seconds with 12km left to ride. In the end, Nortje and Beers managed to hold enough of an advantage as the two entered the finish to a huge cheer from a large crowd at Stellenbosch’s Coetzenburg fields. 

“You can’t get bigger than this,” an emotional Nortje said afterwards. “There are so many emotions right now. I think about all the sacrifices made by family, friends, and the team that have supported me. Today was about doing it for them and for the people of South Africa… It’s very special.”

Beers is now just one win away from equalling the record wins of Karl Platt and Christoph Sauser, who have both won the race five times.

“It’s a special one because we have done what a lot of South Africans have been trying to do for a long time,” said the Capetonian. “Tristan has ridden amazingly all week and although he made it harder for himself by crashing today, he showed true character pushing through.”

 

Women’s Race

After the withdrawal of Seiwald on Friday morning, Lill and Keller were imperious on the final day as they won their seventh stage out of eight. The top three teams were still together at the 23km checkpoint, but the orange jerseys eventually edged clear and extended their lead all the way to the finish.

Calederon and Kortekaas were pushing hard to try on the singletracks, but the orange jersey wearers were not in the mood to gift anyone a stage. The Massi ISB Sport team would eventually finish 2 minutes 27 seconds behind, with Preen and Smith in third, 4:32 adrift.

“It’s been a long time coming,” said the 34-year-old Lill. “But sometimes you have go through those deep, dark situations to get to where I am today. It makes it sweeter, and I’m very grateful to everyone around me who helped me get here.”

For Keller, the current World Short Course champion, taking part in the Absa Cape Epic was always a dream.

“It’s a bit like winning a World Cup series overall because you have to be consistent over eight days. So, this means a lot to me, especially because you are doing it as a team,” Keller said. “It’s a race I’ve always wanted to do… it’s an adventure.”

 

Early Bird Entries

On Friday, organisers also announced that early-bird entries for the 2027 Absa Cape Epic will open on Monday at 4pm for Full Access members and at 5pm for general entries. Check out www-cape-epic.com for all the details.

 

RESULTS

 Elite Men Stage

  1. CANYON Luca SCHWARZBAUER & Sam GAZE (2:19.54)
  2. TOYOTA SPECIALIZED IMBUKO 2 Marco Joubert & Travis STEDMAN (2:20.58 | +1:04)
  3. TOYOTA SPECIALIZED IMBUKO: Matt BEERS & Tristan NORTJE (2:21.02 | +1:08)
  4. WILIER-VITTORIA: Luca BRAIDOT & Simone AVONDETTO (2:22.20 | +2:26)
  5. KLIMATIZA ORBEA: David VALERO SERRANO & Marc STUTZMANN (2:23.00 | +3:06)

Elite Men GC

  1. TOYOTA SPECIALIZED IMBUKO: Matthew BEERS & Tristan NORTJE (26:55.51)
  2. WILIER-VITTORIA: Luca BRAIDOT & Simone AVONDETTO (26:56.56 | +1:04)
  3. CANYON:Luca SCHWARZBAUER & Sam GAZE (26:59.25 | +3:33)
  4. KLIMATIZA ORBEA: David VALERO SERRANO & Marc STUTZMANN (27:07.59 | +12:08)
  5. BUFF-BH Wout ALLEMAN & Martin STOSEK (27:14.51 | +19:00)

Elite Women Stage

  1. THÖMUS MAXON SABI SABI: Candice LILL & Alessandra KELLER (2:48.27)
  2. MASSI ISB SPORT Monica CALEDERON & Tessa KORTEKAAS (2:50.54 | +2:27)
  3. CHEMCHAMP HONEYCOMB Hayley PREEN & Hayley SMITH (2:52.59 | +4:32)
  4. SYMBTECH.NET Margot MOSCHETTI Claudia PERETTI  (2:54.18 | +5:51)
  5. TORPADO FSA KENDA Katazina SOSNA-PINELE & Giorgia MARCHET (2:56.46 | +8:19)

Elite Women GC

  1. THÖMUS MAXON SABI SABI: Candice LILL & Alessandra KELLER (24:32.38)
  2. CHEMCHAMP HONEYCOMB: Hayley PREEN & Haley SMITH (25:25.36 | +52:58)
  3. TORPADO FSA KENDA Katazina SOSNA-PINELE & Giorgia MARCHET (25:41.37 | +1:08.59)
  4. SYMBTECH.NET Margot MOSCHETTI Claudia PERETTI  (25:46.17 | 1:13.39)
  5. MASSI ISB SPORT Monica CALEDERON & Tessa KORTEKAAS (25:55.56 | +1:23.18)

 

SPECIAL JERSEYS GC

 Toyota Mixed

  1. TEAM 69: Jenny RISSVEDS & Simon ANDREASSEN (31:29.38)

Absa African Men

  1. TOYOTA SPECIALIZED IMBUKO: Matthew BEERS & Tristan NORTJE (26:55.51)

Absa African Women

  1. SANI2C EFFICIENT INFINITI: Samantha SANDERS & Bianca HAW (26:17.26)

Open Women

  1. JOY RIDE: Jennifer BURTNER & Callah ROBINSON (44:48.47)

Open Men

  1. SAFARI ESSENCE Mark van Zyl & William PIAT (30:32.53)

    Great Grand Masters Men

  1. OTB: Pieter MULLER & Corrie MULLER (40:14.19)

GIC Grand Masters Women

  1. UAG EPIC: Martha KOEKEMOER & Jenny RÖNNGREN (41:22.17)

 

 


It’s Down to the Wire for GC Honours

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on It’s Down to the Wire for GC Honours

The final stage of the 2026 Absa Cape Epic is all set to be a nailbiter. On Saturday’s penultimate stage, South Africans Matt Beers and Tristan Nortje (Toyota Specialized Imbuko) powered back into contention on a stage won by the Buff-BH team of Wout Alleman and Martin Stosek in Stellenbosch.

Beers and Nortje finished second but, more importantly, pulled back 1 minute 37 seconds on the overall leaders, Italians Luca Braidot and Simone Avondetto, and now lie just 13 seconds behind with only the Grand Finale stage on Sunday to go.

It was a thrilling end to a stage that climbed more per metre than any other stage of this year’s race with 2450m of ascent over the 76km route. But unlike the rough trails from earlier in the week, it was a day to play for most of the riders as they raced around the manicured trails in near-perfect cool, calm weather.

In the women’s elite race, over 62km with 1850m of climbing, overall leaders Candice Lill and Alessandra Keller won their fifth stage with relative ease after the second-placed She Sends Foundation team was reduced to one when Italian Greta Seiwald withdrew through illness. Seiwald developed a fever overnight and withdrew shortly after the start, leaving World Marathon champion Kate Courtney from the US to continue on alone. The withdrawal meant that the Chemchamp Honeycomb team of Haley Preen and Haley Smith moved into second position after finishing third on the stage. Margot Moschetti and Claudia Peretti (Symbtech.Net) took second place on Saturday to move from fifth to fourth on the overall.

Men’s Race

After winning the Queen stage on Friday, Braidot and Avondetto looked favourites to win their first Absa Cape Epic title on Sunday. But early on it was clear that Braidot was feeling the effects of the long week. With 16km of the stage to go, the Beers and Nortje surged clear of the main bunch up the long climb towards the top of the The Doctor trail.

At time physically pushing Nortje, Beers powered up the steady climb cheered on by big local crowds. They first caught early leaders Sam Gaze and Luca Schwarzbauer of Canyon and were even starting to bring down the gap between the Buff-BH team who, with Canyon, had made the earlier break.

But Alleman and Stosek, who had suffered numerous mechanicals earlier in the week, were flying down the final singletrack towards the finish and secured their second win of the week by 18 seconds.

“It was so much fun with the crowds screaming for us along the route,” Allenman said. “We just wanted to show that, after all our bad luck this week, that we were still in shape.”

Beers and Nortje followed just 18 seconds later followed by Canyon and the second Toyota Specialized Imbuko team of Marco Joubert and Travis Stedman. The yellow jersey ended fifth – the first time they had been off the podium all week.

After the stage Braidot quickly left the media interview area and it was left to Avondetto to comment on their dramatic day: “It was a tough day and Luca was on the limit in the last part, but we are still in it to fight for the yellow jersey. Thirteen seconds is nothing but it’s better to be in front than having to chase.”

Beers and Nortje had their own struggles with Nortje struggling to hold the pace early on.

“We could see that Luca was suffering, but Tristan was also hurting,” Beers said. “But he’s a tough kid and doesn’t give up. I knew he would come around at some point, although it took a little longer than I expected.”

“This was my bad day,” Nortje said. “Between Luca and me, it was about who was suffering more. But I kept believing and didn’t want to be the first to give up.”

Beers is a three-time Absa Cape Epic winner, while Nortje won the Absa African jersey in 2025 alongside Marco Joubert.

 

Women’s Race

After the early withdrawal of Seiwald, it was clear that the class of Lill and Keller would be difficult to beat as Chemchamp Honeycomb and Symbtech fought it out for the podium.

By the 40km mark, the two had already cruised to a 1-minute lead and began to stretch it out as the local fans cheered on the pair.

“It was really sad about Greta this morning and we never want to see our competitors have to pull out like that. It’s been great racing them all week,” said Lill. “But we had a really nice day today. I enjoyed following Alessandra on the downhills, and I think I’m definitely improving my skills there thanks to her.”

Preen and Smith proved that consistency is key as they moved into second on the GC.

“This is the way I like to race this race,” said Preen. “I always start further back and work my way up. But we can’t get too excited until the end of tomorrow.”

The final stage of the 2026 Absa Cape Epic takes place over 58km with 2150m of climbing. The course is the same for the women’s elite race.

 

Early Bird Entries

On Friday, organisers also announced that early-bird entries for the 2027 Absa Cape Epic will open on Monday at 4pm for Full Access members and at 5pm for general entries. Check out www-cape-epic.com for all the details.

 

RESULTS

Elite Men Stage

1. BUFF-BH Wout ALLEMAN & Martin STOSEK (3:13.49)

2. TOYOTA SPECIALIZED IMBUKO: Matt BEERS & Tristan NORTJE (3:14.08 | +18)

3. CANYON Luca SCHWARZBAUER & Sam GAZE (3:14.20 | +30)

4. TOYOTA SPECIALIZED IMBUKO 2 Marco Joubert & Travis STEDMAN (3:15.36 | +1:46)

5. WILIER-VITTORIA: Luca BRAIDOT & Simone AVONDETTO (3:15.44 | +1:55)

 

Elite Men GC

1.  WILIER-VITTORIA: Luca BRAIDOT & Simone AVONDETTO (24:34.35)

2. TOYOTA SPECIALIZED IMBUKO: Matthew BEERS & Tristan NORTJE (24:34.48 | +13)

3. CANYON:Luca SCHWARZBAUER & Sam GAZE (24:39.31 | +4:55)

4. KLIMATIZA ORBEA: David VALERO SERRANO & Marc STUTZMANN (24:44.39 | +10:03)

5. BUFF-BH Wout ALLEMAN & Martin STOSEK (24:48.14 | +13:38)

 

Elite Women Stage

1. THÖMUS MAXON SABI SABI: Candice LILL & Alessandra KELLER (2:56.08)

2. SYMBTECH.NET Margot MOSCHETTI Claudia PERETTI (2:58.55 | +2:47)

3. CHEMCHAMP HONEYCOMB Hayley PREEN & Hayley SMITH (3:01.09 | +5:01)

4. MASSI ISB SPORT Monica CALEDERON & Tessa KORTEKAAS (3:01.52 | +5:44)

5. TORPADO FSA KENDA Katazina SOSNA-PINELE & Giorgia MARCHET (3:05.43 | +9:35)

 

Elite Women GC

1. THÖMUS MAXON SABI SABI: Candice LILL & Alessandra KELLER (21:44.11)

2. CHEMCHAMP HONEYCOMB: Hayley PREEN & Haley SMITH (22:32.36 | +48:25)

3. TORPADO FSA KENDA Katazina SOSNA-PINELE & Giorgia MARCHET (22:44.50 | +1:00.39)

4. SYMBTECH.NET Margot MOSCHETTI Claudia PERETTI  (22:51.59 | 1:07.48)

5. MASSI ISB SPORT Monica CALEDERON & Tessa KORTEKAAS (23:05.01 | +1:20.50)

 

SPECIAL JERSEYS GC

Toyota Mixed

1. TEAM 69: Jenny RISSVEDS & Simon ANDREASSEN (28:42.48)

Absa African Men

1. TOYOTA SPECIALIZED IMBUKO: Matthew BEERS & Tristan NORTJE (23:34.48)

Absa African Women

1. SANI2C EFFICIENT INFINITI: Samantha SANDERS & Bianca HAW (23:12.42)

Open Women:

1. JOY RIDE: Jennifer BURTNER & Callah ROBINSON (40:50.29)

Open Men:

1. SAFARI ESSENCE Mark van Zyl & William PIAT (27:55.54)

Great Grand Masters Men

1. OTB: Pieter MULLER & Corrie MULLER (36:34.29)

GIC Grand Masters Women

1. UAG EPIC: Martha KOEKEMOER & Jenny RÖNNGREN (37:50.41)

GIC Grand Masters Men

1. ORBEA FOX FACTORY: Ibon ZUGASTI & Ernesto MENDOZA (28:47.50)

NTT Data Masters Women

1. IGLU THERAPY CHEMCHAMP RACING Juanita Rose MACKENZIE Rouxda GROBLER (36:39.42)

NTT Data Masters Men

1. CZECHROCKETS&SWISSDIESEL Pavel GONDA Tobias Luthi (27:21.39)

Exxaro Women’s Jersey

1. EXXARO MANGANESE LADIES 1: Tsholofelo NKOSI & Bontle PHEPISO (46:54.26)

Exxaro Men’s Jersey

1. FAIRTREE DP WORLD CANNONDALE 2: Ethan MICHAELS & Damon TERBLANCHE (29:12.20)

 

To follow the Absa Cape Epic action live, mountain biking fans are encouraged to tune into the Absa Cape Epic’s live broadcast on the Epic SeriesYouTube Channel here. Daily highlights from the race can also be viewed on the YouTube Channel, and the excitement from the trails of Western Cape will be shared on the Absa Cape Epic Facebook page and @capeepic on Instagram. To find out more, visit https://www.epic-series.com/races/capeepic . 

SA Teams Sweep URC Round 13 | Bulls Lions Sharks Stormers Victorious

Adnaan MohamedNews, RugbyLeave a Comment on SA Teams Sweep URC Round 13 | Bulls Lions Sharks Stormers Victorious
By Adnaan Mohamed

South Africa’s four franchises turned home ground into a fortress during Round 13 of the United Rugby Championship, delivering a clean sweep of bonus-point victories that sent a surge of momentum through the playoff race.

The Vodacom Bulls, Fidelity SecureDrive Lions, Hollywoodbets Sharks and DHL Stormers all triumphed in front of their home supporters, creating a weekend that echoed with the rhythm of attacking rugby and relentless forward play.

With five pool matches remaining, the Stormers climbed to second on the standings with 46 points behind the Glasgow Warriors on 50. The Lions occupy seventh place with 38 points, the Bulls hold eighth on 35, and the Sharks remain in the hunt in 11th with 29.

Bulls power past Cardiff

The Bulls ignited the weekend with a commanding 40-7 victory over Cardiff Rugby in Pretoria.

Cardiff opened the scoring in the third minute when Harri Millard crossed for a try converted by Callum Sheedy. That early breakthrough stirred the Bulls pack into action. Marcell Coetzee crashed over from a driving maul before Johann Grobbelaar followed through the same channel minutes later.

The backline soon joined the charge as Kurt-Lee Arendse released David Kriel for the third try. Embrose Papier added another after sharp interplay, and Elrigh Louw gathered a perfectly weighted cross kick from Nizaam Carr shortly before halftime to give the Bulls a 33-7 lead.

Ruan Vermaak scored the only try of the second half as the Pretoria side secured a six-try bonus-point victory.

Scorers

Vodacom Bulls 40 (33)
Tries: Marcell Coetzee, Johann Grobbelaar, David Kriel, Embrose Papier, Elrigh Louw, Ruan Vermaak
Conversions: Handre Pollard (4), David Kriel

Cardiff 7 (7)
Try: Harri Millard
Conversion: Callum Sheedy

Lions roar at Ellis Park

The Lions followed with a spectacular 54-17 triumph over Edinburgh Rugby at Ellis Park.

The Johannesburg side stormed to a four-try bonus point within the opening 26 minutes through Ruan Venter, Francke Horn, Darrien Landsberg and scrumhalf Morne van den Berg, who celebrated his 100th appearance with a try. Bronson Mills added another before halftime as the Lions surged to a 35-0 lead.

Edinburgh responded with three second-half tries, though the Lions maintained their attacking rhythm. Angelo Davids crossed twice with blistering pace and Haashim Pead sealed the eight-try performance shortly before the final whistle.

Scorers

Fidelity SecureDrive Lions 54 (35)
Tries: Ruan Venter, Francke Horn, Darrien Landsberg, Morne van den Berg, Bronson Mills, Angelo Davids (2), Haashim Pead
Conversions: Chris Smith (7)

Edinburgh 17 (0)
Tries: Ewan Ashman, Freddy Douglas, Matt Currie
Conversion: Cammy Scott

Sharks and Stormers complete the sweep

In Durban, the Sharks produced one of their most complete displays of the season, shutting out Munster Rugby 45-0 at Kings Park. The Durban side combined powerful defence with swift attacking strikes to keep their playoff hopes alive.

The Stormers closed the weekend in Cape Town with a 29-21 victory over Dragons RFC. The Cape side blended forward power with attacking flair to claim another five-point haul and cement their place near the top of the table.

Across four cities and four matches, South Africa’s franchises marched in unison. Each victory carried the same message across the competition. The playoff race has entered its decisive stretch, and the local teams are charging forward with growing confidence.