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Boks back Asenathi Ntlabakanye despite doping probe

Adnaan MohamedNews, Rugby, SpringboksLeave a Comment on Boks back Asenathi Ntlabakanye despite doping probe
By Adnaan Mohamed

Asenathi Ntlabakanye’s rugby journey has taken another dramatic twist. Just a week ago, the Lions prop was bulldozing defenders in a Barbarians jersey. Now he’s back in Springbok green and gold right in the middle of a media storm.

The 26-year-old has been called up to replace the injured Ox Nche, who limped off during South Africa’s 61–7 demolition of Japan at Wembley on Saturday.

But Ntlabakanye’s recall comes with added scrutiny, he’s still awaiting an anti-doping hearing in December after testing positive for a non-performance-enhancing substance earlier this year.

Ntlabakanye, who disputes the finding, missed the Boks’ September tour of New Zealand after returning the adverse result. Despite the pending case, he remains eligible to play, and the Bok coaches haven’t hesitated to bring him back into the front-row mix.

“I’m not going to comment on a case that’s ongoing at the moment,” said assistant coach Felix Jones when asked about the issue.

“I’m not sure the world knows about it yet, but his skill set is incredibly impressive. He’s a very dynamic player who can get around for a guy who can handle himself in the scrum or on the ball.”

The timing of his recall couldn’t have been tighter. Ntlabakanye scored a second-minute try for the Barbarians against the All Blacks XV at Twickenham on Saturday, before flying across London to rejoin the Bok squad the very next morning.

A few hours later, he was en route to France, ready to line up against Les Bleus in the Autumn Nations Series this weekend.

Head coach Rassie Erasmus said the call-up was an easy decision:

“We feel for Ox and wish him well in his recovery. Asenathi has been with us for a big part of the season, he knows our systems, and he was already on standby. The fact that he was in London made it an easy fit to slot back in straight away.”

At 141 kilograms, Ntlabakanye brings raw power and energy to the Bok front row. And he’ll need all of it as he battles Gerhard Steenekamp and Boan Venter for a spot against France.

It’s been a whirlwind few months for the Johannesburg-born prop. From Test debut, to controversy, to this sudden recall.

But now, under the bright lights of Paris, he has a shot at redemption and a chance to remind everyone what he does best: dominate the scrum, not the headlines.

Sandton Mayhem Delivers Explosive Action

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Sandton Mayhem Delivers Explosive Action

Johannesburg, South Africa – 1 November 2025: Saturday evening’s Sandton Mayhem, hosted by Aquila Boxing Promotions at The Galleria in Sandton, delivered a spectacular night of world-class boxing that kept fans on their feet from the opening bell to the final knockout. With a sold-out crowd in attendance, the event lived up to its promise – showcasing South African boxing at its finest through a blend of raw power, technical precision, and undeniable heart.

The evening was spearheaded by Kevin Lerena, founder and face of Aquila Boxing Promotions, whose vision continues to elevate the sport locally by offering both established and rising fighters a world-class platform to perform and inspire.

Fight Highlights:

  • Tshegofatso Matlala suffered a tough loss in his bout against Mxolisi Lahliwe but displayed unwavering grit and the heart of a true warrior.
  • Liam Fox and Ntokozo Msibi went toe-to-toe in one of the night’s most talked-about encounters – a thrilling contest that ended in a majority draw, with both men showcasing exceptional skill and endurance.
  • Luke Hendrikz and Sabelo Ndwandwe delivered the fight of the night, leaving everything in the ring. Their relentless energy and technical brilliance earned them an additional R10 000.00  each, recognising their outstanding performance and sportsmanship.
  • Simnikiwe Bongco ignited the evening with a knockout victory over Siphelele Sindane just 1 minute and 4 seconds into the first round, setting an explosive tone that had the crowd roaring.
  • Gary van Staden went the distance in a fiercely contested bout against the DRC’s Ali Patsho Sambi, demonstrating tactical discipline, composure, and power to secure a hard-fought victory.
  • Leo Careri continued his rise as one of South Africa’s brightest prospects, knocking out Jackson Kaptein 1 minute and 21 seconds into the fourth round to a thunderous ovation.
  • Tiitestso Matikinca reaffirmed his reputation as one to watch, stopping Michael Davies just 57 seconds into the second round with a clean, clinical knockout.
  • In a defining moment of the night, Lindokuhle Khuzwayo captured the IBO All Africa Featherweight Title with a second-round knockout over Rilwan Lawal, solidifying his position as a top South African talent on the rise.
  • The main event saw Kaine “K9” Fourie face Argentina’s Claudio Daneff for the IBO Intercontinental Lightweight Title. Despite immense crowd support, Fourie was stopped 2 minutes and 1 second into the second round, as Daneff claimed victory with a decisive knockout.

Every fighter who entered the ring embodied the grit, passion, and skill that define South African boxing. The event not only showcased technical excellence but also reflected the depth of talent and heart driving the local boxing scene forward.

Gratitude to Sponsors:
We’re beyond grateful to have powerhouse partners in our corner – the kind that don’t just support the vision, they supercharge it. Massive thanks to the ABP sponsors: World Sports Betting, in association with Supersport, The world of champions; Tigris Wealth; JCP Steel; Meat world; Knox Hydration; HP; and Little Tuscany Boutique Hotel. Without your backing, this event wouldn’t be the premier, high-calibre showcase it has become. You don’t just elevate the event – you define it.

Speaking after the event, Kevin Lerena shared: “Sandton Mayhem was everything we envisioned – competitive, passionate, and a powerful reminder that South African boxing belongs on the global stage. Every fighter left their mark tonight.”

For those unable to attend the sold-out spectacle, SuperSport – The World of Champions broadcast the fights live, ensuring boxing fans across Africa could experience the excitement as it unfolded.

Once again, Sandton Mayhem proved that Aquila Boxing Promotions is redefining the local boxing landscape through elite event production, athlete development, and unforgettable matchups that position South African boxing firmly on the international stage. Cannot wait to see how they top this in 2026, WATCH THIS SPACE.

South African men make their ballsiest move yet

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on South African men make their ballsiest move yet

Neighbourhoods, office parks, sports clubs and schools around South Africa turned a vibrant shade of purple today, as thousands of daredevils took to the streets to raise awareness about prostate and testicular cancer.

For the 16th year, the Hollard Daredevil Run has once again made its mark, uniting men from every province in the fight against male cancers. Corporates supported the event by sending their staff running teams in their numbers and even the jacaranda trees played along by providing shade plus purple love to the Daredevils in Johannesburg and Pretoria.

As early as 05:00 this morning, runners in Ermelo, Bethlehem and Durban North set the scene for an unforgettable day of purpose and awareness. By 06:00, the Western Cape locations as well as the Eastern Cape’s Hobie Beach in Gqeberha, all came alive with a sea of purple Speedos. Next was a team of 200 in Kimberley and another 200 in Mbombela, where Nelspruit Marathon Club, Legogote Villagers Club, City of Mbombela Marathon Club and Pumas Rugby Development joined forces.

What followed were runs across the country: from Khayelitsha, Mahikeng and Kimberley to Pretoria, Potchefstroom as well as Plettenburg Bay.

These hundreds of regional runs today have demonstrated that wherever the Hollard Daredevil Run goes, its message of early detection, life-saving screenings and raising awareness of prostate and testicular cancers resonates nationwide.

Thousands of men also gathered at Zoo Lake in Johannesburg, where the main run takes place every year. Present at this event were representatives from the Prostate Cancer Foundation and the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA), long-standing partners of the Daredevil Run and beneficiaries of all the funds raised, which goes towards increasing awareness and support as well as testing in under-resourced areas. 

“Last year alone, we conducted 1 000 PSA tests, trained 649 healthcare professionals and ran outreach programmes across rural and underserved areas. This funding is truly life-saving, allowing us to educate, screen and support men, as well as their families, to take control of their health” says Lorraine Govender, National Manager: Health Programmes at CANSA.

“The iconic purple Daredevil Speedo has become a symbol of hope. We couldn’t be prouder of the impact it has in raising awareness, encouraging early detection and ultimately saving lives across South Africa,” says Andrew Oberholzer, CEO of the Prostate Cancer Foundation of South Africa.

“At Hollard, we believe that by raising awareness, we can encourage early detection and make a real difference in saving lives,” says Hazel Chimhandamba, Group Chief Marketing Officer at Hollard.

“Understanding the symptoms and available tests as well as having access to testing facilities is crucial in the fight against prostrate and testicular cancers, which is why the Daredevil Run is such an effective platform: It gets people talking about men’s health in a fun, engaging and approachable way. We are truly humbled by the support received and the incredible numbers of participants who joined the cause.”

In South Africa, the lifetime risk of developing testicular cancer in men is approximately 1 in 1,750 and it remains one of the most common cancers affecting men between the ages of 15 and 49. Prostate cancer claims the lives of thousands of South African men each year. International data shows that approximately 1 in 4 black men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer versus 1 in 8 white males. A simple blood test can measure PSA levels, which can help detect prostate cancer early. For both prostate and testicular cancer are highly treatable when caught early.

With R1 million raised in 2024, Hollard is setting its sights on doubling the total this year. Those wanting to play their part can donate on the Hollard Daredevil BackABuddy platform and help save the lives of more men in South Africa. Hollard’s corporate partners like iTOO and C&R were amongst the first to pledge donations towards the Daredevil Run fund.

“Together we can make a real difference and drive meaningful impact. Thank you to all the Daredevils that set out in their Speedos today. See you next year and bring a friend”, says Chimhandamba.

About Hollard   

The Hollard Insurance Group (“Hollard”) is South Africa’s largest privately owned insurance group. Hollard provides short-term, life insurance and investment products to a diverse customer base. Hollard through Hollard International has access to 10 markets across the continent namely South Africa, Botswana, Ghana, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, Zambia, Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.     

 

Speed Queens Set to Blaze Through Joburg at Boxer Super Run Debut

Adnaan MohamedNews, PreviewLeave a Comment on Speed Queens Set to Blaze Through Joburg at Boxer Super Run Debut
By Adnaan Mohamed

The women’s elite field is locked, loaded, and ready to fly as the Boxer Super Run makes its high-altitude Joburg debut at Marks Park Sports Club on Sunday, 9 November 2025.

With the R147 200 prize purse up for grabs, the women’s race promises to be a fast, fiery showdown on the city’s rolling roads.

Leading the charge is Glenrose Xaba, a two-time champion of the Boxer Super Run (Durban 2023 and Tshwane 2024. She now has her sights set on completing a rare golden hat-trick.

“What I really love about the Boxer Super Run is that it brings great competition and amazing energy wherever it goes,” says Xaba.

“The event is well organised, the atmosphere is electric, and it always feels like a celebration of running.”

Victory in Joburg, she admits, would be more than just another win, it would complete a perfect streak across all three debut host cities.

“Winning in Joburg would complete a special streak. Taking gold at all three debuts would be something I’m really proud of,” she says.

“Each race has its own challenges, so to come out on top again would be a great reward for all the hard work and consistency my team and I have put in.”

Xaba also praised Boxer’s continued investment in the sport.

“The event’s R147K combined prize purse is amazing! It shows that Boxer truly values and invests in athletes. That kind of prize money motivates us to give our absolute best and helps us continue building our careers.”

For Xaba, race day is all about strategy:

“My goal is to run my best race, to stay focused, control my pace, and finish strong. I’ll be aiming for the win, but I also want to execute my race plan well and see how far I can push myself.”

Running stride for stride with her training partner is Karabo More, the Boxer Super Run Durban 2024 champion, who says the Joburg leg is a celebration of local running culture.

“Hosting the race in Joburg is exciting. The city has an incredible running energy,” says More.

“It gives more athletes and fans the chance to be part of the experience and to showcase talent from this region on a bigger stage.”

More believes the R147K purse “is an amazing incentive. It shows how serious and prestigious the event is. My goal is to run strong, stay consistent, and execute my plan with focus, and hopefully chase a personal best.”

Also toeing the elite line is Zanthe Taljaart, eager for her Boxer Super Run debut.

“The 5km distance is fast, exciting, and highly competitive,” says Taljaart.

“It requires both endurance and speed. My goal is to run a strong, consistent race and aim for a sub-17-minute finish.”

Making her comeback from injury, Cian Oldknow sees the race as a vital stepping stone.

“The 5km distance is quite challenging, especially for someone like me who comes from the longer distances,” says Oldknow.

“This race will be a great way to test my fitness, it’s a building block, not a PB chase. I’m just keen to get back on the start line.”

According to Lee-Ann Pillay, Head of Marketing at Boxer Superstores, the women’s elite wave is always a crowd favourite.

“You never quite know what will happen on the day. The elite races almost always end in a nail-biting sprint finish,” says Pillay.

“We encourage all runners to stick around after their events to cheer on the elites and soak up the incredible atmosphere. It’s going to be an exciting day of running and celebration for everyone involved.”

With four of South Africa’s finest women athletes lining up, the Boxer Super Run Joburg is set to deliver a sprint-finish spectacle through the City of Gold where speed, strategy, and heart will decide who breaks the tape first.

Photo Credit: Anthony Grote

R147K Prize Purse Fuels Boxer Super Run Joburg Debut

Adnaan MohamedBoxer Super Run, NewsLeave a Comment on R147K Prize Purse Fuels Boxer Super Run Joburg Debut
Adnaan Mohamed

The stakes just got higher for South Africa’s fastest 5K specialists. When the Boxer Super Run Joburg hits Marks Park Sports Club on Sunday, 9 November 2025, athletes will be chasing more than just personal bests, they’ll be racing for a slice of a R147 200 prize purse.

Both the elite men’s and women’s champions will earn R20 000 each, while payouts extend to the top eight finishers in both races. Age-group podiums in the Open Wave will also share in the spoils, rewarding standout performances from Juniors to 70+ runners.

“Our goal is to elevate the profile of short-distance road running by rewarding top performances,” says Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports.

“The 5K may be short, but it demands both raw speed and tactical precision. With strong incentives on the line, we’re expecting world-class racing.”

The Joburg edition marks the first time the Boxer Super Run series lands in Gauteng, following successful events across South Africa that have drawn large, social fields alongside elite competition.

Known as the most social 5K in the country, the event blends festival atmosphere with serious racing at the sharp end.

“By offering R147 200 in prize money, we’re celebrating the dedication of South Africa’s elite athletes,” adds Lee-Ann Pillay, Head of Marketing at Boxer Superstores.

“We want to inspire every runner, from elites to social participants, to give their best on race day.”

The event schedule will see the Open Wave start at 07:00, followed by Super Social Waves from 08:00 to 09:30, before the spotlight shifts to the Elite Women at 09:45 and Elite Men at 10:00. A 1km Kids’ Race rounds off the day at 10:30.

ELITE WOMEN’S WAVE Boxer Super Run by Tobias Ginsberg

With its blend of high stakes, fast racing, and festival spirit, the Boxer Super Run Joburg is set to deliver an explosive debut where seconds matter and every stride could mean silverware and lucrative prizemoney.

Boxer Super Run Joburg – Key Details

Date: Sunday, 9 November 2025
Venue: Marks Park Sports Club, Johannesburg
Distance: 5km
Prize Purse: R147 200 (R20 000 to each elite winner)
Start Times:

  • 07:00 – Open Wave
  • 08:00–09:30 – Super Social Wave
  • 09:45 – Elite Women
  • 10:00 – Elite Men
  • 10:30 – Kids 1km Race

Follow:
Facebook: Boxer Superstores / Boxer Super Run 5K
Instagram: @boxer_superstores / @boxer_superrun5k

Sanlam Cape Town Marathon Finishers to Earn Provisional AbbottWMM Stars in 2026

Adnaan MohamedNewsLeave a Comment on Sanlam Cape Town Marathon Finishers to Earn Provisional AbbottWMM Stars in 2026
By Adnaan Mohamed

The Abbott World Marathon Majors (AbbottWMM) has confirmed that all finishers of the 2026 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon (SCTM) will earn a provisional AbbottWMM star, marking another major step in Cape Town’s bid to become Africa’s first World Marathon Major.

The 2025 race’s cancellation meant that the city’s second evaluation could not be completed, but AbbottWMM has thrown its full support behind organisers and sponsors for prioritising safety.

SCTM by Diwan Krige

“We fully support the decision to cancel the 2025 event in the interests of runners, volunteers and staff,” AbbottWMM said, also applauding title sponsor Sanlam for offering to fund entries for all 2025 participants in 2026 or 2027.

AbbottWMM CEO Dawna Stone praised the local team:

“I’d like to thank race director Clark Gardner and his team for their brave actions under pressure. We look forward to being back in Cape Town next May to see both the runners and the race cross that finish line.”

Race organiser Clark Gardner called the development a milestone moment:

“We’re ecstatic that, should we pass stage 2 in 2026, all finishers will receive an Abbott World Marathon Majors star. It’s a huge step toward becoming Africa’s first Major, and we can’t wait to celebrate it with our incredible running community.”

SCTM by Diwan Krige

The 2026 race, taking place on May 24, will also host the AbbottWMM Marathon Tours & Travel Age Group World Championships, whose finishers will likewise receive provisional stars.

Ballot entries open on November 6, setting the stage for what could be a historic year for Cape Town, and for African marathon running.

For more info, visit www.capetownmarathon.com.

Japan looking to repeat history against Springboks

Adnaan MohamedNews, RugbyLeave a Comment on Japan looking to repeat history against Springboks
Adnaan Mohamed

Springbok assistant coach Jerry Flannery says the Boks are bracing for a fired-up Japanese side eager to repeat history when the teams clash at Wembley on Saturday, the opening Test of South Africa’s gruelling five-week European tour.

Japan beat South Africa 34–32 in their first match of pool play at the 2015 Rugby World Cup in Brighton in England. At the time it was described as the “greatest Rugby World Cup shock ever”.

With stops in Paris, Turin, Dublin, and Cardiff to follow, the Boks are kicking off what Flannery likened to a “mini–World Cup”, facing fresh opposition each week.

“Japan showed resilience in the first half despite picking up yellow cards, and they showed how well they can defend against one of the best attacking teams,” said Flannery.

“Australia scored six tries against us in the first game in the Rugby Championship, so we are aware that Japan are not just a good attacking side; they can defend well too, and in the last quarter, they came back into the game. They would be disappointed that they didn’t win.”

Japan, smarting from a 19-15 defeat to the Wallabies, will arrive in London hungry and dangerous, and Flannery knows it.

“I’m expecting that Eddie [Jones] will be building up his team all week and they’ll believe that they can win and rewrite history by beating the Boks at Wembley,” he said.

“We need to ensure that we are as well prepared as we can be.”

The vastly experienced Jones, now 65-years old, has already turned up the heat, boldly declaring his current squad “better than the 2015 side” that stunned the rugby world in the ‘Miracle of Brighton’, when Japan famously toppled the Boks at the World Cup.

Flannery, the Bok defence guru, believes that controlling the team’s rhythm after the Rugby Championship remains a key priority, keeping the game plan tight and composed rather than loose and frantic.

And while the road ahead is long, the Irishman sees opportunity in the challenge.

“It’s a great challenge for us,” Flannery said.

“For this tour, we have five different opponents from week to week. That’s how the World Cup will work as well, with a short turnaround between matches, so your ability to stay mentally fresh and keep bringing energy all the time will be good for us.”

As the Boks prepare to charge out under the Wembley lights, they know the Brave Blossoms won’t be mere spectators.

The men from the Land of the Rising Sun are champing at the bit, ready to test South Africa’s mettle in a match that promises sparks, steel, and perhaps another chapter in rugby folklore.

Kick-off is at 4:10pm.

Adriaan Wildschutt Smashes SA Half Marathon Record on Debut

Adnaan MohamedFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Adriaan Wildschutt Smashes SA Half Marathon Record on Debut
By Adnaan Mohamed

Adriaan Wildschutt has done it again. The South African road running sensation added another national record to his growing collection on Sunday, turning heads in Spain with a breathtaking run at the Valencia Half Marathon.

In his first-ever outing over 21 kilometres, the 27-year-old from Ceres clocked 59 minutes and 13 seconds, slicing 23 seconds off Stephen Mokoka’s previous South African record of 59:36, set in 2020.

Wildschutt’s performance placed him fifth overall in a fiercely competitive race won by Ethiopian star Yomif Kejelcha in 58:02.

Adriaan Wildschutt trains hard on the track Photo: Facebook

His record run comes just weeks after Maxime Chaumeton (26:55) broke Wildschutt’s SA 10km record (27:28) set earlier this year at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Gqeberha 10K, marking a golden period for South African distance running.

The Olympic finalist, who represented South Africa in the Paris 2024 Games in the 10 000m, said he thrives on setting ambitious goals and putting them in plain sight.

“So many people have been asking me why I put my goals out there for everyone to see and potentially criticize,” Wildschutt explained in a post on social media.

“My response is simple … I like challenging myself, and I’m not scared to fail. I feel like I thrive under pressure, even if it’s pressure I put on myself. In the end, I’m doing this for myself and no one else.”

Wildschutt represents Western Province Athletics (WPA) when he competes in South Africa. He is however based in the USA.

Adriaan Wildschutt in action in the colours of Western Province Athletics (WPA) Photo: Supplied

After completing his collegiate career and earning his MBA from Florida State, Wildschutt moved to Arizona and joined the HOKA NAZ Elite professional running squad. 

Running in the HOKA Northern Arizona Elite colours, Wildschutt battled gusty winds over the final stretch but refused to ease up.

“It was quite windy the last 8k, and I know I can go even faster,” he said.

“For now, I’m very grateful to God and everyone who’s always supporting me.”

The Valencia performance marks Wildschutt’s fourth South African record, cementing his reputation as one of the country’s most versatile and consistent distance runners. He already owns national bests over 3 000m (7:32.99), 5 000m (12:55.02), and 10 000m (26:50.64). These achievements speak to years of relentless training and discipline.

WPA President Farouk Meyer praised the athlete’s record-breaking form, noting that his path to road-running success was forged on the track.

“Adriaan once again proved that if elite athletes want to perform on the road, they need to build their speed on the track,” said Meyer.

“He’s a perfect example of this philosophy. WPA is extremely proud of him.”

Wildschutt’s next stop is Tallahassee, Florida, where he will lead the South African senior men’s team at the World Athletics Cross Country Championships on 10 January 2026.

From Ceres to the world stage, Wildschutt continues to show that South African distance running is alive and kicking. And, in his case, sprinting into fresh territory with every stride.

Betway SA20 Season 4 tickets on sale!

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Betway SA20 Season 4 tickets on sale!

Fans have an opportunity to secure the hottest seats in town with tickets for Season 4 of Betway SA20 going on sale today. The anticipated fourth season will take place in a new festive window between 26 December 2025 and 25 January 2026, giving holiday-goers and those on staycations access to non-stop cricket action and entertainment. 

The opening match at Newlands on Boxing Day between defending Champions MI Cape Town and Durban’s Super Giants promises electrifying fireworks to start the season. The clash will set the tone for an exciting lineup of opening-week fixtures in Pretoria, Paarl, Durban, Gqeberha, and Johannesburg. All tickets can be purchased on www.SA20.co.za
and at all stadium ticket offices.

Following last season’s record-breaking attendance figures and ticket sales, the League returns with even more energy, thrilling matchups, and unforgettable fan experiences across the six stadiums in the country. Returning with an even bigger bang, fans can expect something for everyone: world-class cricket, IG-worthy vibes, dance-cam moments and more.  

“The opening of ticket sales is a true marker that Season 4 is around the corner,” Betway SA20 League Commissioner, Graeme Smith said. “It has been encouraging to see the demand for tickets during the exclusive pre-sale window, with the opening match and the Final at Newlands already drawing a lot of interest and demand. We’re looking forward to
being a part of everyone’s festive season plans.”

With all six 19-player squads confirmed following a record-breaking auction, the attention moves to the star quality of local and international players who will be lighting up the stage. Fans will be treated to some of world cricket’s superstars, with Kagiso Rabada, Jos Buttler, Dewald Brevis, Tristan Stubbs, David Miller and Faf du Plessis bringing their experience and flair to the competition. 

Off the field, the 20th Players will be giving fans a front-row voice and bringing them closer to the incredible action like never before. Each of the six 20th Players represent a city where the six teams are based and will lead the fan movement in their region through their diverse voices and entertaining online personalities.  Join Anele Mdoda (Gqeberha), Leandie du Randt (Pretoria), Moshe Ndiki (Johannesburg), Nadia Jaftha (Cape Town), Schalk Bezuidenhout (Durban) and Vafa Naraghi (Paarl) as they lead the chorus to get fans to put their hands up in the air in the stands and online.

From behind-the-scenes moments, social media takeovers, matchday fit-checks, competitions and activations, the 20th Players bring the Betway SA20 experience to life; keeping fans connected both in stadiums and online.

Tickets for all fixtures are available through SA20’s official ticketing partner, Ticketpro, via www.SA20.co.za and at the six stadium ticket offices.

After last season’s unprecedented demand, fans are encouraged to secure their seats early and follow @SA20_League on social media for updates on matches, giveaways, and exclusive 20th Player content. All news and fixtures can also be found at www.sa20.co.za

Notes:
For more information, follow #BetwaySA20 on all social media platforms.
Twitter: @SA20_League
Facebook: @SA20League
Instagram: @sa20_league
TikTok: @sa20_league
YouTube: @SA20_League

For Betway SA20 media queries contact
Lerato Malekutu-Zondi
[email protected]
083 452 6330

How teen motorbike racer Cayden Robert is turning pain into power

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on How teen motorbike racer Cayden Robert is turning pain into power

For most 16-year-olds, a ‘crash’ might mean a scraped knee and a bruised ego after falling off a bicycle. For King Price Xtreme’s Cayden Robert, it’s far more serious: A high-speed motorbike accident that left him with a back injury and a long road to recovery, both physically and mentally.

Cayden has spent nearly a decade chasing his dream of becoming a professional motorbike racer with a global track record. Since the age of six, he’s dedicated every day, every weekend, and every ounce of focus to racing. So, since his crash sidelined him in August, the biggest challenge hasn’t been the pain. It’s been the pause.

“The moment I hit the ground, I knew it was a big one,” Cayden recalls. “I was shocked, irritated, and just couldn’t believe it had happened.”

This disbelief quickly turned into disappointment. Simple things like bending over to tie his shoelaces were difficult, but what really hit hard was the loss of rhythm. “It’s frustrating not being able to ride or train like I’ve been doing for so long,” he says. “But I just keep telling myself to stay positive, because I will get back on the track.”

For a rider used to the fast lane, recovery has forced Cayden to slow down and look inward. The mental battle, he says, is tougher than the physical one: “Seeing my physical improvements day-by-day improves my mental state,” he explains. “The two go hand in hand. The better I feel physically, the stronger I feel mentally.”

Cayden leans on prayer and visualisation, spending quiet moments focusing on his goals and imagining himself back on the bike. “I talk to God a lot,” he says. “And I visualise where I want to be: Racing again. Doing what I love.”

For all his focus and drive, Cayden is quick to credit his support system for helping him stay grounded, saying that he wouldn’t have coped as well without it. “My parents and brothers, my mentors, my teammates, and the King Price Xtreme crew. We’re all one big family. This experience has brought us even closer and made us more determined than ever.”

Mental toughness is something most athletes develop over years. But for a teenager like Cayden, it’s already become a defining trait. “Racing teaches you a lot about resilience,” he says. “You have highs and lows all the time. But this crash has shown me how important it is to stay positive.”

Cayden’s story is a reminder that even the fastest riders sometimes need to slow down to find strength. It’s also a testament to the fact that real champions are built in the quiet moments between races, when faith, family, and fierce determination keep the engine running.

And, when Cayden’s finally fit to race again, it’ll be proof that champions are defined by comebacks, not setbacks.