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.
In a cruel twist of fate that left thousands adrift, the 2025 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon was called off before dawn on Sunday, sunk not by human error, but by gale-force winds that tore through the city overnight like a rogue wave smashing a fragile pier.
Adnaan Mohamed – Interview with eNCA after shock cancellation of Sanlam Cape Town Marathon
At 4:45am, race organisers pulled the plug on the 42.2km spectacle after hurricane-strength gusts ripped through Green Point, toppling scaffolding, mangling tents, and whipping banners into what looked like seaweed tossed by a storm tide
By 5am, runners’ phones buzzed with the devastating message: “Race cancelled.”
For the 24,000 athletes who had trained for months with some already limbering up at the start line, it felt like being swept under by an unexpected breaker just metres from shore.
“A Bigger Force Had the Final Say”
Clark Gardner Photo: Tobias Ginsberg
“The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon is devastated at the cancellation of our very special event,” said Clark Gardner, CEO of the marathon.
“We have worked for months on planning for all scenarios and conditions, but ultimately a bigger force had the final say, and we are so sorry for the situation.
“We wish to thank our participants, sponsors and stakeholders for their ongoing support and understanding.”
Safety First Amid the Storm
As winds howled across the city, the Joint Operations Committee (JOC) including theCity’s Disaster Risk Management, SAPS, medical teams, and safety officials convened emergency meetings. The consensus was as clear as still water: the race could not go on.
“The route is unsafe, as the wind is constantly gusting in Woodstock, and the infrastructure at the start and finish venue has been compromised,” said Colonel Christo Engelbrecht of SAPS.
“It’s unsafe for runners and pedestrians in that whole area, and that’s why the race has had to be cancelled. It was a collective decision made by the whole team.”
Even elite runners took the blow with grace. Gerda Steyn, South Africa’s marathon queen, believes it’s important that runners respect the decision of the race organisers.
“There is not a lot that we can do about this. It’s unfortunate that it has happened and of course it’s a disappointment, but we as SA runners are resilient and are built in a way that we can process this in a positive way.
“People can still celebrate the fact that we are still healthy and can still enjoy the day. I believe now is the time just to look at the positives and not dwell too much on the what ifs”
Runners Left High and Dry
Not everyone, however, was ready to float quietly away. Long-time participant Garlen Fredericks, who has run the race for a decade, vented online:
“This smells like sabotage. This is like getting the bride to church on time and then you cancel the wedding. We are deeply disappointed as runners.”
“Wind, what wind? My first reaction was that it’s fake news. People want to run. We are in utter shock and disbelief. Don’t tell me it’s God.
“How is Cape Town supposed to get World Abbott Marathon Major Status as a race? We live with danger every day. Surely all the mitigations were in place?”
A City Weathering the Blow
Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis, himself a champion of the marathon’s World Marathon Major ambitions, acknowledged the heartbreak but defended the call:
“All the runners must be disappointed, as are we all. But I’m grateful to the event organisers for taking a decision with runners’ safety in mind after heavy winds blew down some race infrastructure this morning.
“The City is committed to hosting events of the highest global standards, and that includes sometimes making difficult calls like this one.”
Refunds and Carryovers
SCTM initially confirmed the race’s no-refund policyremains in effect.
However, on Sunday afternoon,title sponsor Sanlam announced that it will be offering every 2025 marathon entrant a sponsored entry for either May 2026 or 2027.
This offer will be extended to all 2025 marathon entrants, regardless of whether the race succeeds in its bid to become Africa’s first Abbott World Marathon Majors event.
A Dream Blown Off Course
SCTM wind damage on the route Photo: Supplied
What was meant to be a celebration of endurance and unity turned into a storm-tossed shipwreck of emotion, organisers standing firm at the helm, and runners left stranded, their medals and milestones swept away by a force no one could tame.
For now, Cape Town’s dream of World Marathon Major status remains afloat but battered. This is a sober reminder that even the best-laid race plans are at the mercy of the elements.
The next edition of the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon is planned for May 2026, when organisers and runners alike will hope for calmer seas.
Deon-Lee Hendricks and Tayla Kavanagh successfully defended theirSanlam 10k Peace Runtitles in spectacular fashion at the 2025 edition of the race on Saturday morning.
As part of the Sanlam Cape Town Marathonweekend, the sold-out 10km field of 11,000 runners, along with another 3,500 in the 5km Peace Run, turned the Mother City’s streets into a blur of motion, colour, and courage.
Hendricks significantly Improves previous time
For Hendricks, the Athletics Academy star, it was a triumph of rhythm and resilience. Clocking 29:27, the 28-year-old from Cloetesville near Stellenbosch, not only defended his crown but also shaved more than 20 seconds off his winning time from last year.
“This is such a high-profile race, so winning it twice in a row is really a blessing,” said Hendricks, catching his breath after the finish.
“We had to start slower because of the wind, doing over 15 minutes for the first half and under 14 for the second. I came here to give it my all to defend my title, so I’m blessed.”
Potchefstroom track talent Luan Munnik took second in 29:39, followed by Bruce-Lynn Damons of TymeBank Langa in 29:55.
The men’s top three in the 2025 Peace Run 10km, Deon-Lee Hendricks, Luan Munnik and Bruce-Lynn Damons. Photo: Johann Minnaar
“This was my first time here, and what a crazy experience, It’s nothing like being on the track,” said Munnik.
“The first five kays were tactical, but then Bruce-Lynn pushed the pace, and Deon-Lee and I went to the front. He got away in the last mile, but it was great to race with such competitive guys.”
Kavanagh Runs into the Record Books
In the women’s race, Tayla Kavanagh of Hollywood Athletics blazed to an electrifying 31:37, a 16-second personal best and the fastest 10km by a South African woman in 2025.
The Durban dynamo now moves up to 11th on the all-time SA list, with only legends like Glenrose Xaba, Elana Meyer and Colleen De Reuck ahead of her.
“Today I really wanted to go for the win again,” said Kavanagh, glowing with satisfaction.
“Last year was such a great race, and I had a lot of fun again. I think the more fun you have, the faster you run. Even though it was windy, I focused on my plan, to run hard, and I’m super happy with the way I executed it.”
Helping her stay on pace was Olympian Ryan Mphahlele, her official pacesetter and former teammate from the 2023 World Road Running Championships in Latvia.
“Fortunately, I had Ryan to help me,” she added. “I was able to stick to him and run the time my form said I could.”
Behind her, Carina Viljoen claimed silver in 33:02, with Irvette van Zyl third in 33:29, ahead of Kyla Jacobs and Cian Oldknow.
The women’s top three in the 2025 Peace Run 10km, Tayla Kavanagh, Carina Viljoen and Irvette Van Zyl. Photo: Johann Minnaar
Viljoen, gracious in defeat, praised Kavanagh’s masterclass:
“Luckily, I heard what Tayla was aiming for today, so I knew I had to let her do her thing and just focus on my own race. I really had fun and I’m happy with another second place here.”
Peace Run 10km Results
Men:
Deon-Lee Hendricks (Athletics Academy) – 29:27
Luan Munnik (Potch Track) – 29:39
Bruce-Lynn Damons (TymeBank Langa) – 29:55
Angelo Booysen (Correctional Services) – 29:59
Dylan van der Merwe (Boxer) – 30:15
Women:
Tayla Kavanagh (Hollywood) – 31:37
Carina Viljoen (Temp) – 33:02
Irvette van Zyl (Hollywood) – 33:29
Kyla Jacobs (Boxer) – 33:57
Cian Oldknow (Hollywood) – 34:35
Peace Run 5km Highlights
Men: Nicolas Sebolai (SA) – 15:27 Women: Laura Antonia Rehberg (Germany) – 19:38
With two start lines in Green Point and a dazzling cast of global talent, the 2025 edition promises a race painted in speed, pride, and possibility.
“This is the best and strongest field the African continent has ever seen,” said Clark Gardner, CEO of the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon.
“With eight Platinum Label and 10 Gold Label athletes, they will help us bring the first Abbott World Marathon Majors race to Africa. Given the quality of this field, I think race records could tumble again, as they did in 2024.”
Gardner added, “We’re proud to host this event, but we also carry the responsibility to develop running across Africa. You can see that in our South African lineup — all capable of sub-2:10. This is part of our journey toward global recognition.”
A Festival of Running
Before the marathoners hit the road, Saturday’s Peace Trail and Peace Run events will set the tone for a weekend-long running festival. From the 43km mountain challenge at dawn to the family-friendly 5km, more than 41,000 runners will take part across road and trail. Chip timing and staggered wave starts will keep every stride smooth and safe.
Men’s Race: Fire on the Asphalt
The men’s field looks set to ignite. Kenya’s Ronald Korir (2:04:22) and Bethwell Chumba Kibet (2:04:37) bring serious pace, but South Africa’s Elroy Gelant, fresh off a 2:05:36 national record in Hamburg, could light up the home straight.
Elroy Gelant by Tobias Gingsberg
“I’ve grown and matured as a runner,” said Gelant.
“When I first ran Cape Town, I had a 2:12. Now I’m at 2:05, and I think I’ve reached the stage where I really understand and love the marathon. When that happens, things start to come together.”
Other challengers include Othmane El Goumri (Morocco), Asefa Boki Kebebe (Ethiopia), Justus Kangogo (Kenya), and Lesotho’s Tebello Ramakongoana, who will act as pacemaker before chasing glory himself.
Veteran star Stephen Mokoka, a three-time champion, is chasing a fairytale fourth title. “This is my fifth Cape Town Marathon. I’ve won three and finished second once. I’m hoping I can repeat history,” he smiled.
Three-time winner of the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon, Stephen Mokoka, is hoping to add a fourth win in five starts. Photo Tobias Ginsberg
Women’s Race: Speed Meets Grace
The women’s race is equally electrifying. Kenya’s Winfridah Moraa Moseti (2:16:56) and Angela Tanui (2:17:57) bring major marathon pedigree, while Ethiopia’s Meseret Belete and the 2015 World Champion, Mare Dibaba, are ready to test their mettle.
Flying the flag for South Africa, Gerda Steyn returns with pride in her stride. “It’s an honour to line up in a great South African race against such a high-quality field,” she said. “The crowd carried me in 2021, and I can’t wait to feel that again.”
“adidas takes immense pride in partnering with some of the world’s best athletes, including Justus Kangogo, Angela Tanui, Gerda Steyn, and Adam Lipschitz. We’re thrilled they’ll be part of this landmark race,” said Tom Brown, Senior Brand Director at adidas.
Wheelchair Division: Wheels of Fire
The men’s and women’s wheelchair champions return for another showdown. Sho Watanabe (Japan) and Michelle Wheeler (USA) will defend their titles against fierce challengers, including Geert Schipper (Netherlands).
“I’ll face this race as a challenger, not just a defending champion,” said Watanabe. Schipper added with a grin, “I’m going fast from the gun — I’m a big guy, so I can’t wait for a sprint!”
Wheeler added, “It feels like coming home. The volunteers and crowds make Cape Town special — I’m looking forward to that again.”
Prize Money & Incentives
Top finishers will share a massive R4.5 million prize purse, with winners taking home US$25,000 each and bonuses for course or national records. The first South African man and woman will pocket R25,000 each, while age-group and local category prizes ensure everyone has something to chase.
Watch It Live
Fans can catch every stride of the 2025 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon live on SuperSport from 05:50 to 11:00, with international coverage beamed across multiple continents.
The Mother City is set to host a marathon that could rewrite its record books. The2025 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon, staged on Sunday, 19 October, features a lightning-fast field.
The line-up includes two men under 2:05, four more below2:06, and another four beneath2:07.
The women’s line-up boasts athletes with personal bests of 2:16, 2:17 and 2:18, plus two more who have broken2:20. This combination thas pundits sharpening pencils for new course records.
Records on the Edge
Both course records set in 2024 are within striking distance. Ethiopia’s Abdisa Tola ran 2:08:15, while South Africa’s Glenrose Xaba scorched the women’s mark at 2:22:22, eclipsing national and continental times. Xaba’s performance sliced nearly two minutes off Gerda Steyn’s former SA record and redefined the standard for women’s marathon running on African soil.
On the men’s side, Tola’s time edged close to the South African all-comers mark of 2:08:04 (an aided downhill mark from 1986). The fastest legal time on South African soil remains Stephen Mokoka’s 2:08:31 (2018), a benchmark now squarely in the elite field’s sights.
The front pack reads like a who’s who of marathon royalty. Kenya’s Ronald Korir (PB 2:04:22) and Bethwell Chumba Kibet (2:04:37) headline, joined by Morocco’s Othmane El Goumri (2:05:12). Yet the man drawing the loudest local attention is South Africa’s Elroy Gelant, fresh from a national-record 2:05:36 in Hamburg.
“My goal is to improve on my previous best SCTM time. Running in front of a home crowd gives me wings. The Cape Town route is honest and fast. I believe we can push it to new limits.,” said Elroy Gelant
Season form now places Gelant atop the 2025 pecking order, followed by Korir and El Goumri. Lesotho’s Tebello Ramakongoana (national record 2:06:18) and Kenya’s Justus Kangogo also loom as pace-setters. Veterans such as three-time champion Stephen Mokoka, despite turning 40 in 2025, remain potential disruptors.
Women’s Race: Fire Meets Form
Women Elite runners in action at the SCTM Photo: Caleb Bjergfelt
The women’s contest promises equal drama. Winfridah Moraa Moseti of Kenya headlines with a 2025 PB of 2:16:56 from Tokyo, while compatriot Angela Tanui and Ethiopia’s Meseret Belete bring sub-2:19 speed.
“The course, the crowd, the energy, it all pushes you forward. If the weather plays along, we can chase history,” said Winfridah Moraa Moseti
Back home, Gerda Steyn returns following wins at Two Oceans and Comrades; her marathon PB of 2:24:03 suggests she may be primed to reclaim speed over the classic 42.195km distance.
Wheelchair Division: Rivals Roll Again
The wheelchair races set up a rematch between Japan’s Sho Watanabe and the Netherlands’ Geert Schipper, separated by a photo-finish in 2024 when both clocked 1:37:33.
“This race always comes down to heart and timing. Cape Town pushes us to the limit—literally.” — Geert Schipper
Defending women’s champion Michelle Wheeler (USA) returns, while an international crop of newcomers adds depth and unpredictability to the field.
The Road to Major Status
Beyond trophies and split times, the 2025 race carries extra weight: the event is in Phase 2 of theAbbott World Marathon Majorscandidacy process, aiming to become Africa’s first Major.
The race’s Platinum and Gold Label athletes help tick essential boxes for that bid.
With a world-class elite line-up, a scenic yet fast route, and passionate local support, Cape Town looks poised to sprint into the global marathon spotlight once more.
As runners lace up for the 2025 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon, adidas is urging them to do more than chase finish lines, it’s inviting them to run for change.
It’s featherlight, fast, and fashioned for champions chasing the clock. The range including race tees, singlets, jackets, and the newAdizero Boston 13 shoes. is “built for athletes chasing limits and breaking records,” the brand says.
Beating the Odds, One Bead at a Time
But this year, adidas is adding something even more meaningful to the starting line: purpose, threaded bead by bead.
Handmade limited-edition beaded bracelets
Two limited-edition beaded bracelets, designed in the marathon’s official hues will be on sale, with 100% of proceeds going to the Kolisi Foundation to support gender equity and GBV survivor programmes.
“Sport has the power to unite and inspire, but it also has the responsibility to drive change,” said Tom Brown, Senior Brand Director at adidas South Africa.
“By wearing this bracelet on race day, every runner and supporter becomes part of a movement to combat GBV in South Africa.”
Each bracelet carries a story as rich as the marathon itself. The limited-edition design weaves Red Turquoise, symbolising courage and empowerment, with Fossil Stone, a marker of endurance and transformation.
The race-colour version blends Yellow Agate, for positivity and clarity, with Blue Turquoise, the stone of balance and healing.
Like marathoners pounding the road with grit and grace, every bead is a testament to resilience. It’s a small, shining step in a greater race for dignity and equality.
So as the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon Expoopens from 16–18 October at DHL Stadium, adidas invites runners to gear up, not only in style, but in solidarity.
The official marathon range and bracelets will be available exclusively at the adidas stand, select stores, adidas.co.za, and theadidas app.
The pursuit of performance never stands still, and neither does Huawei. The new HUAWEI WATCH GT 6 Series, unveiled in Paris on September 19 and now available in South Africa, combines elite-level sports intelligence, refined design, and exceptional battery endurance. With up to 21 days of power, professional-grade training modes, and precision health analytics, it’s built for athletes who expect more from every session.
At its core, the GT 6 Series is an athlete’s companion, engineered to go further, last longer and measure smarter. It combines advanced sensor technology, AI-driven insight and world-first performance metrics inside a watch that looks as good in motion as it does at rest. Whether you are chasing personal bests, cycling across continents, or fine-tuning your recovery, this is the watch that keeps up.
https://youtu.be/u5i_La6Lcw4?si=ww2EUjrb6JxNQ4AB
Smarter sport science
Huawei has drawn on years of biomechanical research and data modelling to make the HUAWEI WATCH GT 6 Series a true training partner rather than a passive tracker. With more than 100 workout modes, it adapts to every discipline from everyday fitness to elite-level competition.
Four outdoor modes take the experience further: Cycling, Trail Running, Golf and Skiing. The headline innovation is Cycling Virtual Power, a world-first system that estimates power output using speed, incline and body data. Developed through thousands of simulations and advanced wind-resistance modeling, it delivers accuracy comparable to professional power meters. Riders can also measure FTP (Functional Threshold Power) and track virtual cadence, offering a full performance profile directly on the wrist.
For runners, the HUAWEI WATCH GT 6 introduces high-precision GNSS tracking, altitude trend charts and a grade-adjusted pace algorithm that converts uphill and downhill effort into equivalent flat-ground speed. Routes can be synced from phone to watch, and smart route sorting ensures favourites are ready to load instantly.
Golf mode now includes vector maps and interactive course data for more precise play, while skiing mode delivers detailed slope analytics for safety and improvement. These intelligent systems turn raw data into real-time insight, giving athletes the feedback they need to perform at their peak.
Recovery and wellbeing redefined
Performance is only half the story. The HUAWEI WATCH GT 6 Series also helps athletes recover, rebalance and refine their overall wellbeing. The new TruSense health management system uses multi-sensor data and AI modelling to analyse both physical and emotional states.
TruSense now tracks 12 emotional dimensions, up from three in previous generations, and combines them with continuous cardiovascular monitoring, recovery analytics and sleep mapping. It shifts health tracking from reactive measurement to proactive guidance, helping users manage stress, improve rest and maintain consistent energy levels through every phase of training.
Designed for strength, built for style
The HUAWEI WATCH GT 6 Pro blends durability and elegance with the precision of a high-performance instrument. It features a raised timing bezel and a 1.47-inch AMOLED display, which is 5.5% larger than its predecessor and reaches a peak brightness of 3000 nits for perfect clarity in full sun. Constructed from sapphire glass, an aviation-grade titanium body and a nanocrystal ceramic rear cover, it offers both resilience and refinement.
The 46 mm edition is available in three distinctive versions: a brown woven composite strap with timeless appeal, a silver titanium strap with a clean modern aesthetic and a black fluoroelastomer strap with a sleek athletic edge. For smaller wrists or lighter style, the HUAWEI WATCH GT 6 is also available in 41 mm and 46 mm editions, maintaining all the same power and precision in a more compact profile.
Endurance engineered
Battery life has always been the test of true performance, and Huawei has mastered it. The new high-silicon stacked special-shaped battery increases capacity by 65 per cent over the previous generation, creating one of the most efficient power systems in the industry.
The GT 6 Pro and 46 mm editions deliver up to 21 days of battery life with light usage, while the 41 mm edition achieves 14 days under typical conditions. Even with dual-band full constellation mode engaged for extreme GPS accuracy in mountain or city terrain, it provides 40 hours of continuous operation.
This combination of silicon efficiency and intelligent software optimisation makes it one of the longest-lasting performance watches on the market.
Seamless connection to your world
The GT 6 Series integrates effortlessly across Huawei, iOS and Android smartphones. Using the HUAWEI Health app, athletes can track progress, review data and adjust goals through an intuitive, unified interface. Notifications, calls and music control are handled instantly, keeping focus where it matters most — on performance.
The complete athlete’s smartwatch
With its blend of precision engineering, AI-driven insight and endurance, the HUAWEI WATCH GT 6 Pro is more than a smartwatch. It is a performance instrument designed for athletes who demand reliability, accuracy and style in equal measure.
From long rides to high-altitude runs, from the gym to the boardroom, it adapts to every challenge and outlasts every competitor.
South Africa’s swimmers made a splash at the opening leg of the 2025 World Aquatics Swimming World Cup in Carmel, Indiana, surfacing with one gold and three bronze medals after three days of fierce racing.
The team finished 10th overall, but the ripples they created hinted at much deeper tides to come.
Leading the charge was 19-year-old Chris Smith, who powered through the men’s 50m breaststroke final like a torpedo, touching the wall in 25.75 seconds.
It was the fastest short course time in the world this year. He edged out the Netherlands’ Caspar Corbeau by a fingertip – a mere three hundredths of a second. Belarusian Ilya Shymanovich took bronze in 25.79.
For Smith, it was the first major international title of his career after years of circling the podium.
“I’m very proud of Chris, that he finally got it. He really deserved it this time,” said his longtime coach Michelle Vlasakova of the Alcatraz Swimming Club in Centurion.
“He’s been so close at the last two big international meets. We both believed he could do it, and I told him after the heats: ‘You can go so much faster.’”
Vlasakova credited Smith’s mental fortitude as his secret weapon beneath the waves.
“I think that’s what Chris is best at. He’s very mentally strong. When he puts his head to something, no one can tell him otherwise.”
Now, the pair are setting their sights on breaking Cameron van der Burgh’s national and continental records and riding this wave all the way to the Commonwealth Games and Olympics.
“If he keeps believing in the programme and the coaching,” Vlasakova said, “I think he’s unstoppable.”
Meanwhile, Rebecca Meder was also in buoyant form, scooping two bronze medals and shattering an African record. The 23-year-old clocked 2:18.14 for third in the women’s 200m breaststroke, just a splash behind Olympic champion Kate Douglass (2:13.97) and Germany’s Anna Elendt (2:17.80).
Rebecca Meder
She then stormed to another bronze in the 200m individual medley, rewriting her own African record with 2:05.56.
“I’m happy with the times I posted,” said Meder.
“Obviously, I always want more. I’m chasing those African records, especially in the 200 and 100 breaststroke. I’m just so grateful to race these girls and see how I progress through the series.”
Veteran Chad le Clos, the most decorated male in World Cup history, added another medal to his treasure chest. He claimed bronze in the 100m butterfly (49.57) behind Switzerland’s Noe Ponti and Canada’s Ilya Kharun.
Chad le Clos – 100m butterfly bronze
As the first leg wrapped, the South Africans left Carmel with their heads above water and spirits soaring.
With Smith heading home and Meder diving into the next leg in Westmont, Illinois where South Africa’s swimmers would be looking to continue the current of momentum.
The Two Oceans Marathon NPC (TOM NPC) is hitting the reset button and tightening its laces for a brand-new chapter on the road ahead.
Following its recent AGM, the organisation behind the “world’s most beautiful marathon” has unveiled a revitalised Board of Directors, with Chris Goldschmidt taking the helm as Chairperson and Glenn Muller stepping in as Vice Chairperson.
Chris Goldschmidt Two Oceans Marathon NPC Chairperson by David Sullivan
“This is a reset moment for TOM NPC. Our mandate is clear: to restore confidence through uncompromising governance, transparency, and accountability,” said Goldschmidt.
“Working closely with Western Province Athletics (WPA), Celtic Harriers, our Ordinary Members, and Stillwater Sports as our staging and commercial partner, we will safeguard the organisation’s future, elevate the runner experience, and honour the trust placed in us by athletes, partners, and the broader community.”
Like an athlete returning from a tough season, TOM NPC is focused on rebuilding strength, rhythm, and momentum.
The new Board blends experience with fresh energy, representing the three pillars that have long carried the race: Western Province Athletics, Celtic Harriers, and Ordinary Members.
Glenn Muller Two Oceans Marathon NPC Vice Chairperson by David Sullivan
Ordinary Members: Stuart Mann, Ashraf Orrie, Gavin Wright, Wietse van der Westhuizen
TOM NPC extended gratitude to the outgoing Board like a respectful handover at the water table, as the new team takes charge of steering this flagship race into a future built on trust and teamwork.
The 56km Ultra Marathon will blaze off from Newlands Main Road on Saturday, 11 April 2026, finishing at UCT Rugby Fields in Rondebosch, with a seven-hour cut-off.
The following day, Sunday, 12 April 2026, the Half Marathon takes centre stage over 21.1km, with a 3-hour-30-minute limit to beat the clock.
As Goldschmidt and his team settle into stride, their goal is clear. And this is to ensure that South Africa’s most scenic road race once again runs as smoothly as a well-paced negative split.
For entry information, visit www.twooceansmarathon.org.za or follow @TotalsportsTwoOceansMarathon on Instagram and Two Oceans Marathon on Facebook.
Durban’s beachfront turned into a runway of dreams on Sunday morning as 5,000 runners thundered down Snell Parade like a sea of determination, chasing glory beneath the coastal sunrise. But it was Ryan Mphahlele and Glenrose Xaba who broke the tap with record-shattering runs at the 2025Boxer Super Run 5K.
Mphahlele, in his debut at the event, scorched the tar in 13:37, setting a new course record and becoming the fastest South African ever on African soil over the distance.
“The last time that I ran a 5km was two years ago,” he said with a grin as wide as the promenade.
“The opportunity came especially in Durban, a coastal area. So I thought, let me come and top it. It was like a fitness run to me, to see where my fitness is at this time of the year.”
Ryan Mphahlele wins Boxer Super Run Durban by Anthony Grote
The 27-year-old from Thembisa treated the elite men’s race like a tactical tempo session, easing in, then dropping the hammer when it mattered most.
“Elroy was my toughest competition and of course Kabelo Mulaudzi really showed up. When I looked back, I saw Kabelo was moving closer, so I just had to take the sting out of him,” Mphahlele explained.
“It was my goal to win today, and it feels very good to cross the finish line first. I love Durban, I love the weather, and I’ll be back next year.”
Mulaudzi (13:39) crossed the line second, with veteran Elroy Gelant (13:42) rounding off the podium.
The women’s elite race was an equally fierce sprint for supremacy. Glenrose Xaba, unleashed her trademark kick to win in 15:27, holding off her Boxer training partner Karabo More(15:34) and Hollywood AC’s Tayla Kavanagh (15:35) in a thrilling chase to the finish.
“Today’s race was good. The pace was too fast,” said a jubilant Xaba, who is tuning up for the Valencia Marathon.
“I recovered very well after two long runs in preparation. I went with my coach’s strategy to just sit behind, but when you take the move, take it and don’t think about your training partner.
“It feels good to be back and on the podium. There’s a lot that I enjoy about the Boxer Super Run: the support, the atmosphere, the fans. It’s my second home here, so it’s nice to run at home again.”
Glenrose Xaba wins Boxer Super Run Durban 2025 by Anthony Grote
Launched in 2023 by Stillwater Sports, Boxer Superstores, and Coca-Cola, the Super Run has become a must-run fixture on the national calendar. It’s part sprint, part celebration and all spirit.
“What an incredible day of racing,” said Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports.
“From the country’s top elites to the thousands of everyday runners, today was a true celebration of running. Congratulations to Ryan and Glenrose on your remarkable victories. Your performances set a benchmark for the stars of tomorrow.”
Lee-Ann Pillay, Boxer Superstores’ Head of Marketing, added:
“Ryan and Glenrose took elite racing to the next level. Well done to Ryan on becoming the fastest South African on African soil. The vibe in Durban was fantastic. We can’t wait to build on this momentum as we look ahead to the Boxer Super Run’s Johannesburg debut.”
With a R147,200 prize purse and waves for every kind of runner, from elites chasing records to weekend joggers chasing PBs, the Boxer Super Run once again proved that Durban’s promenade isn’t just a stretch of road. On Sunday, it was a launchpad for history.
ELITE MEN’S WAVE Start by Anthony Grote
TOP 10 RESULTS: ELITE WAVES
Elite Men 1 Ryan Mphahlele 13:37, 2 Kabelo Mulaudzi 13:39, 3 Elroy Gelant 13:42, 4 Musawenkosi Mnisi 13:49, 5 Chris Mhlanga 13:51, 6 Zenzile Pheke 13:54, 7 Bongelani Mkhwanazi 13:54, 8 Simon Sibeko 13:56 Elite Women 1 Glenrose Xaba 15:27, 2 Karabo More 15:34, 3 Tayla Kavanagh 15:35, 4 Carina Viljoen 16:00, 5 Kyla Jacobs 16:13, 6 Cacisile Sosibo 16:23, 7 Danielle Verster 16:40, 8 Bathobile Mhkize 16:49
