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SA Champs Conquer Drakensberg Ultra-Trail

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on SA Champs Conquer Drakensberg Ultra-Trail

This weekend, against the dramatic silhouette of South Africa’s most iconic mountain range, South African ultra-trail running elites Kennedy Sekhuthe and Nicolette Griffioen were crowned champions of the RMB Ultra-trail Drakensberg (RMB UTD) Miler.  The pair conquered 163 relentless kilometres across the wild highlands of Lesotho and the rugged spines of the Southern Drakensberg

Trail runners from across the globe converged in the Southern Drakensberg this weekend to compete in one of Africa’s most challenging and majestic trail running events. The competition attracted international elite ultrarunners alongside exceptional local South African talent, creating a fiercely competitive yet supportive atmosphere that showcased the finest aspects of trail running culture.

The event commenced with the ultimate test of human endurance, the UTD Miler (160km), beginning at 10:00 on Friday, 26 April 2025, from the rooftop of Southern Africa, Lesotho. The first section of the relentless 163-kilometre route took runners on a loop along the remote Lesotho highlands guided by Basotho shepherds on horseback, before traversing the rugged spines of the southern Drakensberg escarpment. These athletes battled isolation, altitude, and challenging weather conditions before re-entering South Africa via Sani Pass at nightfall.

Just over 24 hours later, on Saturday morning, after dominating the lead position throughout, Kennedy Sekhuthe, a police constable from Roodepoort, entered Race Village to claim victory in an emotionally charged but decisive finish (25:08:26). Veteran miler Martin Malherbe crossed the finish line in second place, having secured this position in the early hours of Saturday morning and maintaining it to the finish (25:38:58).

Hot on Malherbe’s heels, leading the women throughout the race, the remarkable Nicolette Griffioen crossed the finish line in third place overall (25:56:06), successfully defending her 2024 UTD Miler women’s crown. Throughout the race, she battled with Matthew Thomson (4th in 26:33:21) and Matthew Cross (5th in 28:27:08).

By lunchtime, Race Village was buzzing with excitement as the GCU65 (Giant’s Cup Ultra) elites approached the finish. In this heavily contested and fast-paced race, which began at 07:00 from the Silverstream Trading Post, last year’s UTD Miler men’s winner, Zimbabwean Admire Muzopambwa, stormed to the finish line (06:01:44). Muzopambwa approached the race strategically, pacing himself and waiting for the perfect moment to surge ahead. In a close second-place finish, Mvuyisi Gcogco crossed the line (06:18:27), just four minutes ahead of Kyle Bucklow, who claimed third place (06:22:11).

The women’s GCU65 race was dominated by French athletes, with Olivia Dubern delivering a masterclass, blending bold pacing with technical brilliance to take the women’s title, placing 7th overall (07:08:28). Fellow French competitor Victoria Devouge secured second place and 11th overall (07:31:17). South African Ruth Cozien claimed third place, crossing the finish line seven minutes later (07:38:22).

As evening descended and temperatures dropped, athletes competing in the UTD100 approached an electric race village. This 100km race, tracing raw ridgelines, steep escarpments, and sweeping valleys, was dominated by Thato Kabeli, who led from the start. When it mattered most, he broke away—finishing with unstoppable strength to claim the RMB UTD100 title (11:53:33). South African Nicholaas Du Plessis secured second place (13:45:15), while third place was shared by international athletes Andre Gayraud from the US and Jesse Bonwitt from Germany (13:53:47).

In the women’s UTD100 category, defending champion Melissa Laing retained her title, being the first woman to cross the finish line (14:28:23). Neelke Stadler took second place (16:05:00), followed by Australian Ayesha Makim-Specker (16:49:07).

RMB UTD pushing the boundaries of human endurance

What sets RMB UTD apart is the extraordinary challenge it presents, pushing the boundaries of human endurance. This year, each of the five distances, whilst challenging, caters to various experience levels. Athletes navigate technical rocky paths, river crossings, and breathtaking high-altitude sections where weather conditions can transform in moments. The routes showcase the Drakensberg’s iconic features—Sani Pass, the legendary Giant’s Cup Hiking Trail, and sections along the escarpment offering spectacular panoramic views into neighbouring Lesotho.

“Ultra-trail running isn’t just a sport; it’s a journey of self-discovery. Our courses through the Drakensberg push runners to their limits while surrounding them with some of the most awe-inspiring scenery on the planet. From the jagged peaks to the hidden valleys, these routes offer a true test of endurance and willpower,” says Stuart McConnachie from Summit Events and Race Director for RMB Ultra-trail Cape Town.

From humble beginnings in 2017 with just 250 participants, the event has experienced steady growth to welcome nearly 1,000 athletes across five breathtaking races. This remarkable expansion reflects trail running’s surging popularity as South Africa’s fastest-growing sport. For the first time this year, the event secured a title sponsor, Rand Merchant Bank (RMB), resulting in an increase in the total prize pot to R161,000 with equal distribution between men and women.

“Having RMB on board is a game-changer for UTD and will allow us to elevate the event to the next level. With RMB’s support, we can improve all facets of the UTD experience for all athletes, enhance the prize money for the elites, and increase the levels of support we can offer our conservation partners. It allows UTD to come of age on the South African trail landscape,” says UTD Founder and Race Director, Spurgeon Flemington.

2025 Winners

UTD MILER MEN

Position

Name

Finish

Country

1

Kennedy Sekhuthe

25:08:26

South Africa

2

Martin Malherbe

25:38:58

South Africa

3

Matthew Thomson

26:33:21

South Africa

UTD MILER WOMEN

Position

Name

Finish

Country

1

Nicolette Griffioen

25:56:06

South Africa

2

Cecilia Ballam

37:19:02

South Africa

2

Carien De Bruyn

37:19:02

South Africa

2

Cornel Metcalfe

37:19:02

South Africa

UTD100 MEN

Position

Name

Finish

Country

1

Thato Kabeli

11:53:33

South Africa

2

Nicholaas Du Plessis

13:45:15

South Africa

3

Andre Gayraud

13:53:47

United States

3

Jesse Bonwitt

13:53:47

Germany

UTD100 WOMEN

Position

Name

Finish

Country

1

Melissa Laing

14:28:23

South Africa

2

Neelke Stadler

16:05:00

South Africa

3

Ayesha Makim-Specker

16:49:07

Australia

GCU65 MEN

Position

Name

Finish

Country

1

Admire Muzopambwa

6:01:44

Zimbabwe

2

Mvuyisi Gcogco

6:18:27

South Africa

3

Kyle Bucklow

6:22:11

South Africa

GCU65 WOMEN

Position

Name

Finish

Country

1

Olivia Dubern

7:08:28

France

2

Victoria Devouge

7:31:17

France

3

Ruth Cozien

7:38:22

South Africa

SDR36 MEN

Position

Name

Finish

Country

1

Robbie Rorich

3:10:51

South Africa

2

Kane Reilly

3:15:10

South Africa

3

Bongani Mbanjwa

3:22:18

South Africa

SDR36 WOMEN

Position

Name

Finish

Country

1

Samantha Reilly

3:32:01

South Africa

2

Nicola Vahrmeijer

4:07:33

South Africa

3

Mari Rabie

4:10:54

South Africa

DRJ25 MEN

Position

Name

Finish

Country

1

Eric Ngubane

2:12:13

South Africa

2

Brode Gleeson

2:15:22

South Africa

3

Mdu Dlamini

2:19:22

South Africa

DRJ WOMEN

Position

Name

Finish

Country

1

Mila Geldenhuys

2:33:54

South Africa

2

Nita Van Rensburg

3:06:36

South Africa

3

Liesbeth Slabbert

3:06:37

South Africa

 

A R1 Million Incentive announced for the Totalsports Women’s Race!

Roxanne MartinNewsLeave a Comment on A R1 Million Incentive announced for the Totalsports Women’s Race!

Title sponsor Totalsports, in partnership with event organiser Stillwater Sports, has announced an unprecedented R1 000 000 incentive if the first woman runner at the Durban edition of the Totalsports Women’s is able to break the Women’s Only 10km World Record. 

On Saturday, 26 April 2025, Agnes Jebet Ngetich (Kenya) set a new Women’s-Only 10km World Record of 29:27 at the ADIDAS Road to Records event in Herzogenaurach, Germany. Jebet broke the previous record of 30:01, set by her compatriot Agnes Tirop in Germany on 12 September 2021.

“The Totalsports Women’s Race holds a very special place in our hearts — it’s a celebration of strength, unity, and the incredible power of women in sport,” says Nikki Crous, Head of Marketing at Totalsports. “We are immensely proud to be part of an event that continues to uplift and inspire women across the country. Announcing a R1 000 000 incentive for the first female athlete to break the Women’s Only 10km World Record in Durban is an honour for us, and a bold statement of our commitment to women’s athletics. It’s about creating opportunities, pushing boundaries, and being part of history in the making.”

The Totalsports Women’s Race Durban route is a scenic showcase of coastal charm and speed. Known for being fast and flat, the course winds through some of Durban’s most picturesque spots, making it the ideal stage for personal bests — and even world records. With its combination of beauty and pace, this route promises an unforgettable running experience for elite and social runners alike.

“For over two decades, the Totalsports Women’s Race has proudly led the way in championing women’s sport in South Africa — celebrating strength, unity, and the unstoppable spirit of women,” says Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports. “In 2025, we’re excited to take the event to unprecedented heights with the announcement of the R1 000 000 World Record Incentive bonus. This bold and historic initiative represents a monumental step forward for women’s sport, not only in South Africa but across the African continent. Importantly, this would not be possible without the incredible drive and commitment of Totalsports, whose passion for empowering women in sport continues to break new ground. We look forward to welcoming some of the world’s top athletes as they chase greatness. Get ready to witness history in the making – a women’s road running world record on African soil for the very first time!”

The newly crowned Women’s-Only 10km World Record holder, Agnes Jebet Ngetich (Kenya), shared her thoughts on the Totalsports Women’s Race’s World Record Incentive announcement: “I am happy for it because it creates life-changing opportunities for women in Africa. It also attracts more talent to these events and increases visibility for women in sport.”

A number of key role players in the sport of road running in South Africa had the following to say about the announcement:

“It’s an amazing initiative. The fact that the Totalsports Women’s Race is offering a R1 000 000 incentive to women means so much. For the first time, women are being recognised in a big way, especially in athletics. I can’t wait to see those records being broken. Well done to the event organisers for coming up with something this powerful—not just for South Africa, but for Africa as a whole. It will attract many more elite runners. Congratulations, ladies. I can’t wait to see you making history!”
– Karabo Mabilo, Central Gauteng Athletics (CGA) Acting President

The Totalsports Women’s Race in August this year is now the pinnacle of the 10km running in the world. Totalsports is challenging women from all over the globe to go for the 10km world record in Durban. There’s no better place on the African continent or in the world to set records. So, we say to Totalsports big up. You and your partners, thank you. To the women out there, it’s your chance, go for it. 

– Steve Mkasi / President KZN Athletics

“We would like to take this opportunity as a federation to congratulate and express our appreciation for the 2025 Totalsports Women’s Race. This incentive presents a tremendous opportunity for our women in the country – a meaningful boost for the growth, development, and promotion of our sport. For over two decades, the Totalsports Women’s Race has honoured our mothers, daughters, and sisters. Now, with this world record incentive, the bar has been raised to new heights. Experiencing this moment in our lifetime, and in the city of Durban, is truly marvellous and must be cherished. As a province, we are proud to be the host and promise nothing less than world-class hospitality. We wish everyone the very best and look forward to August 3rd.”
– Mandla Mngomezulu, KZN Athletics Vice President

“This initiative represents a powerful recognition of women’s talent. It encourages more women to participate and strive for higher levels of achievement, knowing there is a substantial reward. A financial incentive like this can inspire young girls and women to pursue running, and it highlights successful female athletes as role models – showing that greatness in sport is achievable and can be rewarded. The announcement also draws long-overdue attention to women’s sport, which has traditionally received less media coverage and sponsorship than men’s. By promoting high-stakes competition, it helps elevate the profile of women’s athletics in South Africa. Investing in women’s sport challenges stereotypes, breaks down barriers, and promotes empowerment and equality. This is a promising step forward – fostering a culture where female athletes can truly thrive and receive the recognition they deserve.”
– Elroy Gelant, 3x Olympian and multiple SA Champion

Kevin Lerena Defends his Boxing World Title on home soil

Roxanne MartinNewsLeave a Comment on Kevin Lerena Defends his Boxing World Title on home soil

This Thursday, 1 May 2025, Kevin Lerena will mark an historic milestone as he defends his world title at Sunbet Arena in Pretoria.

The stage is set for a historic night of boxing. Sunbet, in partnership with Legacy Boxing Promotions, is set to present “The Reckoning” – a night set to captivate local fans and make history in South African boxing, as a WBC world title will be defended on home soil for the first time. 

The official press conference took place on March 31, 2025, where key stakeholders, media and boxing enthusiasts gathered at the Sunbet Arena in Pretoria to discuss the 1 May spectacle. The conference was attended by Gideon Mann, COO of Sunbet, Dewald Mostert, CEO of Legacy Boxing Promotions, Mandla Ntlanganiso, CEO of Boxing South Africa (BSA), Kevin Lerena, as well as fellow undercard boxers Thabiso Mchunu, Chris Thompson, Lindo Khuzwayo, Tietsetso Matikinca. The event underscored the strong support and collaboration from all corners of the boxing world to bring “The Reckoning” to life. 

Sunbet, a leader in South Africa’s sports betting and entertainment industry, has long supported local sporting initiatives. Their involvement in “The Reckoning” underscores a commitment to investing in boxing, providing a platform for local talent while creating new opportunities for fighters and fans. Beyond sponsorship, Sunbet’s partnership with Legacy Boxing Promotions reflects a long-term dedication to growing South African boxing and restoring its prominence in the market. 

Simon Gregory, CEO of Sunbet, shared the vision behind the partnership: “It’s time to take boxing back to the top! We are excited to be a part of an event that we hope is just the first step in a new era for one of South Africa’s favourite pastimes. South Africa has such a rich history in the sport, from Presidents to past champions, that boxing is in the fabric of what makes this country great. That made the decision to become a title sponsor for ‘The Reckoning’ with the team at Legacy Boxing Promotions an easy one. We are committed to investing in the future of South African boxing, with this event serving as a platform for rising stars and seasoned fighters alike. With a full fight card and a world title on the line, the 1st May event promises to be an exceptional night, but it is also the beginning of something bigger – the reinvigoration of boxing in South Africa.” 

The main event features the WBC Bridgerweight World Championship bout between reigning champion Kevin “KO KING” Lerena and Ukrainian contender Serhiy Radchenko. This marks the first time a WBC world title will be defended on South African soil – a landmark moment for boxing in SA. 

Lerena, speaking on his title defense, says, “It’s an incredible feeling to defend the WBC World Title on home soil. Being the first to do so in South African history makes it even more special, and becoming only the third-ever WBC champion is a huge honour. To be able to do it in front of my home fans and my loyal Lerena Army is truly special, and it’s an honour to make history with them.” Lerena claimed the interim title in November 2023 with a unanimous

decision over Senad Gashi and was elevated to full champion in October 2024 when Lawrence Okolie moved up to heavyweight. 

The Bridgerweight division, originally created by the WBC and later adopted by the WBA, sits between cruiserweight and heavyweight with a 224 lb limit. Radchenko (11-7, 5 KOs), ranked fifth in the division, comes into the fight on a four-fight win streak, having recently outpointed 15-2-1 Andrej Pesic in Kiev. At 37, he aims to cause an upset in what promises to be a thrilling clash. 

The Reckoning Fight Card 
The action-packed card kicks off with rising talent on the Day Card in matchups like Jabulani Makhence vs. Antonio Maiala and Gary van Staden vs. Seth van Asweging, setting the stage for an explosive Main Card: 

Main Event (12 Rounds – WBC World Bridgerweight Title): Kevin Lerena (33–30W–3L) vs. Serhiy Radchenko (18–11W–7L) 

Co-Main Event (10 Rounds – Welterweight):  Tulz Mbenge (23–21W–2L) vs. Emmanuel Mungandjela (25–20W–4L–1D) 

Undercard Fights: 
• Thabiso Mchunu vs. Amandor Kalonji (Cruiserweight) 
• Chris Thompson vs. Mussa Ajibu (Heavyweight) 
• Lindo Khuzwayo vs. Sthembiso Maduna (Featherweight) 
• Tietsetso Matikinca vs. Mbulelo Gubula (Bantamweight) 

Gideon Mann, COO of Sunbet added, “I’ve always loved boxing, it’s in my blood. Some of my fondest memories are sitting between my father and grandfather, eyes glued to the screen, watching legends trade blows. To now play a part, alongside the incredible teams at Sunbet and Legacy, in bringing a WBC title fight back to South African soil feels like a dream. This is more than just a bout; it’s a revival of a proud tradition, a moment of national pride, and a heartfelt nod to where our passion began – from Baby Jake and Brian Mitchell to that iconic image of Mandela, gloves raised, embodying the fighting spirit of a nation.” 

Legacy Boxing Promotions’ Dewald Mostert also addressed the event’s broader significance for South African boxing: “The Reckoning” is a defining milestone for us. It represents everything we believe in – excellence, purpose, and national pride. This event marks the first time a WBC world title will be defended on South African soil, and that alone makes it historic. But beyond the title, it’s about creating legacy moments. South Africa has produced world champions across generations, and this is about reigniting that legacy. With the event’s stacked fight card and the exposure, it brings to both African and international talent, we’re showing the world that South Africa is ready to host elite boxing. For us, it’s not just about putting on a show – it’s about telling South Africa’s boxing story and building a future that lasts.” 

Boxing South Africa’s Support 
This monumental event has received full backing from Boxing South Africa (BSA), with Mandla Ntlanganiso, CEO of BSA, in attendance at the press conference.  

This event goes beyond just a title fight; it is a celebration of South Africa’s rich boxing heritage, a showcase of the nation’s boxing talent, and a global stage where history and passion collide. It represents the convergence of South Africa’s past, present, and future in the boxing world 

Fresh faces and familiar winners feature on day 2 of SA champs

Roxanne MartinNewsLeave a Comment on Fresh faces and familiar winners feature on day 2 of SA champs

Read Time 4min

Zeney Geldenhuys cruised to a fifth national 400m hurdles title on the second day of the SA Senior Track and Field Championships in Potchefstroom on Friday. 

With fellow Olympic semifinalist Rogail Joseph ruled out with a hamstring injury, Geldenhuys had no trouble in securing the gold, taking the win in 55.09 seconds. Rising star Tumi Ramokgopa was second in 55.90 – dipping under 56 seconds for the first time before returning to the track a few hours later for her heat of the 100m hurdles, which she won comfortably in 13.67 seconds.

“Today was about defending my title and I’m very happy with the first place,” said Zeney. “And the time is not bad as well, so that means the sub-55 and sub-54 is coming closer each race and I’m very excited about that.”

Tumi gave credit to Zeney for her best time ever.

“She was the one I was chasing,” explained the matric student. “My gratitude goes to her, if it wasn’t for her, I don’t think I would have run such a good time. She pushed me really hard. She’s one of my role models and I really appreciate running with her.”

While Zeney is a regular on top of the podium, one man making his way there for the first time was an athlete six years her senior, Sabelo Dhlamini.

The 30-year-old was thrilled to secure the men’s 400m hurdles title in a 48.57 seconds – taking .17 of a second off his previous best and missing out on the automatic qualifying mark for the world championships by just .07 of a second.

“I feel exhausted, but I’m very happy, very jubilant I’d say, because we’ve been putting in so many hours. I think I’ve been chasing this title for the last four years,” he said afterwards.

Also claiming a first-ever national title was 2017 U18 world champion Breyton Poole. He secured the men’s high jump gold on countback from Tshepang Dankuru with a clearance of 2.20m with Brian Raats and Mpho Links sharing the bronze on 2.15m.

“Today wasn’t about height, it was about getting that title and I think most importantly working hard towards the end. Countbacks proved to be the decider, so I think it was a good competition all round, I’m happy with it,” said an elated Breyton afterwards.

“It took me seven years to get here, but it was worth the wait.”

There was also plenty to celebrate for 17-year-old Leendert Koekemoer, who set a new SA under-20 record in the 400m. He finished second in his semifinal behind Gardeo Isaacs in 45.03 to better the previous mark set by Riaan Dempers 31 years ago.

“I didn’t expect that at all,” he admitted afterwards. “I knew it was in me, but I didn’t think it could have been today. But ja, I’m quite glad about it.”

There was no fairytale return to the national championships for 2017 world champion Luvo Manyonga who has battled his way back from drug addiction and a doping ban. He finished sixth in the men’s long jump final with a best leap of 7.68m. Instead, it was Jovan van Vuuren, who has made a comeback of his own from a career-threatening injury, who reclaimed the title he last won in 2022 with a leap of 8.00m.

“It’s special, especially missing out last year with the national championships with the injury, so bouncing back now and reclaiming my title, it’s special for me,” said Jovan afterwards, also paying tribute to his rival on his return.

“I’m glad he’s back, especially with young athletes looking up to Luvo. These guys we’re jumping against now got inspired by Luvo. So to jump against your role model it’s special… You know he’s got the capabilities of jumping big jumps and I think we’ll be back and jumping eight [metres] in no time.”

Earlier in the day, there was heartbreak for Gift Leotlela after pulling up in the heats of the 200m. Having secured the 100m title on Thursday, the newly crowned champion reportedly suffered a muscle tweak and should be back in action soon. 

PUMA Slashes Marathon PRs, Awards $54K as Project3 Runners Set Records

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on PUMA Slashes Marathon PRs, Awards $54K as Project3 Runners Set Records

PUMA’s Project3 participants shaved a total of 1hour, 51minutes and 46seconds off their personal records at the Boston Marathon, and will take home a combined $54,000 in prize money as part of the brand’s trailblazing running programme.

Debuting the Fast-R NITRO™ Elite 3, a total of 90 runners from countries including the USA, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Germany, France, Spain, UK, Ireland, Sweden, China, South Africa and Indonesia, toed the line at the world’s most prestigious running race, and were rewarded with a sensational number of new PRs.

Of the 90 runners competing, 30 beat their previous records, with 15 smashing their records by over three minutes, making them eligible for the mouthwatering $3,000 cash prize.

The fastest male, Joseph Whalen (2:12:16) finished in 20th place overall and knocked 1minute 23seconds off his PR, while Kylee Raftis (2:34:41) finished as the fastest female and took an incredible 4minutes 4seconds off her previous best. Manuel Diaz Callejero (02:33:35) smashed his previous record by a mindblowing 11minutes and 41seconds.

Other noteable wins came in the men’s open division where PUMA Project3 runners finished in first and second place, as well as taking home first in the men’s masters division. In total, three Project3 participants finished in the men’s top 25.

Celebrating his win back at The High Point, Joseph Whalen said: “I was so happy to make it across the line as the top male. The Fast-R NITRO™ Elite 3 are amazing, they were super responsive; great on the ups and even better on the downs.“

Kylee Raftis, who was racing at Boston for the third time, said: “I couldn’t be happier. I was aiming to run sub 2:35 and I excecuted my race plan perfectly. Coming onto Boylston Street felt surreal, and once I saw 2:34 on the clock I was ecstatic.”

In January, PUMA launched Project3; a first of its kind global running programme that offered participants of the 2025 Boston and London Marathons the opportunity to experience life as a professional athlete and trial the Fast-R NITRO™ Elite 3, with the chance to bank huge performance-based cash prizes.

The programme forms part of PUMA’s brand elevation strategy to strengthen its presence globally and celebrate the latest brand campaign, “Go Wild”.

There were also record highs for PUMA’s elite runners, with Annie Frisbie (2:23:21) obliterating her previous PR by 2minutes and 57seconds, and Rory Linkletter (2:07:02) who finished 6th overall and shaved 59 seconds off his previous best time.

With a host of records broken in Boston, all eyes now turn to London, where another 96 Project3 runners will attempt to achieve a similar feat of athleticism in the revolutionary Fast-R NITRO™ Elite 3.

Having exclusivley launched at the Boston Marathon, a limited drop of Fast-R NITRO™ Elite 3 will go live at PUMA.com, PUMA V&A Waterfront and PUMA Sandton from 4 May 2025.

Leotlela Back in Business With National 100m Title

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Leotlela Back in Business With National 100m Title

Gift Leotlela proved he’s back and very much in the mix for the national 4x100m relay team after storming to a first ever national 100m title on the opening day of the SA Senior Track and Field Championships in Potchefstroom on Thursday.

Leotlela burst onto the scene in 2021, running his first sub-10-second time and representing the country at the Tokyo Olympics, but has struggled to regain that form until now.

Defending champion Akani Simbine’s decision to forgo these championships to compete at the first Diamond League meet of the season in China, meant Thursday’s final was wide open, with world junior champion Bayanda Walaza and returning Olympic semifinalist Benji Richardson also vying for top honours.

In the end, it was Gift who dipped ahead of Bayanda on the line to win it in 9.99 seconds. Earlier in the day, he had run a wind-assisted time of 9.95 in the semifinal, giving a hint of what was to come. And he delivered when it mattered, beating Bayanda by just one- hundredth of a second, with Benji third in 10.05 seconds.

“I had no idea. I actually thought he [Bayanda] won. I thought he had nicked it,” said a thrilled Gift afterwards.

“I’m feeling a lot of emotions. I haven’t processed everything but all I know is that I am very happy that I got the win today,”

As for the prospect of being part of the SA relay team who will be looking for another global medal at the World Championships later this year, the 26-year-old added: “I think it’s good for South African sprinting to have a lot of guys running quick. It increases our chances of medalling at worlds and Olympics, so I’m available. If they want to pick me for the team, I’ll
be there.”

Meanwhile, the women’s 100m produced something of a surprise with Joviale Mbisha taking the title. Defending champion Viwe Jingqi withdrew from the semifinals as a precaution and Joviale made the most of her absence, claiming the win in 11.48 seconds. Gabriella Marais was second in 11.55 and 17-year-old Rumé Burger third in 11.58.

“Everyone can believe in you but if you don’t believe in yourself, it will never happen,” said Joviale afterwards. “I believe in myself and I told myself I’m going to be SA champ and that’s exactly what happened.”

As for Viwe missing out on the final, the Masters student added: “I definitely wish that she could have been in the final. I love a challenge and she’s really a phenomenal athlete so it would have been really nice to get the chance to run with her.”

Earlier in the afternoon, Glenrose Xaba cruised to a 10th senior national title on the track, winning the 5000m in 15 minutes 27.95 seconds. That saw her completing a dominant distance double after claiming the national 10,000m, which was contested in Cape Town at the start of the month.

“The race was good for me but I was a bit disappointed with the time. But I can’t complain because it’s a good time inland. So I’m looking forward to my track season overseas and doing better,” she said.

In the field events, Aiden Smith secured his first ever national title by claiming shot put gold. His effort of 20.31m may not have been a world-beating mark, but it was good enough to get the better of two-time Olympian and defending champion Kyle Blignaut who finished second with a throw of 20.07m.

“I’ve won the juniors a few times, but the seniors is just a different feeling, with the big guys, to get that title is an absolute privilege,” he said.

The SA Senior Track and Field Championships continue until Saturday.

The Great Debate

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on The Great Debate

Last month showed us that this was a very good decision, a debate is sometimes needed, and being able to tell both sides and let you decide is what we at Modern Athlete aim to do.  This month’s topic: Do you think races should do away with tees and medals in favour of lowering entry costs? has brought two very unique viewpoints, first from Ashraf Orrie, Mr O, and second from Bruce King, Race Director of the Balwin Sport Jeppe Marathon. There is a lot more to consider than we thought there was, and this is why we love this space so much!

Ipeleng Khunou: The Man They Call ‘Crazy Legs’

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Ipeleng Khunou: The Man They Call ‘Crazy Legs’

We get to know the man behind the name, Crazy Legs, our March cover star Ipeleng Khunou. Born with a condition that affected his mobility, from a young age Ipeleng has always had the attitude of never say never. Our Roving Cow Richard Laskey met him a year ago at the Run Your City Tshwane, and now finally we get to bring his story to life.