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New Dates for SPAR Grand Prix 10km Races!

Jason MartinNewsLeave a Comment on New Dates for SPAR Grand Prix 10km Races!

The opening race in this year’s Grand Prix series – the Durban SPAR Grand Prix – had to be postponed at the eleventh hour because of a spike in Covid-19 cases and subsequent lockdown restrictions. The Durban race will now take place at North Beach in Durban on September 11.

The series will kick off on Sunday August 22, with the Pietermaritzburg SPAR Grand Prix at Alexandra Park.  SPAR decided to keep the original date in a bid to create some positive energy in the one of the cities worst hit by the recent looting and unrest in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng.  The Cape Town SPAR Grand Prix will take place at the Greenpoint Stadium on Saturday September 4, followed by the Durban race a week later. The Tshwane Grand Prix, which normally takes place at Supersport Park in August, has been moved to the Agricultural Research Council farm in Irene and will be run on Friday September 24, National Heritage Day.

The SPAR Grand Prix series normally ends in Johannesburg, but things are slightly different this year.  The Joburg race will take place at Marks Park on Sunday October 3 and the series will end at the Nelson Mandela University campus in Gqeberha on Saturday October 9.

Each race will be by invitation only, and will be limited to 250 runners.  Because there were no races in 2020, this year there will be no time incentive bonus points. However, Grand Prix points will be awarded to the first 25 runners home in the open category, and not the first 20, as in previous years.  There will also be an additional age group category, namely for runners over 70.

There is substantial prize money on offer, amounting to a total of two million Rand. The winner of the SPAR Grand Prix after the six races will take home a cheque for R185 000.

One of the benefits of the revised calendar is that the SPAR Grand Prix Series starts two weeks after the end of the 2020 Olympics. This means that runners who competed in Tokyo can return in time to compete in Pietermaritzburg and the remaining of the SPAR Grand Prix races.

Strict Covid-19 protocols will be followed at all the races, and no spectators will be allowed. However, the races will be live-streamed  and runners can be tracked live using the SPORTSPLITS App.

2021 SPAR GRAND PRIX CALENDAR

Sunday, 22 August – Pietermaritzburg

Saturday, 4 September – Cape Town

Saturday, 11 September – Durban

Friday, 24 September – Tshwane

Sunday, 3 October – Johannesburg

Saturday, 9 October – Gqeberha

 

Let the Games Begin – Finally!

Roxanne MartinNewsLeave a Comment on Let the Games Begin – Finally!

We’ve had to wait an extra year for the Tokyo Olympics to finally happen, but now that they’re here, we’ve got so much great action to look forward to on the track and road. Team SA may not look as strong as it did going into the Rio Olympics in 2016, but we still have some great medal contenders amongst our athletes, and a number of young prospects raring to make their mark on the global athletics stage. – by Manfred Seidler

Nick Knows Best!

Roxanne MartinFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Nick Knows Best!

Nick Bester is a celebrated running coach in South Africa, having worked with some of our most successful runners, including Olympic hopefuls Gerda Steyn and Irvette van Zyl. THIRSTI Water recently caught up with Nick to get his insights into how runners should be hydrating when they run. It’s a must-read for every runner wanting to know how to drink before, during and after a run!

Wayde van Niekerk Plans for Tokyo

Roxanne MartinNewsLeave a Comment on Wayde van Niekerk Plans for Tokyo

An injury scare hasn’t slowed down Olympic Champ, Double World Champ and Record Holder in the 400m, Wayde van Niekerk, who remains upbeat about qualifying for the upcoming Tokyo Olympics. Currently in the USA working with new coach Lance, Wayde is putting in everything to make sure he can get to the Olympics fit and ready to bring home a medal! By Sean Falconer

Ann Breaks Record on Trail Debut!

Roxanne MartinNews, RacingLeave a Comment on Ann Breaks Record on Trail Debut!

In April, former Comrades Marathon winner Ann Ashworth literally dived in at the deep end when she tackled her first technical trail race at the Ultra-Trail Drakensberg, and in spite of the challenges posed by altitude, nutrition, gear and navigation, and running the longest race of her life – plus keeping husband David chatting – she ended up setting a new course record. By Sean Falconer

Read the full article below

Train with Trusted Trojan

Roxanne MartinAdvertorial, News5 Comments on Train with Trusted Trojan

Introducing the brand-new Trojan Supplement Range, available in Makro stores nationwide!

As your trusted health and fitness brand, they have listened to your requests, and they have delivered! The NEW Trojan supplement range is scientifically formulated from the highest quality raw materials and market-leading formulations, carefully curated to bring you advanced supplementation. They aim to elevate your lifestyle and be your partner in achieving your best mental and physical results.

From boosting your strength, aiding in building muscle, increasing your stamina, fast-tracking muscle repair and recovery, benefits to name only a few, our new product range will empower you every step of the way. They are always looking for new ways to support your journey with us, which is why we offer you uncompromised commitment to quality products, to help you achieve every fitness goal you set yourself!

TROJAN HEAVY-WEIGHT MASS

 All-in-One Muscle Protein (4kg)

Flavours: Vanilla Cream, Strawberry Cream & Chocolate Cream

Key benefits:

  • Supports muscle growth & recovery.
  • 41g highly bioavailable protein per serving.
  • Low in fat
    .

  •  Highest rates of nitrogen retention & amino acid conversion.
  • Added lactase enzymes in the form of Tolerase™ L to ease lactose digestion.

Recommended use: 700–900ml water or milk + 5 scoops (300g)

  • Mix 5 scoops (300g) with 700-900ml of cold water or full cream milk.
  • Vary the amount of liquid to achieve desired consistency.
  • Take a full 300g serving once daily or as divided portions, to satisfy your protein or mass-gaining requirements.
  • Use as a recovery drink after training and/or a snack between meals.

TROJAN BCAA 10:1:1 Ratio

Muscle Armour (250g)

Flavour: Citrus Blast

Key benefits include:

  • Pump & energy
  • Supports muscle
  • Strength & recovery
  • Stamina
  • Muscle repair 

Recommended use: 300ml water + 2 scoops (10g)

  • Mix 2 scoops (10g) with 300-350ml water in a handheld shaker and leave to stand for 30 seconds before drinking.
  • Sip before and during a training session.
  • If you had a strenuous training session, take another serving immediately after training.

TROJAN K.O. SIZE-ON PRE–WORKOUT

Complete Pump System (600g)

Flavours: Jungle Juice & Berry Punch

Key benefits:

  • Pump & energy
  • Focus, strength & power
  • Thermogenic
  • Supports recovery 

Recommended use: 250-300ml water + 2 scoops (30g)

  • Mix 2 scoops (30g) with 250-300ml water and stir or shake well.
  • Take 30-45 minutes prior to training.
  • New users may wish to assess tolerance with half a serving (1 scoop) and increase to a full serving (2 scoops), once tolerance has been achieved.

TROJAN SUPER WHEY

Premium Protein (900g)

Flavours: Vanilla, Strawberry & Chocolate

Key benefits:

  • Fast-digesting whey protein isolate & concentrate.
  • 20g of highly bioavailable protein per serving.
  • Easy mixing & great tasting.
  • Source of dietary fibre.

  • Added lactase enzymes in the form of Tolerase™ L. 

Recommended use: 150-200ml water + 1 scoop (30g)

  • Mix 1 scoop (30g) with 150-200ml of cold water or milk.
  • Vary the amount of liquid to achieve desired consistency.
  • Mix thoroughly in a blender or shaker for about 30 seconds, settle for 60 seconds, shake again before drinking.
  • Consume between 1 and 3 servings per day, depending on physical goal and protein requirements.
  • Servings may be doubled.

TROJAN K.O. PRE-WORKOUT

Training System (148g)

Flavours: Grape Kick & Berry Kick

Key benefits:

  • Pump & energy
  • Focus, strength & power
  • Thermogenic
  • Creatine-free

Recommended use: 200-250ml water + 1 scoop (7.4g)

  • Mix 1 rounded scoop (7.4g) with 200-250ml water and stir or shake well.
  • Take 30-45 minutes prior to training.
  • Can be increased to 2 rounded scoops (14.8g) with 400-500ml water, if tolerated.

Trojan, Your Partner in Health and Fitness

Human Performance. Multiplied

Roxanne MartinNews1 Comment on Human Performance. Multiplied

Ares Group Acquires the ‘Punk Rockers’ of the Performance World

For those who aren’t submerged in the supernova whirlwind that is the ‘Tri Life’ you may ask yourself what is the 2XU hype all about and how does it impact the world of sports product offering and the appointment of Poseidon (Pty) Ltd. as new distribution partners for South Africa, you are about to find out.

2XU (Pty) Ltd. Is an Australian | New Zealand-based multinational corporation hell-bent on creating a fitter, healthier world. With innovation in performance compression and apparel across multiple sporting codes, 2XU is perfectly positioned to make waves in the South African performance arena.

Poseidon Distribution Partnership

It comes as no surprise that the apparel sector was one of the most heavily impacted in 2020 and as a result there are very few companies in the industry on the path of growth and acquisition. The ARES Group, parent company to Poseidon (Pty) Ltd. Is the exception to this rule and they are excited to welcome the 2XU brand into their performance stable, accompanying leading footwear and apparel brand, Under Armour.

Although the 2XU brand has been available in South Africa since 2013, the appointment of the new distribution partner gives the 2XU a platform for extensive expansion, through both DTC and wholesale trade partnerships. The 2XU (“Two Times You”) brand symbolises the multiplication of human performance, and with its’ realigned strategic direction, is a really good fit for the expertise held within The Ares Group.

“It’s really exciting to be adding 2XU to the ARES stable of performance brands. The brand offers unrivalled technical excellence which is paramount to athletes performing in SA and is deep within our DNA at Ares. For the initial seasons, we are focusing on the sharp point of the brand, namely compression and triathlon, before expanding into the additional technical categories. 2XU fills a much-needed gap in the market and judging by the global heat on the brand, we are in for a long and prosperous partnership.” says, Gareth Kemp; Managing Director of 2XU

When asked to comment on the reacquisition of 2XU in South Africa – owner and now Brand Lead Mariette De Villiers comments, “With the muscle of the ARES group behind us, it is exciting to be able to lead 2XU into its next chapter in the SA Market. We have a compelling product, a clear roadmap, a strong team, and some fantastic industry support. With all these elements lining up, I’m confident that 2XU will claim its place as a leader in compression and performance gear in SA.”

2XU will be available in selected Totalsports and Sportman’s Warehouse doors and online www.2xu.co.za


Human Performance. Multiplied.

As the world leaders in compression, 2XU takes a unique standpoint as being the ‘punk of sport’ in the performance world. These rule-breakers and the change-makers stand out from the rest with a unique brand handwriting communicated through their emotive content and graffiti-inspired artwork. With its origins routed in controversy, the brand lends this handwriting to a dual meaning – we’re here with or without permission to make the change and be the change, through driving inspiration.

“2XU has recently undergone a global rebrand, which has propelled it into an incredibly exciting chapter. With its roots firmly planted in tri, the brands fresh irreverence combined with its technical excellence has given it a very powerful identity and story-telling capacity enabling conversation directly with the thought
leaders and trailblazers of the industry. Its message is unmistakably performance, but with a fresh challenging brand tone that talks directly to the ‘punks of sport.” says Lorrianne Cloete; Head of Marketing 2XU, South Africa


Product Selection and Focus

Product selections see the brand take shape in the SA market through three key areas Compression, Tri Suits and various multisport accessories including compression calf guards and open water swim accessories such as goggles, silicone swim caps, and timing straps. Compression gear will range from R999 for core compression shorts and sleeves to R1599 for full compression longs.

 

Run to Clean Up Our Oceans!

Roxanne MartinAd Free, News3 Comments on Run to Clean Up Our Oceans!

Ahead of World Oceans Day on June 8, adidas is harnessing the power of sport and using it as a force for change, by inviting you to join in its world-wide campaign to unite and Run for the Oceans!

From May 28 to June 8, adidas x Parley Run for the Oceans is returning for a fourth year, continuing its commitment to urgently address the devastating levels of marine plastic pollution in the oceans. For every kilometre recorded during this period as part of the campaign, adidas is committing to clean up the equivalent of 10 plastic bottles from beaches, remote islands and coastlines!

How Do You Get Involved?

It’s as simple as downloading the adidas Runtastic app, going to the community tab and joining the “Run for the Oceans Challenge.“

Once joined, you can link the app to your training account, so any kay you run will automatically update to the app. It’s that easy! And to get you really motivated, we will be running competitions where you can put yourself in the running to win five adidas hampers valued at R2000 each!

What is it all about?

Since 2015, adidas has made more than 30 million pairs of shoes with Parley Ocean Plastic. that’s plastic waste intercepted on beaches and in coastal communities, preventing it from polluting the oceans. But whilst progress has been made on the journey towards a more sustainable future, there is still vital work to be done in reducing marine plastic pollution.

Alberto Uncini Manganelli, GM Running & Credibility Sports at adidas, said: “As a global brand, and as global citizens, we have a big role to play in conserving the oceans and our planet. It is our responsibility to use our platforms, products, and voices to not just raise awareness, but to put into effect real action. In just three decades, the world’s oceans could contain more discarded plastic than fish if we don’t act now – only by working together and uniting can we end plastic waste.

To-date, adidas x Parley Run for the Oceans has united over 3 million runners around the world, collectively clocking up 25.5 million KMs and raising $2.5 million to help Parley develop its initiatives and educational programs in the fight against marine plastic pollution. In 2019, 92 schools were enrolled in the program and are now educations hubs, as well as plastic interception points for the local community. As a result, 70,000 kids and their families participated in the program.

Cyrill Gutsch, CEO and Founder of Parley, said: “More than a run or awareness campaign, Run for the Oceans has evolved into a powerful impact platform, one that inspires and empowers millions of people worldwide to unite around a common goal and support the oceans through sport, boosting the Parley movement through actual movement. And more than a partner, adidas has been a true ally, the family member we so urgently needed on our side to prove that industry can be the key that scales and accelerates solutions to the massive environmental problems we face. We believe that collaboration, creativity, and eco-innovation is the winning formula to save our oceans and end the global plastic crisis threatening the natural world, our own health and our future. Everyone who joins the run helps drive this vision forward.”

But this is just the beginning for the global initiative. As announced as part of adidas’ strategy ‘Own the Game’ in March (2021), Run For The Oceans will be further expanded to create a more inclusive digital and physical community space. By 2025, adidas aims to achieve a cumulative participation of 40 million people.

You can be part of this amazing journey to action significant change and clean up our oceans, all by doing what you already love to do… Running!