Category: News

‹ Back

Two Oceans Marathon Steps Into a New Era

Adnaan MohamedNews, Totalsports Two Oceans MarathonLeave a Comment on Two Oceans Marathon Steps Into a New Era
By Adnaan Mohamed

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.

Board members include:

WPA: Chris Goldschmidt (Chairperson), Nombini Zaku, Julius Oosthuizen, Achmat Jacobs

Celtic Harriers: Glenn Muller (Vice Chairperson), Armand Bam, Krishnakumar Patel, Sandiswa Ndlebe

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.

Meanwhile, the countdown has begun to the 2026 Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon, where thousands of runners will once again chase glory.

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.

For entry related queries please email [email protected]

Ryan and Glenrose blaze to glory at Boxer Super Run

Adnaan MohamedFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Ryan and Glenrose blaze to glory at Boxer Super Run
By Adnaan Mohamed

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 2025 Boxer 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

FIND ALL YOUR BOXER SUPER RUN RESULTS HERE

PRASA on track for Sanlam Cape Town Marathon

Adnaan MohamedEvent Update!, NewsLeave a Comment on PRASA on track for Sanlam Cape Town Marathon

Fan train, park-and-ride and extra services to keep the Mother City moving on race day

By Adnaan Mohamed

Cape Town’s streets will throb with rhythm and resilience on Sunday, 19 October 2025, when the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon (SCTM) hits full stride. And PRASA Western Cape will be right in the race powering up special trains to carry the city’s energy, fans and athletes alike.

Like a well-oiled relay team, PRASA will run extra special event services on the Northern, Southern and Cape Flats lines, ensuring no supporter misses a step.

The star of the show? A “fan train” gliding between Cape Town and Claremont. It will be like a moving grandstand where spectators can cheer from the carriages as the race unfolds along Victoria Road, Main Road, Palmyra Road, Campground Road and Liesbeek Parkway. This rolling cheer squad will match the runners stride for stride.

The plan? Cut congestion, curb parking stress, and give Cape Town’s running faithful a smooth, affordable ride to the action.

Tickets will be available ahead of time at the DHL Stadium Expo in Green Point from 16–18 October. On race day, special event timetables will be displayed at stations and online, ensuring seamless travel to key vantage points.

Commuters and fans can grab their tickets ahead of time at the DHL Stadium expo in Green Point from 16–18 October. On race day, special event timetables will be displayed at stations and online, ensuring seamless travel to key vantage points. Trains will operate at regular intervals with timetables posted online and at all stations.

To beat the gridlock, PRASA has turned key stops into Park-and-Ride hubs. On the Southern Line, Kenilworth, Heathfield, Lakeside and Fish Hoek offer safe options; while the Northern Line opens its doors at Vasco, Tygerberg, Bellville, Kuils River, Eerste Rivier, Strand, Brackenfell and Kraaifontein.

Beyond the logistics, the campaign is about connection, celebration, and community spirit.

“We are proud to be part of this iconic event that celebrates fitness, unity, and the beauty of Cape Town,” said Raymond Maseko, PRASA Western Cape Regional Manager.

“The activation at New Market Street in Woodstock showcases our service while bringing the ‘gees’ to runners and supporters.”

As the Mother City braces for its grand race, PRASA isn’t just keeping the wheels turning, it’s helping carry the soul of the marathon, full steam to the finish line.

RACE-DAY RAIL PLAN

Date: Sunday, 19 October 2025
Lines: Northern, Southern & Cape Flats
Special Feature: “Fan Train” – Cape Town ↔ Claremont
Tickets: Available at DHL Stadium Expo (16–18 Oct)
Timetables: Stations & PRASA social media platforms
Park & Ride:

  • Southern Line: Kenilworth, Heathfield, Lakeside, Fish Hoek
  • Northern Line: Vasco, Tygerberg, Bellville, Kuils River, Eerste Rivier, Strand, Brackenfell, Kraaifontein
    Benefits: Easy access, reduced congestion, affordable & safe travel

Pics: Courtesy of SCTM

GET YOUR SPECTATOR GUIDE HERE:

Ultra Gobi 400km | Champions Crowned

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Ultra Gobi 400km | Champions Crowned

Junyue(CHN)

The champions of the 2025 Ultra Gobi 400km have been crowned!

The men’s title was decided yesterday, while the women’s champion emerged today after four intense days in the Gobi Desert.

Women’s Champion —Bib：230 Zheng Junyue (CHN)

Defending champion Zheng Junyue secured her second women’s title today, finishing 5th overall in 92:24:55 and earning the title of “Guanjun Marshall.”

Starting 41st, she moved steadily up the rankings from 13th to 5th. On the morning of October 5 at R4, she shared her race struggles. “I was fighting alone in the desert, completely cut off from the outside world. The path to R2 felt like it stretched straight up to the clouds. After leaving R2, I was supposed to turn, but I just kept going straight. Luckily, this mistake didn’t last long. Then I started searching for footprints like a wilderness hunter—I found quite a few at first, but after looking for a while, the footprints disappeared again,” Junyue said.

She emphasized that her focus was on enjoying the race rather than breaking records. After finishing, she explained her motivation: “Actually, there are so many people who take on crazy challenges in this world, but I’ve noticed few women would try this. I think I can say I’ve made an attempt this year, because I’m afraid I will lose my courage if I don’t.”

Junyue first joined Ultra Gobi in 2024, when she set a women’s event record of 79:43:19 and won the title after a dramatic race involving a wolf encounter and a final 13 km battle. “I will participate in the Ultra Gobi 400km a third time, but I’m not sure if I will do so next year,” she added.

Men’s Champion —Bib：236 Cody Poskin (USA)

Cody Poskin claimed the men’s title on October 6 with a time of 64:49:32, breaking the event record and earning the title of “Guanjun Marshall.”

In his first Ultra Gobi 400km, Cody led from the start and built a significant gap. On the evening of October 5, however, he ran into multiple navigation problems and his leg was cut by thorn bushes. Although he was upset, losing his temper and swearing loudly, he forced himself to calm down and find solutions each time.

Before the race, Cody had estimated a 60-hour finish, but the final 100 km proved much tougher than expected. His speed dropped to 70–80% of earlier pace, averaging just 5–6 km/h. “Before the race, I studied the maps. However, when I arrived at the actual race venue, I still relied on my on-the-spot improvisation to take the shortcuts I had planned beforehand,” Cody said.

Reflecting at the finish, he described Ultra Gobi 400km as an adventure about living life to the fullest. “Running 400km means adventure and exploration. It means grabbing life by the horns and making an intentional decision to live life to the fullest. Gobi is passion and freedom. Coming to China to compete this time is truly the right choice I’ve made in my life!” he said.

Text Credits: James Huang / Grace Gao
Photo Credits: Ultra Gobi

 

Junyue Repeats Last Year’s Victory at Ultra Gobi

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Junyue Repeats Last Year’s Victory at Ultra Gobi

On day four of the GOBI ULTRA 400, after the men’s podium was determined the previous day, the lady winner was also decided. Zheng Junyue, already last year’s fastest, triumphed in the competition, which is still in full swing even after the first eight out of 55 runners have arrived. The athletes have until 18:30 local time on Thursday to complete the 400 kilometres.

With a time of 92 hours, 24 minutes and 55 seconds, Junyue fell well short of her performance last year, but still secured victory in the women’s competition and fifth place overall.

In the mixed zone at Gobi Spring, the Chinese athlete said: ‘I value my success this year more than last year’s victory. Twelve months ago, the motto was ‘fast, fast, fast’. But this year, first place wasn’t even the main focus. I wanted to enjoy ULTRA GOBI. I took photos, chatted with volunteers and friends along the route and was really happy in this unique landscape. This is the real Gobi!’

‘Just under 40 kilometres before the finish line, I knew I was going to win. Sometimes I was in the flow; sometimes the saying applied: ‘If you face something strong, you get stronger.’”

About two hours later, John William Carey and Lucy Schodell reached the finish line together.

Carey said: ‘I’ve never felt better than I do right now. Lucy and I are like brother and sister; we run together a lot. When we signed up for the ULTRA GOBI 400, we knew we’d be competing and enjoying the race together from start to finish.’

Schodell finished seventh overall and second in the women’s classification, completing the race in 94 hours, 27 minutes and 58 seconds.

“I didn’t actually expect a podium finish. We worked hard throughout the race and enjoyed it at the same time.”

‘There were some difficult moments, too. The second night was very cold; we got lost in the mountains, climbed unnecessary elevation and saw a large lake that wasn’t marked on any map.’

Carey and Schodell emphasised the outstanding organisation and work of the volunteers. ‘They were so friendly and helpful at all the checkpoints and aid stations.’

He Zheng was the best Chinese male athlete to reach the finish line at Gobi Spring in eighth place. He is from Gansu and said, “My father died a few months ago, so I dedicate this race and this finish to him. My whole family has always been very supportive of my running.”

Text Credits: Egon Theiner

African Bank Soweto Marathon: Full steam ahead

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on African Bank Soweto Marathon: Full steam ahead

The 30th edition of The People’s Race is well and truly on track, powering forward with thanks to the thousands of eager runners entered to date. With the unwavering support of headline partners African Bank, as well as the City of Joburg, Athletics South Africa and Central Gauteng Athletics; the planning processes and procedures are well on track for an exceptional race day come 29 November 2025. 

In March this year, the Soweto Athletics Clubs passed a resolution that the proposed vehicle to administer the organisation of the 2025 Soweto Marathon race event would be a Non-Profit Company (NPC). This NPC was elected by a majority vote, with nine (9) out of eleven (11) Soweto Athletics Clubs in attendance at an official meeting held earlier this year. 

Due to conduct of certain individuals, specifically, Thulani Sibisi, Stan Itshegetseng and Ishe Sadiki, in April 2025 the Soweto Marthon (Pty) Ltd initiated a Court process against these individuals. It is therefore not true that either the (Pty) Ltd nor the NPC took the Soweto Marathon Trust to Court. The Soweto Marathon (Pty) Ltd and the Athletics Clubs of Soweto initiated a Court proceed where they sought certain interdictory reliefs against these individuals. The relief sought, amongst others, were as follows:

  • Directing that the respondents stop abusing the Soweto Marathon for nefarious gains and bringing the name of the Soweto Marathon into disrepute;
  • Directing that the respondents stop calling and convening meetings in the name of the Soweto Athletics Club and the name Soweto Marathon;
  • Directing that the respondents stop spreading false allegations against the Soweto Marathon (Pty) Ltd and its director, Thokozani Mazibuko; and
  • Directing that the respondents stop contacting stakeholders and presenting false and misleading information.

It is unfortunate that the matter was decided on a technical basis and same has left room for the individuals to continue with their propaganda campaign and spreading lies. The Court concluded that due to the fact of the abovementioned resolution taken in March, it could only be the NPC representing the clubs before it and not the Soweto Marathon (Pty) Ltd. wherefore, the Court made no ruling on the merits of the matter. We therefore wish to reiterate that there was never a Court process between the Soweto Marathon NPC or Soweto Marathon (Pty) Ltd against the Soweto Marathon Trust. Further, the Court case was not to determine who should organise the race. 

The race organising team, race office and all partners and sponsors remain unchanged and committed as per the hugely successful 2024 Soweto Marathon – the country’s biggest one day road race. With this in mind, the Soweto Marathon NPC would like to remind the valued running community of its objectives of ensuring good and proper governance and sound financial accountability.

Lastly, On 6 October 2025, the Central Gauteng Athletics (CGA) addressed a letter to the NPC recording that it is aware of the developments around the Soweto Marathon race and that things need to be sorted out. The letter records, amongst others, the following:

“It is unfortunate that those who are currently serving suspension by the country’s governing bodies, are being given any airtime whatsoever. Working together is what is needed here, and I remind every single person taking the time to read this that: The Athletics Clubs of Soweto own this race – and they will focus on the race organizing committee to run this race by the people, for the people.”

 CGA concludes by wishing the NPC well in its organizing the 2025 Soweto Marathon race.

Tarboton Smashes Record as Simpson Seals Hat-Trick in Historic Otter Trail

Adnaan MohamedNews, TrailLeave a Comment on Tarboton Smashes Record as Simpson Seals Hat-Trick in Historic Otter Trail
By Adnaan Mohamed

History was rewritten on the rugged cliffs and forests of the Otter TERREX Trail as Bianca Tarboton shattered the women’s course record and Scotland’s Robbie Simpson completed an unprecedented men’s hat-trick.

Tarboton dominated from the moment record-holder Toni McCann limped out at 7km with an ankle injury. By halfway she had a 12-minute cushion and by the finish she was nearly 49 minutes clear of Rebecca Watney.

Her winning time of 4:30:55 slashed 14 minutes off her own 2021 mark, securing a fourth Otter crown and making her the first woman to clinch a treble.

Bianca Tarboton crosses the finish line with a record-breaking victory – obliterating the Classic Record as well as claiming the title of the first runner to win 4 Otters. Photo: Fahwaaz Cornelius

“I’m on cloud nine,” Tarboton said.

“It still hasn’t sunk in, but I know I am completely over the moon with that race.”

Simpson, meanwhile, kept his cool in the men’s race despite local star Robbie Rorich breathing down his neck at Andre Hut, 8km from the finish.

The Scot dug deep on the final stretch to win in 4:04:59 in a time eight minutes faster than his previous best, with Rorich and Kane Reilly completing the podium.

Robbie Simpson claiming the first back-to-back-to-back victory. Photo: Fahwaaz Cornelius

“It’s a tough race and nothing is a given,” Simpson said.

“You just have to keep fighting for it.”

Rorich laughed about cooling his cramping legs in the river crossings.

“It gave me time for the mind reset,” he said.

The Otter also saluted its stalwarts: Mvuyisi Gcogco notched his 10th consecutive finish, Ralph Enslin collected his 13th, while Juan Ferreira extended his record tally with a 15th start.

Prize money added extra sparkle: Tarboton banked R190,000 with bonuses for her record, while both winners pocketed R100,000 in cash and equities.

“I hope they retire comfortably with their investment safely in the bank,” quipped EasyEquities CMO Carel Nolte.

But the loudest roar came not for records or podiums, but for the last runner home. Sias Esterhuizen sprinted across the line just seconds before the cut-off bell, collapsing in relief.

“I didn’t think I was going to make it,” he gasped.

“It’s just awesome to have done that.”

From hat-tricks to heartbreaks and records to rescues, the Otter once again lived up to its billing as the “Grail of Trail.”

It’s a race where grit, glory and human spirit collide on one of the toughest 42km routes in the world.

Mvuyisi Gcogco, running his tenth Otter race. Photo: Caleb Bjergfelt
Click here for full 2025 Race Results

Men

1. Robbie Simpson (04:04:59); 2. Robbie Rorich (04:12:23); 3. Kane Reilly (04:12:38); 4. Marcel Hoeche (04:15:00); 5. Jacques Buys (04:27:46); 6. Mvuyisi Gcogco (04:38:19); 7. Admire Muzopambwa (04:47:28); 8. Gabriel Kriel (04:49:31); 9. Oliver Munnik (04:51:43); 10. Thabang Madiba (04:58:06)

Women:

1 Bianca Tarboton (04:30:55); 2 Rebecca Watney (05:09:08);  3 Robyn De Groot (05:35:18) ; 4 Amelia Bergh (05:52:54); 5 Estee Cockcroft (05:56:13); 6 Naomi Brand (06:07:39); 7 Ingrid Shaw (06:28:05); 8 Georgina Els (06:31:21) ; 9 Jenna Snyman (06:40:18); 10 Lana Cronje (06:40:19)

Mashele, Mulaudzi and Mhlanga Primed for Boxer Super Run Durban

Adnaan MohamedBoxer Super Run, NewsLeave a Comment on Mashele, Mulaudzi and Mhlanga Primed for Boxer Super Run Durban
By Adnaan Mohamed

Boxer Athletics Club’s star trio of Precious Mashele, Kabelo Mulaudzi and Chris Mhlanga will return for another crack at the Boxer Super Run 5km on Durban’s promenade this Sunday.

Last year, the three turned the beachfront into a Boxer sweep, with Mashele storming to victory in 13:39, chased by Mulaudzi (13:40) and Mhlanga (13:43).

The clean sweep set the tone for one of the toughest 5km races in the country.

“Last year, I won the Boxer Super Run in Durban on my birthday, which was very special for me,” Mashele said.

“Winning the race has meant a lot to me because I used the prize money to continue building my house in Limpopo.

“This year, I’ve been struggling with injury, so I’m motivated to come back strong and win my club race to thank Boxer and Ntate [Rhyn] Swanepoel for all their support during difficult times.”

Elite Men at Boxer Super Run Durban 2024 by Gavin Ryan
Mulaudzi, second last year, believes Durban suits his racing instincts.

“The 5km and 10km are my favourite distances, so the Boxer Super Run Durban is an event I really look forward to. My goal is a win and a personal best. I think I have a good chance, but part of my success comes from being very respectful of my opponents,” he said.

Known for his devastating kick, Mulaudzi added:

“I try to stay flexible with my tactics, but generally my strength and speed in the last 2km help me perform well. Durban has always been a special venue for me. The course and the beachfront always fill me with excitement.”

To social runners, he had simple advice:

“Don’t start too fast. It’s always better to finish strongly than to charge at the start and struggle in the second half.”

Mhlanga, who rounded off last year’s podium, is ready to fight again.

“The Boxer Super Run is special because, as Boxer AC athletes, we get to showcase our talent in our very own biggest 5km. My goal is to finish on the podium again. It’s not an easy course, yet we still manage our best times.”

Boxer’s Head of Marketing, Lee-Ann Pillay, summed up the anticipation:

“It was such a proud moment in 2024 to see Boxer Athletics Club round off the Elite Men’s podium. We are thrilled to welcome back Precious, Kabelo and Chris in 2025. These three top contenders are true inspirations for the sport.”

With R147 200 in prize money on the line, Sunday’s race promises fireworks on the Durban seafront. Expect another fast, furious finish, and perhaps, a repeat of Boxer’s podium parade.

Ultra Gobi 400km Day 3

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Ultra Gobi 400km Day 3

Breaking the event record & A New Brotherhood is Born

Ultra Gobi 2025 — Men’s Podium Decided

The top three finishers of the Ultra Gobi 400km have been confirmed, with all three athletes delivering extraordinary performances in this year’s grueling race across the Gobi Desert.

Cody Poskin (Bib 236, USA)
Cody Poskin claimed the Ultra Gobi 400km championship title, crossing the finish line in 64 hours, 49 minutes, and 32 seconds. His exceptional performance broke the event record, earning him the prestigious title of “Guanjun Marshall.”

Jovica Spajić (Bib 240, Serbia)
Jovica Spajić secured second place with a finish time of 68 hours, 20 minutes, and 38 seconds, and was honored with the title of “Cheji Marshall.”

Aaron Kubala (Bib 234, USA)
Aaron Kubala rounded out the men’s podium, finishing in 68 hours, 28 minutes, and 38 seconds, and was awarded the title of “Zhenjun Marshall.”

Meanwhile, Zheng Junyue (Bib 230, China) made a strong push in the latter stages of the race, overtaking Ni Yusheng to temporarily move into 5th place overall.

A New Brotherhood at Ultra Gobi

Jovica Spajić (Serbia) and Aaron Kubala (USA) finished the race together, placing second and third respectively, but their journey became much more than a battle for podium positions.

The two athletes teamed up at Checkpoint 14 / Rest Point 4, located at the 161 km mark. Kubala had reached the checkpoint with a slight lead and was preparing to leave when Spajić arrived.

“Shall we run together?” the Serbian asked.
“How long do you need to get ready again?” the American replied.
“Five minutes.”

And so began a partnership that would last for the next two days and 240 kilometers, laying the foundation for a lifelong friendship.

“We became brothers,” Spajić declared.

“We experienced highs and lows at different times and helped each other out of the pain cave,” said Kubala.
“Aaron led the way through the nights, and when he was in trouble, I was there for him. I didn’t want to leave him,” Spajić added.

In such a competitive race as the Ultra Gobi 400, the two had to maintain a relentless pace to hold off Sangé Sherpa, who was both kilometres away and yet dangerously close behind.

“It was an emotional journey and a true adventure. Now I have a new brother. During our joint efforts, everything came naturally; nothing was forced. Our teamwork was a gift from God,” said Spajić.
“We ran together for hours without talking. Everything was relaxed, and we enjoyed every moment.”

Kubala reflected on the shared experience:

“The sunrises and sunsets were exceptional, and I felt so well supported by my family and girlfriend, even though they were far away.”

Spajić expressed pride in representing Serbia on the global stage through this prestigious event:

“This race is tough. The scenery is wonderful, and it’s worth seeing — but you really have to be well prepared to finish it.”

A legend is Lost, Sudden Passing of Former Winner and Chair Cheryl Winn

Roxanne MartinNewsLeave a Comment on A legend is Lost, Sudden Passing of Former Winner and Chair Cheryl Winn

Following a release from the Comrades Marathon Association, we are saddened to publish that Cheryl Winn, the 1982 women’s winner, a former Chair of the CMA Board, passed away on Sunday, 5 October. Tragically, she passed away while pursuing one of her passions, nature photography, on a family holiday in the Drakensberg.

Running Career and Victory

Cheryl Winn began her involvement in running in the early 1970s while at university in the United States, initially jogging simply as a social activity. Upon discovering the sport, she found a natural talent for competition. She became deeply involved in the sport, noting, “If you suddenly discover that late in life, when I hadn’t been good in any sport ever in my life, and you suddenly discover something that you’re good at. I mean, obviously, it just grabs you. And that’s what happened with me.”

Her running progression led her inevitably to the Comrades Marathon, which, at the time, “totally dominated the running scene. It’s the reason why groups of people got together to train. In fact, the entire road running calendar was built around building up towards the Comrades Marathon.”

Cheryl ran the Comrades Marathon six times between 1978 and 1984, consistently placing near the front of the women’s field. She finished fourth in her first race, was runner-up twice in 1980 and 1981, and ultimately claimed the women’s title in 1982. She often attributed her success to mental fortitude, stating in a podcast with Cherie Turner: “I think what I had was more determination. I had what it took in my head more than anything else.”

Leadership and Administration

Even while still competing, Winn became involved in the administration of athletics, initially at the club and provincial level, working alongside her late husband, Mick Winn, himself a former CMA Chairman. She served extensively within the national federation, the South African Road Running Association (SARRA), which later became Athletics South Africa (ASA).

Her commitment to the race she conquered only deepened on the administrative side. In 2017, she was elected as the Chairperson of the CMA Board, becoming the only person in the race’s history to have won the Comrades Marathon and subsequently held the top administrative post. She considered this role a privilege and a duty, reflecting: “I sincerely regard this latest development at Comrades, not as an achievement, but a humble responsibility I have been entrusted with by my colleagues to lead softly, contribute and pass on the knowledge and experience I have accumulated over many years.”

Cheryl was a dedicated disciple of transformation in sport, embracing changes within the structure of athletics, believing that true leadership demanded “humility, empathy, trust, and respect.”

Reflecting on the transformative power of the race, she said in a podcast with Cherie Turner: “There’s something about committing yourself to something as big as the Comrades Marathon that does sort of change your perception of yourself. It changes what you believe about yourself.” She continued to serve the CMA after stepping down as Chairperson in 2021, holding positions on the Finance, Marketing & Membership, Heritage & Traditions, and Elders Committees.

The sport has lost a tremendous woman; our sincere condolences to Cheryl’s family during this hard time.