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Bronze lining for SA in Tokyo as relay team break eight-year medal drought

Roxanne MartinNewsLeave a Comment on Bronze lining for SA in Tokyo as relay team break eight-year medal drought

It took until the final day of the World Athletics Championships, but the quartet of Lythe Pillay, Udeme Okon, Wayde van Niekerk and Zakithi Nene ensured Team South Africa will not leave Tokyo empty-handed after securing a bronze medal in the 4x400m relay. That brought to an end an eight-year World Championships medal drought. By Karien Jonckheere

The foursome tore round the track in two minutes 57.83 seconds with Zakithi almost pipping world and Olympic 400m hurdles champion Rai Benjamin on the line for the silver, but the American just edged ahead by two thousandths of a second with Botswana taking gold in 2:57.76. 

Gardeo Isaacs and Leendert Koekemoer, who will also be awarded the bronze medal, had made way for Van Niekerk and Nene for the final, with Van Niekerk expressing his gratitude for ending his 400m career on a high. 

“I really don’t want to make the team effort a personal thing, but it was really an amazing opportunity for me,” admitted the 400m world record holder afterwards, adding a shoutout to his teammates. “I think they know my journey, the last few years fighting with the 400m… I’m really just grateful to each and every one of them for pushing for me and fighting for me to be here.

“It’s really a privilege that I can finish off my 400m career with a medal, and hopefully it gives them some motivation to go and get some more medals for themselves.”

Wayde’s, whose medal collection includes Rio Olympic gold in the 400 as well as two 400m world titles and a 200m silver, added that he hoped the bronze would inspire his teammates to bigger things.

“I think I’m glad it’s a bronze because now it gives them reason to fight for silver and gold for themselves individually and then as a team as well,” he said.

Lythe was excited about the future potential of the team that included Udeme, who has just turned 20, and 18-year-old Leendert.

“We’re still a very young team, we have a lot of potential going forward,” he said. “I grew up wanting to run like Wayde. I started running chasing Zak and Gardeo, now Udeme and Leendert are chasing me, so we have a really great flow of athletes… so just up from here.”

With the World Athletics Championships coming to a close on Sunday, a look back reveals there were several injury disappointments and close shaves for Team SA, but also plenty to celebrate apart from the bronze medal, with the country’s sprinters really making their mark by reaching their respective finals of the 100m (Gift Leotlela and Akani Simbine), 200m (Sinesipho Dambile) and 400m (Nene).

Successful appeal hands SA sprint relay team chance to qualify for final

Roxanne MartinNewsLeave a Comment on Successful appeal hands SA sprint relay team chance to qualify for final

The South African men’s 4x100m relay team was thrown a dramatic lifeline late on Saturday night at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo. That’s after a successful appeal for being impeded in their heat earlier in the evening. By Karien Jonckheere

First-leg runner Shaun Maswanganyi was bumped out of position by Italy’s 2020 Olympic champion Marcell Jacobs at the crucial first baton changeover, leaving Team SA’s hopes in tatters as they couldn’t finish the race. But the successful appeal has reopened the door. The sprinters will line up again in a timed relay on Sunday morning at 10.33am local time with one last shot to snatch a place in the final.

According to a World Athletics update: “If the South African team runs 38.34 or better (the 8th placed time qualified for the final) they will become the 9th team in the final and will run in lane 1. This will not affect the 8 teams already qualified.”

It means the same quartet of Maswanganyi, Sinesipho Dambile, Bradley Nkoana and Akani Simbine must regroup overnight and summon their very best, once more from the same lane six.

Meanwhile, Jo-Ané du Plessis finished just off the podium in fourth place in the women’s javelin final after a best effort of 63.06m. She admitted afterwards that the prospect of the final had seemed a daunting one after qualifying in a lowly 10th spot on Friday.

“When I woke up this morning, I was feeling like David against Goliath, so I’m happy. It’s not a medal but for me it’s like a gold medal, just showing up and still doing my best,” she said.

There were mixed fortunes for SA’s other relay teams in action on Saturday. The men’s 4x400m quartet of Gardeo Isaacs, Udeme Okon, Leendert Koekemoer and Lythe Pillay sailed to victory in their heat in convincing fashion, crossing the line in 2 minutes 58.81 seconds.

“My team did the job for me. I wanted to finish strong,” said Lythe, who ran the anchor leg. “I’ve felt what it’s like when you relax too much when you’re in the lead so I thought let me just go and whoever wants to catch me must fight to catch me.

“Our team is strong, we’re healthy, we’re hungry and we’re ready for the final tomorrow.”

The women’s 4x400m team of Shirley Nehkubui, Marlie Viljoen, Hannah van Niekerk and Zenéy van der Walt finished seventh in their heat in 3:28.14 and did not advance. 

Earlier on Saturday, Wayne Snyman was relieved to cross the line in the 20km race walk, but his 43rd-place finish in 1 hour 30.12 seconds was far from his target. The 40-year-old schoolteacher, who has retired and returned to the sport more than once, faced a difficult road to these championships – and an even harder race on the day.

“I started terribly. The first 9km was incredibly hard, I couldn’t breathe at all. I had to stop to vomit twice,” he admitted afterwards. “And I think after about nine and a half or 10, I actually started to get comfortable. Then I actually started racing, but then in a 20km, it’s far too late but I just couldn’t stop, I had to finish.”

South Africa also endured disappointment in the field events, with none of the three shot putters – Miné de Klerk (24th), Ashley Erasmus (30th) and Colette Uys (32nd) – advancing past qualification. Victor Hogan also missed out in the discus after managing 61.51m to place 24th overall.

Comrades Marathon Loses a Humble Hero

Adnaan MohamedComrades Marathon, Features, NewsLeave a Comment on Comrades Marathon Loses a Humble Hero

By Adnaan Mohamed

Farewell to Jetman Msuthu (1957–2025)

South Africa has bid farewell to one of its true road-running heroes. Jetman Msuthu, Comrades Marathon winner and Green Number 7532, passed away on 15 September 2025 at the age of 68, just days after the loss of his wife.

Born in the village of Lukholo near Bizana in the Eastern Cape, Msuthu began running at 18 and carried his stride into history. Between 1988 and 2016, he completed 14 Comrades Marathons, collecting three gold medals, 10 silvers and a bronze.

His greatest moment came in 1992 when, after finishing second, he was later crowned champion following Charl Mattheus’s disqualification.

That victory made him only the second man of colour, after Sam Tshabalala, to win the Ultimate Human Race.

Though denied the joy of breaking the winner’s tape on race day, Msuthu wore the mantle of champion with pride and humility for the rest of his life.

He also represented South Africa at the 1993 100km World Championships in Belgium, helping secure team gold. His final Comrades, in 2016, was a steady farewell run in 9:38:48.

Tributes have flowed from across the running fraternity. CMA Chairperson Mqondisi Ngcobo called him “a legend who ran out of passion, not for prize money.”

Former chair Cheryl Winn said, “He carried the mantle of champion with enormous pride and humility.”

Nine-time winner Bruce Fordyce remembered him as gracious and humble, while 1991 winner Nick Bester recalled him as both friend and teammate.

“It’s with deep sadness that I heard about the passing of Jetman, a friend and teammate representing South Africa at the World 100km Championships in Belgium in 1993, where we won the gold medal in the team category,” recalls Nick.

“Our team consisted of Cornet Matomane, Zephania Ndaba, Charl Mattheus, Mark Page, Jetman and I, with Bruce Fordyce and the late Vreni Welch as our team managers.

“Charl and Mark did not finish the race, so Cornet, Zephania, Jetman and I counted for the team prize. Condolences to his family – he will be missed!”

Jetman Msuthu’s name is etched in the history of the Comrades Marathon and in the hearts of those he inspired. His stride has stilled, but his legacy will continue to pace generations of runners.

The Champion Who Carried the Comrades Spirit

“A legend who ran out of passion, not for prize money.” — CMA Chairperson Mqondisi Ngcobo

“He carried the mantle of champion with enormous pride and humility.” — Former CMA Chairperson Cheryl Winn

“My favourite memory of Jetman is how humble and gracious he was.” — Nine-time winner Bruce Fordyce

“Our friend and teammate… he will be missed.” — 1991 Comrades winner Nick Bester

Rest in peace, Comrades Champion.

Dambile predicts big things as Jo-Ané keeps medal hopes alive

Roxanne MartinNewsLeave a Comment on Dambile predicts big things as Jo-Ané keeps medal hopes alive

Sinesipho Dambile predicted big things for next season after competing in his first World Athletics Championship final on Friday. The 23-year-old finished eighth in the 200m final in Tokyo in 20.23 seconds in a race won for the fourth time by American Noah Lyles in 19.52 seconds. By Karien Jonckheere

“I made a lot of mistakes in the final,” he said after struggling around the tight bend from lane 2. “But more than anything, I enjoyed the final. I enjoyed being in that field where it was just the top eight guys in the world in 200m and I’m looking forward to next season. It’s going to be a different Dambile going forward.”

The 200m national champion, who trains alongside fellow world champs finalist Gift Leotela and double world junior champion Bayanda Walaza, believes that with a bit more hard work, he can challenge the likes of Lyles.  

“I want to be better now. These guys are just like us. I just have to work a little bit harder and make sure next time I’m on that podium. I feel that I have all the physical gifts to do that. Just one more off-season and then I’ll be there,” he said.

Earlier in the evening, Jo-Ané du Plessis’s opening throw of 61.38m in qualification was enough to see her through to the javelin final. The distance saw the Olympic silver medallist finishing 10th overall in qualifying, with only 12 athletes making it through.

“I feel like there’s work to do… and hopefully we can correct what we did wrong tonight,” she said afterwards.

With the qualification round and final just one day apart, Du Plessis reckoned it will be the best-conditioned athletes who will perform on Saturday evening. The 27-year-old has enjoyed plenty of consistency this season, finishing on the podium in all but two of her competitions. 

“It definitely helped to get competition-ready because it’s going well in training but you have to be in charge of your emotions on the day on the field, so that’s what the competition is for – because if you’re relaxed you can do a lot of things with the javelin, but if you are a bit more stressed it’s a bit more difficult, so we’ll see.”

5FM TO AMPLI5 THE BREAST INTENTIONS COLOUR RUN 2025

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on 5FM TO AMPLI5 THE BREAST INTENTIONS COLOUR RUN 2025

5FM is proud to announce that it will be Ampli5ing the Breast Intentions Colour Run 2025– not only tackling the tough topic of breast cancer awareness with the whole family, but also having a ton of fun and, more importantly making a practical, life-saving difference

The highly anticipated Breast Intentions Colour Run 2025 will be taking place from 10h00 on Saturday, 27 September 2025, at the scenic Thaba Eco Trails in Johannesburg. This vibrant, family-friendly event is more than just a fun run – it’s a bold step toward empowering women and saving lives.

As part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the event aims to raise funds for 100 life-saving mammograms for women in under-resourced communities. With every ticket sold, participants will directly contribute to the “Give Hope. Fund a Scan.” campaign, making a tangible difference in the fight against breast cancer.

Masi Mdingane, Business Manager for 5FM and Good Hope FM says, “5FM is not just about playing banging tunes and having EPIC parties. It’s also about making a meaningful, practical impact. Through this partnership, we’re amplifying women’s health initiatives and showing that we and the 5 Nation are here to help, not just talk. Together with Breast Intentions Colour Run, we’re creating a movement that’s massively fun, but also loud, proud, and purposeful.”

The day promises to be a celebration of wonderful women, stories of triumph, colour, fitness, and hope, featuring:
• A scenic 5km fun run/walk through Thaba Eco Trails
• Colour powder stations for a splash of fun
• Live DJ entertainment at the finish line
• Delicious food and drink stalls
• A feel-good, family-friendly atmosphere

5FM will be featuring insightful, inspiring content on the topic in the lead-up to the event and giving away 50 tickets to lucky listeners, and will also bring MASSIVE energy on the day with a 5 Weekend Breakfast Live broadcast from 07h00 to 10h00, on-site activations and the 5FM Chill Lounge, ensuring an EPIC experience for a wonderful cause.

Stay tuned to 5FM, download the 5FM app for iOS and Android, visit www.5fm.co.za and follow the station on all social media for ticket info and more information.

The 2025 African Bank Soweto Marathon

Tanika LaskeyNewsLeave a Comment on The 2025 African Bank Soweto Marathon

DATE CHANGE: South Africa’s biggest one-day race will be held on 29 November 2025

The 30 th edition of “The People’s Race” has been rescheduled to take place on Saturday 29 November 2025 – one day earlier than previously scheduled. The change of date has been granted by the Central Gauteng Athletics Road Commission, courtesy of Mr Mandla Radebe.

The Soweto Marathon Non-Profit Company (NPC) which is carrying the race on behalf of the Soweto Athletics Clubs, confirmed that the movement of the race to one day earlier is due to the ZCC gathering taking place within the same precinct on Sunday 30 November 2025.

Soweto Marathon Spokesperson Jabu Mbuli says that in consultation with their valued partners as well as
the Athletics Clubs of Soweto; it was decided that whilst moving the date is unsettling, it is also unavoidable. On the plus side, it opens the race up to even more fans to participate in the country’s biggestone day road race;

 
“We must first apologise for any inconvenience caused to those who have already entered. This race is by the people, for the people – and it is our duty to ensure that, as much as is possible, the race day is open to everyone, and not in competition with any other major events. Our service providers have given us the green light, all is confirmed and in place for another hugely successful race and we welcome all from far and wide to come join in the energy, festivities, history and warmth of Soweto.”

The race will take place at Nasrec, Soweto, hosted by The City of Johannesburg; with the route unchanged as per the 2024 edition.

Sbusiso Kumalo, Chief Marketing Officer African Bank says, “African Bank is not just sponsoring a race — we’re investing in the heartbeat of Soweto. Every runner, every family member, every supporter brings economic energy that stays in the township, circulating and uplifting the community. We’re here because this community is our home, we were birthed here 60 years ago when African Bank ideated, and 50 years later since African Bank opened its first branch, we need to acknowledge our heritage. We’re here to celebrate our legacy, African Banks umbilical cord is in Soweto. 80,000 new customers who sign up with us each month, are predominantly from Soweto, and they are essence of why we stay. African Bank Soweto Marathon isn’t just a race; it’s a movement that shifts the trajectory of unemployment and economic
challenges. We run with our people, through highs and lows, because they continuously support us, and as a result – we back this race. Let’s make this the biggest race on the continent, and show what Soweto can do for South Africa’s economy.”

The African Bank Soweto Marathon race office will communicate accordingly with all those who have already entered as per the previous date communicated.

Soweto Marathon NPC would like to extend a heartfelt Thank You to their partners including African Bank; Gauteng Department of Sports, Arts and Culture; City of Johannesburg; Southgate Mall; Lenmed; SuperSport; VW Soweto; Castle Lite; Sowetan; eGenerators & Plant Hire; Action Photo SA; Athletics South Africa; South African Institute for drug-free sport.

Entry fees for all three categories are now open – and runners will undoubtedly welcome the news of the retained 2023 prices namely R380 for the marathon; R300 for the 21.1km and R280 for the 10km.

To enter, runners are encouraged to visit www.sowetomarathon.com. The prize money remains equal for both the
male and female categories, with the top prize awarded to the 42.2km Open winner set to take home R250 000.

Sinesipho blazes into 200m final with sub-20 showing as teammates falter

Roxanne MartinNewsLeave a Comment on Sinesipho blazes into 200m final with sub-20 showing as teammates falter

Sinesipho Dambile was the shining light on an otherwise bleak day for Team SA at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo on Thursday. By Karien Jonckheere

After a tough journey overcoming injury and multiple disappointments, the 23-year-old produced a personal best performance when it mattered most, powering to third place in his 200m semifinal in 19.97 seconds to secure a place in his first World Championship final.

“I still have a hell of a lot more in the tank, so tomorrow it’s just going to be me enjoying the final and running as fast as I can again,” said a thrilled Sinesipho afterwards. 

Wayde van Niekerk finished fourth in his semifinal in 20.12 seconds, which wasn’t quite enough to see him through. But he celebrated Sinesipho’s achievement saying: “You know what, a South African made it through and we as a nation are still being represented in the final, and no better person than the youngsters coming through now.” 

Meanwhile, later in the evening, a medal proved out of reach for Zakithi Nene in the 400m. The KZN star came into these championships with the fastest time in the world this year, of 43.76 seconds, raising hope he could secure South Africa’s first World Championships medal since 2017. But it was not to be, with Nene finishing fifth in 44.55 seconds as Botswana’s Busang Collen Kebinatshipi stormed to gold in another world-leading time of 43.53 seconds.

Suffering from dizziness after the race, Nene said: “I don’t know what happened there. I think tactically it just wasn’t my day today… I don’t have any words honestly. I’m really devastated.”

Another of the country’s medal hopefuls, Prudence Sekgodio, also struggled to come to terms with what unfolded in her 800m heat after pulling out halfway through with a leg injury.

The tearful 23-year-old explained afterwards: “I felt something in the warm-up area on my hamstring, I think I strained it. I think I stretched it too much. I did tell my coach that I felt something, but in my mind I thought it’s nothing serious. But in the call room my leg didn’t want to move, and I couldn’t do strides.

“The past three weeks, things were going really well. I trained so hard, and I was ready for this and now this is the end of my season. I wanted it to end on a good note, but God had his own plans.”

There was further disappointment for Charné du Plessis, who also pulled out of her 800m heat with injury.

Champions Crowned at the 2025 RMB Universities’ Boat Race

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Champions Crowned at the 2025 RMB Universities’ Boat Race

UCT men’s and TUKS women take top honours

Port Alfred, 15 September 2025: The 2025 RMB Universities’ Boat Race wrapped up on the Kowie River this weekend, delivering three days of thrilling competition, fierce rivalries, and standout performances that showcased the depth of South African university rowing.

The University of Cape Town (UCT) powered to victory in the men’s A Division winning the Cambridge Rudder trophy, while University of Pretoria (TUKS) defended their crown in the women’s A Division with another dominant performance earning themselves the Isis Blade trophy. Stellenbosch University (MATIES) secured third place podium finishes across both men’s and women’s divisions, underlining their strength in depth.

More than 300 athletes representing 36 crews from 10 universities lined up across multiple categories, with every race serving up high-intensity action.

Standout Moments
– “Chloe Cresswell, fresh off her U23 World Championship silver medal, steered TUKS to the Women’s 8+ final victory.
– UCT’s men showed composure and power in their final sprint to claim the A Division title.
– Walter Sisulu University (WSU) impressed on debut, pushing seasoned opposition to the line and earning plaudits for their performance.

On-Water Voices

Chief Umpire Gordon Dodge praised the crews: “This year’s RMB Universities’ Boat Race was a phenomenal showcase of grit, determination and teamwork. Conditions were challenging, but we were treated to a series of thrilling, hard-fought races with many crews showing remarkable improvement. RMB once again went above and beyond to make the event truly memorable for our university athletes.”

This year marked the 10th edition since RMB became headline sponsor in 2015, and saw the strongest women’s field in years, with multiple universities entering more than one crew – a clear sign of the sport’s growth and transformation.

Michael Edwards, RMB Sponsorship Marketing Lead, said: “RMB is proud to support the athletes, universities and rowing community that made this event possible. This regatta continues to be a platform for discovering South Africa’s future champions, and we congratulate every crew that raced on the Kowie this weekend.”

The 2025 RMB Universities’ Boat Race delivered speed, excitement, and competitiveness on water — cementing its place as one of the most anticipated events on the South African student sporting calendar.

Visit the RMB and USSA websites, RMB social media platform and USSA Instagram page for regular updates.

The final positions in the men and women’s A Division are as follows:

Men’s A division: 

  1. UCT 
  2. TUKS
  3. MATIES
  4. UJ
  5. UFH
  6. WITS
  7. NMU
  8. UWC
  9. RHODES
  10. WSU 

Women’s A Division: 

  1. TUKS
  2. UCT
  3. MATIES
  4. WITS
  5. UJ
  6. UWC
  7. WSU
  8. NMU
  9. UFH
  10. RHODES

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Wayde & Sinesipho sail into 200m semis as Tshepo savours first world champs final

Roxanne MartinNewsLeave a Comment on Wayde & Sinesipho sail into 200m semis as Tshepo savours first world champs final

Both Wayde van Niekerk and Sinesipho Dambile booked their places in the 200m semifinals in Tokyo on Wednesday, while Tsepho Tshite finished ninth in his first-ever World Championship final. By Karien Jonckheere

The 1500m national record holder was delighted to be promoted to the final following Cole Hocker’s semifinal disqualification. And although Tshepo admitted he was unhappy with his early positioning, he relished the chance to line up again, going on to finish ninth in 3 minutes 35.50.

“This is a great booster because now I can believe that it’s possible for me to compete with these guys… The way I ran the heats and semis it shows that I’m on a level with them,” he said afterwards.

Earlier in the evening, Wayde had eased through his 200m heat, looking relaxed as he crossed the line in second place in 20.19 seconds. 

“It was comfortable. But I think there was a lot of rust that needed to come off today as well, so I think it was a strong start to the race and then just trying to see it through,” said the 400m world record holder who is only contesting the shorter sprint at these championships. 

“I think I’m really just trying to soak in the moment and just going off everything day by day and today was a positive one so regroup and get ready for tomorrow.”

After a nerve-racking start after narrowly avoiding disqualification for twitching in his blocks, Sinesipho booked his spot in the semifinals after finishing third in his heat in 20.27 seconds.

“I was calm because I knew it wasn’t a false start, I knew I didn’t move [my feet],” he explained.

“I think through the rounds I get better… I know I’m in great shape, so in the semifinal I’ve got to make sure that I unleash everything.”

Meanwhile, Zenéy van der Walt finished seventh in her 400m hurdles semifinal in a time she wasn’t pleased with after bumping into the athlete next to her twice during the race.

 “I’m not that happy [with the time], but I’m still blessed that I could represent South Africa in the semifinals at the world champs,” she said.

There was more disappointment for Team SA’s field athletes, with Douw Smit’s effort of 81.23m in javelin qualification not enough to see him through to the final.

Zakithi coasts into 400m final to keep SA world champs medal hopes alive 

Roxanne MartinNewsLeave a Comment on Zakithi coasts into 400m final to keep SA world champs medal hopes alive 

Zakithi Nene kept his medal quest very much on track by coasting through to the 400m final at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo on Tuesday. By Karien Jonckheere

The KZN star looked to be in complete control as he claimed victory in his semifinal in a time of 44.20 seconds. 

In an ominous warning to his rivals, the 27-year-old reckoned afterwards: “I felt good, I think this is the best my body has felt all season. I managed that race pretty well, very comfortable, did what I needed to do, and that’s what I’m happy about. 

“My coach believes it’s very difficult to beat a confident athlete and that’s what I am right now. My confidence is at an all-time high.”

As for what the plan is between now and the final on Thursday evening (3.10pm SA time), he added: “It’s all about recovery, getting myself prepped for that final. I’ve just been saving myself and saving myself as much as I can, and we survive and advance.”

Zakithi headed to Tokyo with the fastest 400m time in the world this year – the 43.76 seconds he ran in Nairobi in May. But that mantle was taken off him in the second semifinal in Tokyo as Botswana’s Busang Collen Kebinatshipi claimed victory in a sizzling 43.61 seconds.

The third semifinal was won by another athlete from Botswana, Bayapo Ndori, in 44.21 seconds, with his compatriot Lee Bhekempilo Eppie also making it to the final, meaning half the field hails from Southern Africa.

Meanwhile, Lythe Pillay was the only other South African in action at the world champs on Tuesday. He finished sixth in his semifinal in 44.82 seconds, so missing out on Thursday’s final. Even before the race, he had set his sights on the part he needs to play in the 4x400m relay. 

“My coach and physio were a bit angry at me for saying it, but for me, I was looking at the semi as a nice prep run for the relay,” he admitted afterwards.

“I went out, I gave it guts and glory. It didn’t pay out this time for the final, but at least I know I’m consistent, the body’s there, things are clicking, so come the relay, I’m really far more confident that I can contribute towards my team.”