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adidas brings record-breaking Pro Evo 3 marathon shoe to Cape Town

Adnaan MohamedNewsLeave a Comment on adidas brings record-breaking Pro Evo 3 marathon shoe to Cape Town

adidas is bringing its highly sought-after Adizero Adios Pro Evo 3 to South Africa for the first time, with limited pairs set to be available at the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon Expo from 21 to 23 May.

The racing shoe, regarded as the fastest and lightest marathon shoe produced by adidas, sold out within minutes during its international release and has become one of the most talked-about innovations in long-distance running.

Designed as adidas’ first official sub-2-hour marathon shoe, the Pro Evo 3 was developed to push the limits of speed and efficiency, carrying runners forward like a surge through the final stretch of a marathon.

“Our goal was two digits on the scale, with better performance than we’ve ever had,” said Stephan Scholten, adidas Vice President of Product.

The shoe weighs under 100 grams and features adidas’ latest Lightstrike Pro Evo foam, which is nearly 50% lighter than previous versions. adidas said the 39mm stack height is designed to maximise cushioning, propulsion and energy return.

At the centre of the shoe is the new ENERGYRIM technology, a carbon-integrated system developed to improve stability and energy transfer while maintaining a lightweight structure.

The upper has been engineered using inspiration from kitesurfing sail technology to create a near weightless feel, while strategically placed Continental™ rubber on the outsole provides traction at high speeds.

“To have the Pro Evo 3 available in South Africa at such a major moment for local running is incredibly special,” said Tom Brown, Senior Brand Director at adidas South Africa.

“This shoe represents the future of marathon racing, and bringing it to the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon Expo gives local runners the chance to experience one of the most advanced performance innovations in the sport right now.”

WATCH | Sebastian Sawe speaks after historic sub-2 hour record rout at London Marathon

The launch follows a string of headline performances by adidas athletes on the global stage. Sabastian Sawe and Yomif Kejelcha both ran sub-2-hour marathons at the London Marathon, clocking 1:59.30 and 1:59.41 respectively. Tigist Assefa also set a women-only marathon world record of 2:15.41.

The Adizero Adios Pro Evo 3 will retail for R9 999, while the Hyperboost Edge, which will also launch at the expo, is priced at R4 499.

More information is available at adidas South Africa

Sanlam Cape Town Marathon assembles strongest elite field in race history

Adnaan MohamedPreviewLeave a Comment on Sanlam Cape Town Marathon assembles strongest elite field in race history
By Adnaan Mohamed

The 2026 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon is set to deliver one of the strongest elite fields ever assembled on African soil when the race takes place in the Mother City on Sunday, 24 May.

As the event continues its push for Abbott World Marathon Majors status, organisers have secured a line-up featuring Olympic champions, world title holders, seasoned marathon winners and some of the fastest athletes in the world.

Four-time Olympian Stephen Mokoka will return to familiar territory as he targets a fourth Sanlam Cape Town Marathon title. The Hollywood Athletics Club veteran remains one of South Africa’s most accomplished distance runners and returns to a course where he has already built a formidable legacy.

Mokoka owns a marathon best of 2:06:42 and a half marathon personal best of 59:36, credentials that keep him firmly among the leading contenders despite the depth of the field.

The biggest attraction is set to be Kenyan superstar Eliud Kipchoge, who has confirmed his participation in what will be his first marathon on African soil.

The double Olympic champion will begin an ambitious global campaign in Cape Town, aiming to run marathons across all seven continents over the next two years. The initiative will raise funds for the Eliud Kipchoge Foundation, which focuses on environmental preservation and education projects.

Israel’s Maru Teferi enters the race with the fastest personal best in the men’s field at 2:04:44. He will face strong opposition from a group of sub-2:06 runners that includes Kenya’s Bernard Biwott (2:05:25) and Justus Kangogo (2:05:57), along with Ethiopians Yihunilign Adane (2:05:33), Mulugeta Asefa Uma (2:05:33) and Boki Kebede Asefa (2:05:40).

South African interest in the men’s race will also centre on Desmond Mokgobu and Nadeel Wildschutt, both holders of sub-2:10 marathon performances. Wildschutt’s brother, Adriaan, will take on pacing duties for the elite men’s race.

Thabang Mosiako will be chasing a breakthrough sub-2:10 performance, while former South African 10km record holder Precious Mashele and former national trail representative Kane Reilly are both set to make their marathon debuts.

The women’s field is equally impressive, led by Israel’s Lonah Salpeter, who boasts a personal best of 2:17:45.

Ethiopia’s Ruti Aga, Dera Dida and Mestawat Fikir bring extensive international marathon experience, while Bahrain’s Desi Jisa Mokonin and Ethiopia’s Waganesh Mekasha add further quality to the contest.

Veteran Kenyan star Edna Kiplagat, a two-time world champion, remains one of the standout names in the field at the age of 47. Zimbabwe-born Fortunate Chidzivo and UK-born Emma Pallant-Browne, now based in South Africa, will also attract local support.

The wheelchair race will feature British great David Weir and Swiss multiple major winner Manuela Schär.

With world-class depth across both elite races, the 2026 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon is positioning itself among the leading marathons on the international calendar.

Adidas celebrates running community and club support in SCTM ambition

Adnaan MohamedNewsLeave a Comment on Adidas celebrates running community and club support in SCTM ambition
By Adnaan Mohamed

The pulse of the Mother City’s running scene beats strongest far from the elite start line, in the clubs and communities that shape every stride taken across its roads. With the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon (SCTM) pursuing Abbott World Marathon Major status, adidas has placed the spotlight on the network of runners who have turned the sport into a city-wide movement.

From the Sea Point promenade to the streets of Khayelitsha and the shaded routes of Constantia, running has grown into a shared culture. Clubs such as Running Late Club, adidas Runners Cape Town, VOB Running Club and Khayelitsha Athletics Club have become central to that rise, offering structure, support and a sense of belonging.

adidas Runners Cape Town captain Drew Ngcaba said the impact of community extended beyond performance.

“adidas Runners saved my life. When I was recovering from knee surgery, I couldn’t run, I couldn’t train and I was in a dark place. But the community kept me going. Serving the community kept me going. That’s what it means to me,” said Ngcaba.

He added that the growth of the sport in Cape Town has been rapid.

“Running in the last few years has become a must-do. Races sell out within hours. It’s not just about elites anymore; brands like adidas create spaces where everyone can experience running. It elevates the whole city.”

At VOB Running Club, captain Elydia de Monk (pictured below) has witnessed the marathon’s evolution over more than a decade.

“Years ago, it was just another marathon. Now it’s exhilarating, there’s so much excitement. You see international runners and familiar faces on the route and it’s grown into something incredibly special for our city,” she said.

De Monk said the club’s focus remained on participation and milestones.

“My highlight is helping members run their first marathon, their first half and their first ultra. Crossing the finish line with them, that’s special. It’s about being part of someone’s first.”

In Khayelitsha, running has become a platform for identity and opportunity. Khayelitsha Athletics Club captain Siphiwo Melani (pictured below) said the sport offered more than physical benefits.

“When you’re outside, you think running is just waking up and running. Then you discover the community behind it, the organisation and structure. It gave me purpose and a sense of belonging,” said Melani.

He recalled a defining moment during the marathon.

“There was a young girl on the side of the road cheering. She didn’t know me, she just saw the Khayelitsha vest. That’s when I realised this is bigger than me. Khayelitsha is not a jungle. There are good things happening here. When thousands of people come to run here, it makes me proud. We are rewriting the story.”

Collaboration among clubs has also increased, with groups training together and supporting each other’s events as participation numbers continue to climb.

As Cape Town strengthens its bid for global marathon recognition, it is these communities that remain the foundation, carrying the city’s ambitions one step at a time.

Why Kipchoge will run his first African marathon in Cape Town

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By Adnaan Mohamed

When marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge steps onto the start line of the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon on 24 May 2026, it will mark far more than another race on a decorated résumé. It will be the first time the two-time Olympic champion runs a marathon on African soil.

For the Kenyan icon, the moment carries deep personal and symbolic meaning for the sport that has carried him across the world’s greatest marathon stages.

“Africa is where my journey as a runner began and where the foundation of my success is deeply rooted,” said Kipchoge.

“To start this World Tour in Cape Town is very special. It is about celebrating the strength of African running and inspiring the next generation. To race my first ever marathon on the African continent holds deep meaning for me. I cannot wait.”

Kipchoge confirmed that Cape Town will host his first race of the year and the opening stride of his ambitious project, Eliud’s Running World, which will see him complete seven marathons across all continents.

“As far as the worldwide tour is concerned, on 24 May 2026 my first outing for the year will be in Cape Town,” he said. “It is one of the oldest places in Africa. I decided to start with my own continent. That’s where I’m really starting.”

For decades, African runners have dominated the global marathon scene, filling podiums from Boston to Berlin. Kipchoge believes the time has arrived for Africa itself to stand at the centre of the global running map.

“This means a lot for me,” he said. “This is my first marathon to run in Africa and I’m really happy to run in Cape Town. I want to bring excitement and bring people to Africa.”

The Kenyan star hopes the race will act like a starting pistol for a broader movement across the continent.

“Our idea is to create movement in this world, create movement in Africa and create movement across all the continents,” he said. “My people in Africa have been watching me on television, listening on radio and seeing me on social media. Now it is time to come and run with them, chat with them and be with them.”

Unlike many of his previous races, which focused on chasing records and titles, Kipchoge says his Cape Town run will carry a deeper purpose.

“In many races I competed for world records, victories and course records,” he explained. “This time I run for purpose. I run to inspire people, motivate people and make people move.”

That purpose includes raising funds for the Eliud Kipchoge Foundation, which supports environmental conservation and education initiatives.

“In Africa we are still vulnerable as far as education is concerned,” he said. “Our planet is our home and we need to make it clean.”

The Cape Town event itself is gathering momentum on the international stage. More than 27,000 runners are expected to take part in 2026 as organisers pursue recognition in the Abbott World Marathon Majors, a step that would give Africa its first Major marathon.

Race CEO Clark Gardner believes Kipchoge’s presence will echo far beyond the finish line.

“Eliud represents the very best of what running can inspire,” Gardner said. “To see him race our streets and engage with young runners across the city will be incredibly powerful.”

For the sport, the image of the world’s greatest marathon runner gliding through the streets beneath Table Mountain could feel like a starting gun for a new era. African athletes have long powered the global marathon engine. Kipchoge’s historic run places the continent firmly on the road map of the sport’s future.

Kim Pain eyes rare 30th Two Oceans Ultra finish

Adnaan MohamedNews, Totalsports Two Oceans MarathonLeave a Comment on Kim Pain eyes rare 30th Two Oceans Ultra finish
By Adnaan Mohamed

When the Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon (TTOM) gets underway on 11 April 2026, Kim Pain will line up as the only woman in the field chasing a 30th finish.

At 59, the Jeppe Quondam Athletics Club stalwart is on the brink of earning “triple blue” status in the Blue Number Club, a milestone reached by very few women in the race’s history.

Only three female runners sit ahead of her on the all-time list: Lucille Damon and Sharon Bosch, both on 32 finishes, and Matilda le Roux, who completed her 30th ultra in 2024. Damon and Bosch are set to chase their 33rd finishes this year, while le Roux will not compete in 2026.

Pain’s association with the race stretches back 36 years. She made her debut in 1990 as a 23-year-old, finishing in 4:56:36. After returning in 1993, the race became a permanent fixture on her calendar. She earned her Blue Number in 2002 following her 10th finish.

“I don’t think I was ever chasing 30,” Pain said. “I always chose to run TTOM and enjoy a weekend away.”

Family has played a central role in her journey.

“My mom and dad, Alf and Wendy Pain, have always been my greatest supporters,” she said. “My dad especially has been my inspiration. We came down to Cape Town as a family in 1990, and that’s where my TTOM journey began.”

Among her standout memories is her 20th ultra in 2012, run in cold and wet conditions.

“It was so cold, wet and muddy at the finish. It was pouring with rain, and I was lucky to have my parents supporting on the side of the road,” she recalled.

Her 25th finish in 2017 proved significant. Pain crossed the line alongside ultra-running figures Barry Holland, Alan Robb, Bruce Fordyce and Gareth Griffiths.

Kim Pain and Gareth Griffiths from Jeppe AC at TTOM 2025 by Action Photo

“I was very taken aback when the organisers gave me a congratulatory letter and a small trophy,” Pain said. “I think it was a very cool gesture; it also meant that after finishing my 25th, I was exempt from paying entry fees. That only motivated me to get to my 30th.”

Her surname often draws comment on the road.

“Yes, that’s the standard comment I often get. You’ve got the right surname,” she laughed. “Often, when I’m running and I’ve got runners around me, they’ll come up to me and they’ll say, when did you start running? You must have started when you were very young because you have so many ultras behind your name.”

Two Oceans Marathon NPC chairperson Chris Goldschmidt believes Pain’s milestone attempt reflects the spirit of the event.

“Kim Pain embodies the spirit of the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon. Her 30th appearance is a testament to decades of dedication and endurance, inspiring every runner on the start line,” he said.

General manager Wade Bromfield added: “Reaching 30 Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathons is extraordinary. Kim’s journey reflects resilience, consistency, and the heart of this iconic race, reminding us of what decades of running can achieve.”

If she reaches the finish line in April, Pain will add her name to one of the most exclusive lists in South African ultra-distance running.

Vin.yards4Cancer Run Crew

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Vin.yards4Cancer Run Crew

Hey, runners and community supporters! I’m Ethan Bain, one of the founders of Vin.yards4Cancer Run Crew, and I’m excited to share how this journey began and what it’s all about.

From a Bet to a Movement

It all started as a playful challenge between seven housemates. We dared each other to complete the Cape Town Marathon. But this challenge soon transformed into something much more meaningful when one of our housemates was diagnosed with cancer. We knew we had to do something bigger—to run for a purpose close to our hearts. That’s how our mission to support childhood cancer began.

Running With Purpose

Vineyards Run Crew runs for those who can’t. Our friend’s battle inspired us to dedicate our efforts to raising awareness and funds for children fighting cancer. Every kilometer we cover is about making a difference in their lives. What started as a friendly bet has grown into a passion-driven journey to support a cause that means the world to us.

The Commitment That Drives Us

Training with a purpose in mind keeps us going. It’s not about being professional runners (because trust us, we’re not!). It’s about showing up, pushing through, and reminding ourselves of the bigger picture: helping kids who face struggles far greater than running 42 kilometers. Our mantra? For those who can’t. It keeps us motivated every single day.

As university students, juggling studies and training isn’t easy, but we make it work. Weekends and evenings are our go-to for runs, and sticking together as a team helps us stay accountable. Our advice? Keep your goals in mind, plan your training, and run with a group—it makes all the difference.

Why Social Running Clubs Are Thriving

There’s been a huge shift toward social running clubs among young adults, and we’re proud to be part of that movement. These clubs aren’t about competition; they’re about community. They give you the flexibility to balance fitness with fun, creating an environment where everyone is welcome, no matter your pace. Social media platforms like Strava and Instagram have made it easier than ever to connect, track progress, and share our journey with a wider audience.

Our Training & How You Can Join Us

We’ve followed a 12-week training plan, running 4-5 times a week to prep for the marathon. Our weekday runs are shorter, ranging from 5km to 12km, and weekends are reserved for the long ones—21km or more, depending on how ambitious we’re feeling. It’s challenging, but the support from our community keeps us going.

Want to be part of the crew? We’d love to have you! Find us on Instagram or Strava under Vin.yards4Cancer  and join us for a run. Together, we’re making every step count—for our friend, for children battling cancer, and for the joy of running.

Trust Me, I can Do This

Roxanne MartinNewsLeave a Comment on Trust Me, I can Do This

There was no fanfare when Zubayr Isaacs quietly crossed the finishline of the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon last October in just under five and a half hours, but those who know his story will understand just how momentous his run was. And they will also understand just how proud, and relieved, his mother, Lameez Isaacs, was, when she finished half an hour later. You see, this young man is autistic, and finishing a marathon by himself was another big step in his remarkable journey since taking up running in 2017. – By Sean Falconer

How to Track Your Runner at the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon

Roxanne MartinNews, RacingLeave a Comment on How to Track Your Runner at the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon

Tracking runners for this weekend’s festivities in Cape Town is easy thanks the UltimateLIVE App!

To make it even easier we have created these easy for you to download the app, add the event you would like to follow, and even how to add your runners! 

Step 1:

Download the UltimateLIVE App from wither the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.



 

Step 2: 

Using the search tab on the home screen, search for “Cape”

This will show you, the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon Trail and Peace Runs (Saturday Events) and the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon (Sunday) event.

Click on the event you would like to track a participant in.

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Step 3:

To track your  runner, you simply search for them, using either their name or race number, under the Name / Number search bar.

Once you have found them click on their name and then press the Star to add them to your favourites. 


 

Step 4:

If you wish to receive push notifications for your favourites, press the bell icon and you will receive a notification for each split point that they pass.

The App will reflect the running time of your selected runners (i.e. from when they started the race).

Impossible is Nothing!

When we feel empowered to tell our stories, there are no limits to how much we can inspire others. Through BEYOND MY IMPOSSIBLE, adidas is empowering 11 women to cross their first marathon finish line, at the 2022 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon this Sunday! We have been following the journeys of all these phenomenal women and now you can track them as all 11 take on this amazing feat! To make it easy to find, we have all the ladies race numbers below, so finding them on the UltimateLIVE tracking app will be easy!

Tracking Details Below

Runner: Zoe Brown
Race Number: 3349
Start Batch: C1

Runner: Lenise Swanson
Race Number: 3466
Start Batch: C1

Runner: Ncebakazi Dyani
Race Number: 3317
Start Batch: C1

 

Runner: Leatitia Gradwell
Race Number: 3385
Start Batch: C1

 

Runner: Yentle Arendse
Race Number: 3350
Start Batch: C1

Runner: Jana Steyn
Race Number: 3512
Start Batch: C1

Runner: Kay Abrahams
Race Number: 3316
Start Batch: C1

 

Runner: Shaakirah Jaftha
Race Number: 3319
Start Batch: C1

Runner: Ashleigh Bredeveldt
Race Number: 3324
Start Batch: C1

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Runner: Melissa Abrahams
Race Number: 3318
Start Batch: C1

Runner: Tracey Abrahamse
Race Number: 3389
Start Batch: C1

Beyond My IMPossible

Roxanne MartinFeatures, News1 Comment on Beyond My IMPossible

When we feel empowered to tell our stories, there are no limits to how much we can inspire others. Through BEYOND MY IMPOSSIBLE, adidas is empowering 11 women to cross their first marathon finish line, at the 2022 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon in October, while sharing their journey to the start line with the running community. 

The Coach

COACH KATHLEEN SHUTTLEWORTH 

Living out her core value, “Driven by passion, pursuing excellence” since 2004, Coach Kathleen has guided numerous athletes to achieving provincial and national medals in track, cross country and biathlon.

She’s also helped many runners of all levels to conquer their first marathon or achieve that elusive personal best. Now she is putting her considerable talents to helping 11 women tackle their first marathon.

 

The Runners

ZOE BROWN
Age: 32
Resides: Rondebosch 

Bio: Zoe describes herself as an “ordinary girl with an extraordinary job.”

She’s a radio presenter for The Flash Drive from 15h00-19h00 on KFM 94.5, and a TV presenter on the Expresso Show on SABC 3. 

Follow Zoe’s journey @zbzoebrown 

NCEBAKAZI DYANI
Age: 26
Resides: Rondebosch 

Bio: Ncebakazi runs with the adidas Runners Cape Town crew and is a hiking fanatic. She describes herself as an adventure enthusiast and the “coolest aunt, daughter and sister!”

Her latest adventure is being on a journey to finish her first marathon.

Follow Ncebakazi’s journey @dyanincebakazi 


LENISE SWANSON 
Age: 41 
Resides: Monte Vista 

Bio: As a medical doctor and mother of four, Lenise is an advocate for a healthy lifestyle. She loves taking on new challenges, and this year has chosen to compete in her first full marathon. Her future goal is to participate in major international marathons, while experiencing many wonderful countries and cultures around the world. 

Follow Lenise’s journey @lenise_swanson  

LEATITIA GRADWELL
Age: 45
Resides: Plumstead 

Bio: Leatitia is a wife and mom, who works in the pharmaceutical industry. She describes herself as a Christian girl from Mitchell’s Plain trying to better herself, and hoping it will empower other women in the process.

She believes that “we rise by lifting others.” When it comes to the Cape Town Marathon, Leatitia says she’s going to run with purpose: “I’m pacing myself and I’m going to end strong!”

YENTLE ARENDSE
Age: 33
Resides: Parow 

Bio: Yentle is married, has a son and two more stepchildren, and works at a signage company. Family is really important to her, as she lost her Dad at a young age, and sadly, also her mom at the end of 2020. She spends most weekends running, watching her husband and children play soccer, and watching English football.

Follow Yentle’s Journey  @yentlearendse 

JANA STEYN
Age: 30
Resides: Langebaan 

Bio: Jana spent most of her life in the bushveld of Limpopo. She recently moved to the West Coast in the Cape, and is fulfilling her dream to live at the beach.

Jana is a lawyer and enjoys going on all sorts of adventures while exploring her home country.

 

Follow Jana’s Journey @janasteyn92 

KAY ABRAHAMS
Age: 24
Resides: Somerset West 

Bio: Kay describes herself as a runner and a creative. Family and community is important to her, and she enjoys the outdoors.

She’s currently on a journey to completing her first marathon, the Cape Town Marathon.

Follow Kay’s Journey @kayabrahams 

SHAAKIRAH JAFTHA
Age: 27
Resides: Steenberg 

Bio: Shaakirah is a single mom, who was born and raised in the Cape Flats. She is an adidas Runners Booster, and has an absolute passion for running.

Her dream is to inspire change and make a difference through sport, specifically running. She describes herself as “inspired to inspire.” 

Follow Shaakirah’s journey @shaakirahjaftha 


ASHLEIGH BREDEVELDT
Age: 32
Resides: Southfield

Bio: Ashleigh was born profoundly deaf in Cape Town with an identical womb-mate. She received a cochlear implant at the tender age of five and obtained full language. Today she’s a go-getter who enjoys outdoor activities and exploring hidden gems in South Africa and abroad.

Ashleigh is a graphic designer, a deaf awareness advocate, and is always ready to take on a new challenge!

Follow Ashleigh’s journey @jog4pizza 

MELISSA ABRAHAMS
Age: 35
Resides: Bellville 

Bio: Having experienced health challenges after being diagnosed with PCOS during her infertility journey, Melissa now considers running her medicine, her coping mechanism, and her quiet time with God. She says she is running towards the vision of becoming a happier, healthier individual, wife, and mother one day soon!

Follow Melissa’s Journey @melissaabrahams


TRACEY ABRAHAMESE
Age: 40
Resides: Plumstead 

Bio: Tracey is a 40-year-old single mother to a young daughter and two fur babies. She is passionate about flowers, fitness, fierce females, furry friends, and the outdoors.

Tracey is an advocate for mental health and women’s empowerment, and she firmly believes that women need to uplift, encourage, motivate, support and celebrate each other.

Follow Tracey’s Journey @justcallmetrace_fitness