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Tshwane turn up the heat as semi-final picture takes shape

Adnaan MohamedNetball, NewsLeave a Comment on Tshwane turn up the heat as semi-final picture takes shape
By Adnaan Mohamed

The semi-final picture is taking shape at the SPAR National Netball Championships in Cape Town, with Tshwane, Cape Town, Mangaung and Johannesburg safely through to the playoffs after a fourth day of high-octane action.

Tshwane produced the statement performance of Sunday, beating four-time defending champions Johannesburg 53-46 to climb to the summit of the Senior A log.

The Pretoria side came out firing, building a commanding 32-20 half-time advantage. Johannesburg found another gear after the interval and won the final quarter by five goals, yet Tshwane had built enough breathing room to keep the champions at arm’s length.

For coach Rozanne Matthyse, the result underlined the progress of a team determined to set the tournament’s benchmark.

“We wanted to come into this tournament and set a standard and I think we’ve done that,” she said.

Matthyse likened the campaign to clearing a series of hurdles, with every match another obstacle between Tshwane and the ultimate prize.

Her concern is that her players have occasionally taken their foot off the accelerator after establishing commanding leads.

“It seems like our quarter three and four, we start very slow,” she said. “I think sometimes it is very complacent that they go into that third quarter feeling that they have that lead and they can relax… It is a problem that we’re giving teams a little bit of confidence where we don’t need to.”

That warning could prove prophetic when the margins become razor-thin in the playoffs. In netball, a comfortable lead can evaporate faster than a missed centre pass.

CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA – AUGUST 09: Anja Smit of Cape Town A during the U/21 A match between Mangaung and Cape Town A on day 4 of the SPAR National Netball Championships at Gene Louw Primary School on August 09, 2026 in Cape Town, South Africa. (Photo by Grant Pitcher/Gallo Images)

Tshwane earlier beat Alfred Nzo 39-28 in a rain-affected encounter that was abandoned at the start of the third quarter. Johannesburg had opened their day with a 53-45 victory over Dr Kenneth Kaunda.

Hosts Cape Town were equally ruthless, brushing aside eThekwini 68-34 before beating Alfred Nzo 72-44 to finish second.

Assistant coach and former SPAR Proteas defender Phumza Maweni was delighted with the progress.

“I’m very satisfied to be honest. We worked for this. We’ve been building up all the combinations, and these two games really helped us to see who can push until the end…”

Sunday also carried added significance as South Africa celebrated National Women’s Day.

For Maweni, there was no better stage than a national netball championship to celebrate women in sport.

“Being athletes and being around the women who really push you and see you as a leader, it’s huge, and having the tournament over Women’s Day is really special for women athletes,” she said.

“There are a lot of kids that look up to the SPAR Proteas so when they see us, they see the leaders and when we see them, we learn from them as well. I think SPAR is doing a great job to combine all the women under one umbrella on this day.”

With Tshwane, Cape Town, Mangaung and Johannesburg through, Monday’s final round-robin matches will decide the semi-final pairings.

The scoreboard has done its work. Now the permutations take centre stage.

Senior A results

  • Cape Town 68-34 eThekwini
  • Alfred Nzo 28-39 Tshwane
  • Johannesburg 53-45 Dr Kenneth Kaunda
  • Nelson Mandela Bay 35-52 Mangaung
  • Cape Town 72-44 Alfred Nzo
  • Tshwane 53-46 Johannesburg
  • Botswana 49-50 Mangaung
  • eThekwini 29-36 Nelson Mandela Bay
  • Namibia 60-44 Dr Kenneth Kaunda

Under-21 A results

  • Johannesburg 63-23 Ekurhuleni
  • Tshwane 51-40 Royal Bafokeng
  • Mangaung 51-37 Cape Town
  • Ekurhuleni 28-28 Dr Kenneth Kaunda

Kenyan star Jerono wins Totalsports Women’s Race

Adnaan MohamedNewsLeave a Comment on Kenyan star Jerono wins Totalsports Women’s Race

Kenyan road-running star Daisilah Jerono arrived in South Africa with a simple mission: test her training. She left Cape Town with gold around her neck.

The world No. 7 half-marathon runner produced a composed 31:29 to win the Totalsports Women’s Race Cape Town on Sunday, 9 August, adding another international victory to an already impressive 2026 campaign.

The 1:05:21 Berlin half marathon performer, currently the second-fastest Kenyan over the distance this year, had hoped to sharpen the racing blade ahead of bigger challenges. Cape Town instead handed her a podium finish on a platter.

The course offered little charity, with wind and rolling undulations testing every stride. Jerono kept her rhythm ticking like a metronome, refusing to let the conditions derail her charge.

Daisilah Jerono claims gold at the Totalsports Women’s Race Cape Town in 31:29. PHOTO CREDIT: David Sullivan

“The race was tough. It was windy, with a few ups and downs, but I am happy to have run today,” said Jerono.

Her victory was even sweeter because it came without expectation.

“This is my first time in South Africa. I didn’t come with the idea of winning; I came to see where I am in my training.”

The Cape Town crowd helped propel her over the finish line.

“The runners were so cheerful, and I really liked how they cheered for us. I am so happy to win today. I was not expecting it; it’s by God’s grace. God willing, maybe I’ll come back next year.”

Faith Cherono, also of Kenya, finished second, with Lesotho’s Neheng Khatala completing the podium.

Elite Women’s Podium (from left to right): Neheng Khatala (Lesotho), Daisilah Jerono (Kenya) and Faith Cherono (Kenya). PHOTO CREDIT: David Sullivan

Jerono was among 10 000 entrants who turned Cape Town’s streets into a moving celebration of women, fitness and community on National Women’s Day, while raising support for PinkDrive.

For Stillwater Sports Managing Director Michael Meyer, the day delivered both elite competition and mass-participation magic.

“Congratulations to Daisilah Jerono on a truly outstanding performance. The standard of elite racing at this year’s Totalsports Women’s Race Cape Town was exceptional, with an exciting display of talent and determination from start to finish,” said Meyer.

He also highlighted the wider significance of the event before looking ahead to Johannesburg on 16 August, following successful races in Durban and Cape Town.

Totalsports Head of Marketing Nikki Crous Photo: Adnaan Mohamed

Totalsports Head of Marketing Nikki Crous said the event again demonstrated the power of women united by sport and purpose.

“The Totalsports Women’s Race Cape Town once again showcased the incredible power of women coming together to celebrate fitness, friendship and purpose,” said Crous.

With the Mother City roaring and 10 000 women adding their footsteps to the occasion, Jerono’s debut became the fastest chapter of a much bigger story: competition with a conscience, celebration with a finish line.

RESULTS – TOP 10 / Totalsports Women’s Race Cape Town 2026

Date: Sunday 09 August 2026

Start Time: 08:00

Start Venue: Darling Street, Cape Town

Finish Venue: Grand Parade, Cape Town

Top 10 Elite Field

1 Daisilah Jerono (Kenya) 31:29, 2 Faith Cherono (Kenya) 31:32, 3 Neheng Khatala (Lesotho) 33:23, 4 Olga Firsova (Australia) 36:20, 5 Marie-Tinka Olivier (South Africa) 37:25, 6 Nicole Van Wyk (South Africa) 37:43, 7 Deanne Laubscher (South Africa) 38:07, 8 Lauren Jonathan (South Africa) 38:18, 9 Yandiswa Shange (South Africa) 38:39, 10 Mia Steytler (South Africa) 38:49

FIND THE FULL RESULTS HERE:

Two Oceans rolls out the red carpet for global runners

Adnaan MohamedEvent Update!, Features, News, Totalsports Two Oceans MarathonLeave a Comment on Two Oceans rolls out the red carpet for global runners
By Adnaan Mohamed

The Totalsports TWO OCEANS MARATHON powered by BYD has teamed up with global travel specialist Marathon Tours & Travel in a partnership designed to bring even more runners from across the globe to the Mother City over the next three years.

If the World’s Most Beautiful Marathon were a blockbuster movie, Marathon Tours & Travel has become the VIP usher, making sure international athletes walk the red carpet without tripping over paperwork, travel plans or race logistics.

The agreement sees Marathon Tours & Travel become the exclusive International Travel Partner for the 2027, 2028 and 2029 races. The company will also become the only official entry route for international and Rest of Africa athletes.

For overseas runners, it means one trusted destination for race entries, flights, accommodation and travel planning. Less admin. More anticipation.

Totalsports TWO OCEANS MARATHON powered by BYD by Devin Paisley

TWO OCEANS MARATHON NPC chairperson Chris Goldschmidt believes the partnership is another milestone in expanding the event’s international footprint.

“We are excited to welcome Marathon Tours & Travel as the exclusive Travel Partner. Their reputation for delivering world class travel experiences makes them the ideal partner to help grow our international reach while ensuring a seamless journey from registration to race day,” he said.

Event director Wade Bromfield said the collaboration would strengthen the race’s global appeal while giving visitors greater confidence when planning their Cape Town adventure.

Every year, thousands dream of conquering Chapman’s Peak, surviving Constantia Nek and soaking up one of road running’s most spectacular finishes.

Getting there, however, has often felt like running an extra marathon before race week even begins.

This partnership promises to change that.

Marathon Tours & Travel’s Head of Product and Operations, Marie Howarth, says helping runners experience Cape Town is a privilege after her own encounters with both the Half Marathon and Ultra Marathon.

“Our teams are dedicated to creating an exceptional race-week experience, ensuring runners are welcomed, supported and inspired every step of the way,” she said.

The announcement arrives as anticipation builds for the 2027 edition.

Two Oceans Half Marathon 2026 by Mark Sampson

South African runners can enter from 3 August, while Blue Number Club members already enjoy early access to the flagship races. International and Rest of Africa athletes will once again bypass the ballot process by entering exclusively through Marathon Tours & Travel.

The world’s most beautiful marathon has never been shy of stealing hearts.

Now it is making the journey there every bit as memorable as crossing the finish line.

For more information International Athletes & Rest of Africa Athletes can visit https://marathontours.com/en-gb/events/two-oceans-marathon/

Two Oceans 2027 countdown begins as Blue Number entries open

Adnaan MohamedNews, Totalsports Two Oceans MarathonLeave a Comment on Two Oceans 2027 countdown begins as Blue Number entries open
By Adnaan Mohamed

The race to the 2027 Totalsports TWO OCEANS MARATHON powered by BYD is underway, with Yellow and Blue Number Club members given the first opportunity to secure their place before the public ballot opens next month.

The priority entry window opened at 10:00 on 15 July and closes at 22:00 on Wednesday, 22 July, giving the event’s most loyal runners the first opportunity to secure a place in either the 56km Ultra Marathon or the 21.1km Half Marathon.

Totalsports TWO OCEANS MARATHON powered by BYD photo credit Devin Paisley

Two Oceans Marathon NPC chairperson Chris Goldschmidt said the exclusive entry period recognises runners who have played a significant role in building the race’s legacy.

“The opening of the Yellow and BNC entry window is always a special milestone in our journey to race day,” said Goldschmidt.

“It is our way of recognising and rewarding the loyalty of runners who have embraced the spirit and tradition of the Totalsports TWO OCEANS MARATHON powered by BYD over many years. We are proud to welcome these dedicated members back first as we begin the countdown to another unforgettable edition of the world’s most beautiful marathon.”

Event director Wade Bromfield described the opening of entries as the first major milestone on the road to race weekend in April next year.

“The exclusive Yellow and BNC entry period marks the first major milestone on the road to the 2027 Totalsports TWO OCEANS MARATHON powered by BYD. We encourage all eligible members to take advantage of this dedicated entry window and secure their place early.

“While our team has been hard at work behind the scenes for some time, there is always a special sense of excitement when we can officially welcome our loyal Yellow and BNC members on the journey to race day. We look forward to seeing them back on the start line next April.”

Eligible Yellow and Blue Number Club members can enter through the official Two Oceans Marathon website by selecting the entry option for either the Half Marathon or Ultra Marathon.

Totalsports TWO OCEANS MARATHON powered by BYD photo credit Devin Paisley

The general ballot for both races opens on 5 August 2026.

The 2027 event programme begins with the 8km Night Run on Wednesday, 31 March, followed by the 4.5km International Friendship Run on 1 April and the Trail Run on 2 April.

The Half Marathon will be held on Saturday, 3 April, with a capacity of 21,000 runners, while the iconic 56km Ultra Marathon takes place on Sunday, 4 April, with an identical field limit of 21,000 participants.

Entries for the Night Run, International Friendship Run and Trail Run open on 3 August 2026.

Totalsports TWO OCEANS MARATHON powered by BYD photo credit Devin Paisley

The Half Marathon entry fee is R450 for licensed South African athletes, while licensed local runners will pay R840 to enter the Ultra Marathon. International and Rest of Africa entry fees are payable in pounds sterling and remain subject to the prevailing exchange rate at the time of payment.

To Enter: Yellow and BNC members can go to the website www.twooceansmarathon.org.za and click the ENTER HERE button for either the Half or Ultra Marathon or go directly to https://enter.twooceansmarathon.org.za/two-oceans-2027/entry-windows

Rugby trailblazer Barrett-Theron steps away after breast cancer diagnosis

Adnaan MohamedNewsLeave a Comment on Rugby trailblazer Barrett-Theron steps away after breast cancer diagnosis
By Adnaan Mohamed

South African rugby referee Aimee Barrett-Theron has stepped away from officiating after revealing she has been diagnosed with treatable breast cancer, placing her record-breaking career on hold while she undergoes treatment.

The 39-year-old Cape Town official informed SA Rugby and World Rugby that she will be unavailable for the foreseeable future, with her most recent appointment coming in June when she refereed the South Africa ‘A’ fixture against Zimbabwe at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium.

Barrett-Theron has long been one of South African rugby’s most influential pioneers. A former Springbok fifteens and sevens player, she became the first woman to referee a men’s first-class match in South Africa and has since established herself as the most-capped female Test referee in world rugby with 52 internationals.

She announced her diagnosis on Tuesday, saying she expects to return to the field once her treatment is complete.

“I wanted to share a personal update. I’ve recently been diagnosed with breast cancer. The good news is that it’s treatable, and I’m working with an incredible team of specialists who are fully aligned with the goal of getting me healthy and back on the field in a few months’ time.

“For now, I’ll be stepping away from refereeing while I focus on treatment and recovery.

“I’m approaching this the same way I would approach any high-performance environment: with the right team around me, a clear plan, honest conversations, and full commitment to the process.

“Refereeing has taught me a lot about resilience, discipline, pressure, and backing yourself when things get tough. Being South African probably helps too! I was determined to make it through the ranks as a referee and now, I’m even more determined to get through this and return to the field stronger.

“Thank you for the support, love, and understanding. I’ll share updates when I can, but for now my focus is on treatment, recovery, and getting back to doing what I love.

“I found this through a self-check, so please let this be your reminder: check yourself, listen to your body, and don’t delay getting anything unusual looked at.”

Her message quickly became bigger than rugby, serving as a powerful reminder of the importance of early detection. By publicly sharing her diagnosis, Barrett-Theron has used her platform to encourage others to perform regular self-checks and seek medical advice without delay.

SA Rugby president Mark Alexander believes the same resilience that carried Barrett-Theron to the top of international refereeing will serve her well during recovery.

“Aimee has been a resolute and focused trail-blazer on the field and we know she will approach her treatment with the same determination and single-mindedness.

“She has had to overcome many, many barriers to reach the level of refereeing she has and we know she will take this next challenge in her stride. We wish her Godspeed in her recovery and look forward to seeing her back on the field at some point in the future.”

Barrett-Theron’s career has been built on breaking barriers and changing perceptions. Her latest challenge has drawn the rugby community together behind one of the sport’s most respected figures, with hopes that the whistle which has officiated more women’s Tests than any other will soon be heard again.

Discovery Bank opens historic pre-sale for Two Oceans Marathon 2027

Adnaan MohamedEvent Update!, Features, News, Totalsports Two Oceans MarathonLeave a Comment on Discovery Bank opens historic pre-sale for Two Oceans Marathon 2027
By Adnaan Mohamed

The Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon powered by BYD has rewritten its entry playbook. Discovery’s new partnership introduces the event’s first-ever preferential entry window, rewarding qualifying Discovery Bank clients with an early shot at the coveted start line.

Discovery has been announced as the Official Health, Wellness and Banking Sponsor of the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon powered by BYD, introducing a range of benefits designed to support runners from registration through to the finish line.

The headline announcement is a historic first for the event. Qualifying Discovery Bank clients will enjoy an exclusive preferential entry window from 10:00 on 28 July until 09:59 on 31 July 2026. A limited allocation of entries will be available on a first come, first served basis before the public ballot opens on 5 August.

For one of South Africa’s most oversubscribed races, that early access offers runners greater certainty as they prepare for one of the country’s most iconic endurance experiences.

Seen at the official launch on Thursday 09 July 2026 (from left to right): Wade Bromfield (Event Director of the Totalsports TWO OCEANS MARATHON powered by BYD), Firoze Bhorat (CMO, Discovery), Gerda Steyn (South African marathon and ultramarathon athlete, and seven-time winner of the Totalsports TWO OCEANS MARATHON powered by BYD), Celeste Williams (Head of marketing for Vitality and Sponsorships) and Dinesh Govender (CEO of Vitality).

Discovery Chief Marketing Officer Firoze Bhorat said the partnership builds on the bank’s commitment to rewarding healthy lifestyles with meaningful experiences.

“This first-ever early access opportunity for the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon powered by BYD is a natural extension of that promise, giving qualifying clients a genuine head start on securing a place at one of the country’s most sought-after races,” he said.

The rewards continue well beyond registration. Discovery Vitality members who complete race week events, including the Night Run, Trail Runs, Half Marathon and Ultra Marathon, will earn Vitality points, with Ultra Marathon finishers receiving 3,000 Vitality points plus a 500-point bonus.

Participants can also benefit from discounts on official race merchandise through Vitality Active Gear, reduced gym membership offers, travel savings and wellness rewards designed to support every stage of their preparation.

“We are proud to partner with Discovery, a brand that shares our passion for encouraging healthier, more active lifestyles,” said Event Director Wade Bromfield. “The Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon is about more than race day. It inspires people to set ambitious goals, prepare with purpose and celebrate their achievements.”

Chairperson Chris Goldschmidt added that Discovery’s long-standing commitment to health and wellbeing makes it a natural partner for an event that celebrates perseverance, achievement and the joy of running.

The partnership arrives during an exciting period of growth for the event. Both the 56km Ultra Marathon and the 21.1km Half Marathon will accommodate 21,000 runners in 2027, creating opportunities for thousands more participants to experience the spectacular Cape Peninsula route.

From its humble beginnings in 1970 with only 26 runners, the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon has grown into one of the world’s premier road running events, welcoming athletes from almost 100 countries while making a significant contribution to the Western Cape economy.

As South Africa’s running community continues to flourish, the collaboration between Discovery and the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon reflects a shared vision of making healthy living more accessible, more rewarding and more enjoyable. For runners chasing a personal best, a first finish or a lifelong dream, every step towards April 2027 now comes with even greater support.

Two Oceans Ultra strikes gold with IAU honour

Adnaan MohamedComrades Marathon, Features, NewsLeave a Comment on Two Oceans Ultra strikes gold with IAU honour

By Adnaan Mohamed

The Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon powered by BYD’s resurgence has found global recognition.

Months after delivering a widely acclaimed 2026 edition, South Africa’s flagship 56km race has been awarded the prestigious International Association of Ultrarunners (IAU) Golden Label Certificate, confirming its place among the world’s premier ultramarathons.

Totalsports TWO OCEANS MARATHON powered by BYD photo by Tobias Ginsberg

For an event that has spent recent years rebuilding its reputation, the accolade is more than another trophy for the cabinet. It is a global vote of confidence that places the Cape Town spectacle back among the sport’s benchmark races.

The IAU Golden Label is reserved for events that satisfy stringent international standards covering race organisation, athlete safety, elite competition, prize structures and governance.

It also reflects the transformation behind the scenes, where the Two Oceans Marathon NPC and event partner Stillwater Sports have worked to restore the shine to one of the country’s most recognisable sporting brands.

“This recognition from the International Association of Ultrarunners is a powerful endorsement of the Ultra Marathon as a world-class event,” said Two Oceans Marathon NPC chairperson Chris Goldschmidt.

“Earning the IAU Golden Label Certificate confirms that we meet the highest international standards across every aspect of the race, from organisation and athlete experience to elite competition, prize money and regulatory compliance.”

Event director Wade Bromfield credited months of meticulous planning for the achievement.

“This achievement is incredibly special for our team. After months of hard work behind the scenes, receiving the IAU Golden Label Certificate is a deeply rewarding moment for everyone involved.

“It’s a testament to the passion, commitment and attention to detail that has gone into delivering this iconic event.”

Totalsports TWO OCEANS MARATHON powered by BYD photo by Mark Sampson

The timing is significant.

Entries for the 2027 festival open from July and August, with organisers preparing for another bumper weekend of racing that includes the Ultra Marathon, Half Marathon, Trail Runs, Night Run and International Friendship Run.

Both the 56km Ultra and the 21.1km Half Marathon will accommodate up to 21,000 runners, reinforcing the race’s standing as one of the biggest participation events on the African calendar.

The Golden Label may be the latest finish-line ribbon for Two Oceans to break, although it also raises the bar. World-class status demands world-class delivery every year.

For now, the Cape classic has earned the right to wear gold.

EVENT INFORMATION: 2027 Totalsports TWO OCEANS MARATHON powered by BYD

Totalsports TWO OCEANS MARATHON powered by BYD photo credit Chris Hitchcock
Wednesday 31 March 2027 Totalsports TWO OCEANS MARATHON powered by BYD / Night Run 
Capacity: 5000
Distance: 8km
Entry Fee: R320.00
Entries Open: Monday 03 August 2026
Thursday 01 April 2027 Totalsports TWO OCEANS MARATHON powered by BYD / International Friendship Run
Capacity: 1500
Distance: 4.5km
Entry Fee: R 250.00
Entries Open: Monday 03 August 2026
Friday 02 April 2027 Totalsports TWO OCEANS MARATHON powered by BYD / Trail Run
Capacity: 1500
Start & Finish Venue: UCT Rugby Fields
Distance & Entry Fee: 24km / R 950.0016km / R750.00
Entries Open: Monday 03 August 2026
Saturday 03 April 2027 Totalsports TWO OCEANS HALF MARATHON powered by BYD
Capacity: 21 000
Finish Venue: UCT Rugby Fields
Distance: 21,1km
Entry Fees: Licensed SA Athletes: R450.00Unlicensed SA Athletes: R450.00 plus temp license
Entries Open: Blue Number Club (BNC): Wednesday 15 – Wednesday 22 July 2026
Ballot: Wednesday 05 August 2026
Sunday 04 April 2027 Totalsports TWO OCEANS ULTRA MARATHON powered by BYD
Capacity: 21 000
Finish Venue: UCT Rugby Fields
Distance: 56km
Entry Fees: Licensed SA Athletes: R840.00
Entries Open: Blue Number Club (BNC): Wednesday 15 – Wednesday 22 July 2026
Ballot: Wednesday 05 August 2026

Cape Town races into history as Africa’s first Marathon Major

Adnaan MohamedNewsLeave a Comment on Cape Town races into history as Africa’s first Marathon Major
By Adnaan Mohamed

Cape Town has crossed a finish line decades in the making.

The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon has officially become the first Abbott World Marathon Major on African soil after passing the second and final stage of its assessment process, securing its place among the sport’s most prestigious races.

From 2027, Cape Town will stand alongside Tokyo, Boston, London, Sydney, Berlin, Chicago and New York in what has long been marathon running’s most exclusive club, a landmark moment for a continent that has produced generations of distance-running greats.

CAPE TOWN MARATHON. 24 MAY 2026.

“It gives me huge pleasure to welcome Cape Town to the family,” said Abbott World Marathon Majors CEO Dawna Stone.

“After watching the race grow in size and stature during its candidacy and also seeing the resilience and dedication of the team lead so wonderfully by Clark Gardner, Africa’s first Major has finally arrived. The unique culture, the welcome from the people of the city and the wonderful setting Cape Town provides will bring a whole new dimension to our series. I know runners in Africa and across the world will have a phenomenal experience at this race.”

The announcement marks the culmination of years of planning and community support, with organisers repeatedly highlighting the role played by runners, volunteers, clubs, sponsors and city partners in helping the event meet the demanding criteria.

“This achievement belongs to every person who believed in and committed to this vision,” said race director and CEO Clark Gardner.

“We could never have reached this moment alone. Our runners carried us to the numbers we needed, our sponsors and partners stood firm beside us even when the 2025 race could not go ahead, and our supporters, club captains, residents and service providers each played their part. The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon stands as proof that when Africa comes together, we can achieve anything. This victory belongs to all of them.”

The significance stretches far beyond one city or one race.

For years, African athletes have dominated the global marathon scene while many recreational runners faced the financial burden of travelling overseas to experience a Major. Cape Town’s elevation changes that equation, with organisers committing to keeping two-thirds of race entries available to African participants.

Sanlam Group CEO Paul Hanratty described the announcement as “a collective victory”.

“For 13 years, Sanlam has been part of this journey, walking alongside the event as a committed partner and supporting its growth into a world-class platform. We hope this moment inspires people across Africa to dream bigger, go further and live with confidence.”

The event also carries significant economic value, with projections suggesting it could contribute around R800 million through tourism, accommodation and related spending.

Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis. Image Fahwaaz Cornelius

“For Cape Town to be the home of an Abbott World Marathon Majors race is an incredible moment for our city,” said Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis.

“Achieving this milestone will contribute greatly to Cape Town’s economy, inspire future generations of runners, and leave a legacy for the sport across Africa.”

For a continent that has long supplied many of marathon running’s brightest stars, the road has finally curved home. Africa is no longer chasing the world’s biggest races. It now hosts one.

Stormers coach slams rugby’s held-up and goal-line drop-out law

Adnaan MohamedRugbyLeave a Comment on Stormers coach slams rugby’s held-up and goal-line drop-out law
Adnaan Mohamed

DHL Stormers coach John Dobson believes World Rugby should revisit the law governing held-up situations after his side were denied two tries during their 44-21 United Rugby Championship quarterfinal victory over Cardiff in Cape Town on Saturday.

While the Stormers progressed comfortably to the semifinals after scoring six tries, the result did little to ease Dobson’s frustration with a law he feels unfairly rewards the defending team.

The Stormers have been held up over the tryline more than any other side in the URC this season, with Dobson suggesting it may even have cost them a higher finish on the log and the possibility of hosting a semifinal or final.

Speaking after the match at DHL Stadium, Dobson described the current law as one of rugby’s biggest anomalies.

“It’s our season. It’s our season. It is,” he said when asked by Modern Athlete how the held-up and goal-line dropout law affected the Stormers thus far in the 2025/26 URC season.

“It’s the worst. It’s one law in rugby that has to change. I’m not saying because it’s against us. I don’t understand this concept. You do so well, and you’re rewarded with receiving the ball back on your ten-yard.

“The old law was much better. Give it a five-metre scrum. You’ve attacked well, five-metre scrum.”

Under current laws, a defending team receives a goal-line dropout when an attacker is held up in-goal. Previously, the attacking side was awarded a five-metre scrum.

Stormers captain Ruan Nel experienced the frustration first-hand after being denied near the line against Cardiff.

“It sucks, actually,” Nel said.

“The arms were pretty there. When I dotted the ball down, I just put it straight on his knees. So I actually felt him at the bottom of the ruck. Well done. Proper effort there. Obviously, it’s very disappointing.”

Nel admitted the missed opportunities were frustrating, though he viewed them as evidence that the Stormers’ attack is consistently creating scoring chances.

“It’s encouraging because you’re obviously getting to the right spaces.

“It’s disappointing, but obviously over the line, just get the flipping thing down. But it’s encouraging at the same time because we are breaking them down, we are getting the reward in terms of position there.”

The experienced back also noted how frequently the issue has affected the Stormers this season.

“It’s funny. I’ve never been a part of a season where we’ve been held up so many times.”

Dobson’s concerns will take on added significance this week as the Stormers prepare for a semifinal against Leinster in Dublin.

The Irish province underlined their title credentials by demolishing the Lions 59-10 in the quarterfinals, running in nine tries in a clinical display at the Aviva Stadium.

If the Stormers are to challenge Leinster on their home turf, they will need to make the most of every scoring opportunity. Against a side renowned for converting pressure into points, being held up over the line and conceding a goal-line dropout could prove a costly setback.

For Dobson, the issue extends beyond the Stormers’ campaign. It is a law he believes fails to adequately reward attacking enterprise, and one he hopes World Rugby will eventually reconsider.

Image: Adnaan Mohamed

Come celebrate Women’s Month by running the iconic Totalsports Women’s Race

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Entries officially open today (Monday 20 April 2026) for South Africa’s premier Women’s Month celebration, the Totalsports Women’s Race, that will take place on three consecutive Sundays in August with the action kicking off in Durban on 2 August, followed by Cape Town on 9 August, and culminating in Johannesburg on 16 August 2026.

Thousands of women from across the country are expected to once again unite in celebration of movement, camaraderie, and empowerment, choosing between scenic 5km and 10km routes in each host city.

Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports, shares his excitement on entries opening: “The opening of entries for the Totalsports Women’s Race is always special to us. We encourage women of all ages and fitness levels to secure their place on the start line and be part of something truly meaningful. Whether you’re chasing a personal best or simply enjoying a walk with friends, this event offers an inclusive and inspiring space for every participant to celebrate Women’s Month in a powerful way.”

The Totalsports Women’s Race will once again support PinkDrive in 2026, contributing to the ongoing fight against breast cancer and raising awareness around early detection.

Meyer adds: “From a performance perspective, the Totalsports Women’s Race offers South Africa’s elite athletes an exceptional opportunity to compete in a world-class, women-only event on home soil. Spanning three cities, the series sets the stage for exciting head-to-head competition, complemented by an inspiring and energetic race-day atmosphere.”

Building on this sentiment, Nikki Crous, Head of Marketing at Totalsports, highlights the broader impact of the event:

“Entries opening signals the start of an incredible journey that brings women together from all walks of life. The Totalsports Women’s Race is more than just a race – it’s a celebration of strength, unity, and shared experiences. Each city offers its own unique energy, from Durban’s coastal charm to Cape Town’s iconic scenery and Johannesburg’s vibrant spirit. We encourage women to enter early, gather their friends and family, and be part of this unforgettable Women’s Month celebration.”

With limited entries available and high demand expected, participants are urged to act fast to secure their spot on the start line of one of South Africa’s most iconic women’s events.

EVENT INFORMATION: 2026 Totalsports Women’s Race 

DATE: CITY:
Sunday, 02 August 2026 Totalsports Women’s Race Durban Start Venue: Suncoast Casino, Snell ParadeFinish Venue: Suncoast Casino, Snell Parade
Sunday, 9 August 2026 Totalsports Women’s Race Cape TownStart Venue: 10km Start: Darling Street, Cape Town5km Start: Castle StreetFinish Venue: Grand Parade, Cape Town
Sunday, 16 August 2026 Totalsports Women’s Race JoburgStart Venue: Orange Road and Buffalo Road Junction, Marks ParkFinish Venue: Orange Road and Buffalo Road Junction, Marks Park
ENTRIES OPEN: Monday, 20 April 2026.
ENTRIES CLOSE: Durban: Thursday 02 July 2026, or once capacity has been reached. Cape Town: Monday 27 July 2026, or once capacity has been reached.Joburg: Monday 03 August 2026, or once capacity has been reached.

CHARITY SUPPORT: The Totalsports Women’s Race proudly supports PinkDrive, a non-profit company (NPC) dedicated to increasing breast cancer awareness, providing education, and offering free services to medically uninsured individuals across South Africa.

Like our Facebook page:  Women’s Race / The PinkDrive

Follow us on Instagram:  Women’s Race / PinkDrive

Hashtag: #Totalsports #TotalsportsWomensRace #LoveTheRun #PinkDrive 

For more information on PinkDrive visit www.pinkdrive.org For further information on the Totalsports Women’s Race visit www.totalsportswomensrace.co.za