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“I Hope Young Girls Believe they can too” – Glenrose’s R300k triple Spar 10k Glory

Adnaan MohamedFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on “I Hope Young Girls Believe they can too” – Glenrose’s R300k triple Spar 10k Glory
Adnaan Mohamed

Johannesburg – Glenrose Xaba’s 2025 season ended with joyous sprint across the finish line of success with a whopping R300 000 payday at the SPAR Women’s 10km Challenge Grand Prix Awards in Midrand on Tuesday.

The 31-year-old Boxer star, South Africa’s 10km record-holder, made history as the first black South African to win the prestigious SPAR Grand Prix Series three times. She joins an elite league that includes Rene Kalmer, Irvette van Zyl and Ethiopia’s Tadu Nare.

Her 2025 victory run was a clean sweep: five races, five wins, and a total of R165 000 in race-day prize money, topped up with R200 000 for winning the series and another R100 000 as the top South African finisher.

Glenrose Xaba was crowned the 2025 SPAR Grand Prix champion at SPAR Grand Prix Awards held in Midrand, Johannesburg on Tuesday 11 November 2025. Photo: Greg Caldecott

“I hope young black girls will be inspired by what I have achieved,” said Xaba.

“I think they will see what I have done and believe they can do it too.”

With her next big race set for the Valencia Marathon on December 7, Xaba credited her steady stride to a strong support team.

“I want to thank my coach, Violet Semenya, and my mentor, Caster Semenya, who both believed in me and helped me to develop as an athlete,” she said.

“Last year, I was very happy to be able to help my grandmother with her finances. I’m not sure yet what I’ll do with the money this time.”

Behind Xaba, Ethiopia’s Diniya Abaraya (Nedbank) and Salem Gebre (Nedbank) took silver and bronze in the series, pocketing R100 000 and R75 000 respectively. South Africa’s Karabo Mailula (Tuks) and Karabo More (Boxer) rounded out the top five, claiming R120 000 between them.

In the age-group races, the evergreen Judy Bird remained unbeaten in the 60+ category, while Elizabeth Potter, Janie Grundling, and Chanell Groenwalt led the 50–59, 40–49, and junior divisions respectively. Each category winner earned R10 500, with podium runners also rewarded.

SPAR, Hyundai and ASA celebrate women’s running

SPAR’s National PR, Sponsorship and Communications Manager, Mpudi Maubane, confirmed the supermarket giant’s continued sponsorship of the Grand Prix through 2026.

Acting President of Athletics South Africa, John Mathane, Glenrose Xaba 2025 SPAR Grand Prix Winner and Mpudi Maubane, SPAR National PR, Communications and Sponsorship Manager Photo: Reg Caldecott

“SPAR is committed to improving the lives of women,” said Maubane.

“All five races were fully subscribed, and we were able to promote campaigns to end gender-based violence and period poverty, while giving thousands of women the joy of running together.”

Athletics South Africa Acting President, James Mathane, hailed SPAR’s commitment:

“SPAR have invested more than just financial support. They have invested in dreams, in talent, and in transformation. This series has become a cornerstone of women’s athletics in South Africa.”

Adding horsepower to the celebration, Hyundai gave away a brand-new Exter SUV worth R269 900 at each race.

“Regular exercise builds strength, confidence and community. It’s the same values we strive to embody,” said Hyundai CEO Stanley Anderson.

“Glenrose Xaba’s performances are a reminder that greatness is earned kilometre by kilometre, through focus and courage.”

The 2026 SPAR Grand Prix calendar will be announced early next year, ensuring that South Africa’s finest women runners will once again line up to chase medals and milestones.

Comrades Marathon Opens 2026 Entries with Priority for Green Numbers and CMA Members

Adnaan MohamedComrades MarathonLeave a Comment on Comrades Marathon Opens 2026 Entries with Priority for Green Numbers and CMA Members
By Adnaan Mohamed

The Comrades Marathon Association (CMA) has announced that entries for the 2026 Comrades Marathon will open at 12:00 on Monday, 27 October 2025, with the first week reserved exclusively for Green Number Club runners and CMA Members.

Entries for all other athletes will open on Monday, 3 November at 10:00, and close on 28 November, or earlier if the entry cap of 22,000 is reached. The CMA confirmed that this will be the only entry window for the 2026 race.

“This early entry window is a token of appreciation to all Green Number Club athletes and CMA Members for their many years of loyalty and dedication to The Ultimate Human Race,” said CMA General Manager Alain Dalais.

“We are incredibly proud of our Green Number Club members and inspired by their commitment. Similarly, we value and appreciate our CMA Members, who take a greater interest in everything to do with the event.”

Only CMA members who signed up or renewed by 23 October 2025 will qualify for early entry.

Recognising Loyalty

The Green Number Club includes runners who have completed the Comrades Marathon 10 times, earned five gold medals, or won the race three times. The early entry opportunity was introduced in 2025 and extended this year to include CMA Members.

“This offer honours the dedication and perseverance of athletes who have achieved permanent Green Number status and those who support the race as CMA Members,” said Dalais.

Entry Fees Unchanged

Entries can be completed online at www.comrades.com or via the official Comrades Marathon app. The CMA confirmed that entry fees remain unchanged for the third consecutive year.

“In our continuing effort to make the race accessible to as many runners as we can, we have kept the entry fees the same since 2023,” said Dalais.

“Also, as a further reward for exceptional commitment, the entry fee is waived for runners who have earned 25 or more Comrades medals.”

Entry fees for 2026:

  • South Africa: R1200
  • Rest of Africa: R2000
  • International: R4500

Runners may pay the full amount immediately or in two instalments, with the balance due by end-February 2026. Up to 1,500 disadvantaged athletes will be able to apply for reduced fees of up to 50% through the Comrades Runners’ Relief Fund.

Qualification and Substitutions

The qualification period for the 2026 Comrades Marathon runs from 9 June 2025 to 4 May 2026. To qualify, runners must complete an officially timed 42.2km marathon in under five hours.

The deadline for submitting qualifying details, club information and seeding upgrades is 4 May 2026.

The withdrawal window will run from 16 to 30 March 2026, followed by the substitution window from 1 to 15 April 2026.

“The athlete substituting in will pay the full 2026 entry fee to the CMA,” said Dalais. “The withdrawing athlete will be charged a 15% administrative fee and refunded 85% of their entry fee. No money or vouchers will be exchanged between athletes.”

The 2026 Up Run

The 99th edition of the Comrades Marathon will also mark the 50th Up Run, from Durban to Pietermaritzburg, on Sunday, 14 June 2026. The race will start at 5:30am outside Durban City Hall and finish 12 hours later at Hollywoodbets Scottsville Racecourse, covering approximately 87km.

The official race campaign, “Ska Fela Moya” is Setswana for Don’t Give Up. It embodies the determination and resilience that have defined the Comrades spirit for nearly a century.

Photo: Tobias Ginsberg

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

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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.

“Rory, for one million rand, why do you run?”

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on “Rory, for one million rand, why do you run?”

Champions! The one question we’re asked so often and it’s the one I find the most difficult to answer. Impossible to answer. Cue the music. Cue the lights. Camera zooms in on my face. Lights become brighter. The audience goes quiet. Room feels warmer. 

“Rory, for one million rand, why do you run?” 

Rory looks around for a lifeline, but he’s used them all. He used ‘Phone a friend’ when he felt discouraged and needed some encouragement to go for a run. He used 50/50 when it was starting to drizzle one day and he decided against going outside. And he wasted his ‘Ask the audience’ that one time when he needed advice on what to do with those silly soft flask thingies that bounce around in your pocket like a half alive fish. So here he was, forced to answer the most difficult question of his whole entire life.  

Champions, do you know why you run? If I had to ask you for one reason, what would it be? For me, it’s like asking for my favourite song or favourite movie. It literally depends on when you ask, what mood I’m in, where I am, what the weather is doing, and how strong my coffee was. But here I sit with one million rand (or the equivalent of two days’ electricity on a pre-payment meter) on the line. For the sake of the money, this is why I run: 

  1. Sometimes I run because I feel fat and the thought of maybe one day needing a mirror to see, um, well, that stuff down there terrifies me. 
  2. Sometimes I run because I have no content left in my brain. I’ll have nothing at all. And, without fail, every single time, within the first kilometre, I have at least 10 more ideas for videos to record on the driver’s seat of my car, half a one-man comedy show and a week’s worth of stuff for my radio show too.
  3. Sometimes I run because I miss all my other crazy beautiful people who also run. Also, there’s just something special about getting out of your car at 04h52 in the morning and seeing other lunatics who are doing the same!
  4. Sometimes I run because I have FOMO after seeing someone else’s run on social media, with photos captioned, “Easy shakeout with my besties!” Easy shakeout? You did 22km in 2 hours Barbara! Stop showing off! 
  5. Sometimes I run because I feel anxious and Google tells me that running is the best thing for anxiety. I disagree. A R100-million Powerball win would do the job too.
  6. Sometimes I run because I remember how absolutely amazing it feels when you finish and that beautifully perfect and delicious rush of accomplishment you get when you stop your watch at the end. You feel invincible. OK, I lie. None of this is true. It’s because I know there’s a triple shot flat white waiting for me.
  7. Sometimes I run because I remember I’ve signed up for that little 90km run between Durban and Pietermaritzburg and in the words of someone famous but I can’t remember who, “Those 90km are not gonna run themselves!”  

So, Champions, for one million rand, why do I run? I’ll tell you. Because somewhere between that first and last kilometre, while I’m doing it to keep lean and healthy, to get my creative juices flowing, to calm the FOMO, to kill the anxiety, to get that coffee at the end, to see my friends and to train for that beautiful 90km fun run, I remember it’s the one place the scam callers can’t find me! I love you. 2-nils.

Cream of the crop set for Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K Showdown

Adnaan MohamedNews, RacingLeave a Comment on Cream of the crop set for Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K Showdown

Adnaan Mohamed

Johannesburg’s bustling streets will swap weekday traffic for running shoes on Heritage Day, Wednesday 24 September, when the Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K brings the curtain down on the five-race series. From Lilian Ngoyi Street to Rahima Moosa Street, Jozi will echo with the sound of chasing feet and national pride.

Men’s showdown

The men’s race promises fireworks with South Africa’s Precious Mashele (27:35) determined to strike gold on his favourite kind of course.

“Joburg is never easy … the air is thin, the climbs are tough. But those are the races that bring out my best,” Mashele said.

His main rival is Kabelo Mulaudzi (27:41), who has swept the last three races in Cape Town, Durban and Tshwane. A fourth straight victory would crown him series king.

But Thabang Mosiako (27:45) is also in red-hot form after winning last weekend’s Hollywood Joburg 10K. He believes his hill and speed work have prepared him perfectly.

The 28-year-old is also eyeing next month’s Sanlam Cape Town Marathon debut, making this race an important test.

Thabang Mosiako Photo: Adnaan Mohamed

They’ll be pushed hard by Ethiopia’s Aklilu Asfaw (28:03) and Lesotho’s Namakoe Nkhasi (27:52), both with the pedigree to spoil the South African party. With so much sub-28 pace, the men’s crown may only be decided in the final lung-busting metres.

Women’s battle

In the women’s race, Lesotho’s Neheng Khatala (31:53) starts as favourite, her strength on the climbs making her a natural fit for Jozi’s altitude.

“I love hard courses. They test not just the body, but the spirit,” Khatala said.

Her closest challengers include South Africa’s Cacisile Sosibo (32:54), Zimbabwe’s Rutendo Nyahora (32:55) and Kenya’s Naomy Jerono (33:28). Expect a close contest, with the decisive move likely on the punishing final stretch down Rahima Moosa Street.

Comrades stars add intrigue

Adding extra spice are Comrades Marathon champions Tete Dijana and Edward “Slender” Mothibi, both trading ultra-distance armour for 10km sharpness. Reigning Comrades Champion Dijana admits he’s using Joburg to test his speed.

Reigning Comrades Champion Tete Dijana Photo: Adnaan Mohamed

“The body is recovering well after Comrades. I use these 10km races to sharpen the legs,” he said.

Race founder Michael Meyer believes their presence underlines the event’s prestige:

“When you see Comrades champions lining up against 10km specialists, it speaks to the depth of our sport.”

A Heritage Day celebration

While the elites chase records, thousands of recreational runners will share the same course, painting the streets red and turning it into a moving tapestry of endurance and unity.

On a day celebrating South Africa’s heritage, the Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K will be a festival of speed, spirit and pride, as Jozi plays host to one last, spectacular showdown.

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.

Steyn sharpens, Mosiako shines at Joburg 10K

Adnaan MohamedNews, RacingLeave a Comment on Steyn sharpens, Mosiako shines at Joburg 10K

By Adnaan Mohamed

Johannesburg’s streets turned into a purple battleground on Saturday as South Africa’s finest lined up against East African pace at the Hollywoodbets Joburg 10K.

Elite start of the Hollywoodbets Joburg 10K Photo: Adnaan Mohamed

The second edition of the well-organised race started and finished at the historic Wanderers Club. The popular 10km and 5km sold-out event attracted a whopping 8000 participants, who enjoyed the warm, windless, conditions over a challenging hilly route through the streets of Illovo and Sandton.

Kenya’s Frida Ndinda claimed the women’s crown in 35:18. The 24-year-old Kenyan just managed to hold off off the fast finishing 35-year-old South African ultra-marathon queen, Gerda Steyn, who clocked 35:52 for second. Tuks youngster Karabo Mailula, 23, completed the podium in 36:12.

For Steyn, a four-time Comrades and six-time Two Oceans Marathon champion, the Joburg10K was less about silverware and more about sharpening speed ahead of next month’s Sanlam Cape Town Marathon.

“The race went off so fast, I decided to hold back early,” she said.

“I worked my way through, got into second, and could see the leader, but ran out of road. I’m very happy with how strong I felt.”

The men’s race was a very different story. Thabang Mosiako, South Africa’s half-marathon champion, blasted from the gun and never looked back, storming to victory in 29:45.

National marathon champion Bennet Seloyi (30:00) was second, with the evergreen Stephen Mokoka (30:04) in third.

Thabang Mosiako Photo: Hollywood AC

“I told myself I’m going from the start,” Mosiako said.

“With guys like Stephen, you can’t wait … this madala doesn’t want to get old. Breaking 30 here was a surprise, but it shows my shape is coming back.”

For Steyn, it was a steady tune-up. For Mosiako, a statement of intent. And for Joburg, another reminder that the city’s streets remain a proving ground for champions.

Male

View All Male

Pos Name Time
1 Thabang MOSIAKO 00:29:44
2 Bennett SELOYI 00:29:59
3 Stephen MOKOKA 00:30:03
4 Namakoe NKHASI 00:30:09
5 Chris MHLANGA 00:30:25
6 Simon SIBEKO 00:30:32
7 Tsietse SELLO 00:30:33
8 Pakiso MTHEMBU 00:30:35
9 Lebenya NKOKA 00:30:37
10 Cwenga NOSE 00:30:43

Female

View All Female

Pos Name Time
1 Fridah NDINDA 00:35:17
2 Gerda STEYN 00:35:51
3 Karaboá MAILULA 00:36:11
4 Dikeledi MAJARA 00:36:31
5 Cacisile SOSIBO 00:37:06
6 Nobukhosi TSHUMA 00:38:32
7 Rutendo NYAHORA 00:39:03
8 Melinda JANSEN VAN VUUREN 00:39:09
9 Ntsoaki MOLAHLOEÁ 00:39:14
10 Melissa JANSEN VAN VUUREN 00:40:03

FULL HOLLYWOODBETS JOBURG 10K 2025 RESULTS

Around 8000 participants painted the streets of Sandton, Illovo and Melrose purple at the Hollywoodbets Joburg 10K Photo: Adnaan Mohamed

Comrades New Race Director Sue Forge Promises an Exceptional Experience

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Sue Forge: Image courtesy Comrades Marathon Association.

By Adnaan Mohamed

The Comrades Marathon Association (CMA) has appointed Sue Forge, a seasoned event specialist, as its new Race Director, a role created in a strategic shake-up to keep the world’s oldest and largest ultramarathon at the front of the pack.

The CMA Board split the duties of General Manager and Race Director to sharpen focus on innovation, safety and the runner experience. Forge was chosen after a rigorous, independent process that drew more than 100 applications.

Sue Forge, who boasts over 20 years’ experience in the industry, has led the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series SPAR Women’s Challenge, the Two Oceans Marathon NPC and the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon, as well as serving Western Province Athletics. She has also contributed to international events such as the Confederation of African Athletics Cross Country Championships.

“It is an honour to take on the role of Race Director,” says Sue, who has taken on the huge responsibility in leading the world’s oldest and largest ultramarathon.

“The Comrades Marathon is more than just a race, it is a symbol of endurance, camaraderie, and South African spirit.

“I look forward to working with the CMA Board, staff, sponsors, and the incredible volunteers to make the 99th Comrades and the centenary event the best yet, ensuring safety, innovation, and an exceptional experience for every runner.”

Known for her deep industry knowledge, collaborative management style, and runner centric approach, Sue has consistently delivered safe, high impact events while building strong relationships across sponsors, federations, government bodies, suppliers, and local communities.

Her appointment follows a rigorous selection process from over 100 candidates. From November 1, she will take full-time charge of race operations, reporting to CMA General Manager Alain Dalais.

Alain is confident she’ll keep the event moving smoothly:

“Sue brings a wealth of experience, passion and dedication to this role. I know that the Comrades community will all benefit from this appointment.”

CMA Chair Mqondisi Ngcobo echoed that sentiment:

“As we approach our centenary, appointing a dedicated Race Director ensures that Comrades remains at the forefront of global ultramarathons.

“Sue brings unparalleled expertise, a proven track record in major sporting events, and a passion for the running community.”

But Sue herself sums it up best:

“The Comrades Marathon is a journey that unites people. To be entrusted with guiding it into its 99th and 100th races is a privilege I’ll carry every step of the way.”

The Long Run to Redemption

Roxanne MartinNewsLeave a Comment on The Long Run to Redemption

From the Cape Flats to Comrades Glory, Denver van der Bergh’s epic 1680 kilometre journey of hope. By Adnaan Mohamed

Everyday for the past 35 days, my phone has lit up with a message from a man who, by every metric, should not be alive—let alone running the length of a country. But Denver van der Bergh is not merely alive. He is ablaze.

He sends me updates from the side of dusty roads, from inside blistered shoes, with sweat streaking his face and his voice steady with fire. Each message is a verse in a larger hymn—an unfolding gospel of grit, grace, and glorious resurrection.

Denver, 48, has just completed the first chapter of what he calls The Serenity Run, a 1,680km spiritual odyssey on foot from Cape Town to Pietermaritzburg, culminating this Sunday in the 89km Comrades Marathon.

But this isn’t just a long-distance run. It’s a thunderous testament to the human capacity to climb out of hell barefoot—and keep running.

“There’s already so much suffering in the world. I just wanted to spread a little hope.” Denver says proudly.

FROM COLD STREETS TO BURNING PURPOSE

He didn’t start this journey on a starting line. He started in the dark.

Denver grew up in the Cape Flats, where dreams are often smothered by survival. His early years were marred by trauma—the kind of silent, slow poison that rots from the inside.

 “I blamed myself when my grandfather died,” he told me once, the way someone might mention a long-healed scar. “I stopped believing… in everything.”

By 23, he was deep in addiction. Alcohol first, then drugs—a slow drip that pulled him under for 25 years. His life was a series of burning bridges.

“I thought it was a habit. But it was a cage. I kept trying to unlock it with shame, but shame only built more bars.”

He attempted to take his life. He didn’t want to run anymore. Until someone—an employer, not a therapist—offered him a choice: face the music, or seek help.

THE FIRST STEP

Ramot Treatment Centre in Parow didn’t look like salvation. But it felt like it.

“There was no judgment,” he said. “Just people who had seen the darkness, and survived it. That’s when I knew I wasn’t a monster. I was a man with pain that hadn’t been named yet.”

In recovery, he discovered the Serenity Prayer. God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change… It wasn’t just a prayer. It was a map. And Denver decided to follow it—one trembling, blistered step at a time.

THE FIRE RETURNS

At Ramot, he started jogging.

What began as playful laps around the rehab garden became races. Then rituals. Then redemption.

“I started chasing something again,” he told me once. “But this time, it wasn’t an escape. It was a return—to myself.”

The races came. Two Oceans. Comrades. And then, this year, something monumental: to mark five years of sobriety, Denver decided to run from Cape Town to Pietermaritzburg… and then lace up for his back-to-back Comrades Marathon.

“I wanted to give back to the place that gave me my life. To raise R500,000 for Ramot. To show someone out there—you, maybe—that it’s possible to come back from the brink.”

A RUN LIKE NO OTHER

Every day for 35 days, Denver has pounded the tar. Alone. Carrying nothing but a GPS tracker, a small team on call, and a heart like a war drum.

Fifty kilometres a day. Hills that bite like wolves. Heat that bakes through bone. Days when his calves locked like iron gates. Nights when sleep slipped through fingers made for prayer.

“I’ve had moments where I felt like quitting,” he messaged me once, somewhere in the Eastern Cape, after pushing 73km in a single day to make up for a day lost after picking up an injury. 

“But then I remember—I’m not running away anymore. I’m running toward something.”

Each kilometre was a step into healing. Each road sign, a reminder that the past may chase us, but we are not obligated to stop and greet it.

“I’M FIVE YEARS SOBER BECAUSE SOMEONE ONCE REACHED OUT TO HELP ME”

That’s what Denver told me on day 29, in a gravel lay-by, while a storm rolled in behind him. I saved the voice note. I still listen to it when I need reminding.

There is nothing ordinary about this man. Not his smile, which now glows like sunrise on stained glass. Not his journey, which reads like scripture scribbled in sweat. And certainly not his message, which echoes louder with every step:

“We write off addicts too easily,” he says. “But addiction isn’t failure. It’s untreated pain. I’m proof that healing is possible. That broken doesn’t mean beyond repair.”

THE FINAL STRETCH

After running the first five kilometres with his Celtic Harriers club mates from Rondebosch Common in Cape Town on 1 May, Denver arrived in Pietermaritzburg just after 9 a.m. on Thursday 5 June, legs weary but spirit unshaken.

Members of the Collegian Harriers met him at Southgate Mall and escorted him for the final 3.9km to Comrades House.

Now, he rests. But not for long.

On Sunday, he’ll face the Comrades Marathon, the iconic 89km stretch between PMB and Durban. For most, it’s a mountain. For Denver, it’s the home stretch of a resurrection.

THE DREAM THAT BECAME REALITY

Denver often describes his journey as “running through fire to find the ocean.” And indeed, every kilometre of The Serenity Run has been a baptism by flame.

But here he stands—scarred, smiling, and stronger than ever—ankle-deep in a tide of hope.

“THIS ISN’T JUST A RUN. IT’S A RESURRECTION.”

That’s how he put it in one of his early messages to me, back when we both knew what lay ahead, but not what would rise from it.

I’ve watched this man climb out of his past like a phoenix scraping skyward. I’ve felt the crackle of that fire with every update. And I’ve come to believe what Denver proves every single day: That pain is not the end of the story. It’s the beginning of purpose.

So on Sunday, when the record 22 000 Comrades field surges forward, look for the man who’s already outrun his demons. He won’t be at the front.

He won’t be at the back. He’ll be somewhere in the middle—steady, radiant, running not away from something, but into everything he was meant to become.

To support the Serenity Run or donate to the Ramot Treatment Centre, visit https://www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/serenity

Follow Denver’s journey at @theserenityrun on Instagram

Denver can be tracked in the Comrades Marathon here: https://rtrt.me/ulink/CMSA/CMSA-COMRADES-2025/tracker/RN6XZ8LK/focus

The Great Debate

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on The Great Debate

Last month showed us that this was a very good decision, a debate is sometimes needed, and being able to tell both sides and let you decide is what we at Modern Athlete aim to do.  This month’s topic: Do you think races should do away with tees and medals in favour of lowering entry costs? has brought two very unique viewpoints, first from Ashraf Orrie, Mr O, and second from Bruce King, Race Director of the Balwin Sport Jeppe Marathon. There is a lot more to consider than we thought there was, and this is why we love this space so much!