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SPAR Grand Prix Celebrates 18 years as Stakes Rise for 2026

Adnaan MohamedNews, PreviewLeave a Comment on SPAR Grand Prix Celebrates 18 years as Stakes Rise for 2026

The SPAR Grand Prix has reached its 18th year, and like a seasoned marathoner hitting her stride, the series continues to quicken the tempo of women’s road running in South Africa.

Staged across five legs of the SPAR Women’s 10km Challenge in Cape Town, Durban, Tshwane, Gqeberha and Johannesburg, the Grand Prix operates as an elite race within a mass participation celebration. Thousands line up at each stop, yet at the sharp end the country’s finest compete for points, pride and a prize purse that has swelled to R1 967 500.

Launched in 2008 to give top-tier South African runners a structured, rewarding annual contest, the series widened its lane in 2019 to include international athletes. The arrival of runners from across Africa has acted like a tailwind, lifting standards and sharpening finishing kicks. Local athletes have responded with faster times and fearless racing.

The overall champion in 2026 will pocket R210 000, with R105 000 for second and R80 000 for third. Age category winners earn R11 000, with R8 000 for runners-up. South Africa’s top five finishers also receive dedicated incentives. The leading South African takes home R110 000, second earns R75 000 and fifth collects R21 000, in addition to their main competition earnings.

Across 18 years, four athletes have won the title three times: Rene Kalmer, Irvette van Zyl, Tadu Nare of Ethiopia and Glenrose Xaba. Xaba broke new ground as the first South African champion since the series opened to international competition, and the first black South African to claim three titles. She now chases a fourth crown, aiming to carve her name deeper into the record books.

“The SPAR Grand Prix has become very important to me,” said Xaba.
“I am very proud to be the first black South African to win it three times. I like to think that my achievements are an inspiration to young girls living in poverty as I was, who see what I have done and believe they can do the same.”

Beyond the stopwatch, the Grand Prix carries a powerful social stride. SPAR’s campaign to end period poverty and gender-based violence runs alongside the racing calendar.

“As a business rooted in the heart of South African communities, SPAR has a responsibility to stand up for women and girls. Ending period poverty and gender-based violence is about more than intervention – it’s about dignity, safer environments, and equal opportunities.

“Through our community partnerships and sustained investments, we are committed to creating environments where women are supported, protected, and empowered to reach their full potential. This is not just one of those social responsibility programmes for SPAR – it is central to who we are.

“We continue to advocate for dignity and access to essential resources for women and girls. By partnering with organisations on the ground and investing in community driven solutions, we are helping to break down barriers, restore dignity, and create comfortable spaces where women can thrive, and get an opportunity to celebrate themselves. These efforts reflect SPAR’s core values of care, inclusivity, and meaningful community impact.

“The SPAR Women’s 10km Challenge and the SPAR Grand Prix are examples of our commitment to improving the lot of women.”

Acting President of Athletics South Africa, John Mathane, saluted the milestone.

Pictured from left, 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 credit- Reg Caldecott

“SPAR is one of the longest standing sponsors of athletics in South Africa, and we applaud SPAR for having supported, promoted and empowered hundreds of thousands of women through the SPAR Challenge series, while assisting our elite athletes through the SPAR Grand Prix.

“ASA are aligned with SPAR and their commendable initiative to end GBV and period poverty. The women of South Africa need to be heard, respected and protected,” said Mathane.

Corporate backing remains strong. Hyundai and Coca Cola return as official partners for 2026, with Modern Athlete as media partner. At each race, one entrant over 18 with a valid driver’s licence stands a chance to drive away in an all-new Hyundai EXTER.

“Hyundai is driven by performance, precision and people,” said Stanley Anderson, CEO of Hyundai Automotive South Africa. “We excited to continue our partnership with the SPAR National Grand Prix Series. Once again, one lucky attendee at each race stands a chance to drive away in the all-new Hyundai EXTER and this is our way of celebrating South Africans’ energy, on and off the track.”

The 2026 theme, #CelebrateHer, captures the spirit of a series that blends elite competition with community upliftment. Eighteen years in, the SPAR Grand Prix runs with the confidence of experience and the hunger of youth, its footsteps echoing far beyond the finish line.

Xaba targets SA 10km record in stacked Gqeberha showdown

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By Adnaan Mohamed

South African 10km record holder Glenrose Xaba will launch her 2026 campaign with history in her sights when she lines up at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K on Sunday, 1 March.

Xaba returns to Nelson Mandela Bay off the back of a demanding but productive 2025 season in the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series, where she claimed three podium finishes, including two victories. Her year also included the second marathon of her career and national duty at the World Athletics Cross Country Championships in the United States.

After a brief recovery phase, she says preparations have progressed smoothly.

“The body is feeling good,” Xaba said. “After World Cross Country, the focus was on recovery, easy mileage and strength work before building intensity again. Training has been consistent, and I feel stronger each week.”

The 2026 Gqeberha race is being billed as the fastest women’s 10km field assembled on African soil. Kenya’s sub-30-minute performer Brenda Jepchirchir and compatriot Faith Cherono headline a formidable East African contingent.

For Xaba, the quality of the field presents opportunity rather than intimidation.

“Being part of such a strong field is exciting and motivating,” she said. “When you line up against fast Kenyan athletes and other top runners, it pushes you to perform at your best.”

Xaba holds the South African women’s 10km record of 31:12 and finished third in Gqeberha last year in 31:50. With an anticipated aggressive early pace, she could become the first South African woman to dip under the 31-minute mark.

“I have great memories from racing in Gqeberha last year and finishing on the podium,” she added. “This time, I want to improve on that performance. My target is to run a personal best and compete for the top positions again.”

Glenrose Xaba 2025 Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K by Anthony Grote

Series founder and Stillwater Sports Managing Director Michael Meyer welcomed Xaba’s return, highlighting the significance of staging a world-class women’s field on home soil.

“We are incredibly proud to see Glenrose line up against world-class competitors,” Meyer said. “Hosting what is arguably the fastest women’s 10km field on the continent is a milestone for the event.”

The Gqeberha race opens a five-leg national series that will travel to Cape Town (10 May), Durban (12 July), Tshwane (23 August) and Joburg (24 September).

With a combined prize purse of R1 686 000 and additional incentives for South African athletes, the stakes are high. But for Xaba, the primary target remains the clock.

If the pace unfolds as predicted along the coastal route, South African road running could witness a landmark performance to kick-start 2026.

2026 Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series Dates

  1. 1 March 2026 – Gqeberha 10K
  2. 10 May 2026 – Cape Town 10K
  3. 12 July 2026 – Durban 10K
  4. 23 August 2026 – Tshwane 10K
  5. 24 September 2026 – Joburg 10K

For more info visit: https://runyourcityseries.com/

World No.1 Brenda Jepchirchir targets historic Sub-30 African 10K debut in Gqeberha

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Kenya’s Brenda Jepchirchir, the 20-year-old world No.1 will toe the line at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K on Sunday, 1 March 2026, chasing history and dragging the pace of women’s road running on the continent into uncharted territory.

Fresh from her electrifying victory at the Valencia 10K in January, where she scorched the streets in 29:25, Jepchirchir has already torn through one of distance running’s most stubborn psychological barriers. Now she’s eyeing something even bigger: becoming the first woman to run a sub-30-minute 10km road race on African soil.

Jepchirchir’s rise has been built on patience and precision. Her Valencia performance launched her to the top of the 2026 world rankings and cemented her status as one of the sport’s most feared road racers. But rather than staying on Europe’s lucrative circuit, she’s followed the fast lane south. It’s a path previously carved by icons such as Genzebe Dibaba and Yelamzerf Yehualu.

The draw is simple: the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series has become a speed laboratory where elite athletes don’t just chase times, they manufacture them.

“I’ve heard great things about the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series and the Gqeberha 10K. The course is known for being fast, the organisation is excellent, and the competition is strong. I’m excited to experience racing in South Africa and to be part of such a high-energy event,” Jepchirchir said.

Her presence transforms the race into a high-octane proving ground for South Africa’s leading women’s 10km specialists, particularly Glenrose Xaba and Tayla Kavanagh amongst others. Both runners have steadily tightened their grip on the domestic road scene, and lining up beside the world’s fastest woman is the equivalent of stepping onto a treadmill that keeps accelerating.

For Xaba, a proven championship racer with tactical steel, Jepchirchir’s relentless tempo could serve as the perfect pacing carrot, or a punishing reality check. Meanwhile, Kavanagh’s fearless front-running style could thrive in a race that promises to unfold at record-threatening speed. The clash offers South African athletes a rare opportunity to test themselves against global gold standard pacing without leaving home soil.

Jepchirchir’s breakthrough wasn’t accidental. It was the product of months spent stacking disciplined mileage like bricks in a foundation built for speed.

“It was an amazing feeling and a very special moment for me. Valencia is such a competitive race, so winning there and breaking 30 minutes for the first time meant a lot,” she explained.

“The biggest factor has been consistency. Over the last six months I’ve been able to train well, stay healthy, and really build momentum. On 1 March, the goal is to put together a strong race, compete well, and see what time is possible on the day. If conditions are right, I’d love to run fast again, but the focus must also be on execution and racing smart.”

Race organisers believe Jepchirchir’s debut injects jet fuel into an already electric event.

“To have the current world No.1, fresh off a sensational win in Valencia, choose to make her South African debut at our event speaks volumes about the stature of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series,” said Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports and Series Founder.

“Brenda’s presence raises the bar once again and guarantees an exciting, world-class race for both elite and recreational runners on the streets of Nelson Mandela Bay.”

With a combined prize purse of R1.686 million across the 2026 series, alongside performance incentives designed to reward South African athletes, the Gqeberha leg promises fireworks.

Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K START by Anthony Grote

When the starter’s gun cracks, the race could unfold like a perfectly executed negative split: smooth, controlled, and devastatingly fast when it matters most.

2026 Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series dates

1 March: Gqeberha 10K

10 May: Cape Town 10K

12 July: Durban 10K

23 August: Tshwane 10K 24 September: Joburg 10K

For more info visit: https://runyourcityseries.com/

Cian Oldknow set for comeback as Team SA gears up for World Cross Country Champs

Adnaan MohamedCross Country, NewsLeave a Comment on Cian Oldknow set for comeback as Team SA gears up for World Cross Country Champs
By Adnaan Mohamed

Cian Oldknow is back on the start line as Team South Africa prepares to tackle the World Cross Country Championships in Tallahassee, Florida on Saturday.

After an injury- and illness-disrupted 2025 season, the Olympian’s is primed for a return to action on the world stage.

Oldknow is part of a strong senior women’s squad contesting the demanding 10km, headlined by Glenrose Xaba, Cacisile Sosibo, Kyla Jacobs, Karabo Mailula and Zanele Maisa.

For Oldknow, Tallahassee represents the first competitive stride back after a year spent battling setbacks rather than chasing finish tapes. The Johannesburg-based athlete burst onto the marathon scene in 2024, winning three races over 42.2km, qualifying for the Paris Olympic Games and finishing as South Africa’s top marathoner ahead of Irvette van Zyl and Gerda Steyn. Momentum stalled in 2025, but not belief.

“This will be my first race back after quite a difficult year in 2025, so I’m hoping to start on a positive note,” said Oldknow.

“I really enjoy wearing the South African colours and take a lot of pride in representing my country. I know I’ll have to dig deep, even though I’m not in the best place yet, but I think we can take pride in what we do as a team.”

While the women’s squad gathers pace, the men’s team has been forced to adjust its rhythm. South Africa’s plan to field its strongest senior men’s outfit was disrupted when reigning SA 10km cross country champion Kabelo Mulaudzi was ruled out with injury. Mulaudzi, one of the form distance runners of recent seasons with three sub-28-minute 10km performances last year, will focus on rehabilitation ahead of 2026.

The men’s 10km team features Adriaan Wildschutt, Bennett Seloyi, Chris Mhlanga, Sanele Masondo and Musawenkosi Mnisi, with Jayde Roslee stepping in after the withdrawal of Mulaudzi.

Adriaan Wildschutt Photo: Team SA

“We can confirm that Mulaudzi is injured,” said ASA Cross Country Chairperson and Team Manager Jakes Jacobs.

“He is replaced by Jayde Roslee who finished in the top twenty in the junior race in Australia in 2023. He was the official reserve after his performance at the trials. The good thing is that Jayde is based in the US. So, he will represent the country on behalf of Kabelo.”

On the women’s side, national 10km champion Glenrose Xaba returns to the World Cross Country Championships for the first time since stepping up to the marathon. Fresh off a sixth-place finish at the Valencia Marathon, Xaba is aiming to better her 32nd-place showing in Serbia two years ago, and she believes the legs are ready.

“I did not train that much because I was already fit,” said Xaba.

“So, I rested and spent the rest of December polishing up because you can’t just come from a marathon and jump into another training programme. I will do my best to go with the East Africans because it’s something that I’m used to doing. I just want to improve and finish very strong. I’m feeling very good. No injury. I just want to do my best.”

With a 28-member squad spread across senior, junior and relay events, Team South Africa arrives in Florida with depth, resilience and runners eager to test themselves against the world’s best.

TEAM SA – WORLD CROSS COUNTRY CHAMPIONSHIPS

Tallahassee, Florida | 10 January 2026

Senior men (10km)

  • Adriaan Wildschutt
  • Bennett Seloyi
  • Sanele Masondo
  • Chris Mhlanga
  • Musawenkosi Mnisi
  • Jayde Roslee (replacement)

Senior women (10km)

  • Glenrose Xaba
  • Karabo Mailula
  • Cacisile Sosibo
  • Kyla Jacobs
  • Cian Oldknow
  • Zanele Maisa

Senior mixed relay (4x2km)

  • Karabo More
  • Carina Viljoen
  • Luan Munnik
  • Christopher Swart

Junior men (8km)

  • Anele Matsoso
  • Tshepang Tshivhula
  • Beautin van der Westhuizen
  • Olerato Mosiloane
  • Benkosi Maqwara
  • Junior Noah

Junior women (6km)

  • Ithuteng Khiba
  • Lara Stander
  • Lara van der Merwe
  • Andrea Steynberg
  • Omaatla Dikao
  • Leandri Pretorius

Featured images: Michael Scott, TEAM SA

SA Sport 2025: A Year-in-Review

Adnaan MohamedComrades Marathon, Cricket, Features, Hockey, News, Rugby, Springboks, Swimming, Totalsports Two Oceans MarathonLeave a Comment on SA Sport 2025: A Year-in-Review
By Adnaan Mohamed

In South Africa, sport has always been more than results. It is identity, catharsis and connection. In 2025, that truth surged again, from the collective power of the Springboks to the solitary courage of ultra-marathoners chasing dawn. This special edition captures a year when excellence became habit and belief became currency.

RUGBY: THE SPRINGBOKS – A STANDARD THE WORLD STILL CHASES

If global rugby were measured in tectonic plates, the Springboks spent 2025 shifting them.

South Africa’s national side operated with the assurance of champions who know their system is both unforgiving and evolving. They defended trophies, dominated tours and suffocated opponents with a brand of rugby that blended brute force with surgical intelligence.

The crowning individual honour came when Malcolm Marx was named World Rugby Men’s 15s Player of the Year. It was well deserved recognition for a player who plays the game like a controlled demolition. Around him, the emergence of creative talents such as Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu ensured the Bok blueprint remained future-proof.

“The Springboks didn’t just win in 2025, they imposed a rhythm the rest of the world struggled to breathe in.”

CRICKET: PROTEAS REWRITE THEIR HISTORY

At Lord’s, cricket’s most sacred address, South Africa finally confronted its past and walked beyond it.

The Proteas’ World Test Championship triumph was more than silverware. It was a release. Decades of near-misses dissolved as a team led by coach Shukri Conrad and led by Temba Bavuma played with clarity, courage and conviction.

Where previous Proteas sides carried scars, this one carried belief. The victory announced South Africa’s return to cricket’s highest table, not as guests, but as equals.

Proteas Women mirrored that excellence, reaching global finals and reinforcing the depth and durability of South African cricket across genders.

ATHLETICS: SPEED, SCIENCE AND STAYING POWER
Akani Simbine : The Constant

In an era of fleeting sprint dominance, Akani Simbine remained the constant, anchoring relay success and delivering world-class performances with metronomic consistency. His longevity at elite speed became its own form of greatness.

ROAD RUNNING: A YEAR THE CLOCK COULDN’T CONTAIN

South Africa’s roads became theatres of defiance in 2025, places where age, expectation and perceived limits were dismantled.

Elroy Gelant : The Marathon Reset

At 38, Elroy Gelant shattered Gert Thys 26-year-old South African marathon record, slicing through time with the precision of a veteran who understood patience as power. His run didn’t just reset a record, it reset belief.

Glenrose Xaba : Queen of the Circuit

Glenrose Xaba ruled the SPAR Grand Prix like royalty, sweeping the series with relentless cadence and tactical control. Her dominance elevated women’s road running into mainstream conversation.

Maxime Chaumeton : Breaking the Mental Barrier

By dipping under 27 minutes for 10km, Maxime Chaumeton didn’t just break a record, he broke a psychological ceiling. The ripple effect will be felt for years.

The Wildschutt Brothers : From Ceres to the World

Adriaan and Nadeel Wildschutt continued to anchor South Africa’s distance legacy. Their performances reinforced a simple truth: endurance excellence is forged through environment, discipline and humility.

ULTRA-DISTANCE RUNNING: WHERE LEGENDS WALK TOWARDS PAIN
Gerda Steyn – The Golden Girl of Endless Roads

In the brutal, beautiful realm of ultra-marathons, Gerda Steyn remained peerless. Victories at both the Totalsports Two Oceans 56km and the Comrades Marathon confirmed her status as South Africa’s undisputed queen of endurance.

Steyn doesn’t race opponents, she negotiates with terrain, climbs mountains with calm authority and descends with fearless precision.

Tete Dijana : Defender of the Down Run

The Comrades Marathon came alive as Tete Dijana successfully defended his Down Run title. His aggressive, fearless approach reminded everyone that Comrades champions are not merely runners, they are architects of suffering and triumph.
“In 2025, South Africa didn’t just win Comrades, it owned the road.”

FOOTBALL: FOUNDATIONS OVER FIREWORKS

For Bafana Bafana, 2025 was about structure and progression rather than spectacle. Key wins, disciplined performances and youth-level success hinted at a system slowly learning consistency, laying bricks rather than chasing shortcuts.

BEYOND THE BIG CODES: DEPTH ACROSS THE BOARD

From hockey triumphs to netball growth, swimming, rowing and youth multisport success, Team South Africa’s broader sporting ecosystem thrived. Medal tables and qualification campaigns confirmed a vital truth: the base of South African sport is wider than ever.

THE BIG PICTURE: WHAT 2025 REALLY MEANT

What unified South Africa’s sporting year was not just success, but sustainability.

  • Rugby showed depth and evolution
  • Cricket conquered its mental frontier
  • Athletics blended speed with staying power
  • Road and ultra-running delivered global relevance
FINAL WHISTLE

If sport is a language, then South Africa spoke it fluently in 2025, sometimes loudly, sometimes quietly, but always with intent. From scrums that bent spines to runners who bent time, this was a year where the nation didn’t wait for greatness. It ran towards it and crossed the line together.

PUMA Athletes Soar To Record Times At Valencia Marathon

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on PUMA Athletes Soar To Record Times At Valencia Marathon

PUMA athletes Amanal Petros and Chloe Herbiet have smashed their respective national records at the Valenica Marathon, cementing a place in the PUMA history books as the brand’s fastest ever male and female road runners.

Petros, a silver medallist at the 2025 Tokyo World Championships Marathon, delivered a spectacular second place performance in Valencia as well as a new German national record. He crossed the finish line in 2:04:04, surpassing his previous personal best of 2:04:58 set at the 2023 Berlin Marathon. This performance marks the fastest marathon ever run by a PUMA athlete and the third fastest ever marathon in European history.

“I’ve run many marathons but today I felt different. Everything aligned: the training, my pacing, the course. To break the German record is beyond anything I imagined,” said Amanal Petros.

It was double delight for PUMA, as Chloe Herbiet – the reigning European Half Marathon Champion – ran to a historic third place finish in a world class field. With a previous best of 2:24:56, Herbiet put in the performance of a lifetime to shatter that mark, crossing the finish line with a time of 2:20:38. The result makes the Belgian the sixth fastest European of all-time.

Both athletes powered to new records wearing the most coveted race day running shoe of the year, FAST-R NITRO™ Elite 3.

Rounding out the Top 10 in the women’s field for PUMA was Glenrose Xaba of South Africa with a sixth-place finish (2:23:22), followed by Meritxell Soler of Spain in ninth who set a new personal best (2:23:49).

For more information, please visit: www.puma.com

“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.

Mphahlele and Xaba Shine at Boxer Super Run Joburg

Adnaan MohamedBoxer Super Run, Features, NewsLeave a Comment on Mphahlele and Xaba Shine at Boxer Super Run Joburg
By Adnaan Mohamed

The early morning air over Marks Park shimmered with energy with that familiar hum of nervous feet, racing hearts, and restless ambition. Johannesburg, the city of gold, played host to its newest gem in the running calendar: the inaugural Boxer Super Run Joburg. And it did not disappoint.

Fresh from painting Durban gold a few weeks ago, Ryan Mphahlele and Glenrose Xaba arrived in Jozi with purpose in their stride and fire in their lungs.

By the time the last echo of pounding feet faded, both had etched their names into yet another chapter of the Boxer Super Run story by being crowned King and Queen of the 5km on Sunday morning.

Mphahlele digs deep to defend his crown

Mphahlele stopped the clock at a searing 14 minutes 20 seconds earning a hard-fought win in the Elite Men’s Wave ahead of Bennett Seloyi and Musawenkosi Mnisi.

Ryan Mphahlele claims gold at Boxer Super Run Joburg by Tobias Ginsberg

“The plan was to go hard from the start, try maintain the pace and keep the lead,” said Mphahlele, his smile still sharp with adrenaline.

“Musawenkosi Mnisi showed up. He caught me on those up-hills. I saw that he was reluctant to make a move. I just wanted to keep him at bay because he looked strong. I was quite surprised when he fell off the back. He was the toughest challenge today and of course Bennett Seloyi at the end. I had to sprint because he was coming in strong.”

His win wasn’t just about medals and seconds, it was about belonging to a community that runs on shared passion.

“The Boxer Super Run is fun,” he added.

“I’m glad they have the social runners’ event too, to get the community more involved. It’s not just about the elite athletes, the social running group is a big part of the sport. It feels good to claim gold today. I’ll be back next year. Thank you to Boxer and Boxer Athletics Club for organising this amazing meeting.”

Xaba’s triple debut

Xaba, the reigning queen of South African road running struck gold again, dominating from the gun to cross the line in 16:14, claiming her third consecutive debut victory at a Boxer Super Run: Durban (2023), Tshwane (2024), and now Joburg (2025).

Glenrose Xaba claims gold at Boxer Super Run Joburg by Tobias Ginsberg

“The race was tough,” admitted Xaba. “From 2km to 4km, it was really challenging. Only at the 4km mark did we start to go downhill. I’m glad I was able to run a good time on such a tough course.

“My race plan was to go out hard from the start. Everyone I compete against is strong and fast. I also have speed, but my strategy today was to test my preparation for the Valencia Marathon.

“If I can run this time on a tough, high-altitude course, it shows that I’m in good shape.”

For Xaba, success isn’t just about outpacing rivals, but it’s about outrunning yesterday’s version of herself.

“I’m proud to claim gold today and it shows that my hard work is paying off. One of my goals was to win all the races in the different cities, Durban, Tshwane, and Joburg, and I’ve achieved that.

“I’m very happy. Thank you, Boxer. This is my home, and I’ll definitely be back next year!”

A festival of feet and heartbeats

The five start waves, Open, Elite Men, Elite Women, Super Social, and Kids, reated a festival atmosphere where every runner, from rookie to record-chaser, found their lane.

“The debut of the Boxer Super Run in Johannesburg was an incredible success,” said Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports.

“Congratulations to Ryan Mphahlele and Glenrose Xaba for your stellar performances in the Elite Men’s and Elite Women’s Waves. You truly set the pace and spirit for what this event represents. A heartfelt thank you to the thousands of runners who joined us and helped make the first-ever Boxer Super Run Joburg such a memorable occasion.”

Lee-Ann Pillay, Head of Marketing at Boxer Superstores, echoed the celebration:

“We are incredibly proud to have brought the spirit of the Boxer Super Run to Johannesburg for the very first time in 2025,” she said.

“This event perfectly reflects what the Boxer brand stands for community, energy, and the celebration of health and togetherness. A huge congratulations to our elite winners, Ryan and Glenrose, and to every runner who joined us. The energy in Joburg was electric. We can’t wait to build on this momentum in the years ahead!”

Running together, racing forward

1km KIDS WAVE start Boxer Super Run Joburg by Tobias Ginsberg

With a combined prize purse of R147 200, an electric crowd, and a spirit as contagious as a runner’s high, the Boxer Super Run Joburg was a resounding success.

TOP 10 RESULTS: ELITE WAVES

Elite Men

1 Ryan Mphahlele 14:20, 2 Bennett Seloyi 14:22, 3 Musawenkosi Mnisi 14:30, 4 Zenzile Pheko 14:39, 5 Chris Mhlanga 14:44, 6 Abednico Choba 14:49, 7 Elroy Gelant 15:01, 8 Keanu Domingo 15:09, 9 Precious Mashele 15:11, 10 Erick Ngeno 15:15

Elite Women

1 Glenrose Xaba 16:14, 2 Neheng Khatala 16:31, 3 Karabo More 16:47, 4 Karabo Mailula 17:31, 5 Cian Oldknow 17:42, 6 Florence Nyaingiri 17:51, 7 Carina Swiegers 18:05, 8 Rutendo Nyahora 18:06, 9 Lilly Hutamo 18:35, 10 Zanthe Taljaard 18:38

Speed Queens Set to Blaze Through Joburg at Boxer Super Run Debut

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By Adnaan Mohamed

The women’s elite field is locked, loaded, and ready to fly as the Boxer Super Run makes its high-altitude Joburg debut at Marks Park Sports Club on Sunday, 9 November 2025.

With the R147 200 prize purse up for grabs, the women’s race promises to be a fast, fiery showdown on the city’s rolling roads.

Leading the charge is Glenrose Xaba, a two-time champion of the Boxer Super Run (Durban 2023 and Tshwane 2024. She now has her sights set on completing a rare golden hat-trick.

“What I really love about the Boxer Super Run is that it brings great competition and amazing energy wherever it goes,” says Xaba.

“The event is well organised, the atmosphere is electric, and it always feels like a celebration of running.”

Victory in Joburg, she admits, would be more than just another win, it would complete a perfect streak across all three debut host cities.

“Winning in Joburg would complete a special streak. Taking gold at all three debuts would be something I’m really proud of,” she says.

“Each race has its own challenges, so to come out on top again would be a great reward for all the hard work and consistency my team and I have put in.”

Xaba also praised Boxer’s continued investment in the sport.

“The event’s R147K combined prize purse is amazing! It shows that Boxer truly values and invests in athletes. That kind of prize money motivates us to give our absolute best and helps us continue building our careers.”

For Xaba, race day is all about strategy:

“My goal is to run my best race, to stay focused, control my pace, and finish strong. I’ll be aiming for the win, but I also want to execute my race plan well and see how far I can push myself.”

Running stride for stride with her training partner is Karabo More, the Boxer Super Run Durban 2024 champion, who says the Joburg leg is a celebration of local running culture.

“Hosting the race in Joburg is exciting. The city has an incredible running energy,” says More.

“It gives more athletes and fans the chance to be part of the experience and to showcase talent from this region on a bigger stage.”

More believes the R147K purse “is an amazing incentive. It shows how serious and prestigious the event is. My goal is to run strong, stay consistent, and execute my plan with focus, and hopefully chase a personal best.”

Also toeing the elite line is Zanthe Taljaart, eager for her Boxer Super Run debut.

“The 5km distance is fast, exciting, and highly competitive,” says Taljaart.

“It requires both endurance and speed. My goal is to run a strong, consistent race and aim for a sub-17-minute finish.”

Making her comeback from injury, Cian Oldknow sees the race as a vital stepping stone.

“The 5km distance is quite challenging, especially for someone like me who comes from the longer distances,” says Oldknow.

“This race will be a great way to test my fitness, it’s a building block, not a PB chase. I’m just keen to get back on the start line.”

According to Lee-Ann Pillay, Head of Marketing at Boxer Superstores, the women’s elite wave is always a crowd favourite.

“You never quite know what will happen on the day. The elite races almost always end in a nail-biting sprint finish,” says Pillay.

“We encourage all runners to stick around after their events to cheer on the elites and soak up the incredible atmosphere. It’s going to be an exciting day of running and celebration for everyone involved.”

With four of South Africa’s finest women athletes lining up, the Boxer Super Run Joburg is set to deliver a sprint-finish spectacle through the City of Gold where speed, strategy, and heart will decide who breaks the tape first.

Photo Credit: Anthony Grote

Sanlam Cape Town Marathon Fastest Field Yet

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By Adnaan Mohamed

The Mother City is set to host a marathon that could rewrite its record books. The 2025 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon, staged on Sunday, 19 October, features a lightning-fast field.

The line-up includes two men under 2:05, four more below 2:06, and another four beneath 2:07.

The women’s line-up boasts athletes with personal bests of 2:16, 2:17 and 2:18, plus two more who have broken 2:20. This combination thas pundits sharpening pencils for new course records.

Records on the Edge

Both course records set in 2024 are within striking distance. Ethiopia’s Abdisa Tola ran 2:08:15, while South Africa’s Glenrose Xaba scorched the women’s mark at 2:22:22, eclipsing national and continental times. Xaba’s performance sliced nearly two minutes off Gerda Steyn’s former SA record and redefined the standard for women’s marathon running on African soil.

On the men’s side, Tola’s time edged close to the South African all-comers mark of 2:08:04 (an aided downhill mark from 1986). The fastest legal time on South African soil remains Stephen Mokoka’s 2:08:31 (2018), a benchmark now squarely in the elite field’s sights.

Men’s Showdown: Elroy Gelant Takes Aim

The front pack reads like a who’s who of marathon royalty. Kenya’s Ronald Korir (PB 2:04:22) and Bethwell Chumba Kibet (2:04:37) headline, joined by Morocco’s Othmane El Goumri (2:05:12). Yet the man drawing the loudest local attention is South Africa’s Elroy Gelant, fresh from a national-record 2:05:36 in Hamburg.

“My goal is to improve on my previous best SCTM time. Running in front of a home crowd gives me wings. The Cape Town route is honest and fast. I believe we can push it to new limits.,” said Elroy Gelant

Season form now places Gelant atop the 2025 pecking order, followed by Korir and El Goumri. Lesotho’s Tebello Ramakongoana (national record 2:06:18) and Kenya’s Justus Kangogo also loom as pace-setters. Veterans such as three-time champion Stephen Mokoka, despite turning 40 in 2025, remain potential disruptors.

Women’s Race: Fire Meets Form

Women Elite runners in action at the SCTM Photo: Caleb Bjergfelt

The women’s contest promises equal drama. Winfridah Moraa Moseti of Kenya headlines with a 2025 PB of 2:16:56 from Tokyo, while compatriot Angela Tanui and Ethiopia’s Meseret Belete bring sub-2:19 speed.

“The course, the crowd, the energy, it all pushes you forward. If the weather plays along, we can chase history,” said Winfridah Moraa Moseti

Back home, Gerda Steyn returns following wins at Two Oceans and Comrades; her marathon PB of 2:24:03 suggests she may be primed to reclaim speed over the classic 42.195km distance.

Wheelchair Division: Rivals Roll Again

The wheelchair races set up a rematch between Japan’s Sho Watanabe and the Netherlands’ Geert Schipper, separated by a photo-finish in 2024 when both clocked 1:37:33.

“This race always comes down to heart and timing. Cape Town pushes us to the limit—literally.” — Geert Schipper

Defending women’s champion Michelle Wheeler (USA) returns, while an international crop of newcomers adds depth and unpredictability to the field.

The Road to Major Status

Beyond trophies and split times, the 2025 race carries extra weight: the event is in Phase 2 of the Abbott World Marathon Majors candidacy process, aiming to become Africa’s first Major.

The race’s Platinum and Gold Label athletes help tick essential boxes for that bid.

With a world-class elite line-up, a scenic yet fast route, and passionate local support, Cape Town looks poised to sprint into the global marathon spotlight once more.

Race date: Sunday, 19 October 2025

Official site: capetownmarathon.com

Elite Men’s Field: Personal Bests

Ronald Korir (Kenya) 2:04:22 (Berlin, 2023)
Bethwell Chumba Kibet (Kenya) 2:04:37 (Amsterdam, 2023)
Othmane El Goumri (Morocco) 2:05:12 (Barcelona, 2023)
Elroy Gelant (South Africa) 2:05:36 (Hamburg, 2025)
Asefa Boki Kebede (Ethiopia) 2:05:40 (Amsterdam, 2024)
Justus Kangogo (Kenya) 2:05:57 (Berlin 2023)
Luke Kiprop (Kenya) 2:06:39 (Berlin, 2024)
Stephen Mokoka (South Africa) 2:06:42 (Osaka, 2023)
Isaac Mpofu (Zimbabwe) 2:06:48 (Boston 2022)
Hendrick Pfeiffer (Germany) 2:07:14 (Houston, 2024)
Vincent Kipyegon Ronoh (Kenya) 2:08:32 (Eindhoven, 2025)
Shadrack Kipkemboi Kebenei (Kenya) 2:08:45 (Ho Chi Min, 2023)
Adam Lipshitz (South Africa) 2:08:54 (Valencia, 2024)
Desmond Mokgobu (South Africa) 2:09:13 (Valencia, 2020)
Thabang Mosiako (South Africa) 2:09:14 (Abu Dhabi, 2024)
Melikhaya Frans (South Africa) 2:09:24 (Eugene, 2022)
Josphat Bett Kipkoech (Kenya) 2:10:01 (Nairobi, 2024)
Dagnachew Adere Maru (Ethiopia) 2:10:21 (Daegu, 2023)
Ashenafi Negese (Ethiopia) 2:10:38 (Madrid, 2025)
Moses Njoroge (Kenya) 2:11:06 (Nairobi, 2025)
Tumelo Motlagale (South Africa) 2:11:15 (Durban, 2022)
Jeremia Shaliaxwe (Namibia) 2:12:36 (Durban, 2024)
Samson Keiyo (Kenya) 2:12:52 (Ravenna, 2024)
Milton Kekana (South Africa) 2:13:14 (Durban, 2024)
Dennis Kipkosgei (Kenya) 2:13:54 (Madrid, 2024)
Raydon Balie (South Africa) 2:15:58 (Durban, 2024)
Thabang Mathebula (South Africa) 2:17:06 (Durban, 2025)
Tukiso Motlomelo (Lesotho) 2:17:10 (Cape Town, 2024)
Lekhotla Pulinyana (South Africa) 2:18:58 (Pietermaritzburg, 2025)
Diriba Situm (Ethiopia) 2:19:11 (Dubai, 2024)
George Kusche (South Africa) 2:20:12 (Cape Town, 2024)
Marko Bucarizza (South Africa) 2:23:14 (Eindhoven, 2023)
Xolisa Ndlumbini (South Africa) 2:25:43 (Cape Town 2021)
Khaya Gqwetha (South Africa) 2:31:03 (Cape Town 2021)
Paul Chirchir (Kenya) 2:32:23 (Kuala Lumpur, 2019)
Kamohelo Mofolo (Lesotho) Debut
Pacesetters for Men’s Race
Tebello Ramakongoana (Lesotho)
Samachw Sewnet (Ethiopia)
Victor Kiplimo Sawe (Kenya)
Vincent Kimaiyo (Kenya)

Elite Women’s Field

Winfridah Moseti (Kenya) 2:16:56 (Tokyo, 2025)
Angela Tanui (Kenya) 2:17:57 (Amsterdam, 2021)
Meseret Belete (Ethiopia) 2:18:21 (Amsterdam 2023)
Meseret Abebayehu (Ethiopia) 2:19:50 (Amsterdam, 2023)
Mare Dibaba (Ethiopia) 2:19:52 (Dubai, 2012)
Amid Fozya Jemal (Ethiopia) 2:21:53 (Dubai, 2024)
Meseret Gebre (Ethiopia) 2:23:11 (Barcelona, 2022)
Joan Amani Mursi Kipyatich (Kenya) 2:23:45 (Doha, 2024)
Mercy Kwambai (Kenya) 2:23:58 (Xiamen, 2025)
Gerda Steyn (South Africa) 2:24:03 (Valencia, 2023)
Netsanet Gudeta (Ethiopia) 2:25:16 (Prague, 2025)
Rachael Chebet (Uganda) 2:26:10 (Rotterdam, 2025)
Selam Fente (Ethiopia) 2:28:22 (Rome, 2025)
Almenesh Herpu (Ethiopia) 2:28:50 (Dubai, 2025)

Emane Seifu (Ethiopia) 2:30:14 (Buenos Aires, 2025)
Stella Marais (South Africa) 2:38:22 (Cape Town, 2022)
Carla Molinaro (Great Britain) 2:38:35 (Valencia, 2024)
Pacesetters for Women’s Race
Muhammed Husen (Ethiopia)
Nicolas Kipkosgei Cheromei (Keya)
Men’s Wheelchair Field
Geert Schipper (Netherlands)
Sho Watanabe (Japan)
Rafael Botello Jimenez (Spain)
Michael McCabe (United Kingdom)
Kota Hokinoue (Japan)
Lito King Anker (Netherlands)
Hiroki Nishida (Japan)
Tiaan Bosch (South Africa)
Women’s Wheelchair Field
Vanessa Cristina De Souza (Brazil)
Michelle Wheeler (USA)
Marie Emmanuelle Anais Noemi Alphonse (Mauritius)
Hannah Babalola (USA)
Yeni Aide Hernandez Mendieta (Mexico)
Rita Cuccuru (Italy)
Lucia Montenegro (Argentina)
Chelsea Stein (USA)