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Glenrose makes history, then finds her grandmother

Adnaan MohamedNewsLeave a Comment on Glenrose makes history, then finds her grandmother
By Adnaan Mohamed

JOHANNESBURG – “Something must be done about the horrific levels of gender-based violence in South Africa.” Gerda Steyn’s powerful words set the tone for the final SPAR Women’s Grand Prix race in Johannesburg on Sunday, where thousands of women turned the City of Gold into a moving sea of solidarity before Glenrose “Supercharger” Xaba powered her way into the history books.

Steyn led a moment of silence before the race to honour victims of gender-based violence and femicide, while the elite athletes wore black armbands in solidarity with women living under the shadow of violence.

Hollywood AC’s Hollywood AC’s Irvette van Zyl, Makhosi and Gerda Steyn at the start of  the 2026 SPAR Women’s Grand Prix and 10km Challenge and 5km Fun Run at Marks Park Sports Club (Photo by Reg Caldecott/Gallo Images)

“Women should be able to go about their daily lives without fear, and if they want to run, they should be free to do so without wondering whether they will get home safely,” said Steyn.

The message carried extra weight on a morning when about 15 000 women took to the streets for the Jozi SPAR Women’s 10km Challenge.

Then came the moment that mattered more than the stopwatch.

Xaba had already etched her name into SPAR Grand Prix history when she stormed across the Marks Park finish line in 32:26 to win the fifth and final race of the series and secure an unprecedented fourth Grand Prix title.

Seconds later, the 29-year-old Boxer athlete found her 89-year-old grandmother, Elizabeth Xaba, and wrapped her in an emotional embrace.

It was the first time Elizabeth had watched her granddaughter race live.

The stopwatch recorded 32:26. The embrace recorded something far more personal.

“My grandma is a special lady to me. She’s very close to my heart and I’m so happy that she’s there to witness the thing that I’m doing,” Xaba said.

“She taught me very well and she always believes in me and always motivates me all the time. If I’m feeling down, she’s always there for me.

“I can say that I love her so much and she loves me too. And I’m glad that she’s there today.”

Xaba’s victory completed a remarkable season in which her trademark acceleration once again turned the final kilometres into a launching pad.

Glenrose Xaba celebrates her 2026 SPAR Women’s Grand Prix victory with her grandmother Elizabeth Xaba at Marks Park Sports Club. (Photo by Reg Caldecott/Gallo Images)

Her Boxer teammate Karabo More followed her home in 33:36 for second place, with Selam Gebre of Nedbank third in 33:52. Esther Borura finished fourth in 34:25, followed by Irvette van Zyl in 34:42.

More, who has repeatedly shown her resilience throughout the series, said she was proud of another podium finish after a demanding week.

“I’m really proud of myself. It was a very challenging week. I think I had to push from start to finish,” she said. “It’s all about your mental state. If it’s very strong, you can fight. By God’s grace, I was able to get another podium finish.”

Karabo Mailula was sixth in 35:14, Steyn seventh in 35:23, Kyla Jacobs eighth in 35:25, Emma Browne ninth in 35:31 and Dirbe Dagne 10th in 35:51.

On a morning when running became a platform for solidarity, Xaba supplied the history and her grandmother supplied the heart.

The final image was fitting: a champion who had spent 10km chasing the clock finally stopped to embrace the person who had helped her believe she could outrun it.

CHECK YOUR RESULTS OF JOZI SPAR WOMEN’S 10KM CHALLENGE PART OF THE SPAR GRAND PRIX HERE

OPEN: 1. Glenrose Xaba (Boxer) 32:26; 2. Karabo More (Boxer) 33:36; 3. Selam Gebre (Nedbank) 33:52; Esther Borura (Super Eagles) 34:25; 5. Irvette van Zyl (Hollywood AC) 34:42; 6. Karabo Mailula (Boxer) 35:14; 7. Gerda Steyn (Hollywood AC) 35:23; 8. Kyla Jacobs (Boxer) 35:25; 9. Emma Browne (Peak RC) 35:31; 10. Dirbe Dagne (Nedbank) 35:51

JUNIOR 1. Dirbe Dagne (Nedbank) 35:51; 2. Mpho Katiso (TUT) 38:03; 3. Megan Waller (Nedbank) 39:19

40-49 1. Este van Tonder (Nedbank) 38:53; 2. Makhosi Mahlongo (Hollywood AC) 39:45; 3. Tebogo Mokgosinyane (Nedbank) 40:44

40-59 1. Charne Bosman (Tuks) 41;30; 2. Elizabeth Potter (Boxer) 42:16; 3. Janene Carey (Boxer) 43:23

60-69 1. Judy Bird (Boxer) 44:08; 2. Dalene Sonnekus (Nedbank) 46:54; 3. Elmarie Pretorius (RWFL) 49:28

70+ 1. Frances van Blerk (Nedbank) 57.42; Claudette McLean (Mercury) 1:10:18; Serene Netshiaulu (RAC) 31:11:38

Silence, GBV Solidarity at SPAR Women’s finale in Jozi

Adnaan MohamedNewsLeave a Comment on Silence, GBV Solidarity at SPAR Women’s finale in Jozi
By Adnaan Mohamed

There will be a moment of silence before the first footsteps echo through Marks Park on Sunday, but once the gun goes, there will be no room for silence in the battle for the 2026 SPAR Women’s Grand Prix crown.

A sold-out field of 15 000 women will pause to honour victims of gender-based violence (GBV) and femicide before the Jozi SPAR Women’s 10km Challenge gets under way.

Leading that moment will be South Africa’s golden ultra-running star Gerda Steyn, who will also line up for the 10km.

Then the focus shifts to the front of the race, where Glenrose “Supercharger” Xaba has a chance to run herself into SPAR Grand Prix history.

The defending champion can become the first athlete to win the series four times, but Cacisile Sosibo holds the advantage heading into the final round.

Cacisile Sosibo in action at the 2026 SPAR Women’s 10km Challenge in Cape Town in March 2026 (Photo by Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Images)

Sosibo leads on 99 points, with Xaba on 89 and Ethiopian Selam Gebre on 86. Karabo More and Karabo Mailula also remain mathematically in contention.

The championship mathematics add another layer of intrigue. The series consists of five races, with only an athlete’s best four results counting towards the final standings. Xaba missed the Durban leg while representing South Africa in the United States, keeping the door open for a late charge.

Sosibo has built her lead the hard way: through consistency. She has finished inside the top 10 in every race and collected maximum bonus points in three races.

Xaba, meanwhile, arrives in Jozi with her racing shoes warmed up and confidence running high.

She won last weekend’s Gqeberha SPAR Women’s Challenge in 31:17, the second-fastest 10km of her career. Her South African record stands at 31:12, underlining the speed she can bring to Sunday’s title showdown.

The Boxer athlete will have familiar challengers around her, with teammates Sosibo, More and Mailula all capable of making the final kilometres uncomfortable. Gebre will add an international threat, while Ethiopian junior Dirbe Dogne makes her SPAR Women’s Challenge debut.

Race director Brad Glasspoole expects the championship to remain alive until the final results are calculated.

Steyn’s run for a bigger cause

Gerda Steyn in action at the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon Photo: TTOM

For Steyn, Sunday is about more than pace and placing.

The multiple Two Oceans and Comrades Marathon winner will use her platform to support SPAR’s campaign against GBV, leading the moment of silence before both the 10km and 5km Fun Run.

“Something must be done about the horrific levels of GBV in South Africa,” Steyn said.

“These have been highlighted by the spate of killings in Ekurhuleni. Women should be able to go about their daily lives without fear and if they want to run, they should be free to do so without wondering whether they will get home safely,” she said.

The 10km course starts and finishes at Marks Park and winds through Emmarentia, Greenside, Linden and Parkview. The mainly flat-to-undulating route combines fast sections with steady climbs and passes landmarks including the Johannesburg Botanical Gardens and Melville Koppies.

For the thousands taking part, it is a morning of running, solidarity and remembrance.

For the elite field, it is the final 10km of the 2026 SPAR Grand Prix.

And for Xaba, it could be the run that makes history.

Glenrose Xaba unleashes another 10km masterclass in rainy Gqeberha

Adnaan MohamedFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Glenrose Xaba unleashes another 10km masterclass in rainy Gqeberha
By Adnaan Mohamed

GQEBERHA: Glenrose Xaba may have arrived in Gqeberha with tired legs after her World Half Marathon Championship outing in Copenhagen, but the South African road-running sensation left the rain-soaked streets with another piece of history.

The Boxer Athletics Club star scorched her way to a breathtaking 31:16 victory in Saturday morning’s SPAR Women’s 10km Challenge, producing the third-fastest 10km time ever recorded by a South African woman.

The clock was cruelly close to another national record.

Xaba finished only four seconds outside her South African record of 31:12, set at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K on 7 July 2024.

GQEBERHA, SOUTH AFRICA – SEPTEMBER 26: Glenrose Xaba Boxer AC – AGN during the 2026 SPAR Women’s Grand Prix 10km Challenge and 5km Fun Run at Pollock Beach Grass Area Summerstrand on September 26, 2026 in Gqeberha, South Africa. (Photo by Michael Sheehan/Gallo Images)

That performance in Durban saw Xaba shatter the long-standing national record of 31:13 held by iconic South African distance runner Elana Meyer for 23 years.

In Gqeberha, the weather offered little assistance. Overcast skies, humidity and persistent rain turned the course into a slippery test of speed and strength, but Xaba treated the conditions as little more than another hurdle to clear.

Her 31:16 was a powerful statement so soon after representing South Africa at the World Half Marathon Championships in Copenhagen.

The stopwatch dangled history in front of her again in Gqeberha.

“I’m just happy and a little bit disappointed because I saw that I was not sure that I was in the SA record time when I was running,” Xaba said. “But when it was 50 metres to 100 metres, I saw that I was inside the record time, but when I crossed the finish line is where I got disappointed because I just missed it.”

There was little sympathy from the weather gods.

Yet Xaba described the course as “a bit challenging but very fast”, adding that she believed it could produce multiple records in future.

“I think it’s the route that can produce multiple records in future and if we can host the world champs, I don’t know when, road running, I think it will be the best route for us.”

Fresh from representing South Africa at the World Half Marathon Championships in Copenhagen, Xaba had every reason to feel the weight in her legs. Instead, she attacked from the gun.

“I just did from gunpoint because I was chasing a bonus time so that I can have the good results and good points,” she said. “I only did two races. This one is a dead one, so I’m chasing the points. I’m glad that everything went according to the way I did in the race.”

Behind her, teammate Karabo More produced one of the day’s biggest breakthroughs, finishing second in 32:21, a 12-second personal best.

More deliberately stepped beyond her comfort zone.

“I think my plan was to come here and run a PB. I’ve always been scared to go in front and go with the girls. So today it was all about risking it and seeing how far I can go,” she said.

“And it worked to my advantage because I was able to fight from start to finish. So for today I’m sure and proud that I started something I was able to finish.”

More said the weather was manageable and revealed how she approached the closing kilometres.

“My coach once told me, with the 10 kilometres, the most important kilometres of the 10 kilometres are the last three. So you need to run smart and try and push to the end.”

At seven kilometres, those words became her fuel.

“I knew then that you just have to move, regardless of how you’re feeling, just try and finish, you’re almost there.”

More said her ambition was to learn from racing closer to athletes of Xaba’s calibre.

GQEBERHA, SOUTH AFRICA – SEPTEMBER 26: Karabo More Boxer AC – AGN during the 2026 SPAR Women’s Grand Prix 10km Challenge and 5km Fun Run at Pollock Beach Grass Area Summerstrand on September 26, 2026 in Gqeberha, South Africa. (Photo by Michael Sheehan/Gallo Images)

“At the end of the day you have to risk it and see where it’s going to take you,” she said. “Each and every kilometre was all about getting faster than the one I did.”

Ethiopian Selam Gebre of Nedbank completed the podium in 32:33, but the loudest statement belonged to Boxer AC.

For Xaba, however, the job remains unfinished.

She is chasing a fourth Grand Prix crown, but refused to assume history is already hers.

“I’m not sure yet that I’m going to win the Grand Prix,” she said. “But to make history, it will for me to be not my history alone. It will be the history of everyone that loved running.”

“It will be inspiration for the young ones and older ones that they look up to me.”

Her victory was not another routine entry in the record books. It was a reminder that South African women’s distance running has a formidable engine at its front, and Xaba continues to push the needle.

The stopwatch says four seconds separated her from her own national record.

The bigger picture says Xaba remains within striking distance of history.

And with the SPAR Grand Prix season gathering pace, the race against the clock has only begun.

The City of Gold now holds the final piece of the puzzle

Joburg 10K set for Heritage Day takeover

Adnaan MohamedEvent Update!, Features, News, PreviewLeave a Comment on Joburg 10K set for Heritage Day takeover
By Adnaan Mohamed

Thousands of runners will storm the streets of the City of Gold on Thursday, 24 September, turning Heritage Day into a spectacular Joburg 10km takeover.

The sold-out Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K will unleash a stampede of running shoes onto Lilian Ngoyi Street from 08:00, with the M1 and M2 highways transformed into a giant sporting playground before the finish on Rahima Moosa Street.

For one morning, Joburg’s legendary hustle will have a new soundtrack: thousands of pounding feet, screaming spectators, pumping music and the thunder of a city celebrating its heritage.

Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K by Tobias Ginsberg

This is road running with a Mzansi twist.

The route will be crammed with entertainment, cheer zones and sponsor activations from Absa, PUMA, Powerade, AVIS and Heineken, creating a colourful carnival designed to showcase the diversity, history and unmistakable swagger of Johannesburg.

Stillwater Sports managing director and Series founder Michael Meyer says the race will offer runners a different view of the metropolis.

“We’re excited to bring thousands of runners together in Johannesburg on National Heritage Day for what promises to be a fantastic celebration of running, culture and community.”

Meyer says the energy of the route, entertainment and spectators will create an atmosphere that is uniquely Joburg.

Absa Head of Sponsorship Jabulile Nsibanyoni says the event will turn the streets into a moving celebration of South African identity.

“At Absa, we are passionate about creating memorable experiences that bring communities together, and this event is a true reflection of that commitment.”

She says the entertainment has been carefully curated to celebrate Joburg’s rich heritage and cultural traditions.

“Both participants and spectators can look forward to a dynamic showcase of performances reflecting the warmth, diversity, and energy Joburg is known for.”

Then comes the speed trap.

Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K by Charles Ndou

PUMA Run Train Marketing Manager Rae Trew-Browne says the Heritage Day edition has a personality of its own.

“Every Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series event has its own personality, and Joburg’s Heritage Day edition promises to be particularly special.”

The PUMA Speed Zone will add another turbocharged dimension to the race.

“It’s a chance for every participant to embrace their own version of TOO FAST while enjoying the incredible atmosphere that makes the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series so special,” says Trew-Browne.

The stakes are already high after a sizzling 2026 series.

Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K by Charles Ndou

Adriaan Wildschutt won Gqeberha in 27:47, Joshua Cheptegei blitzed Durban in 27:19 and Salem Kibet conquered Tshwane in 28:45. Kenya’s Brenda Jepchirchir won Gqeberha in 30:15, while Doreen Cherop claimed victories in Durban and Tshwane in 30:43 and 31:35 respectively.

Cape Town’s 10K was cancelled because of a severe weather forecast.

Now Joburg gets the spotlight.

And on Heritage Day, the City of Gold will not be walking.

IT WILL BE RUNNING!

For further information please visit https://runyourcityseries.com/

Cheslin Kolbe warns: All Blacks will come fighting in Soweto

Adnaan MohamedAll Blacks, Features, News, Rugby, SpringboksLeave a Comment on Cheslin Kolbe warns: All Blacks will come fighting in Soweto
By Adnaan Mohamed

Cheslin Kolbe expects the All Blacks to come out firing when the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series moves back to Johannesburg next weekend.

South Africa levelled the four-Test series at 1-1 with a hard-fought 33-26 victory at DHL Stadium on Saturday, with Kolbe’s flawless goal-kicking proving decisive as he contributed 18 points.

The Springboks now face another examination at the FNB Stadium in Soweto against a New Zealand side smarting from its first defeat of the year.

“When you lose, the team is always going to come back with a point to prove,” Kolbe said.

The third Test at FNB Stadium on 5 September presents the Boks with an opportunity to seize control of the series, but Kolbe believes there is plenty for Rassie Erasmus’ side to address before then.

“We need to go back on Monday and see where we didn’t capitalise on opportunities,” he said.

“New Zealand are a quality team; they attack well and they cut us open a few times. We definitely need to look at where we can improve and get better as a team.”

That assessment carries weight.

The Boks built a 24-14 half-time lead in Cape Town, yet the All Blacks fought back with four tries and were within seven points late in the contest. South Africa’s ability to close out the match under pressure was significant, but the defensive cracks New Zealand exposed will give the coaching staff plenty of video to pore over.

Kolbe also offered an insight into the mood around the Bok camp following their 33-16 defeat at Ellis Park.

“We could feel the atmosphere, not negativity but less energy, throughout the week because of the loss last week,” he said.

“As they always say, when we lose, it’s ‘n Blou Maandag [a Blue Monday]. We felt that, but we just wanted to rectify it.

“It wasn’t easy at all; we needed to stay in the fight. It’s going to be like that for the next two matches.”

Kolbe’s own contribution has added another string to his already crowded bow.

The Stormers-bound back credited his season in Japan, where he took responsibility for goal-kicking, as well as Springbok assistant coach Tony Brown, for helping improve his technique and consistency.

“This season in Japan, I had the responsibility of taking over the goal-kicking and that’s contributed to my style and technique.

“I can also give credit to the coaches in Japan, and Tony in the Springbok set-up is doing a few things for me so I can get more consistency.

“That’s the same for every rugby player; you always need to bring something new to the team … it’s contributing to the team’s success,” he said.

Asked how far he could kick a goal, Kolbe offered a typically cheeky response:

“I think most of the balls tonight were just over the crossbar!”

The joke was vintage Kolbe. His kicking, meanwhile, was anything but a laughing matter.

With the series delicately poised, the Boks have momentum. The All Blacks have motivation.

Soweto should have plenty of both.

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

Emma Pallant-Browne embraces Women’s Month challenge

Adnaan MohamedEvent Update!, News, PreviewLeave a Comment on Emma Pallant-Browne embraces Women’s Month challenge
By Adnaan Mohamed

Emma Pallant-Browne believes motherhood has given her a new finish line to chase.

The British triathlon star and former international track and cross-country runner will make her Totalsports Women’s Race debut in Durban on Sunday before returning for the Johannesburg race on August 16, marking her first major 10km campaign since the birth of her son a year ago.

Her return arrives during Women’s Month, with the sold-out series continuing to celebrate women in sport while shining a spotlight on athletes balancing elite competition, careers and family life.

“Coming back after having my son, I’m starting to get injury-free and run a bit faster, so I was looking to race a fast 10km at sea level, and the Totalsports Women’s Race came highly recommended to me,” Pallant-Browne said.

“My goal is to take part in two Totalsports Women’s Race events this year, so I will also be lining up in Joburg on 16 August.”

The 36-year-old said becoming a mother has strengthened her passion for women’s sport and highlighted the importance of creating opportunities where female athletes can thrive.

“Women in sport is my absolute passion, especially now as a mother. I used to see a lot of women at races with their kids supporting ‘Daddy’, and it’s so great to now see dads on the sidelines with the kids supporting ‘Mummy’ and giving her the opportunity to have her time to shine.

“I think there are still barriers in women’s sport that see many women dropping out during their teenage years or when life gets busy and they start a family, but events like this really elevate women’s running and give women their time to shine.”

Motherhood has also reshaped the way she trains.

“There are a million reasons now not to get my session in, and I think it makes you want it a bit more,” she said.

“Knowing that we are bringing my son into a life where we show him that if you want to be good at something, you have to work hard for it, is what I keep thinking when times get tough. What example am I setting for him?

“My body has definitely had more injuries, but it’s made me more patient, better at problem-solving and time management, and more resilient when facing setbacks.”

She encouraged mothers returning to exercise after pregnancy to be patient.

Emma Pallant-Browne in action at the Two Oceans Half Marathon 2026 Photo: Mark Sampson

“Take baby steps, start with a jog or walk, build up gradually and enjoy the process. It’s so rewarding to see the progress you make and to track your improvements each week. Most importantly, don’t neglect strength training.”

Pallant-Browne has set herself a clear target for Durban.

“Running faster than 34 minutes would be a good start for me. It will be my first fast 10km postpartum, so I want to see what my body can do at the moment and then build from there.

“It would mean so much to me to start winning races again, but most of all I want to know that I gave it my all in Durban and Joburg, and pushed as hard as I could.”

Totalsports head of marketing Nikki Crous believes Pallant-Browne’s story reflects the spirit of the event.

“Emma’s return to competition after becoming a mother is both inspiring and a powerful reminder that women can continue to pursue their goals at every stage of life,” Crous said.

“Her passion for empowering women through sport perfectly reflects what the Totalsports Women’s Race stands for. We look forward to seeing her take on both the Durban and Joburg events and wish her every success as she embarks on this exciting new chapter.”

With entries for Durban, Cape Town and Johannesburg already sold out, Pallant-Browne’s comeback promises to be one of the standout stories of this year’s Women’s Month celebrations.

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

Can England finally crack the Springboks code?

Adnaan MohamedPreview, Rugby, SpringboksLeave a Comment on Can England finally crack the Springboks code?
By Adnaan Mohamed

England have been here before. Close enough to see victory. Close enough to believe. Close enough to feel the Springboks wobble.

Then South Africa find another gear.

It has become a familiar script in one of rugby’s richest rivalries. England ask difficult questions, the Springboks absorb the pressure and somehow emerge with the answer that matters most.

Saturday’s opening Nations Championship Test at Ellis Park offers Steve Borthwick’s side another opportunity to prove they have bridged that stubborn gap. They could hardly have picked a sterner examination.

Johannesburg does not welcome visitors with open arms. The altitude drains lungs, the crowd feeds every collision and the Springboks have turned Ellis Park into one of world rugby’s least hospitable addresses.

Rassie Erasmus’ side arrive riding a nine-match winning streak and carrying the confidence of back-to-back Rugby Championship titles. Momentum has become their travelling companion and complacency remains unwelcome.

“The goal is to win,” Erasmus said this week.

Simple words. Typical Springboks.

His selection reflects a squad built for every occasion. Damian Willemse and Cheslin Kolbe celebrate their 50th Tests in a backline packed with proven match winners. Jesse Kriel and Damian de Allende remain one of international rugby’s most reliable midfield pairings, while Manie Libbok gets another chance to orchestrate an attack that can shift from controlled to chaotic in a heartbeat.

Up front, the Springboks possess enough muscle to move mountains.

Ox Nche, Malcolm Marx and Thomas du Toit anchor a front row that thrives on confrontation, with Eben Etzebeth, Siya Kolisi and Jasper Wiese providing the relentless edge that has become South Africa’s trademark.

Then comes the Bomb Squad.

Fresh legs. Fresh power. Fresh problems.

England know exactly what awaits.

George Martin has welcomed the physical battle after returning from injury, while Fin Smith shoulders the responsibility of steering England around one of rugby’s toughest venues. Immanuel Feyi-Waboso’s return offers genuine attacking spark, Tommy Freeman arrives in outstanding form and Henry Pollock is expected to inject his trademark energy from the bench after already making himself public enemy number one among many South African supporters.

Borthwick believes his squad is ready.

“Playing South Africa at Ellis Park is one of the great Tests in world rugby,” he said.

He is right.

England have enough quality to ask questions of the world champions. Their backline carries pace, their forwards have embraced the challenge and their confidence has steadily grown despite an underwhelming Six Nations campaign.

The problem is that Ellis Park rarely rewards promise.

The Springboks know exactly how they want to play. Dominate the set piece. Win the gain line. Squeeze territory. Turn pressure into points.

It is an approach forged through experience and sharpened by success.

England may remain within touching distance for long stretches, much like they have in recent meetings. History suggests that when the contest reaches its defining moments, South Africa usually discover another level.

Prediction: Springboks by 12.

Teams:

South Africa: 15 Damian Willemse, 14 Cheslin Kolbe, 13 Jesse Kriel, 12 Damian De Allende, 11 Kurt-Lee Arendse, 10 Manie Libbok, 9 Grant Williams, 8 Jasper Wiese, 7 Pieter-Steph Du Toit, 6 Siya Kolisi (captain), 5 Ruan Nortje, 4 Eben Etzebeth, 3 Thomas Du Toit, 2 Malcolm Marx, 1 Ox Nche.
Replacements: 16 Jan-Hendrik Wessels, 17 Gerhard Steenekamp, 18 Zachary Porthen, 19 Marco van Staden, 20 Cameron Hanekom, 21 Cobus Reinach, 22 Andre Esterhuizen, 23 Canan Moodie.

England: 15 George Furbank, 14 Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, 13 Tommy Freeman, 12 Seb Atkinson, 11 Cadan Murley, 10 Fin Smith, 9 Jack van Poortvliet, 8 Ben Earl, 7 Tom Curry, 6 Ollie Chessum, 5 George Martin, 4 Alex Coles, 3 Joe Heyes, 2 Jamie George (captain), 1 Ellis Genge.
Replacements: 16 Luke Cowan-Dickie,17 Beno Obano, 18 Asher Opoku-Fordjour, 19 Charlie Ewels, 20 Guy Pepper, 21 Henry Pollock, 22 Alex Mitchell, 23 Marcus Smith.

Date: Saturday, July 4
Venue: Ellis Park, Johannesburg
Kick-off: 17.40
Referee: James Doleman (New Zealand)
Assistant referees: Andrew Brace (Ireland) & Pierre Brousset (France)
TMO: Richard Kelly (New Zealand)

Images: x.com/Springboks

Virgin Active HYROX Cape Town Ignites the CTICC with South Africa’s First Three-DayFitness Spectacle

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Virgin Active HYROX Cape Town Ignites the CTICC with South Africa’s First Three-DayFitness Spectacle

From 3-5 April 2026, the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) was transformed into a high-octane arena for the third edition of HYROX Cape Town, and the first edition of Virgin Active HYROX Cape Town. Marking a historic milestone for the sport in Africa, the 2026 event expanded to a three-day format for the first time, welcoming a record-breaking community of athletes and spectators to the “Mother City.” 

The atmosphere inside the CTICC was, as always, electric, fueled by the athletes’ energy and a diverse field of competitors ranging from first-time Open category participants to elite Pro athletes. This year’s event saw 6,520 athletes cross the finish line – maintaining an incredible 99.2% finishing rate – supported by over 12,000 roaring spectators over the three days. 

Virgin Active HYROX Cape Town also marked the most inclusive race in South African history. The event hosted a deaf/hard of hearing relay team, as well as the largest number of adaptive athletes to date. Highlighting the spirit of the competition, the crowd cheered on a visually impaired participant who completed the course twice. First competing in the Adaptive division and the next day returning to the floor for a Mixed Doubles race with a family member. 

“HYROX is more than just a race, it’s a global movement that celebrates the ‘everyday athlete,'” says Mlondi Mashinini, Managing Director of HYROX South Africa. “Seeing the growth from our first event, less than two years ago, to this massive three-day festival at the CTICC proves that South Africans have a massive appetite for functional fitness. The partnership with Virgin Active has been instrumental in preparing our athletes to compete at this level.” 

The reach of the event extended well beyond South African borders, drawing athletes from across the continent, including Botswana, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Republic of the Congo, Kenya, Lesotho, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. 

The collaboration with Virgin Active was felt throughout the venue, most notably in the Recovery Village. Here, athletes transitioned from the intensity of the race to expert-led recovery sessions, featuring contrast therapy, stretching, and nutritional support from partners like Kauai. 

Following the success in Cape Town, the HYROX tour now looks toward the high-altitude challenge of Johannesburg. With thousands of lives already impacted by the 2026 season kick-off, the momentum for functional fitness in South Africa has never been stronger. 

About HYROX:

HYROX is the Global Fitness Race for Every Body. Launched in 2017, HYROX has become the world’s largest indoor fitness race, hosted in over 30 countries. The standardised format allows athletes of all levels to compete against their own personal bests and a global leaderboard. 

About Virgin Active: 

Virgin Active is South Africa’s leading health and wellness club network. Through its multi-year partnership with HYROX, Virgin Active provides specialised training programmes, accredited trainers, and world-class recovery facilities to support the fitness journey of every South African athlete. 

For more information, race results, or to register for upcoming events, visit www.hyroxsa.com. Media Contact: 

Corlia Meyer 

[email protected]

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

Adnaan MohamedNewsLeave a Comment on Come celebrate Women’s Month by running the iconic Totalsports Women’s Race

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