Tag: Road Running

‹ Back

Gqeberha 10K launches Absa RUN YOUR CITY 2026

Adnaan MohamedNews, PreviewLeave a Comment on Gqeberha 10K launches Absa RUN YOUR CITY 2026
By Adnaan Mohamed

Every racing season needs a clean start. A place where legs feel fresh, goals feel possible and the road seems to pull you forward. For the fourth straight year, that place is Gqeberha.

On Sunday, 1 March 2026, the Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K returns as the opening stride of South Africa’s premier road-running series. By now, it knows exactly what runners want. Speed. Rhythm. Atmosphere. And just enough magic to carry you through the tough kilometres.

The route is the headline act. Fast, flat and honest, it rewards controlled pacing and a strong final push. Early kilometres invite restraint, the middle settles into flow, and the closing stretch offers the kind of terrain where PBs are either confirmed or heartbreakingly missed by seconds. Add coastal air, wide roads and landmark scenery, and it’s easy to see why elites and everyday runners keep coming back.

Absa RUN YOUR CITY Gqeberha 10K by Anthony Grote

But this race isn’t just about what’s underfoot, it’s about what’s around you.

From the first kilometre, the course hums with energy. Music zones, performers and brand activations break the run into manageable segments, turning the 10K into a sequence of small victories rather than a single long grind.

“We’re excited to kick off the 2026 series in style with the Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K in ‘The Friendly City’,” says Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports.

“Not only will runners and supporters witness world-class racing on home soil, but they’ll also experience 10km running at its finest, complete with unforgettable on-route entertainment brought to life by our sponsors and local performing arts groups. We can’t wait to start the season with a bang – come join us and #RunYourCity!”

That balance, elite performance paired with inclusive experience, is what has defined the RUN YOUR CITY Series. Major partners including Absa, PUMA, Powerade, AVIS and Heineken line the route with activations that feel purposeful rather than distracting, offering both visual lift and psychological relief when the legs start asking questions.

For Absa, the race is about more than kilometres logged.

“At Absa, we are passionate about creating memorable experiences that bring communities together,” says Jabulile Nsibanyoni, Absa Group Head of Sponsorship.

“The entertainment along the route is thoughtfully curated to celebrate the city’s rich heritage and cultural traditions, turning the race into a vibrant tribute to the spirit of the Eastern Cape coastline. Both participants and spectators can look forward to a dynamic showcase of performances that reflect the warmth, diversity, and energy that Gqeberha is known for.”

PUMA, meanwhile, continues to lean into the runner experience itself.

Absa RUN YOUR CITY Gqeberha 10K by Anthony Grote

“We love supporting, motivating, and inspiring runners of all levels,” says Rae Trew-Browne, PUMA Run Train Marketing Manager.

“In 2026, we’re excited to introduce a brand-new campaign. We’re not letting the cat out of the bag just yet, but one thing is certain: every runner who passes through the PUMA Zone on race day will be treated to a fun, energising, and memorable experience that celebrates the joy of running and the spirit of the series.”

With five races across five cities, Gqeberha doesn’t just open the series, it sets the tone. Smooth roads. Big noise. And a reminder of why we race in the first place.

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

Two Oceans Marathon turns up the pace with R2.6m prize purse for 2026

Adnaan MohamedNews, Totalsports Two Oceans MarathonLeave a Comment on Two Oceans Marathon turns up the pace with R2.6m prize purse for 2026
By Adnaan Mohamed

The Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon has raised the stakes for 2026, announcing a combined R2.6 million prize purse that further cements its status as one of the world’s premier road running events.

Dubbed the World’s Most Beautiful Marathon, the iconic Cape Town race will see increased prize money across both its flagship events. The internationally renowned Ultra Marathon and the ever-popular Half Marathon will get a significant boost as organisers look to attract top-tier local and international talent.

The Ultra Marathon will account for the lion’s share of the purse, with R2 177 400 on offer, while the Half Marathon prize money has been boosted to R422 600, a move organisers believe was long overdue.

“The Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon has always been about more than just finishing the race – it’s about celebrating the spirit of running, pushing boundaries, and inspiring excellence,” said Chris Goldschmidt, chairperson of the Two Oceans Marathon NPC.

“By increasing the prize purse for 2026, we’re not only recognising the dedication and talent of elite athletes but also raising the profile of the event on the global stage. It’s a clear statement that the Two Oceans Marathon is committed to fostering world-class competition while honouring our rich heritage in road running.”

At the sharp end of the Ultra Marathon, male and female winners will each pocket R380 000, with runners-up earning R220 000 and third place R100 000. The Open Category prize money will be shared among the top 10 finishers, ensuring depth and competitiveness throughout the elite field.

The Half Marathon Open Category will distribute R298 000, with winners taking home R50 000, second place R30 000 and third R18 000, again across both men’s and women’s races.

Prize money will also be paid across multiple age categories in both events, rewarding consistent excellence beyond the podium. Additional allocations have been made for Top WPA Athletes, Top South African Athletes (Ultra only) and Teams, underlining the race’s inclusive competitive structure.

General manager Wade Bromfield said the increase in prize money was about more than financial reward.

“Increasing the prize purse is more than just a financial boost – it’s an investment in the athletes and the integrity of the race itself,” Bromfield said.

“It shows our commitment to supporting both local and international elite runners, while also elevating the prestige of the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon. This step reinforces our mission to create a race experience that inspires ambition, celebrates achievement, and upholds our position as a world-class event.”

Bromfield added that the enhanced Half Marathon purse was a particularly significant milestone.

“We are especially proud to introduce a significantly enhanced prize purse in the 2026 Half Marathon, an increase that has been long overdue,” he said.

“By investing in both the Ultra and Half Marathon, we are rewarding excellence, while reinforcing our dedication to the running community. We are proudly celebrating elite performance while ensuring the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon continues to be one of the most prestigious and exhilarating races on the global calendar.”

The 2026 Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon weekend will take place from 10 to 12 April, with the Trail Run on Friday, the Ultra Marathon on Saturday and the Half Marathon on Sunday.

Tete Dijana & Edward Mothibi Join the Team: Official Launch at Hollywoodbets Offices, Durban

Roxanne MartinNewsLeave a Comment on Tete Dijana & Edward Mothibi Join the Team: Official Launch at Hollywoodbets Offices, Durban

Hollywood Athletics Club (HAC) has reinforced its standing as one of South Africa’s leading homes of long-distance excellence with the official induction of ultra-marathon champions Edward “Slender” Mothibi and Tete Dijana into its athletics stable. The announcement welcoming the two runners to the “Purple Team” took place at the Hollywoodbets offices in Durban, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter for both the athletes and the broader running fraternity.

You can watch the whole launch on our Instagram page

A Landmark Ultra-Running Event

The launch event saw staff celebrating the signing with a guard of honour to welcome the runners to the Hollywoodbets Durban headquarters. Teammates present to support the newcomers included Stephen Mokoka, Tayla Kavanagh, Cian Oldknow, and Thabang Mathebula, alongside media representatives and passionate supporters. The atmosphere was electric as Tete Dijana and Edward Mothibi made their entrance to great cheering and fanfare, demonstrating the club’s enthusiasm in welcoming the duo.

Tete Dijana, renowned for his relentless pace and competitive spirit, shared his enthusiasm:

“Joining this team is a dream come true. I am looking forward to new challenges and representing my supporters with pride.”

Edward Mothibi, a revered Comrades Marathon champion, spoke about the importance of the partnership:

“This partnership is about more than racing—it is about community, mentorship, and giving back to the sport that has given me so much.”

Impact on the Running Community

The signing of Tete and Edward is more than just a boost to the team’s competitive strength; it is a powerful statement regarding investment in South African athletic talent. Both athletes are admired for their achievements and their commitment to uplifting others within the sport. Their presence is set to inspire a new generation of runners and foster a culture of excellence, teamwork, and community engagement.

This was highlighted by remarks from Greg Glossop, Hollywood Athletics Club Chairman, who spoke passionately about the club’s vision and the significance of these signings.

“Welcoming Tete and Edward to the Hollywood Athletics Club is a proud moment for us all. Their dedication, humility, and drive for excellence are exactly what we stand for. We believe their journey with us will inspire countless young runners to chase their dreams and reach new heights. Tete and Edward represent the very best of South African running—resilience, discipline, and a passion for giving back. Their presence will elevate our club and set a new standard for excellence.”

Morgan Shandu, President of the Athletics Club, added:

“Seeing Tete and Edward join our club is a testament to the values we hold dear—commitment, unity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Their achievements are already legendary, but I believe their greatest impact will be in how they inspire and uplift every member of our running community.”

Looking Forward

With their official launch now complete, both Tete Dijana and Edward Mothibi are preparing for a season filled with promise. Both will line up at the eThekwini Best of the Best Marathon, where they will compete in the famous purple colours for the first time. The season ahead promises to be an exciting one as they begin their journey with a new club and fresh goals.

Absa RUN YOUR CITY R1.68m Incentive Revolution

Adnaan MohamedNewsLeave a Comment on Absa RUN YOUR CITY R1.68m Incentive Revolution
By Adnaan Mohamed

The road to greatness in South African distance running just got smoother, and significantly richer. The Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series has fired the starter’s gun on its 2026 campaign by unveiling a R1.686 million combined prize purse, paired with one of the most aggressive SA athlete incentive structures ever seen on local roads.

Since its inception in 2015, the series has re-engineered the domestic road-running ecosystem, transforming 10km racing from a supporting act into the main event. In 2026, the five-city circuit once again strings together Gqeberha (March), Cape Town (May), Durban (July), Tshwane (August) and Johannesburg (September). The 10km specialists have five fast courses, five chances to chase both time and fortune.

“Offering an impressive prize purse is extremely important to us and we are proud to once again be able to do so at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series in 2026,” says Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports.

“We believe that a strong prize purse does more than reward dedication and loyalty towards the series – it fuels ambition and inspires athletes to chase extraordinary performances. That is why we are proud to continue growing our prize purse each year with 2026 featuring a combined prize purse of R1 686 000.00.”

Built for Speed and Sustainability

Each race carries a R337 200 prize allocation, with R267 200 reserved for the Open Category. The top 10 men and women split R133 600 each, while winners in every city bank R33 000, with R24 000 for second and R21 000 for third.

Depth and longevity are equally rewarded.
“In addition, R70 000.00 per event has been allocated to Age Categories, rewarding the top three finishers in the Junior, 40–49, 50–59, 60–69 and 70+ age groups – ensuring excellence is celebrated across generations.”

Incentives that Reward the Stopwatch

If the prize purse is the foundation, the SA Athlete Incentive Schedule is the accelerant.

Elite men unlock bonuses for times under 28 minutes, with a headline-grabbing R300 000 incentive for smashing the 27:00 barrier, plus R50 000 for a new SA record. Elite women are similarly rewarded, with bonuses starting at 32:08, escalating to R300 000 for breaking 30:20, and an additional R50 000 for a national record.

Consistency, often the missing ingredient in elite development, is also rewarded:

  • Elite Men: R20 000 for two sub-28s; R30 000 for three
  • Elite Women: R20 000 for two sub-32:08s; R30 000 for three

“In 2025, we paid out an impressive total of R1.9 million in Prize Money and SA Athlete Incentives,” Meyer adds.

“Building on this momentum, our focus for 2026 is to reward exceptional performances even further and elevate the level of competition in South African middle-distance running. By empowering our elite athletes to build successful careers at home, we’re confident these incentives will attract the country’s top talent and deliver spectacular racing across all five events.”

Wildschutt Eyes African History

Fresh off a 2025 campaign that saw him erase four national records, Olympian Adriaan Wildschutt returns to the series opener in Gqeberha on 1 March with history in his sights — a sub-27-minute 10km on African soil.

“The Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series has been a huge help in providing opportunities for us to run fast and compete against high-quality athletes,” says Wildschutt.

“The incentives they provide also motivate us to prepare well for these races, which further enhances the competition.”

A Platform for Pure 10km Racing

Glenrose Xaba at Absa RUN YOUR CITY TSHWANE 10K 2025

For Kabelo Mulaudzi, three-time SA cross-country champion and six-time series winner, the value of the circuit goes beyond prize money.

“As an athlete who specialises in shorter distances, the Series allows me to focus purely on 10km racing without having to step up to half marathons or marathons just to earn decent prize money,” he explains.
“For a long time in South Africa, there were very few opportunities for sub-marathon athletes to make a sustainable income, so the prize money on offer in this Series is a game-changer.”

Mulaudzi adds:
“The time-based incentive structure really encourages fast and consistent performances… I strongly believe athletes should be rewarded for fast performances rather than appearance money, and I’m excited to test myself against some of the best athletes from Southern and East Africa in the Series.”

In 2026, the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series is setting the pace for what elite road running in South Africa can become.

2026 Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series Dates

  • 01 March: Gqeberha 10K
  • 10 May: Cape Town 10K
  • 12 July: Durban 10K
  • 23 August: Tshwane 10K
  • 24 September: Joburg 10K

www.runyourcityseries.com
WhatsApp: 072 042 7613
#RunYourCity #AbsaRunYourCity

Gerda Steyn Reflects on Totalsports Two Oceans Blue Number Club Honour

Adnaan MohamedNews, Totalsports Two Oceans MarathonLeave a Comment on Gerda Steyn Reflects on Totalsports Two Oceans Blue Number Club Honour

By Adnaan Mohamed

Gerda Steyn has added another milestone to her storied running career, earning membership of the prestigious Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon Blue Number Club (BNC).

Steyn’s remarkable running journey has unfolded like a perfectly paced ultra, patient beginnings, relentless consistency, and a finishing strength that leaves spectators breathless.

With six Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon victories and three course records, she has mastered the art of winning. Yet the honour that resonates deepest is not measured in minutes or medals, but in colour: blue.

Despite multiple victories and course records, Steyn describes receiving her Blue Number, her first permanent race number, as one of the most meaningful honours of her career.

Gerda Steyn TTOM Blue Number 6067 by Adnaan Mohamed

“Receiving my Blue Number at the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon was my first ever permanent race number, so it was a huge honour,” says Steyn. “It means that I am invested in the race in the same way as those who have completed it ten times or more.”

Chris Goldschmidt, Chairperson of the Two Oceans Marathon NPC, praised Steyn’s impact on the sport.

“Gerda is affectionately known by many nicknames: from ‘The Smiling Assassin’ to ‘The Darling of South African Road Running,’ ‘The Queen of SA Running,’ ‘The People’s Champion,’ and ‘Sunshine Lady.’ Each name tells a story of her talent, her dedication, and the joy she brings to the sport,” says Goldschmidt.

“Beyond her many nicknames and titles, what truly stands out is the way Gerda has captured the hearts of runners and fans across the country. Her achievements are matched only by the inspiration she provides to the running community.”

Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon General Manager Wade Bromfield added:

“Gerda embodies the spirit of this race. Her consistency, humility and record-breaking performances continue to raise the bar and inspire every runner who lines up on race day.”

Steyn, who claimed her first Ultra victory in 2018, says the Blue Number symbolises long-term commitment rather than speed alone.

“Being part of the BNC reminds me that running is deeply rooted in me and that I’m in it for the long term. No matter life’s circumstances, I’ve always been drawn back to this one start line.”

She also paid tribute to fellow BNC members, including runners with decades of finishes.

“They are the true heroes of the Two Oceans Marathon. Their achievements are beyond imagination and inspire everyone around them.”

The Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon will take place from 10–12 April 2026 in Cape Town.

For more info visit:  www.twooceansmarathon.org.za

Chery South Africa Renews Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series Partnership for Three Years

Adnaan MohamedNewsLeave a Comment on Chery South Africa Renews Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series Partnership for Three Years

Chery South Africa has announced the renewal of its sponsorship of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series, extending the partnership for an additional three years from 2026. The renewal follows four successful years of collaboration and coincides with the fourth anniversary of Chery’s relaunch in South Africa.

The partnership has played a key role in the continued growth and success of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series, with Chery South Africa serving as the Official Vehicle Partner. Chery’s fleet supports event logistics and operations across all host cities, contributing to a seamless race experience from build-up week through to race day.

“Chery’s commitment, innovation and enthusiasm have helped elevate the series year after year,” says Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports.

“We are proud to welcome them for another three years as we continue to deliver world-class running events across South Africa.”

Wade Bromfield and Verene Petersen by Ray van Breda

Tony Liu, CEO of Chery South Africa, says the brand is excited to continue the journey. “Over the past four years, we’ve built a strong partnership and created memorable experiences for runners and Chery owners alike. We look forward to further strengthening our connection with the running community and the cities we celebrate.”

Chery at Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series by David-Sullivan

The Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series features five major 10km races in Gqeberha, Cape Town, Durban, Tshwane and Johannesburg. The renewed partnership will continue to focus on innovation, performance and enhanced runner and supporter experiences.

For more information, visit www.runyourcityseries.com.

The 2026 Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon Journey begins on the Training Run Circuit

Adnaan MohamedNews, Totalsports Two Oceans MarathonLeave a Comment on The 2026 Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon Journey begins on the Training Run Circuit
By Adnaan Mohamed

For runners eyeing the 2026 Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon (TTOM), the first chapters are already written with six official TTOM Training Runs preparing athletes for one of the most iconic weekends on the global running calendar.

From January to March 2026, these guided training runs will crisscross South Africa with steady climbs, rewarding flats, and plenty of shared momentum along the way.

Six Stops on the Road to the World’s Most Beautiful Marathon

Hosted in collaboration with running clubs nationwide, the TTOM Training Runs kick off in Cape Town on 25 January, before moving through Johannesburg, Durban, Pretoria, and Stellenbosch, with a second Cape Town run keeping the coastal heartbeat strong.

Each run offers a 21km or 12km option, giving runners the chance to test fitness, build confidence, and rehearse race-day rhythm in a supportive, high-energy environment.

“This series is about more than fitness,” explains Chris Goldschmidt, Chairperson of the Two Oceans Marathon NPC.

“It’s about bringing runners together and celebrating the passion that defines the Two Oceans community.”

Built for Momentum, Powered by Community

Two Oceans Marathon Trail Run by Devin Paisley

These official training runs are exclusive to 2026 Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon entrants and are free of charge, though capacity is limited and advance registration is required.

According to Wade Bromfield, General Manager of the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon, early date announcements allow runners to plan with purpose. Start venues will be revealed closer to each run via social media, ensuring routes that reflect local flavour, safety, and crowd energy.

2026 TTOM Training Run Schedule

Free | Limited capacity | Pre-registration required

  • Sunday, 25 January 2026 – Cape Town
  • Sunday, 1 February 2026 – Johannesburg
  • Sunday, 8 February 2026 – Durban
  • Sunday, 22 February 2026 – Cape Town
  • Sunday, 8 March 2026 – Pretoria
  • Sunday, 22 March 2026 – Stellenbosch

Further details and sign-up links will be shared on official TTOM social platforms closer to each date.

The Finish Line Awaits: 2026 Race Weekend

All roads lead to April, when runners toe the line across three unforgettable days:

  • Friday, 10 April 2026 – Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon Trail Run
  • Saturday, 11 April 2026 – Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon
  • Sunday, 12 April 2026 – Totalsports Two Oceans Half Marathon

What’s New for 2026: Extra Miles of Value

The runner experience in 2026 gets a boost with the following:

  • Exclusive event-specific T-shirt included for all Ultra, Half, and Trail Run entrants
  • Limited-edition TTOM Versus Quarter Running Socks for every participant
  • Upgraded Blue Number Club benefits, delivering premium rewards throughout race weekend

Stay in the Loop

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.

VIP treatment for Blue Number Club runners at Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon 2026

Adnaan MohamedNews, Totalsports Two Oceans MarathonLeave a Comment on VIP treatment for Blue Number Club runners at Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon 2026
By Adnaan Mohamed

The road to the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon 2026 is built on loyalty, resilience and years of unwavering commitment.

From 10–12 April 2026, the world’s most beautiful marathon will honour its true trailblazers, the Blue Number Club (BNC), with an elevated race experience worthy of their legacy.

“Achieving the coveted BNC status at TTOM is a truly remarkable accomplishment,” said Two Oceans Marathon NPC Chairperson Chris Goldschmidt, describing the Blue Number as a badge earned through endurance, excellence and consistency.

With no joining or annual fee, the honour recognises runners who have shaped the event through repeated finishes, podium performances and gold-medal grit.

“The BNC represents the heart and history of TTOM,” Goldschmidt added.

“These runners remind us why this race is so special. Honouring them is not just important, it’s essential.”

For 2026, Blue Number Club members will enjoy a premium journey from start to finish, including priority entries, preferential seeding, express race-pack collection and dedicated hospitality. Their race numbers will proudly reflect their status, marking milestones earned through years of pounding the iconic Two Oceans route.

“These athletes are the storytellers and tradition keepers of our race,” said Wade Bromfield, General Manager of the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon.

“Their commitment over decades has shaped the spirit and identity of this event, and from 2026 onwards we’re ensuring they receive the extra-special treatment they’ve earned.”

Beyond the Blue Number Club, all runners will benefit from a refreshed 2026 experience, with exclusive event T-shirts and limited-edition TTOM-branded Versus running socks included in every entry.

As the starting gun draws closer, Two Oceans 2026 promises a celebration of the runners who have turned every step into a legacy.

BNC runners can look forward to an exclusive, premium experience that includes:

  • Early Entries
  • Free Entries for runners with 25 medals or more
  • Blue Number Club Dinner – Wednesday, 08 April 2026
  • Express Race Pack Collection
  • BNC Hospitality at Expo and Finish
  • Special Seeding Batch
  • Enhanced Finish Experience
  • Recognition of Milestone Runs
  • Race Number Recognition
    • Ultra BNCs: dark blue band
    • Half Marathon BNCs: light blue number
    • Runners on nine medals chasing their 10th: distinctive yellow band
  • Exclusive BNC apparel by JOMA and SWAGG (available for purchase)
  • TOM NPC Membership

The Road Gets Better for Everyone

In a move that benefits the entire field, TTOM 2026 will also introduce new race-day upgrades:

  • All Ultra, Half and Trail entrants receive an exclusive event T-shirt, included in the entry fee
  • Every runner gets limited-edition TTOM-branded Versus Quarter Running Socks

Race Weekend at a Glance

  • Friday, 10 April 2026: Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon Trail Run
  • Saturday, 11 April 2026: Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon
  • Sunday, 12 April 2026: Totalsports Two Oceans Half Marathon

Blue Number Club members can explore the full offering in the official BNC DIGIMAG Edition 1 / December 2025.

BNC Queries: [email protected]
Event & Entry Queries: [email protected]
Website: www.twooceansmarathon.org.za
Facebook: Two Oceans Marathon
Instagram: Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon

Chase your 2026 goals as Absa RUN YOUR CITY Gqeberha and Cape Town 10K go live

Adnaan MohamedNewsLeave a Comment on Chase your 2026 goals as Absa RUN YOUR CITY Gqeberha and Cape Town 10K go live

The road ahead is clear, flat and fast. South Africa’s premier urban road-running spectacle, the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series, is back in 2026, and the first strides of the journey begin this week as entries opened for the Gqeberha 10K and Cape Town 10K.

A fixture on the local and international running calendar, the series blends elite-level speed with mass participation energy, drawing everyone from podium chasers to first-time 10km runners onto courses designed for rhythm, flow and personal bests. Gqeberha and Cape Town once again lead the charge, setting the tempo for a five-city tour that celebrates the heartbeat of South African road running.

“We are excited to kick off the 2026 Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series by opening entries for the first two of five iconic races, the Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K and Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K,” said Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports and Series Founder.

“Since inception, Gqeberha (in 2023) and Cape Town (in 2015), both events have delivered world-class racing and an unforgettable atmosphere. As we celebrate the 4th running of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K and 11th running of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K, we’re committed to elevating the experience even further with more excitement, exceptional performances, and that unmistakable city vibe runners love.”

These races are tailor-made for ticking off early-season goals. Gqeberha’s coastal route offers a smooth, sea-level test where legs can spin freely, while Cape Town’s point-to-point layout delivers a dynamic run through iconic streets, backed by one of the country’s strongest running cultures. In both cities, the crowd support acts like an invisible tailwind, lifting runners through every kilometre marker.

Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K by Anthony Grote

“Runners can expect 10km racing at its finest,” Meyer added. “Entries sell out quickly every year, so we encourage everyone to sign up early and secure their spot to avoid missing out.”

Title sponsor Absa continues to position the series as more than a race day result.

“Gqeberha and Cape Town, the wait is over, entries for the 2026 Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K and Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K officially open on 11 December! This is your moment to lace up early, secure your spot, and own your streets with purpose,” said Jabulile Nsibanyoni, Head of Sponsorships, Brand and Marketing at Absa.

“The Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series is more than just a race; it’s a movement inspiring real, positive change. We can’t wait to welcome you at the start line and celebrate your journey all the way to the finish.”

With Durban, Tshwane and Joburg waiting later in the season like checkpoints on a long training cycle, the 2026 Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series promises another year where preparation meets opportunity – and the streets decide the story.

2026 Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series – Key Race Info

Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K

Date: Sunday, 01 March 2026
Start Time: 07:00
Start & Finish: Beach Road, Humewood, Gqeberha
Entry Fee:

  • Licensed Runner: R255
  • Temporary License: R30
    Entries Open: Thursday, 11 December 2025
    Entries Close: Monday, 23 February 2026 or once capacity is reached

Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K

Date: Sunday, 10 May 2026
Start Time: 09:00
Start Venue: Marine Drive, Milnerton
Finish Venue: Cape Town CBD
Entry Fee:

  • Licensed Runner: R255
  • Temporary License: R60
    Entries Open: Thursday, 11 December 2025
    Entries Close: Monday, 04 May 2026 or once capacity is reached

Later in the 2026 Series

  • Durban 10K: Sunday, 12 July
  • Tshwane 10K: Sunday, 23 August
  • Joburg 10K: Thursday, 24 September

More info:www.runyourcityseries.com
WhatsApp Line: 072 042 7613
Hashtags: #RunYourCity #AbsaRunYourCity