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Sikhakhane seeks redemption at Two Oceans Ultra after 2025 heartbreak

Adnaan MohamedNews, Totalsports Two Oceans MarathonLeave a Comment on Sikhakhane seeks redemption at Two Oceans Ultra after 2025 heartbreak
By Adnaan Mohamed

Sboniso Sikhakhane is confident he can finally deliver the breakthrough victory at the Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon powered by BYD in 2026.

The 35-year-old Entsika Athletics Club runner will return to the gruelling 56km race Saturday, 11 April with unfinished business after last year’s agonising runner-up finish.

In 2025 Sikhakhane clocked 3:11:18, crossing the line only 31 seconds behind Lesotho’s Joseph Khoarahlane Seutloali after a gripping duel over the closing kilometres of the 56km race.

The narrow defeat still lingers in his memory.

“I still think I should have won the Two Oceans Ultra Marathon last year,” Sikhakhane said.

“I had a good strategy on how to attack the race from the start to the end. It all worked out well till the latter stages of the race.”

A late miscalculation ultimately proved costly.

“I made a huge mistake when I went to fetch a water bottle where I wasn’t supposed to. I gave Khoarahlane an opportunity to open a gap which made it hard for me to recover,” he explained.

“But I have moved past it as everything is planned by God.”

Under the guidance of coach Hendrick Ramaala, the 2004 New York Marathon champion, Sikhakhane has opted for a familiar preparation path ahead of this year’s race.

The Newcastle-born runner again used the FNB Kazungula Marathon in Botswana as a key build-up race, a strategy that produced encouraging results.

He finished second in 2:19:17, more than five minutes quicker than the 2:24:53 he recorded at the same race in 2025 when he placed seventh. Zimbabwe’s Isaac Mpofu took the victory.

“I didn’t see a reason to change what worked for me last year, which is why I decided to participate in the Kazungula Marathon just like I did last year,” Sikhakhane said.

“I love that race; it gives me the clear indication on where to adjust my training going forward.”

The race also confirmed his current fitness.

“The conditions were hot on race day, but I did well to adapt. My aim was to go there and clock two hours and 20 minutes, which I managed to achieve. I now have to discuss with coach where we can strengthen to be fully ready for Two Oceans.”

Sikhakhane has steadily built a strong record at the iconic Cape Town ultra.

He finished third in 2022 in 3:11:30, before improving to runner-up last year, performances that have strengthened his belief that victory could be within reach.

“I think I’m in the best shape of my life,” he said.

“My body has been responding well to training. Plus my mind is also strong as I have battled in the past two years.

“My target is to clock a better time than I have done in the past. I believe it is time for me to win a big race in this country.”

The experienced road runner says the lessons from previous campaigns have sharpened his approach.

“In the past I have made mistakes, but I have learned from them. Winning would be a dream come true as I have been knocking on the door for too long.”

Race organisers believe Sikhakhane’s determination adds another compelling storyline to the 2026 edition of the race often dubbed the World’s Most Beautiful Marathon.

“Sboniso Sikhakhane’s determination and consistency over the years make him a true contender for this year’s Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon powered by BYD,” said Chris Goldschmidt, chairperson of the Two Oceans Marathon NPC.

“Having finished second last year, it’s inspiring to see him so focused on claiming his first victory.”

Wade Bromfield, general manager of the race, echoed that sentiment.

“Every year the Ultra Marathon brings out remarkable stories of resilience and ambition,” Bromfield said.

“Sboniso’s drive to turn last year’s near-miss into a win perfectly embodies the spirit of the Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon powered by BYD.”

The 56km Ultra Marathon starts at 05:15 on Saturday, 11 April, forming the centrepiece of the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon weekend, which also includes the Trail Run on Friday and the Half Marathon on Sunday.

For Sikhakhane, the goal is simple when the starting gun fires before dawn in Cape Town.

Finish the race he believes slipped away last year.

Event Information

Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon powered by BYD

Thursday, 9 April 2026
Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon International Friendship Run

Friday, 10 April 2026
Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon Trail Run
Start Time: 07:00

Saturday, 11 April 2026
Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon
Start Time: 05:15

Sunday, 12 April 2026
Totalsports Two Oceans Half Marathon
Start Time: 06:15

2026 Prize Purse

The iconic event boasts a combined prize purse of R2.6 million in 2026.

  • Ultra Marathon: R2 177 400
  • Half Marathon: R422 600

More information:
www.twooceansmarathon.org.za

Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon secures BYD as presenting sponsor

Adnaan MohamedNews, Totalsports Two Oceans MarathonLeave a Comment on Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon secures BYD as presenting sponsor
By Adnaan Mohamed

The Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon has entered a new phase after global electric vehicle manufacturer BYD was announced as the race’s official presenting sponsor from 2026.

The partnership marks the first time in the event’s history that the Cape Town race will have a presenting sponsor. The event will now be known as the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon powered by BYD.

Organisers believe the agreement strengthens efforts to elevate the race and align it with sustainability initiatives.

“This is a proud and exciting moment for us as we welcome BYD as Presenting Sponsor of the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon from 2026, with the event now officially known as the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon powered by BYD,” said Two Oceans Marathon NPC chairperson Chris Goldschmidt.

“This partnership reflects a shared commitment to excellence, innovation and community. BYD’s leadership in new energy vehicles, including advanced electric mobility solutions, aligns strongly with our vision for a more sustainable future.”

The race, widely known as the “World’s Most Beautiful Marathon”, winds through the Cape Peninsula and attracts thousands of local and international runners each year.

According to race general manager Wade Bromfield, securing a presenting sponsor represents a key milestone in the organisation’s long-term strategy.

“From the outset, our ambition has been to restore and elevate the World’s Most Beautiful Marathon to its former glory. Securing our first-ever Presenting Sponsor marks a major milestone in that journey,” said Bromfield.

“With BYD’s innovation and energy behind us, we are proud to power the next era of the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon.”

BYD is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of new energy vehicles, including electric cars, and develops advanced battery technology aimed at reducing emissions. The company is listed on the Hong Kong and Shenzhen stock exchanges.

The Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon has announced BYD as its Official Presenting Sponsor in a landmark collaboration that will see one of the world’s leading electric vehicle manufacturers Power one of South Africa’s most iconic endurance events. PHOTO: Adnaan Mohamed

BYD South Africa marketing director for the Middle East and Africa region Nomonde Kweyi said the partnership reflects the company’s commitment to innovation and sustainability.

“As a brand committed to innovation, sustainability, and enhancing everyday mobility, we see tremendous alignment with an event that inspires endurance, passion and progress,” said Kweyi.

“This partnership gives us a unique platform to showcase how clean, efficient and future-focused mobility can enhance major events.”

Kweyi added that runners and spectators will see the brand’s vehicles integrated into the race experience.

“Runners and spectators can look forward to experiencing our vehicles up close from lead and support cars on race day to interactive displays and engagements in the lead-up to the event. We are excited to bring our technology, energy and innovation to the running community.”

The 2026 event programme will include the International Friendship Run on 9 April, the Trail Run on 10 April, the Ultra Marathon on 11 April and the Half Marathon on 12 April.

Wildschutt defends Gqeberha 10K crown despite challenges

Adnaan MohamedNewsLeave a Comment on Wildschutt defends Gqeberha 10K crown despite challenges
By Adnaan Mohamed

In road running, even the best-laid pacing plans can unravel like a frayed shoelace. On Sunday morning in Nelson Mandela Bay, that is exactly what happened to Adriaan Wildschutt at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K.

What was meant to be a historic charge at the sub-27-minute barrier on African soil turned into a tactical chess match when pacemakers Ryan Mphahlele and Luan Munnik withdrew hours before the start due to illness and injury. With the wind sweeping across the coastal route, the clock became a stubborn rival.

Wildschutt adjusted.

The 27-year-old, born in Ceres and based in the United States, shifted from record hunter to race tactician. With no pace setters and the breeze tugging at every stride, he made his move just before halfway, surging clear of Kenya’s Isaac Kibet Ndiema, the fastest man in the field on paper with a 26:55 personal best.

Wildschutt powered home in 27:47 to defend the title he claimed last year. Ndiema followed in 28:01, with debutant Tshepo Tshite third in 28:09.

Elite Men Isaac Ndiema (KEN), Adriaan Wildschutt (RSA) and Tshepo Tshite (RSA). PHOTO CREDIT: Action Photo

Afterwards, Wildschutt was candid about the curveball that reshaped his race.

“The organization is great, and it has nothing to do with them when pacemakers cancel. It’s not in their control. These were just the circumstances. I was like, there’s no way I’ll run sub-27 alone on a windy day as well. But I gave up a lot of time to be here, so I didn’t want to be a quitter,” he said.

His ambition remains firmly set on cracking 26 minutes on African soil.

“If I have the right training partners, pacemakers and good conditions then it is possible. Absolutely possible! There are few things that I want to experiment with. Hopefully, I’m going to get another opportunity.”

Series founder and Stillwater Sports managing director Michael Meyer praised the adaptability that defines elite runners.

“Initially Adriaan’s goal was to break 27 minutes. Unfortunately, both of the pacers we had secured withdrew at the last minute, one due to illness and the other due to injury. That naturally shifted the race dynamic and Adriaan had to adjust his strategy from chasing the clock to racing for the win.

“That’s the mark of a true professional – he assessed the situation, adapted, and still delivered fantastic racing for everyone out on the course. It’s always an honour to have an athlete of his calibre lining up in the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series. He brings intent, professionalism and excitement to every race,” said Meyer.

“Brenda also produced an exceptional performance.”

That performance belonged to Kenya’s Brenda Jepchirchir, who came within touching distance of history in the women’s race.

On debut in “The Friendly City”, Jepchirchir blazed through halfway in 14:49, shadowed by training partner Faith Cherono and paced by local favourite Melikhaya Frans. The wind stiffened over the final five kilometres, yet she drove on to claim victory in 30:15, one second outside the South African All-Comers record set by Christine Njoki last August.

Kenyans Faith Cherono Melikhaya Frans and Brenda Jepchirchir by Anthony Grote

Cherono clocked 30:44 for second, while South Africa’s Glenrose Xaba secured third in 32:13, her fourth podium in her past five series appearances.

“I was looking to run sub 30 minutes but because of the wind in the last 5km it was tough for me,” Jepchirchir said. “But I’m still feeling good and I want to come back to run the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series again in Cape Town in May.”

Meyer underlined the significance of her run.

“Jepchirchir came incredibly close to becoming the first woman to run under 30 minutes on African soil, which speaks volumes about the level of competition we witnessed today. We’d like to extend our sincere thanks to both athletes, all of our elite competitors, every entrant who took part, and our valued sponsors and partners. Their collective contribution is what makes days like this so special and adds to the excitement and success of the event.”

In the end, Gqeberha delivered no record-breaking stopwatch fireworks. It delivered something else: resilience, recalibration and racing of the highest order.

Elite Women Faith Cherono (KEN), Brenda Jepchirchir (KEN) and Glenrose Xaba.  PHOTO CREDIT: Action Photo

RESULTS: 2026 Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K

Date: Sunday 01 March 2026

Start & Finish Venue: Beach Road, Humewood, Gqeberha

Start Time: 07:00

ELITE MEN

1 Adriaan Wildschutt (RSA) 27:47, 2 Isaac Ndiema (KEN) 28:01, 3 Tshepo Tshite (RSA) 28:09, 4 Kamohelo Mofolo (LES) 28:25, 5 Zenzile Pheko (RSA) 28:44, 6 Ambrosi Amma (TANZANIA) 28:47, 7 Leonard Pkorir (KEN) 28:52, 8 Stephen Mokoka (RSA) 28:55, 9 Musawenkosi Mnisi (RSA) 29:06, 10 Cwenga Nose (RSA) 29:07

ELITE WOMEN 

1 Brenda Jepchirchir (KEN) 30:15, 2 Faith Cherono (KEN) 30:44, 3 Glenrose Xaba (RSA) 32:13, 4 Neheng Khatala (LES) 32:43, 5 Meselech Gedefaw (ETH) 33:07, 6 Karabo Mailula (RSA) 33:20, 7 Nthabiseng Letokoto (LES) 33:26, 8 Cacisile Sosibo (RSA) 33:28, 9 Irvette Van Zyl (RSA) 33:57, 10 Agnes Mwaghui (TAN) 34:05

Nedbank Running Club Invests in the Future of South African Running

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Nedbank Running Club Invests in the Future of South African Running
Nedbank Running Club is proud to announce a wave of exciting new signings for the 2026 season, reaffirming our commitment to the future of South African athletics. As one of the country’s most successful and respected running clubs, we believe that investing in young, emerging talent is the key to sustaining our nation’s proud tradition of excellence on the roads, tracks, and trails.
 

The foundation of our club’s legacy lies in discovering and developing future stars. Champions like Sipho Ngomane, Joseph Molaba, Claude Moshiywa, Bongmusa Mthembu, Ludwick Mammabolo, Gerda Steyn and Farwa Mentoor, Charne Bosman, Caroline Wostman —All of them household names in South African running—rose to prominence through the support and development opportunities that Nick B Sport incorporating Harmony and Nedbank Running Club’s offered them,” says Nick Bester, Nedbank Running Clubs National Manager, adding, “By focusing on talent identification and athlete development, we continue to set the pace for the sport nationwide.”

This year, we are especially excited to unveil a strong squad from the home ground of the Comrades marathon Association -KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), a region brimming with untapped potential like Bongmusa Mthembu and hunger for success. Athletes such as Sithembiso Mqhele, Musawenkosi Mthalane, Sinethemba Tshangase, Bonginkosi Mavuso, Thokozani Mbambo, Nathi Khanyezi ,Jenna Challenor , Fikile Mbuthuma ,Msawenkosi Nsibande and Dion Ross have joined the club, eager for the opportunity to highlight their talent on the biggest stages. We believe that with the right support and guidance, these runners will become household names in the years to come.

To support our athletes’ ambitions, Nedbank Running Club is investing in a series of high-performance training camps across the country:

–  Comrades and Two Oceans training camp in the Drakensberg mountains in Underberg and Bulwer, managed by Mthandeni Nene, is providing vital altitude and endurance preparation for our elite squad.

– Comrades training camp in Klerksdorp under the guidance of Pio Mpolokeng, featuring standout athletes such as ‘Onalenna Khonkhobe, Lucky Mohale, the Sibeko brothers (Samuel and Simon), Puseletso Mofokeng, Thabang Mosiako, and others, is sharpening the team’s competitive edge for the year’s biggest ultra.

– Two Oceans training camp in George, led by Lloyds Bosman, brings together a group of upcoming talented Nedbank RC stars, including Francois Maqhosa and Selwyn Mathews, to prepare for the unique demands of the Cape’s iconic race.

– Comrades training camp in Dullstroom where we combine our National athletes with our international athletes:

Names like Deanne Laubscher, Dominika Stelmach, Piet Wiersma etcetera.

Looking ahead to South Africa’s premier ultra-distance events, Nedbank Running Club is proud to highlight

Onalenna Khonkhobe and George Kusche as strong contenders for the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon (TOM) and the iconic Comrades Marathon. Their performances and dedication position them among the top athletes to watch this season.

At the same time, we wish to acknowledge the departure of two of South Africa’s most celebrated ultramarathoners, Tete Dijana and Edward Mothibi. While their contracts have not been renewed due to their requested retainer rates exceeding what the club can sustainably offer, we hold the deepest respect for their achievements and contributions to the green dream. We wish Tete and Edward everything of the best as they continue their remarkable journeys.

Nedbank Running Club remains steadfast in its mission: to discover, develop, and champion the very best in South African running. Our investment in emerging talent today is an investment in the champions of tomorrow.

For more information on their athletes, events, and club initiatives, visit Nedbank Running Club’s website or follow them on social media.

Nick Bester-National Manager of the Nedbank Running Clubs.