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Hendricks and Kavanagh Storm to Back-to-Back SCTM 10km Peace Run Titles

Adnaan MohamedNewsLeave a Comment on Hendricks and Kavanagh Storm to Back-to-Back SCTM 10km Peace Run Titles
By Adnaan Mohamed

Deon-Lee Hendricks and Tayla Kavanagh successfully defended their Sanlam 10k Peace Run titles in spectacular fashion at the 2025 edition of the race on Saturday morning.

As part of the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon weekend, the sold-out 10km field of 11,000 runners, along with another 3,500 in the 5km Peace Run, turned the Mother City’s streets into a blur of motion, colour, and courage.

Hendricks significantly Improves previous time

For Hendricks, the Athletics Academy star, it was a triumph of rhythm and resilience. Clocking 29:27, the 28-year-old from Cloetesville near Stellenbosch, not only defended his crown but also shaved more than 20 seconds off his winning time from last year.

“This is such a high-profile race, so winning it twice in a row is really a blessing,” said Hendricks, catching his breath after the finish.

“We had to start slower because of the wind, doing over 15 minutes for the first half and under 14 for the second. I came here to give it my all to defend my title, so I’m blessed.”

Potchefstroom track talent Luan Munnik took second in 29:39, followed by Bruce-Lynn Damons of TymeBank Langa in 29:55.

The men’s top three in the 2025 Peace Run 10km, Deon-Lee Hendricks, Luan Munnik and Bruce-Lynn Damons. Photo: Johann Minnaar

“This was my first time here, and what a crazy experience, It’s nothing like being on the track,” said Munnik.

“The first five kays were tactical, but then Bruce-Lynn pushed the pace, and Deon-Lee and I went to the front. He got away in the last mile, but it was great to race with such competitive guys.”

Kavanagh Runs into the Record Books

In the women’s race, Tayla Kavanagh of Hollywood Athletics blazed to an electrifying 31:37, a 16-second personal best and the fastest 10km by a South African woman in 2025.

The Durban dynamo now moves up to 11th on the all-time SA list, with only legends like Glenrose Xaba, Elana Meyer and Colleen De Reuck ahead of her.

“Today I really wanted to go for the win again,” said Kavanagh, glowing with satisfaction.

“Last year was such a great race, and I had a lot of fun again. I think the more fun you have, the faster you run. Even though it was windy, I focused on my plan, to run hard, and I’m super happy with the way I executed it.”

Helping her stay on pace was Olympian Ryan Mphahlele, her official pacesetter and former teammate from the 2023 World Road Running Championships in Latvia.

“Fortunately, I had Ryan to help me,” she added. “I was able to stick to him and run the time my form said I could.”

Behind her, Carina Viljoen claimed silver in 33:02, with Irvette van Zyl third in 33:29, ahead of Kyla Jacobs and Cian Oldknow.

The women’s top three in the 2025 Peace Run 10km, Tayla Kavanagh, Carina Viljoen and Irvette Van Zyl. Photo: Johann Minnaar

Viljoen, gracious in defeat, praised Kavanagh’s masterclass:

“Luckily, I heard what Tayla was aiming for today, so I knew I had to let her do her thing and just focus on my own race. I really had fun and I’m happy with another second place here.”

Peace Run 10km Results

Men:

  1. Deon-Lee Hendricks (Athletics Academy) – 29:27
  2. Luan Munnik (Potch Track) – 29:39
  3. Bruce-Lynn Damons (TymeBank Langa) – 29:55
  4. Angelo Booysen (Correctional Services) – 29:59
  5. Dylan van der Merwe (Boxer) – 30:15

Women:

  1. Tayla Kavanagh (Hollywood) – 31:37
  2. Carina Viljoen (Temp) – 33:02
  3. Irvette van Zyl (Hollywood) – 33:29
  4. Kyla Jacobs (Boxer) – 33:57
  5. Cian Oldknow (Hollywood) – 34:35

Peace Run 5km Highlights

Men: Nicolas Sebolai (SA) – 15:27
Women: Laura Antonia Rehberg (Germany) – 19:38

Full Peace Run 10km Results

Africa’s time to Shine at Sanlam Cape Town Marathon

Adnaan MohamedFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Africa’s time to Shine at Sanlam Cape Town Marathon
By Adnaan Mohamed

The Mother City’s streets are ready to thunder this Sunday, 19 October, as the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon takes a decisive stride toward Abbott World Marathon Majors glory in 2026.

With two start lines in Green Point and a dazzling cast of global talent, the 2025 edition promises a race painted in speed, pride, and possibility.

“This is the best and strongest field the African continent has ever seen,” said Clark Gardner, CEO of the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon.

“With eight Platinum Label and 10 Gold Label athletes, they will help us bring the first Abbott World Marathon Majors race to Africa. Given the quality of this field, I think race records could tumble again, as they did in 2024.”

Gardner added, “We’re proud to host this event, but we also carry the responsibility to develop running across Africa. You can see that in our South African lineup — all capable of sub-2:10. This is part of our journey toward global recognition.”

A Festival of Running

Before the marathoners hit the road, Saturday’s Peace Trail and Peace Run events will set the tone for a weekend-long running festival. From the 43km mountain challenge at dawn to the family-friendly 5km, more than 41,000 runners will take part across road and trail. Chip timing and staggered wave starts will keep every stride smooth and safe.

Men’s Race: Fire on the Asphalt

The men’s field looks set to ignite. Kenya’s Ronald Korir (2:04:22) and Bethwell Chumba Kibet (2:04:37) bring serious pace, but South Africa’s Elroy Gelant, fresh off a 2:05:36 national record in Hamburg, could light up the home straight.

Elroy Gelant by Tobias Gingsberg

“I’ve grown and matured as a runner,” said Gelant.

“When I first ran Cape Town, I had a 2:12. Now I’m at 2:05, and I think I’ve reached the stage where I really understand and love the marathon. When that happens, things start to come together.”

Other challengers include Othmane El Goumri (Morocco), Asefa Boki Kebebe (Ethiopia), Justus Kangogo (Kenya), and Lesotho’s Tebello Ramakongoana, who will act as pacemaker before chasing glory himself.

Veteran star Stephen Mokoka, a three-time champion, is chasing a fairytale fourth title. “This is my fifth Cape Town Marathon. I’ve won three and finished second once. I’m hoping I can repeat history,” he smiled.

Three-time winner of the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon, Stephen Mokoka, is hoping to add a fourth win in five starts. Photo Tobias Ginsberg

Women’s Race: Speed Meets Grace

The women’s race is equally electrifying. Kenya’s Winfridah Moraa Moseti (2:16:56) and Angela Tanui (2:17:57) bring major marathon pedigree, while Ethiopia’s Meseret Belete and the 2015 World Champion, Mare Dibaba, are ready to test their mettle.

Flying the flag for South Africa, Gerda Steyn returns with pride in her stride. “It’s an honour to line up in a great South African race against such a high-quality field,” she said. “The crowd carried me in 2021, and I can’t wait to feel that again.”

“adidas takes immense pride in partnering with some of the world’s best athletes, including Justus Kangogo, Angela Tanui, Gerda Steyn, and Adam Lipschitz. We’re thrilled they’ll be part of this landmark race,” said Tom Brown, Senior Brand Director at adidas.

Wheelchair Division: Wheels of Fire

The men’s and women’s wheelchair champions return for another showdown. Sho Watanabe (Japan) and Michelle Wheeler (USA) will defend their titles against fierce challengers, including Geert Schipper (Netherlands).

“I’ll face this race as a challenger, not just a defending champion,” said Watanabe. Schipper added with a grin, “I’m going fast from the gun — I’m a big guy, so I can’t wait for a sprint!”

Wheeler added, “It feels like coming home. The volunteers and crowds make Cape Town special — I’m looking forward to that again.”

Prize Money & Incentives

Top finishers will share a massive R4.5 million prize purse, with winners taking home US$25,000 each and bonuses for course or national records. The first South African man and woman will pocket R25,000 each, while age-group and local category prizes ensure everyone has something to chase.

Watch It Live

Fans can catch every stride of the 2025 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon live on SuperSport from 05:50 to 11:00, with international coverage beamed across multiple continents.

For more information, visit the official website: www.capetownmarathon.com

Media enquiries: [email protected]

Two Oceans Marathon Steps Into a New Era

Adnaan MohamedNews, Totalsports Two Oceans MarathonLeave a Comment on Two Oceans Marathon Steps Into a New Era
By Adnaan Mohamed

The Two Oceans Marathon NPC (TOM NPC) is hitting the reset button and tightening its laces for a brand-new chapter on the road ahead.

Following its recent AGM, the organisation behind the “world’s most beautiful marathon” has unveiled a revitalised Board of Directors, with Chris Goldschmidt taking the helm as Chairperson and Glenn Muller stepping in as Vice Chairperson.

Chris Goldschmidt Two Oceans Marathon NPC Chairperson by David Sullivan

“This is a reset moment for TOM NPC. Our mandate is clear: to restore confidence through uncompromising governance, transparency, and accountability,” said Goldschmidt.

“Working closely with Western Province Athletics (WPA), Celtic Harriers, our Ordinary Members, and Stillwater Sports as our staging and commercial partner, we will safeguard the organisation’s future, elevate the runner experience, and honour the trust placed in us by athletes, partners, and the broader community.”

Like an athlete returning from a tough season, TOM NPC is focused on rebuilding strength, rhythm, and momentum.

The new Board blends experience with fresh energy, representing the three pillars that have long carried the race: Western Province Athletics, Celtic Harriers, and Ordinary Members.

Board members include:

WPA: Chris Goldschmidt (Chairperson), Nombini Zaku, Julius Oosthuizen, Achmat Jacobs

Celtic Harriers: Glenn Muller (Vice Chairperson), Armand Bam, Krishnakumar Patel, Sandiswa Ndlebe

Glenn Muller Two Oceans Marathon NPC Vice Chairperson by David Sullivan

Ordinary Members: Stuart Mann, Ashraf Orrie, Gavin Wright, Wietse van der Westhuizen

TOM NPC extended gratitude to the outgoing Board like a respectful handover at the water table, as the new team takes charge of steering this flagship race into a future built on trust and teamwork.

Meanwhile, the countdown has begun to the 2026 Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon, where thousands of runners will once again chase glory.

The 56km Ultra Marathon will blaze off from Newlands Main Road on Saturday, 11 April 2026, finishing at UCT Rugby Fields in Rondebosch, with a seven-hour cut-off.

The following day, Sunday, 12 April 2026, the Half Marathon takes centre stage over 21.1km, with a 3-hour-30-minute limit to beat the clock.

As Goldschmidt and his team settle into stride, their goal is clear. And this is to ensure that South Africa’s most scenic road race once again runs as smoothly as a well-paced negative split.

For entry information, visit www.twooceansmarathon.org.za or follow @TotalsportsTwoOceansMarathon on Instagram and Two Oceans Marathon on Facebook.

For entry related queries please email [email protected]

Ryan and Glenrose blaze to glory at Boxer Super Run

Adnaan MohamedFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Ryan and Glenrose blaze to glory at Boxer Super Run
By Adnaan Mohamed

Durban’s beachfront turned into a runway of dreams on Sunday morning as 5,000 runners thundered down Snell Parade like a sea of determination, chasing glory beneath the coastal sunrise. But it was Ryan Mphahlele and Glenrose Xaba who broke the tap with record-shattering runs at the 2025 Boxer Super Run 5K.

Mphahlele, in his debut at the event, scorched the tar in 13:37, setting a new course record and becoming the fastest South African ever on African soil over the distance.

“The last time that I ran a 5km was two years ago,” he said with a grin as wide as the promenade.

“The opportunity came especially in Durban, a coastal area. So I thought, let me come and top it. It was like a fitness run to me, to see where my fitness is at this time of the year.”

Ryan Mphahlele wins Boxer Super Run Durban by Anthony Grote

The 27-year-old from Thembisa treated the elite men’s race like a tactical tempo session, easing in, then dropping the hammer when it mattered most.

“Elroy was my toughest competition and of course Kabelo Mulaudzi really showed up. When I looked back, I saw Kabelo was moving closer, so I just had to take the sting out of him,” Mphahlele explained.

“It was my goal to win today, and it feels very good to cross the finish line first. I love Durban, I love the weather, and I’ll be back next year.”

Mulaudzi (13:39) crossed the line second, with veteran Elroy Gelant (13:42) rounding off the podium.

The women’s elite race was an equally fierce sprint for supremacy. Glenrose Xaba, unleashed her trademark kick to win in 15:27, holding off her Boxer training partner Karabo More (15:34) and Hollywood AC’s Tayla Kavanagh (15:35) in a thrilling chase to the finish.

“Today’s race was good. The pace was too fast,” said a jubilant Xaba, who is tuning up for the Valencia Marathon.

“I recovered very well after two long runs in preparation. I went with my coach’s strategy to just sit behind, but when you take the move, take it and don’t think about your training partner.

“It feels good to be back and on the podium. There’s a lot that I enjoy about the Boxer Super Run: the support, the atmosphere, the fans. It’s my second home here, so it’s nice to run at home again.”

Glenrose Xaba wins Boxer Super Run Durban 2025 by Anthony Grote

Launched in 2023 by Stillwater Sports, Boxer Superstores, and Coca-Cola, the Super Run has become a must-run fixture on the national calendar. It’s part sprint, part celebration and all spirit.

“What an incredible day of racing,” said Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports.

“From the country’s top elites to the thousands of everyday runners, today was a true celebration of running. Congratulations to Ryan and Glenrose on your remarkable victories. Your performances set a benchmark for the stars of tomorrow.”

Lee-Ann Pillay, Boxer Superstores’ Head of Marketing, added:

“Ryan and Glenrose took elite racing to the next level. Well done to Ryan on becoming the fastest South African on African soil. The vibe in Durban was fantastic. We can’t wait to build on this momentum as we look ahead to the Boxer Super Run’s Johannesburg debut.”

With a R147,200 prize purse and waves for every kind of runner, from elites chasing records to weekend joggers chasing PBs, the Boxer Super Run once again proved that Durban’s promenade isn’t just a stretch of road. On Sunday, it was a launchpad for history.

ELITE MEN’S WAVE Start by Anthony Grote

TOP 10 RESULTS: ELITE WAVES

Elite Men
1 Ryan Mphahlele 13:37, 2 Kabelo Mulaudzi 13:39, 3 Elroy Gelant 13:42, 4 Musawenkosi Mnisi 13:49, 5 Chris Mhlanga 13:51, 6 Zenzile Pheke 13:54, 7 Bongelani Mkhwanazi 13:54, 8 Simon Sibeko 13:56
Elite Women
1 Glenrose Xaba 15:27, 2 Karabo More 15:34, 3 Tayla Kavanagh 15:35, 4 Carina Viljoen 16:00, 5 Kyla Jacobs
16:13, 6 Cacisile Sosibo 16:23, 7 Danielle Verster 16:40, 8 Bathobile Mhkize 16:49

FIND ALL YOUR BOXER SUPER RUN RESULTS HERE

Mashele, Mulaudzi and Mhlanga Primed for Boxer Super Run Durban

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By Adnaan Mohamed

Boxer Athletics Club’s star trio of Precious Mashele, Kabelo Mulaudzi and Chris Mhlanga will return for another crack at the Boxer Super Run 5km on Durban’s promenade this Sunday.

Last year, the three turned the beachfront into a Boxer sweep, with Mashele storming to victory in 13:39, chased by Mulaudzi (13:40) and Mhlanga (13:43).

The clean sweep set the tone for one of the toughest 5km races in the country.

“Last year, I won the Boxer Super Run in Durban on my birthday, which was very special for me,” Mashele said.

“Winning the race has meant a lot to me because I used the prize money to continue building my house in Limpopo.

“This year, I’ve been struggling with injury, so I’m motivated to come back strong and win my club race to thank Boxer and Ntate [Rhyn] Swanepoel for all their support during difficult times.”

Elite Men at Boxer Super Run Durban 2024 by Gavin Ryan
Mulaudzi, second last year, believes Durban suits his racing instincts.

“The 5km and 10km are my favourite distances, so the Boxer Super Run Durban is an event I really look forward to. My goal is a win and a personal best. I think I have a good chance, but part of my success comes from being very respectful of my opponents,” he said.

Known for his devastating kick, Mulaudzi added:

“I try to stay flexible with my tactics, but generally my strength and speed in the last 2km help me perform well. Durban has always been a special venue for me. The course and the beachfront always fill me with excitement.”

To social runners, he had simple advice:

“Don’t start too fast. It’s always better to finish strongly than to charge at the start and struggle in the second half.”

Mhlanga, who rounded off last year’s podium, is ready to fight again.

“The Boxer Super Run is special because, as Boxer AC athletes, we get to showcase our talent in our very own biggest 5km. My goal is to finish on the podium again. It’s not an easy course, yet we still manage our best times.”

Boxer’s Head of Marketing, Lee-Ann Pillay, summed up the anticipation:

“It was such a proud moment in 2024 to see Boxer Athletics Club round off the Elite Men’s podium. We are thrilled to welcome back Precious, Kabelo and Chris in 2025. These three top contenders are true inspirations for the sport.”

With R147 200 in prize money on the line, Sunday’s race promises fireworks on the Durban seafront. Expect another fast, furious finish, and perhaps, a repeat of Boxer’s podium parade.

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

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Following a release from the Comrades Marathon Association, we are saddened to publish that Cheryl Winn, the 1982 women’s winner, a former Chair of the CMA Board, passed away on Sunday, 5 October. Tragically, she passed away while pursuing one of her passions, nature photography, on a family holiday in the Drakensberg.

Running Career and Victory

Cheryl Winn began her involvement in running in the early 1970s while at university in the United States, initially jogging simply as a social activity. Upon discovering the sport, she found a natural talent for competition. She became deeply involved in the sport, noting, “If you suddenly discover that late in life, when I hadn’t been good in any sport ever in my life, and you suddenly discover something that you’re good at. I mean, obviously, it just grabs you. And that’s what happened with me.”

Her running progression led her inevitably to the Comrades Marathon, which, at the time, “totally dominated the running scene. It’s the reason why groups of people got together to train. In fact, the entire road running calendar was built around building up towards the Comrades Marathon.”

Cheryl ran the Comrades Marathon six times between 1978 and 1984, consistently placing near the front of the women’s field. She finished fourth in her first race, was runner-up twice in 1980 and 1981, and ultimately claimed the women’s title in 1982. She often attributed her success to mental fortitude, stating in a podcast with Cherie Turner: “I think what I had was more determination. I had what it took in my head more than anything else.”

Leadership and Administration

Even while still competing, Winn became involved in the administration of athletics, initially at the club and provincial level, working alongside her late husband, Mick Winn, himself a former CMA Chairman. She served extensively within the national federation, the South African Road Running Association (SARRA), which later became Athletics South Africa (ASA).

Her commitment to the race she conquered only deepened on the administrative side. In 2017, she was elected as the Chairperson of the CMA Board, becoming the only person in the race’s history to have won the Comrades Marathon and subsequently held the top administrative post. She considered this role a privilege and a duty, reflecting: “I sincerely regard this latest development at Comrades, not as an achievement, but a humble responsibility I have been entrusted with by my colleagues to lead softly, contribute and pass on the knowledge and experience I have accumulated over many years.”

Cheryl was a dedicated disciple of transformation in sport, embracing changes within the structure of athletics, believing that true leadership demanded “humility, empathy, trust, and respect.”

Reflecting on the transformative power of the race, she said in a podcast with Cherie Turner: “There’s something about committing yourself to something as big as the Comrades Marathon that does sort of change your perception of yourself. It changes what you believe about yourself.” She continued to serve the CMA after stepping down as Chairperson in 2021, holding positions on the Finance, Marketing & Membership, Heritage & Traditions, and Elders Committees.

The sport has lost a tremendous woman; our sincere condolences to Cheryl’s family during this hard time.

Glenrose Returns to Durban’s Boxer Super Run

Adnaan MohamedBoxer Super Run, Features, NewsLeave a Comment on Glenrose Returns to Durban’s Boxer Super Run
By Adnaan Mohamed

Like a champion runner returning to her favourite stretch of road, Glenrose “Supercharger” Xaba as well as the cream of South Africa’s top female athlete’s are coming back to participate in Durban’s Boxer Super Run on Sunday, 12 October 2025.

Two years ago, she lit up Snell Parade like sunrise breaking over the ocean, flying home in 16:03 to become the fastest South African woman over 5km on local soil.

Last year she traded that sharp burst of speed for the long, patient drumbeat of marathon miles and the gamble paid off, her feet writing history across Cape Town’s streets in 2:22:22, a record carved into the national story.

“I missed out on the 2024 race because I was training for my marathon debut and aiming for the SA record, which God blessed me with,” Xaba reflects, her words steady as a stride on the back straight.

“This year at the Boxer Super Run in Durban, I just want to enjoy myself and see what my legs can do. The 5km distance is special because it’s all about speed from the first kilometre to the finish. I look forward to running against training partners like Karabo More.”

Beside her, the field is rich with Tayla Kavanagh, Durban’s own racing the road she knows like the back of her hand.

Glenrose Xaba Photo: Anthony Grote

“Recently I’ve run a number of 10km races, and I have decided to use the Boxer Super Run 5K to enjoy a shorter distance on the road and see what I can do,” she says. “It’s a challenging distance but I enjoy a challenge… The local support on a hometown race is always super special.”

Debutant Karabo Motsoeneng all the way from Hammanskraal in Pretoria is ready to test her mettle against the tide:

“The Boxer Super Run is a great opportunity for people to have fun while showcasing their talents. The 5km distance is short but fast. My goal is to run a PB on the day. I’m looking forward to seeing the elite runners break records and set new PBs.”

And for Carina Swiegers, the race is a celebration of joy as much as speed:

“The Boxer Super Run is just a quick and fun day out for family and friends. It’s something different from the usual 10km or 21.1km road races, and the vibe and organisation are top class. I absolutely love it. It’s just long enough but also short enough to run really fast.”

The sponsors too are in step with the excitement.

“We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Glenrose Xaba back to the Boxer Super Run in Durban… It’s also fantastic to have Karabo Motsoeneng and Carina Swiegers joining the field,” said Lee-Ann Pillay, Head of Marketing.

“It’s set to be an exciting event for everyone!”

Race Day Notes — 2025 Boxer Super Run Durban

  • Date: Sunday, 12 October 2025
  • Distance: 5km — a dash as brief as a heartbeat, as fierce as a sprint to the tape
  • Start & Finish: Snell Parade to Blue Lagoon Park, where the city’s surf meets the runners’ rhythm
  • Waves:
    • 07:00 — Open Wave: the city’s morning chorus, thousands of feet drumming in unison
    • 08:00–09:30 — Super Social Wave: costumes, laughter, and joy carried on the ocean breeze
    • 09:45 — Elite Women: a ballet of speed, every step chasing history
    • 10:00 — Elite Men: the closing crescendo, a sprint to glory
  • Prize Purse: R147,200 — gold for those who can turn sweat into flight
  • Gifts: T-shirt, medal, goodie bag, and the memory of Durban’s seafront rising to cheer every stride

Glenrose seals clean sweep at Spar Grand Prix

Adnaan MohamedFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Glenrose seals clean sweep at Spar Grand Prix
By Adnaan Mohamed

Glenrose Xaba once again showed her class when she blazed through the Jozi SPAR Women’s 10 km Challenge winning her fifth consecutive race in the highly popular sold-out event across the country.

Glenrose Xaba winner Jozi SPAR Photo: Greg Caldecott

After winning the Cape Town, Durban, Pretoria and Gqeberha legs of the 2025 Spar Grand Prix Series, Glenrose stormed across the finish line at Marks Park Sports Club on Sunday morning in Emmarentia over a toughy hilly course. She blitzed the route in 33:07 to leave her rivals trailing in her wake.

Ethiopian Diniya Abaraya (Nedbank) clocked 33:42 for second, while Irvette van Zyl (Hollywood) claimed third in 34:35.

The evergreen Van Zyl,38, came out of the blocks like a bullet, setting the early tone before easing off and letting the race settle. That’s when Xaba hit her stride.

She went shoulder-to-shoulder with Abaraya and her compatriot Selam Gebre, until the six-kilometre mark, when she broke free like a sprinter pulling clear on the final bend.

Glenrose Xaba and Irvette van Zyl surrounded by a trio of Ethiopian athletes. Photo: Greg Caldecott

“Irvette got us to a very fast start, and I am grateful for that. Then Selam and Diniya forced the pace until about four kilometres,” said Glenrose.

“From six kilometres, I just focused on my splits and on my own running,” she said.

“I am very happy to be the first South African to win all five SPAR Grand Prix races this year, and to have won the SPAR Grand Prix for the third time.”

Five SPAR victories in one season, three Grand Prix titles overall, was a clear reminder that Glenrose Xaba is setting the benchmark for women’s road running in South Africa.

Abaraya, showing strong form after a year of consistent improvement, admitted the Jozi route was no walk in the park.

“I had a good race today, although I found the hills very challenging,” she said.

Van Zyl, meanwhile, was thrilled to be back in the mix. Her trademark grit shone through even after a shaky buildup.

“I went into the race with no expectations. I felt horrible yesterday and even wondered if I would be able to run. I just wanted to do my best.”

A veteran of the series and a three-time Grand Prix champion herself, Van Zyl credited Xaba for elevating the competition.

“Glenrose has given everyone the belief that they can do better, and I think the international athletes will soon struggle to win the SPAR Grand Prix again,” said Van Zyl.

Further back in the field, Gerda Steyn, South Africa’s ultra marathon marvel, treated the 10km as a tune-up for the upcoming Sanlam Cape Town Marathon on Sunday, 19 October. Despite experiencing an injury setback that threatened her participation in the race, she still pitched up to finish in 11th position.

“I always look forward to the SPAR Women’s Jozi race,” she said.

“I love the vibe and the experience of running in a women’s only race. I find lining up with thousands of other women inspirational.”

Gerda Steyn at the finish of the Spar Jozi 10k Photo: Adnaan Mohamed

That energy was everywhere with 12,000 women pounding the pavement in the 10km Challenge and 5km Fun Run, turning the streets into a celebration of strength and solidarity.

Among those cheering was Deputy Sports, Arts and Culture Minister Peace Mabe, who praised SPAR for championing women’s sport and social causes.

JOHANNESURG, SOUTH AFRICA – OCTOBER 05: during the 2025 SPAR Womens Grand Prix 10km Challenge and 5km Fun Run at Marks Park Sports Club on October 05, 2025 in Johannesburg, South Africa. (Photo by Reg Caldecott/Gallo Images)

“It’s only through sponsorship that women’s sports will flourish,” she said.

“I would like to congratulate SPAR for their support for women’s road running and netball, but also for their campaigns to end gender-based violence and period poverty.”

Golden Girl Gerda to Test Her Speed at Jozi SPAR Women’s Challenge

Adnaan MohamedNewsLeave a Comment on Golden Girl Gerda to Test Her Speed at Jozi SPAR Women’s Challenge
By Adnaan Mohamed

When Gerda Steyn toes the line at the Jozi SPAR Women’s Challenge on Sunday morning in Johannesburg, it will be the final speed test for South Africa’s golden girl of distance running ahead of her biggest marathon of the year.

The multiple Comrades and Two Oceans champion confirmed she will use the 10km race at Marks Park Sports Club as her last tune-up before the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon in two weeks’ time.

For Steyn, renowned for her endurance over gruelling ultra distances, the SPAR race offers the perfect chance to sharpen her speed against the country’s and continent’s best.

“The SPAR race is special because it is women only. I am always in Johannesburg at this time of year and so I always try to run it. The route is lovely, and the spirit is awesome.”

“I love running the Jozi SPAR Women’s Challenge,” said Steyn.

Her presence adds extra lustre to an event already buzzing with anticipation. While defending champion Glenrose Xaba will chase a clean sweep of five out of five SPAR Grand Prix titles in 2025, much of the spotlight will inevitably fall on Steyn.

The 34-year-old’s ability to bring marathon strength and ultra-marathon grit into the fast-paced world of 10km road racing makes her an irresistible drawcard.

For fans, Steyn’s participation is not just about whether she can crack the podium on Sunday, but about witnessing the careful fine-tuning of an athlete at the peak of her career.

She will be joined by her Hollywood AC teammate and fellow road-running star Irvette van Zyl, a three-time SPAR Grand Prix champion making a return to the series.

With Cape Town looming large, every stride in Johannesburg will be a statement of intent.

Together, they bring both experience and prestige to a sold-out field of 12,000 runners.

The single-lap 10km course through Emmarentia, Greenside, Linden and Parkview, with its steady climbs and long straights, promises to be a fitting stage for Steyn’s final dress rehearsal before the marathon spotlight shifts to the Mother City.

In a field featuring Ethiopian and Kenyan contenders, as well as South African frontrunners like Xaba and Karabo Mailula, the race will be fiercely contested

Yet, for many eyes will be fixed on national icon Steyn using the SPAR challenge not only to test her legs but to inspire thousands of women running alongside her.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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