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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.

Elroy eyes sub-14 at Durban’s Boxer Super Run

Adnaan MohamedFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Elroy eyes sub-14 at Durban’s Boxer Super Run

By Adnaan Mohamed

Durban’s beachfront will turn into a blur of fast-twitch muscle and pounding footsteps on Sunday, 12 October, when Elroy Gelant lines up for the 2025 Boxer Super Run with one clear target – a sub-14-minute clocking.

Elroy, who finished fifth last year in 13:49, is determined to keep the heat on a stacked men’s field.

“My goal is straightforward: to go under 14 minutes, ideally dipping under 13:50 to keep the pressure on the field,” he says.

The stakes are high, with a R147 200 prize purse on offer and R20 000 to the men’s and women’s winners.

For Elroy, that money is more than just numbers on a cheque.

“It highlights Boxer’s commitment to rewarding elite athletes and growing the sport,” he explains.

“It helps with essentials like training gear, and even personal dreams like building a home. In a tough profession like ours, incentives like this push us to go harder and also attract top international talent. I’m all for it; it makes the racing even fiercer.”

For him, the 5km is short enough to go flat out and long enough to sting.

“For elites like us, it’s a chance to chase personal bests and national records on a flat, fast course like Durban’s,” he adds.

“The Boxer Super Run is special because it brings elites and everyday runners together in a vibrant, community-focused atmosphere.

“It’s not just about speed, but about celebrating running along the promenade with the ocean breeze. And it promotes fitness for all ages, which I love.”

But Elroy hasn’t forgotten the social runners.

“To everyone lacing up for the Boxer Super Run, you’ve got this! Whether it’s your first 5km or your hundredth, arrive with a smile, soak up the energy, and remember that running is about joy, not just the finish line.

“High-five a stranger, cheer on your wave mates, and celebrate every step. Durban’s energy will carry you through!”

He’ll have plenty of company at the sharp end. Former SA champion Gladwin Mzazi returns for a second crack:

“I entered the Boxer Super Run Durban because it is so well organised. The event has amazing vibes and excellent marshals along the route. I’m looking forward to strong competition, and my goal is to run under 14:15.”

Andries Sesedi, making his debut, is relishing the speed test:

“The Boxer 5km is known for being fast, so I want to deliver my quickest time. It’s a great opportunity to showcase my ability as a speed athlete, and I’m excited to aim for a new personal best.”

Meanwhile, Bennett Seloyi is eyeing his own PB.

“I’m determined to run a PB on the day,” he says.

“Boxer AC is a fantastic team with top runners, especially my friends Kabelo (Mulaudzi), Chris (Mhlanga), and Andries (Sesedi).”

Organisers are expecting fireworks.

“We’re excited to welcome Elroy Gelant back to the Boxer Super Run Durban in 2025,” says Lee-Ann Pillay, Boxer Superstores Head of Marketing.

“We love that he has set a clear goal, pushing himself while raising the bar for the rest of the field. We also can’t wait to see Gladwin Mzazi, Andries Sesedi, and Bennett Seloyi in action. It promises to be an electrifying elite men’s wave.”

With Durban’s promenade set to echo with cheers, quick strides, and high-fives, the stage is set for a 5km showdown that could rewrite the record books.

Kabelo smashes Absa RYC Joburg 10K record

Adnaan MohamedNews, RacingLeave a Comment on Kabelo smashes Absa RYC Joburg 10K record

By Adnaan Mohamed

Kabelo Mulaudzi turned Johannesburg’s Heritage Day streets into his stage, storming to a course-record victory at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K on Wednesday.

The 27-year-old from the Boxer Athletic Club made history by claiming his fourth straight win in the 2025 series becoming the first runner to achieve this feat since the launch of the series in 2015.

Like a seasoned tactician, Mulaudzi bided his time in the pack before unleashing a late surge down Rahima Moosa Street, raising four fingers skyward as he crossed Mary Fitzgerald Square in triumph.

He clocked a blistering 28 minutes and 39 seconds. Tanzanian Emanuel Dinday chased hard but finished seven seconds adrift in 28:45, while Mulaudzi’s Boxer teammate Bennett Seloyi (28:51) grabbed a career-first podium in third.

“The race was tactical,” admitted Mulaudzi, who eclipsed the old course best by 12 seconds.

He managed to beat Kenyan Gideon Kipngetich 28:51 course record set last year in Joburg.

“Facing athletes of the calibre of Precious Mashele, Thabang Mosiako, Stephen Mokoka and Elroy Gelant was intimidating, but I focused on my race. This has been the best season of my life with four wins in a row, and breaking 28 minutes three times. I’m so grateful to my coach, my club, and my family.”

Elite Men on route at Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K by Tobias Ginsberg

Coach Richard Mayer hailed the series as a springboard for South Africa’s best.

“If it was not for the Absa RUN YOUR CITY races, athletes like Kabelo would need to go overseas for opportunities. This platform is priceless,” he said.

“I’m so glad for him because he is meticulous in his preparation and works extremely hard. He is boy from down the road in Alexandra so it’s great for him to finally get a victory in his hometown.”

In the women’s contest, Karabo Mailula found her golden moment, sprinting clear to claim her maiden women’s title in 33:34.

Karabo Mailula Photo: Tobias Ginsburg.

The 23-year-old Tuks athlete struck early, peeling away from the field after the second kilometre and stretching her lead with every stride. She coasted home more than a minute clear of Kenya’s Florence Nyaingiri (35:17), with Zimbabwean veteran Rutendo Nyahora (36:35) in third.

“It’s always been my dream to win here,” said a jubilant Mailula.

“I knew the course, I trained harder, and today it paid off. I’m grateful to God for this victory.”

With 14,400 runners flooding the streets of the City of Gold in a sea of red, the race became a fitting spectacle and celebration on Heritage Day.

“What better way to mark Heritage Day than with this electric finale to another brilliant season,” said Stillwater Sports founder Michael Meyer.

Absa’s Jabulile Nsibanyoni echoed the sentiment:

“Every runner had their own reason for lacing up today, and together they made it unforgettable. The stories and spirit were as inspiring as the champions themselves.”

RESULTS: 2025 Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K

Date: Wednesday 24 September 2025

Start Time: 08:00

Start Venue: Lilian Ngoyi Street

Finish Venue: Rahima Moosa Street

ELITE MEN

1 Kabelo Mulaudzi (South Africa) 28:39, 2 Emanuel Dinday (Tanzania) 28:45, 3 Bennett Seloyi (South Africa) 28:51, 4 Aklilu Asfaw (Ethiopia) 28:54, 5 Benjamin Ratsim (Tanzania) 28:55, 6 Thabang Mosiako (South Africa) 29:05, 7 Namakoe Nkhasi (Lesotho) 29:12, 8 Stephen Mokoka (South Africa) 29:14, 9 Joseph Seutloali (Lesotho) 29:16, 10 Elroy Gelant (South Africa) 29:19

ELITE WOMEN1 Karabo Mailula (South Africa) 33:44, 2 Florence Nyaingiri (Kenya) 35:17, 3 Rutendo Nyahora (Zimbabwe) 36:35, 4 Naomy Jerono (Kenya) 36:43, 5 Elizabeth Hutamo (South Africa) 36:45, 6 Samantha Coetzer (South Afirca) 36:55, 7 Cacisile Sosibo (South Africa) 37:08, 8 Evas Nasasira (Uganda) 37:21, 9 Violet Mogano (South Africa) 37:38, 10 Elizabeth Chemweno (Kenya) 37:56

GET YOUR FULL ABSA RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG RESULTS HERE:

Glenrose Chases History in SPAR Women’s Race in Gqeberha

Adnaan MohamedNews, RacingLeave a Comment on Glenrose Chases History in SPAR Women’s Race in Gqeberha

Adnaan Mohamed

Gqeberha is tightening its laces for a record-breaking dash as the sold-out SPAR Women’s 10km Challenge hits the Summerstrand shoreline this Saturday.

All eyes will be on the defending Grand Prix queen Glenrose Xaba, who has already sprinted to three consecutive victories this season and leads the series pack by five points.

The 31-year-old set a spectacular new South African marathon record of 2 hours 22 minutes and 22 seconds on debut at the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon last year.

She has continued her brilliant form over the shorter distances in 2025 with victories at the Cape Town, Durban and Tshwane legs Spar Grand Series of 10km races.

Glenrose, affectionately known as Supercharger, is now chasing a place in history, aiming to become the first black women and only the third South African after René Kalmer and Irvette van Zyl to clinch three SPAR Grand Prix crowns.

The gently undulating route in Gqeberha is one of the most scenic of all the SPAR races and fast times can be expected. Glenrose will be going all out for her fourth consecutive victory in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality. If she succeeds she willl be rewarded with a whopping R200 000 in prize money.

“I think I can be a role model for black girls,” she says.

“I hope they can see my success and believe they can be successful too.”

But her stride won’t go unchallenged. Ethiopia’s Salem Gebre and Diniya Abaraya, along with rising Tuks flyer Karabo Mailula, are expected to push the pace.

Selam Gebre

Meanwhile, Pietermaritzburg champion Tayla Kavanagh, fresh off a sizzling 31:53 personal best, could be the surprise sprint down the home stretch.

Tayla Kavanaugh

The race, starting and finishing at Pollok Beach, offers one of the flattest, fastest, and most scenic circuits in the series. It’s perfect terrain that sets the stage for fireworks on the stopwatch.

Beyond the finish line, the SPAR Women’s Challenge continues to carry a heavier baton. With every step, the race champions women’s empowerment, health, and the fight against gender-based violence, while also driving SPAR’s bold campaign to end period poverty by 2030.

Diniya Abaraya

This weekend, it won’t just be about chasing fast times it’ll be about running toward a future where every women’s stride carries the power of change.

Boxer Super Run set for Joburg debut

Adnaan MohamedNews, RacingLeave a Comment on Boxer Super Run set for Joburg debut

By Adnaan Mohamed

Johannesburg is about to swap its traffic jams for jogging jams when the Boxer Super Run makes its City of Gold debut on Sunday, 9 November 2025, at the iconic Marks Park Sports Club.

Entries open this Friday, 26 September and if Durban’s record sell-out is anything to go by, they’ll vanish quicker than a sprinter out the blocks.

Billed as South Africa’s most social 5km, the race promises a carnival on the run: early-bird striders chasing PBs, charity teams in colourful costumes, and elites set to sprint for podium glory.

Boxer Super Run by Tobias Ginsberg

Like a relay baton, the energy will flow through every wave until the finish village buzzes with medals, music, and laughter.

“A new venue brings a new route and fresh experiences for everyone,” says Stillwater Sports MD Michael Meyer.

“It’s going to be a day for runners, families, and friends to celebrate together.”

Boxer Superstores’ Lee-Ann Pillay agrees: “It’s all about energy, fun, and community. Whether you’re running, walking, or cheering, you’re part of the action.”

With performance tees, goodie bags, and medals in store, the Boxer Super Run is set to turn Joburg’s streets into a moving festival. The only question: will you be on the start line or left behind at the tape?

Boxer Super Run by Tobias Ginsberg

EVENT INFORMATION: 2025 Boxer Super Run Joburg 

Date: Sunday 09 November 2025
Distance: 5km
Start Venue: Marks Park Sports Club
Finish Venue: Marks Park Sports Club
Event Waves & Start Times:  07:00 / OPEN WAVE (Anyone and everyone, club runners, serious runners, schools, runners who prefer an early start, masses)08:00 – 09:30 / SUPER SOCIAL WAVE (Dress up, groups, company groups, charities, runners who prefer a slightly later start)09:45 / ELITE WOMEN10:00 / ELITE MEN
Minimum Age of Entrant: 9 years old
Entries Open: Friday 26 September 2025
Entries Close: Monday, 03 November 2025 or ONCE CAPACITY HAS BEEN REACHED
Entry Includes: Boxer Super Run Event Performance T-shirtBoxer Super Run Goodie BagRace Number / Timing ChipFantastic On Route ExperienceBoxer Super Run Finisher’s Medal

Facebook: Boxer Superstores / Boxer Super Run 5K

Instagram: @boxer_superstores / @boxer_superun5k

Cream of the crop set for Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K Showdown

Adnaan MohamedNews, RacingLeave a Comment on Cream of the crop set for Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K Showdown

Adnaan Mohamed

Johannesburg’s bustling streets will swap weekday traffic for running shoes on Heritage Day, Wednesday 24 September, when the Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K brings the curtain down on the five-race series. From Lilian Ngoyi Street to Rahima Moosa Street, Jozi will echo with the sound of chasing feet and national pride.

Men’s showdown

The men’s race promises fireworks with South Africa’s Precious Mashele (27:35) determined to strike gold on his favourite kind of course.

“Joburg is never easy … the air is thin, the climbs are tough. But those are the races that bring out my best,” Mashele said.

His main rival is Kabelo Mulaudzi (27:41), who has swept the last three races in Cape Town, Durban and Tshwane. A fourth straight victory would crown him series king.

But Thabang Mosiako (27:45) is also in red-hot form after winning last weekend’s Hollywood Joburg 10K. He believes his hill and speed work have prepared him perfectly.

The 28-year-old is also eyeing next month’s Sanlam Cape Town Marathon debut, making this race an important test.

Thabang Mosiako Photo: Adnaan Mohamed

They’ll be pushed hard by Ethiopia’s Aklilu Asfaw (28:03) and Lesotho’s Namakoe Nkhasi (27:52), both with the pedigree to spoil the South African party. With so much sub-28 pace, the men’s crown may only be decided in the final lung-busting metres.

Women’s battle

In the women’s race, Lesotho’s Neheng Khatala (31:53) starts as favourite, her strength on the climbs making her a natural fit for Jozi’s altitude.

“I love hard courses. They test not just the body, but the spirit,” Khatala said.

Her closest challengers include South Africa’s Cacisile Sosibo (32:54), Zimbabwe’s Rutendo Nyahora (32:55) and Kenya’s Naomy Jerono (33:28). Expect a close contest, with the decisive move likely on the punishing final stretch down Rahima Moosa Street.

Comrades stars add intrigue

Adding extra spice are Comrades Marathon champions Tete Dijana and Edward “Slender” Mothibi, both trading ultra-distance armour for 10km sharpness. Reigning Comrades Champion Dijana admits he’s using Joburg to test his speed.

Reigning Comrades Champion Tete Dijana Photo: Adnaan Mohamed

“The body is recovering well after Comrades. I use these 10km races to sharpen the legs,” he said.

Race founder Michael Meyer believes their presence underlines the event’s prestige:

“When you see Comrades champions lining up against 10km specialists, it speaks to the depth of our sport.”

A Heritage Day celebration

While the elites chase records, thousands of recreational runners will share the same course, painting the streets red and turning it into a moving tapestry of endurance and unity.

On a day celebrating South Africa’s heritage, the Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K will be a festival of speed, spirit and pride, as Jozi plays host to one last, spectacular showdown.

Boxer Super Run Durban primed for fireworks

Adnaan MohamedNews, RacingLeave a Comment on Boxer Super Run Durban primed for fireworks

By Adnaan Mohamed

Durban’s beachfront is bracing for a tidal wave of colour, rhythm, and record-breaking speed when the Boxer Super Run sprints into its third edition on Sunday, 12 October 2025.

More carnival than competition in its opening laps, the OPEN and SUPER SOCIAL WAVES will paint the promenade in neon energy, before the atmosphere tightens like a starter’s pistol. That’s when the nation’s fastest legs take centre stage, vying for the coveted crowns of King and Queen of the Boxer Super Run.

The event already hums with history. At the inaugural race in 2023, Precious Mashele and Glenrose Xaba tore up the record books, clocking 13:44 and 16:03 – the fastest 5km times ever run by South Africans on home soil. Mashele then went one better in 2024, slicing the stopwatch to 13:39.

ELITE WOMENS WAVE Boxer Super Run Durban by Gavin Ryan

“This year, all eyes will be on whether those records can fall again,” says Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports.

“With an impressive R147 200 prize purse adding extra incentive, we’re optimistic about seeing more South African 5km records rewritten in Durban. But it’s not only the elite race that will deliver fireworks. The Open Wave is packed with competitive runners chasing personal bests – and with prize money for the Top 3 men and women across every age group, there’s every reason to push hard.”

Meyer adds with a grin: “And of course, the Super Social Wave will once again bring the colour and energy that make this event so unique. Whether you’re running or walking, we want to see you dress up, embrace the vibe, and turn the Durban streets into a celebration of fun, fitness and flair.”

Title sponsor Boxer Superstores shares the buzz, pointing to the iconic route that snakes from Snell Parade, cruises down Lagoon Drive, and finishes at Blue Lagoon Park.

“We’re looking forward to another action-packed day of racing,” says Lee-Ann Pillay, Head of Marketing at Boxer Superstores.

“It’s a fast, flat course with just one little climb to test the legs, but the real magic is in the scenery – runners as young as nine will fly past Durban’s landmarks with the ocean breeze at their side. Add in the activations, the music, and the vibe, and this becomes the most social 5km run in South Africa.”

With capacity already maxed out, the stage is set. From neon-clad walkers to record-chasing elites, Durban’s streets are about to echo with footfalls of the Boxer Super Run, a festival of speed, sweat, and celebration.

Entries Open for 2026 Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon

Adnaan MohamedNews, Totalsports Two Oceans MarathonLeave a Comment on Entries Open for 2026 Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon

By Adnaan Mohamed

The “world’s most beautiful marathon” the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon (TTOM) will once again take over the Mother City on 11 and 12 April 2026, with ballot entries opening for Blue Number Club (BNC) Members from 15 September 2025.

BNC MEMBERS CAN ENTER HERE FROM 15 SEPTEMBER:

For the Interim Board, the coming edition of the TTOM is about more than simply sending runners around the Peninsula.

“The 2026 edition of the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon will not only celebrate TTOM’s rich legacy but also set new benchmarks for excellence and inclusivity,” explains interim chairperson Chris Goldschmidt.

“We know this event holds a special place in many runners’ hearts and are therefore committed to elevating the race experience to new heights, ensuring that every runner, whether seasoned or first-time, feels part of something truly remarkable.”

That legacy runs deep. For more than half a century, the Two Oceans has been a celebration. It’s a race that can break quads but lift spirits sky-high.

Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon by Devin Paisley

Stillwater Sports managing director Michael Meyer calls it part of South Africa’s sporting DNA.

“For over half a century, it has tested endurance, united runners from across the globe, and become part of South Africa’s sporting soul,” he says.

For Meyer, taking over as staging and commercial partner brings responsibility as much as pride.

“We are humbled to step into this role, with a responsibility to honour its legacy while building an even brighter future.

“Our commitment is to put runners at the heart of everything we do, deliver value to our sponsors, showcase Cape Town’s unrivalled beauty, and drive meaningful impact.

“We are especially grateful to the City of Cape Town, whose passion and support allow the Two Oceans Marathon to flourish as the world’s most beautiful race.

The TTOM is about safeguarding tradition, elevating the experience, and charting the best path forward for decades to come.

To every runner, supporter, partner, and citizen of Cape Town: Thank you for being part of this story. Together, we can honour the past, celebrate the present, and stride confidently into the future.”*

For title sponsor Totalsports, the race mirrors the very essence of running, heart, courage and community.

Jonathan Stein, Head of Business at Totalsports, says: “It is a privilege to welcome every runner to the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon. Known as The World’s Most Beautiful Marathon, this event is more than a race. It is a celebration of endurance, passion, and the unshakable spirit of the running community.

Crossing the start line takes courage, but it is the commitment, discipline, and countless hours of preparation that bring you here today.

Whether this is your first Two Oceans or your fifteenth, you are part of something remarkable, a community united by the love of running and the pursuit of personal goals.

Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon by Devin Paisley

“At Totalsports, we believe that the greatest runs are not measured only in distance or time, but in heart. As you take on every hill, every bend, and every breathtaking view, know that you are running with heart, and that is what makes this marathon so special. On behalf of Totalsports, I wish you a memorable race and an unforgettable journey.”

When race weekend arrives, the city will once again throb with energy, flooding the streets with pounding feet echoing off the mountain, and stories unfolding with every kilometre.

Some will chase records, others redemption. All will chase the horizon, running where two oceans meet, on the most beautiful stage the marathon world has to offer.

Race Day Details

  • Ultra Marathon (56km): Saturday, 11 April 2026 | Start: Newlands | Finish: UCT Rugby Fields | Cut-off: 7 hours | Entry: SA Licensed R840 | Rest of Africa R1030 | International R3080
  • Half Marathon (21.1km): Sunday, 12 April 2026 | Start: Newlands | Finish: UCT Rugby Fields | Cut-off: 3h30 | Entry: SA Licensed R450 | SA Unlicensed R525 (incl. temp licence) | Rest of Africa R830 | International R2160

New for 2026: every Ultra and Half Marathon entrant will receive an exclusive event T-shirt as part of their entry.

Ballot Timeline:

  • Blue Number Club: 15 Sep – 31 Oct 2025
  • Ultra Applications: 17–24 Sep 2025
  • Half Applications: 18–25 Sep 2025
  • Draw Announcements & Payments: 25–31 Oct 2025
  • International & Rest of Africa: from 1 Oct 2025

More info: twooceansmarathon.org.za

Steyn sharpens, Mosiako shines at Joburg 10K

Adnaan MohamedNews, RacingLeave a Comment on Steyn sharpens, Mosiako shines at Joburg 10K

By Adnaan Mohamed

Johannesburg’s streets turned into a purple battleground on Saturday as South Africa’s finest lined up against East African pace at the Hollywoodbets Joburg 10K.

Elite start of the Hollywoodbets Joburg 10K Photo: Adnaan Mohamed

The second edition of the well-organised race started and finished at the historic Wanderers Club. The popular 10km and 5km sold-out event attracted a whopping 8000 participants, who enjoyed the warm, windless, conditions over a challenging hilly route through the streets of Illovo and Sandton.

Kenya’s Frida Ndinda claimed the women’s crown in 35:18. The 24-year-old Kenyan just managed to hold off off the fast finishing 35-year-old South African ultra-marathon queen, Gerda Steyn, who clocked 35:52 for second. Tuks youngster Karabo Mailula, 23, completed the podium in 36:12.

For Steyn, a four-time Comrades and six-time Two Oceans Marathon champion, the Joburg10K was less about silverware and more about sharpening speed ahead of next month’s Sanlam Cape Town Marathon.

“The race went off so fast, I decided to hold back early,” she said.

“I worked my way through, got into second, and could see the leader, but ran out of road. I’m very happy with how strong I felt.”

The men’s race was a very different story. Thabang Mosiako, South Africa’s half-marathon champion, blasted from the gun and never looked back, storming to victory in 29:45.

National marathon champion Bennet Seloyi (30:00) was second, with the evergreen Stephen Mokoka (30:04) in third.

Thabang Mosiako Photo: Hollywood AC

“I told myself I’m going from the start,” Mosiako said.

“With guys like Stephen, you can’t wait … this madala doesn’t want to get old. Breaking 30 here was a surprise, but it shows my shape is coming back.”

For Steyn, it was a steady tune-up. For Mosiako, a statement of intent. And for Joburg, another reminder that the city’s streets remain a proving ground for champions.

Male

View All Male

Pos Name Time
1 Thabang MOSIAKO 00:29:44
2 Bennett SELOYI 00:29:59
3 Stephen MOKOKA 00:30:03
4 Namakoe NKHASI 00:30:09
5 Chris MHLANGA 00:30:25
6 Simon SIBEKO 00:30:32
7 Tsietse SELLO 00:30:33
8 Pakiso MTHEMBU 00:30:35
9 Lebenya NKOKA 00:30:37
10 Cwenga NOSE 00:30:43

Female

View All Female

Pos Name Time
1 Fridah NDINDA 00:35:17
2 Gerda STEYN 00:35:51
3 Karaboá MAILULA 00:36:11
4 Dikeledi MAJARA 00:36:31
5 Cacisile SOSIBO 00:37:06
6 Nobukhosi TSHUMA 00:38:32
7 Rutendo NYAHORA 00:39:03
8 Melinda JANSEN VAN VUUREN 00:39:09
9 Ntsoaki MOLAHLOEÁ 00:39:14
10 Melissa JANSEN VAN VUUREN 00:40:03

FULL HOLLYWOODBETS JOBURG 10K 2025 RESULTS

Around 8000 participants painted the streets of Sandton, Illovo and Melrose purple at the Hollywoodbets Joburg 10K Photo: Adnaan Mohamed