Tag: running

‹ Back

Shortest Comrades Up Run could boost Gerda Steyn’s R2m bid

Adnaan MohamedNewsLeave a Comment on Shortest Comrades Up Run could boost Gerda Steyn’s R2m bid
By Adnaan Mohamed

The 2026 Comrades Marathon will be run over the shortest Up Run distance in recent history, a development that could significantly favour multiple champion Gerda Steyn as she targets both victory and a lucrative payday.

Race organisers have confirmed that the 99th edition, scheduled for Sunday, 14 June, will cover 85.777km from Durban to Pietermaritzburg. The distance is 133 metres shorter than the 2024 Up Run and nearly a kilometre shorter than the 2019 route.

In an event where pacing and energy management are decisive, even marginal reductions in distance can influence outcomes at the elite level. For Steyn, who has dominated the women’s race in recent years, the shorter course presents an opportunity to push the pace from early on while still maintaining control in the closing stages.

The adjusted route comes amid ongoing infrastructure developments along the traditional course. Comrades Marathon Race Director Sue Forge said organisers had worked closely with authorities to finalise a safer and more efficient layout.

“The ongoing roadworks have had a significant impact on the route and our planning. However, thanks to the outstanding collaboration and support of the municipalities, the Road Traffic Inspectorate, Durban Metro Police and Msunduzi Traffic Police, we have been able to finalise a route that not only provides a slightly shorter distance for runners, but also improves the management of road closures, traffic flow, infrastructure removal and post-race clean-up,” Forge said.

While the start in Durban and finish at Scottsville Racecourse remain unchanged from 2024, several key adjustments have reduced the overall distance.

“We have changed the set-up of the finish at Scottsville and shortened the finish straight, while out on the route, the biggest change is that from 45th Cutting to Cowies Hill, where runners will move in a contra-flow direction. This means they will run on the other side of the road to previous years, against the normal traffic direction, which will also reduce the gradient of that section slightly,” Forge explained.

“Meanwhile, we have retained the Umlaas Road cut-through, working closely with SANRAL and the appointed contractors to remove a 12-metre section of the new roadside barriers and surface the area, enabling runners to cross directly. This adjustment will once again save runners approximately 870 metres,” she added.

The official route measurement was completed on 25 and 26 April under the supervision of World Athletics-accredited measurer Mike Rooke, using a calibrated bicycle to ensure accuracy.

Historically, comparisons with earlier races remain difficult. Before 1969, distances were recorded in miles and often estimated, with the Up Run generally listed at around 54 miles, or approximately 86.886km.

Despite that uncertainty, the 2026 race is widely regarded as the shortest modern Up Run, a factor that could have implications for record attempts.

Steyn already holds the women’s Up Run best time after clocking 5:49:46 in 2024, becoming the first woman to break six hours on the route. With performance incentives linked to both time and pace, she stands to earn a substantial bonus if she improves on that mark.

“With the shortest route on record for the Up Run being run this year, coupled with lucrative cash incentives for runners to chase the best time and best pace records, we may see those records fall again in 2026,” said Forge.

The men’s Up Run record of 5:24:49, set by Leonid Shvetsov in 2008, has also come under increasing pressure in recent years.

All indications point to a faster race in 2026, with the revised route likely to encourage aggressive strategies from the leading contenders. For Steyn, the combination of form, experience and course conditions could place her firmly on track for another dominant performance.

Faith Cherono targets sub 30 personal best in Cape Town 10K

Adnaan MohamedNews, PreviewLeave a Comment on Faith Cherono targets sub 30 personal best in Cape Town 10K

Kenya’s Faith Cherono will line up at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K on 10 May with a clear objective, to test her limits against the clock on one of the country’s fastest courses.

The 27-year-old made a strong impression on her South African debut at the Gqeberha leg of the series in March, finishing second in 30:44, the second fastest time of her career.

“It was a good experience and a nice event,” Cherono said. “I was happy to join South African athletes and also athletes from all around the world. I felt at home – welcomed, supported.”

Her performance in Gqeberha confirmed her form early in the season and placed her among the leading contenders for the Cape Town race, where a deep elite field is expected.

Cherono indicated that her preparations have progressed without disruption in the build-up to the race.

“Training is going well. No issues. I am motivated and building one brick at the time. I will miss Brenda, who is very strong. So I hope to have other strong competitors to help and share the load.”

Her training partner and compatriot Brenda Jepchirchir, who won in Gqeberha, will not compete in Cape Town. That absence could leave Cherono to take on a more prominent role in dictating the pace.

Despite the competitive field, Cherono’s primary focus remains on achieving a fast time rather than racing for position.

“I am aiming to run a PB and will do my best to push to the limit,” she said. “I am more interested in running a fast time than trying to win the race or make the podium. My plan is to focus on the time and I’m willing to take the risk.”

Cherono holds a lifetime best of 30:06, and a performance below that mark would not only represent a personal milestone but could also place her within reach of the South African All-Comers record. A sub-30-minute performance, while ambitious, would mark a significant achievement on the African continent.

Race organiser Michael Meyer welcomed Cherono’s return, noting the importance of attracting international athletes of her calibre.

“We are excited to welcome Faith Cherono to the start line of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K,” Meyer said. “Her entry adds real depth and international quality to the women’s field and further strengthens what is shaping up to be a world-class race in the Mother City.”

The race will start on Marine Drive in Milnerton and finish in the Cape Town CBD, with conditions traditionally favourable for fast times.

With a competitive field assembled and pacing likely to be aggressive from the outset, attention will centre on whether Cherono can convert her intent into a breakthrough performance.

Websites:  www.runyourcityseries.com

For the friend they lost, the body that survived, and the finish line they reached

Roxanne MartinNewsLeave a Comment on For the friend they lost, the body that survived, and the finish line they reached

Whatever you’re running for, nothing should stop you

Eighty-nine kilometres. Twelve hours.

On paper, it’s a test of endurance. In reality, it’s something far deeper. Because what defines a journey like this isn’t the distance – it’s the reason someone keeps going when their body is ready to stop.

And somewhere along the way, every runner is forced to answer a deeply personal question: What are you running for?

Every June, thousands of South Africans answer that question with their feet. Before dawn, they gather on the streets of Durban or Pietermaritzburg, stepping into a race that will test far more than physical strength.

They will blister, cramp, and question every decision that brought them there. And yet, most will cross the finish line – sometimes with minutes to spare, sometimes on hands and knees, already thinking about next year.

No rational explanation fully captures it. But a human one does.

They are running for the mother who gave everything and never asked for anything back. For the body that survived what it wasn’t meant to. For the coach who refused to let them quit. For the friend they lost. For the version of themselves they are still chasing.

Ask any runner what they are running for, and the race quickly becomes something else entirely. Beneath the surface is a story that belongs to all of us. A story of endurance, resilience, overcoming and triumph. Not stopping when everything screamed stop.

A race you don’t run alone

Because while the road is personal, it is never walked alone.

At 5am, long before race day, a runner presses start on a training app in the dark. Somewhere else, someone checks in to make sure they made it home safely.

On race day, that connection becomes something more.

  • A message at just the right moment.

  • A voice note that lands when the body is ready to give in.

  • A support crew tracking every kilometre, willing them forward from a distance.

For families, friends, and spectators, the race unfolds in real time, refreshed on phones, shared across conversations. The journey extends far beyond the road itself.

These moments don’t feel like technology. They feel like presence, and Cell C has the privilege of enabling the connections that matter most.

Not just on race day, but in every early morning training run, every check-in, every message of support, every moment that keeps people moving forward.

Because while purpose carries runners forward, connection is what keeps them going. It’s more than about technology – greater is what it enables, the connection to the support from family and friends – the tribe that helps them power forward.

A brand that knows the road

Cell C arrives at the 2026 Comrades having run its own race.

Over the past few years, the company has navigated one of the most demanding turnarounds in South African business, rebuilding, reshaping, and emerging with a clearer sense of purpose. Its listing on the JSE in November 2025 was not a finish line, but the start of a new chapter.

It’s a journey defined by resilience – by asking hard questions and continuing forward when stopping would have been easier.

That shared understanding is what grounds its presence at the Comrades Marathon, as the official partner of the Ultimate Human Race since 2024. 

Everyone has a reason

This is what the campaign brings to life – the stories that often go unseen.

  • The first-time runner proving something to themselves.

  • The comeback after injury, illness, or loss.

  • The 58-year-old honouring a father who never finished.

  • The woman who kept training through treatment because the road gave her something nothing else could.

These stories are not extraordinary because they are rare. They are extraordinary because they are shared.

Nothing should stop you

Because somewhere along those 89 kilometres, every runner answers the same question: what are you running for?

While the race may be measured in distance and time, it is purpose that carries people to the finish line  and connection that keeps them moving when it matters most.

Cell C’s message to every runner, every supporter, and every South African watching is simple:

Whatever your reason, whatever your road #NothingShouldStopYou #SkaFelaMoya

The 2026 Comrades Marathon takes place on 14 June 2026. Cell C is the proud official partner of the Comrades Marathon Association since 2024. Visit cellc.co.za for more information.

RMB targets untapped Trail Running market with UTD strategy

Adnaan MohamedNewsLeave a Comment on RMB targets untapped Trail Running market with UTD strategy

By Matshelane Mamabolo

RMB is betting on the road less travelled and in South Africa’s evolving sports economy, that may prove to be a calculated advantage.

While most major sponsors continue to pour resources into rugby, cricket and football, the bank has turned its attention to trail running, a fast-growing but still under-commercialised discipline. At the centre of that strategy is the RMB Ultra-Trail Drakensberg (UTD), now in its second year under RMB’s title sponsorship.

The move reflects a deliberate attempt to enter a space where visibility is easier to secure and long-term influence more attainable.

“We saw an opportunity where there wasn’t significant investment in a rapidly growing sport,” RMB Sponsorship Marketing Lead Michael Edwards said. “Globally, trail running is expanding commercially, but in South Africa, participation growth is even more striking.”

That growth, reportedly in the triple digits locally, has shifted trail running from the margins toward the mainstream. Unlike traditional codes, where sponsorship inventory is crowded and returns are often diluted, trail running offers what Edwards describes as a “blanker canvas”.

“In traditional sports, there’s already a lot of investment. The opportunity to truly shift the needle is smaller,” he said. “With trail running, we saw a chance to make a big impact from the outset.”

Early indicators suggest that impact is materialising.

At UTD, increased prize money has strengthened the elite field, drawing international competitors, while the addition of a 14km race has widened participation at entry level. The strategy is two-pronged: elevate the top end while simultaneously growing the base.

“We’re not just focusing on elite athletes,” Edwards said. “We’re equally invested in bringing new runners into the sport and giving them something to aspire to.”

Yet the commercial case extends beyond participation metrics.

Trail running’s defining asset is its environment which is a factor that fundamentally reshapes how events are experienced and marketed.

“The mountain is the stadium,” Edwards said. “And that changes everything.”

UTD spans more than 160 kilometres of rugged terrain within a UNESCO World Heritage Site, positioning the event at the intersection of sport, tourism and environmental stewardship. That alignment allows RMB to anchor its sponsorship in something more tangible than branding alone.

“We’re not just investing in an event,” Edwards said. “We’re investing in the preservation of the landscapes that make the sport possible.”

That includes ongoing trail maintenance, a largely invisible but essential component of the ecosystem that supports both competitive racing and recreational use throughout the year.

RMB’s broader trail running portfolio, which also includes Ultra-Trail Cape Town, is built around three pillars: growth, impact and brand alignment. The choice of discipline is not incidental.

“It’s about grit, discipline and long-term commitment,” Edwards said. “You don’t arrive at the finish line without putting in years of work. That resonates strongly with us as a brand.”

The emphasis on authenticity speaks to a wider shift in the sponsorship landscape, where audiences are increasingly sceptical of superficial partnerships that lack depth or continuity.

RMB’s response has been to adopt a long-term horizon.

“We don’t believe in coming in, making noise, and leaving,” Edwards said. “Sustainable partnerships are where you see real value, for the event, for the community, and for the brand.”

The risk, however, lies in whether trail running can sustain its current growth trajectory and translate participation into consistent commercial returns. For now, momentum appears to be on RMB’s side.

If that trend holds, the bank’s early move into the sector could position it ahead of competitors in a space that is only beginning to attract serious investment.

In a saturated sports market, RMB has chosen endurance over immediacy and in trail running, that may be the point.

Photo Credits: Courtesy RMB Ultra-Trail Drakensberg

WATCH | Sebastian Sawe speaks after historic sub-2 hour record rout at London Marathon

Adnaan MohamedNewsLeave a Comment on WATCH | Sebastian Sawe speaks after historic sub-2 hour record rout at London Marathon
By Adnaan Mohamed

The marathon’s ultimate barrier finally cracked on Sunday as Sabastian Sawe produced a run for the ages to win the London Marathon 2026 in a scarcely believable 1:59:30.

On a cool spring morning that quickly turned electric, the 30-year-old Kenyan sliced through 42.195km with ruthless precision to become the first athlete to go under two hours in a certified race.

Sawe’s time obliterated the previous world record of 2:00:35 set by Kelvin Kiptum in 2023, lowering it by a staggering 65 seconds in what will be remembered as a seismic moment in road running.

“I am feeling good, I am so happy,” Sawe told BBC Sport. “It is a day to remember.

“We started the race well and approaching the end of the race, I was feeling strong and I remember the Ethiopian was so competitive. I think he helped me a lot. Finally, reaching the finish line, I saw the time, I was so excited.

“Today showed me there is time for everyone. I am so happy. I was well prepared. Coming to London for the second time was important to me.

“I want to thank the crowd for cheering for us. I think they had a lot for me because I feel so happy and strong and [was] pushing. What happened today was not for me alone, but for everyone in London.”

If Sawe’s performance lit the fuse, Yomif Kejelcha poured fuel on the fire.

The Ethiopian, making his marathon debut, clocked 1:59:41 to finish 11 seconds adrift, ensuring that two men broke the mythical two-hour mark in the same race. His relentless presence in the latter stages helped turn the closing kilometres into a high-speed duel against both the clock and convention.

Further back, Jacob Kiplimo underlined the extraordinary pace by finishing third in 2:00:28, a time faster than the previous world record.

Eluid Kipchoge congratulates Sawe and Kejelcha on breaking sub-2 hours in London

The sub-two-hour milestone had long stood as the sport’s holy grail. Eliud Kipchoge dipped below it during the INEOS 1:59 Challenge, though that effortfell outside official record conditions. In London, the barrier gave way under the weight of a competitive race, pending ratification by World Athletics.

Kipchoge, now easing away from elite racing, hailed the breakthrough.

“Today is a historical day for marathon running!” he said.

“Seeing two athletes break the magical 2-hour barrier at London Marathon is the proof that we are just at the beginning of what is possible when talent, progress and an unwavering belief in the human potential come together. My deepest congratulations to both Sabastian Sawe and Yomif Kejelcha.

“Breaking the sub-two-hour barrier in the marathon has long been a dream for runners everywhere, and today, you’ve made that dream come true.

“During the INEOS 1:59 Challenge we showed the world that it was possible and it has always been my hope to see another athlete continue with this belief and break this magical barrier in a city marathon.

“Let this achievement inspire the next generation and remind everyone in the world that No Human Is Limited.”

Sabastian Sawe storms to 1:59:30 in London, breaking the marathon’s ultimate barrier. Photo: https://x.com/WorldAthletics

Beyond the history, there was also a significant payday. Sawe earned $55,000 for the win, along with a $125,000 world record bonus and a further $150,000 incentive for breaking 2:02, taking his confirmed earnings to around KSh 42.3 million, excluding sponsor deals with brands such as Adidas.

Earlier, the women’s race delivered another record-breaking display as Tigst Assefa successfully defended her title in 2:15:40, trimming 10 seconds off her own world record.

She held off a strong challenge from Hellen Obiri, who finished in 2:15:53, with Joyciline Jepkosgei completing the podium.

With two official sub-two performances on the cards and records tumbling across both races, London 2026 may well be remembered as the day the marathon’s limits were redrawn.

Photo Credits: x.com/WorldAthletics

Comrades 2026 field finalised after entry rush

Adnaan MohamedComrades Marathon, Features, NewsLeave a Comment on Comrades 2026 field finalised after entry rush
By Adnaan Mohamed

The battle to secure a place at the 99th edition of the Comrades Marathon proved as demanding as the race itself, with the newly introduced ballot system placed under immediate pressure by overwhelming demand.

The 2026 Up Run from Durban to Pietermaritzburg (Approximately 87 km – 89 km) which takes place on Sunday, 14 June 2026 is capped at 22 000 entries. The race had already sold out its full quota in a single day in (under 10 hours) on 3 November 2025, underlining the enduring appeal of the ultra-marathon.

A total of 4 832 runners applied for 2 444 substitution entries, which became available after withdrawals between 16 and 30 March. Those entries were funnelled into a draw, replacing the previous first-come system that had long drawn criticism.

Comrades Marathon Association race director Sue Forge (pictured above) said the shift to a ballot was necessary to create a more equitable process.

“In previous years, substitutions operated on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning a runner’s chance of securing an entry depended largely on being the quickest to log in,” Forge said.

“This system was not fair, as many runners have limited or inconsistent access to the Comrades Marathon website or app, and payment processing difficulties also placed some runners at a disadvantage.”

Forge said the ballot system ensured that every applicant had an equal opportunity.

“This year we introduced a ballot system in which all available entries were placed into a draw, giving applicants an opportunity to secure one of the available entries.”

Despite the revised approach, the imbalance between supply and demand remained stark.

“Unfortunately, with 4 832 applicants competing for 2 444 entries, some runners were inevitably left disappointed,” she said.

The substitution process unfolded in phases, with the application window closing on 2 April before the ballot draw was conducted. Successful applicants were notified via email, with entry fees automatically debited in scheduled cycles.

Entries linked to failed payments were returned to the pool and redrawn, with the process repeated multiple times to ensure all available slots were filled. Organisers also contacted runners directly where necessary.

“Our entries office went the extra mile throughout these processes,” Forge said.

“Our goal was to ensure that all available entries were allocated, and that every runner seeking an entry had a fair opportunity of getting into the 2026 race.”

Forge acknowledged the disappointment among those who missed out and encouraged them to look ahead to next year’s milestone event.

The substitution ballot entry period for the 2026 Comrades Marathon saw 2,444 runners secure a substitution entry. Photo Credit: Comrades Marathon Association

“We acknowledge that some runners remain very disappointed after missing out, and we sincerely hope they will try again in 2027, when we celebrate the centenary edition of this incredible race,” she said.

“Importantly, all runners wishing to be part of the 100th edition next year will once again have a fair chance of securing an entry. Participation in the 2026 race will not influence eligibility or selection in the 2027 process.”

With the field now finalised, attention turns to compliance requirements ahead of race day on 14 June.

Runners must submit qualifying details, complete the compulsory medical questionnaire and update their profiles by 4 May or risk disqualification.

“The entry process is now officially closed and the CMA will not be undertaking any further entry processes or ballot draws after the May 4 deadline,” Forge said.

“Finally, I would like to thank all runners for their passion, enthusiasm, and ongoing support of the Comrades Marathon. Your commitment to the race continues to inspire us and remains at the heart of everything we do.”

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

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

Entries officially open today (Monday 20 April 2026) for South Africa’s premier Women’s Month celebration, the Totalsports Women’s Race, that will take place on three consecutive Sundays in August with the action kicking off in Durban on 2 August, followed by Cape Town on 9 August, and culminating in Johannesburg on 16 August 2026.

Thousands of women from across the country are expected to once again unite in celebration of movement, camaraderie, and empowerment, choosing between scenic 5km and 10km routes in each host city.

Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports, shares his excitement on entries opening: “The opening of entries for the Totalsports Women’s Race is always special to us. We encourage women of all ages and fitness levels to secure their place on the start line and be part of something truly meaningful. Whether you’re chasing a personal best or simply enjoying a walk with friends, this event offers an inclusive and inspiring space for every participant to celebrate Women’s Month in a powerful way.”

The Totalsports Women’s Race will once again support PinkDrive in 2026, contributing to the ongoing fight against breast cancer and raising awareness around early detection.

Meyer adds: “From a performance perspective, the Totalsports Women’s Race offers South Africa’s elite athletes an exceptional opportunity to compete in a world-class, women-only event on home soil. Spanning three cities, the series sets the stage for exciting head-to-head competition, complemented by an inspiring and energetic race-day atmosphere.”

Building on this sentiment, Nikki Crous, Head of Marketing at Totalsports, highlights the broader impact of the event:

“Entries opening signals the start of an incredible journey that brings women together from all walks of life. The Totalsports Women’s Race is more than just a race – it’s a celebration of strength, unity, and shared experiences. Each city offers its own unique energy, from Durban’s coastal charm to Cape Town’s iconic scenery and Johannesburg’s vibrant spirit. We encourage women to enter early, gather their friends and family, and be part of this unforgettable Women’s Month celebration.”

With limited entries available and high demand expected, participants are urged to act fast to secure their spot on the start line of one of South Africa’s most iconic women’s events.

EVENT INFORMATION: 2026 Totalsports Women’s Race 

DATE: CITY:
Sunday, 02 August 2026 Totalsports Women’s Race Durban Start Venue: Suncoast Casino, Snell ParadeFinish Venue: Suncoast Casino, Snell Parade
Sunday, 9 August 2026 Totalsports Women’s Race Cape TownStart Venue: 10km Start: Darling Street, Cape Town5km Start: Castle StreetFinish Venue: Grand Parade, Cape Town
Sunday, 16 August 2026 Totalsports Women’s Race JoburgStart Venue: Orange Road and Buffalo Road Junction, Marks ParkFinish Venue: Orange Road and Buffalo Road Junction, Marks Park
ENTRIES OPEN: Monday, 20 April 2026.
ENTRIES CLOSE: Durban: Thursday 02 July 2026, or once capacity has been reached. Cape Town: Monday 27 July 2026, or once capacity has been reached.Joburg: Monday 03 August 2026, or once capacity has been reached.

CHARITY SUPPORT: The Totalsports Women’s Race proudly supports PinkDrive, a non-profit company (NPC) dedicated to increasing breast cancer awareness, providing education, and offering free services to medically uninsured individuals across South Africa.

Like our Facebook page:  Women’s Race / The PinkDrive

Follow us on Instagram:  Women’s Race / PinkDrive

Hashtag: #Totalsports #TotalsportsWomensRace #LoveTheRun #PinkDrive 

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

Arthur Jantjies shocks field as Steyn claims seventh Two Oceans title

Adnaan MohamedTotalsports Two Oceans MarathonLeave a Comment on Arthur Jantjies shocks field as Steyn claims seventh Two Oceans title
By Adnaan Mohamed

Arthur Jantjies announced himself on the national stage, while Gerda Steyn added another chapter to her legacy at the Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon powered by BYD in Cape Town on Saturday.

Jantjies, 25, produced a breakthrough performance to win the men’s 56km race in 3:09:25, claiming the biggest victory of his career.

“It’s a phenomenal step – a big step. It’s history,” said Jantjies, who hails from Hopetown near Kimberley. “I’m just a small-town boy winning Two Oceans. That’s something really special.”

The race developed into a tactical contest over the closing stages. Zimbabwe’s Blessing Waison led over Constantia Nek, forcing the chasing group into action.

Jantjies remained in contention alongside former champion Onalenna Khonkhobe and defending champion Joseph Seutloali. Waison was caught at 49km, before Khonkhobe made a move at 51km.

Seutloali dropped off the pace, though Jantjies stayed with Khonkhobe before making his decisive move near Chet’s Hill to secure victory by 35 seconds.

“I know he (Khonkhobe) is faster than me. But in training we always pick up in the last 8km. I stayed close to him, and he gave up too quickly. Then I told myself I’m going to strike now,” Jantjies said.

Running only his second ultra marathon, Jantjies credited his preparation under coach John Hamlett.

“My coach put me through the worst in Dullstroom where I die in the mountains. We often do 800m elevation on huge long runs and this was only about 600m of elevation. So, this was nothing. I was there for 8 weeks away from my family. Whatever he says, I do. No questions asked. My coach says we stay small and fly under the radar. It was better for me to come through like a cannon ball. It’s the first major title for my town in the Northern Cape. Winning this race opens doors because it puts my name somewhere.”

In the women’s race, Steyn delivered another composed performance to claim a record seventh title.

The 36-year-old broke clear shortly after the marathon mark, moving away from Margaret Jepchumba and maintaining her pace to the finish.

Steyn crossed the line in 3:27:43, her second fastest time at the race.

“I didn’t break the record but I’m still happy with my race and am really happy with my time. It’s a completely successful day for me,” she said.

“When I won my first Two Oceans, I never envisaged winning seven. I take it year for year. If I’m here next year and ready and fit, then I’ll push for sure. But I also need to accept the fact that I’m getting older. But for now, I’m feeling strong and I feel that I still have a few more years left in my career. So, if seven becomes eight and eight becomes ten, then I’ll take it.”

Jantjies’ win and Steyn’s record extended the rich history of the Two Oceans Marathon, widely regarded as one of the premier ultra-distance races in the country.

TOP 10 RESULTS: Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon powered by BYD

Elite Men

1 Arthur Jantjies 03:09:25, 2 Onalenna Khonkhobe 03:10:00, 3 Blessing Zvikomborero Waison 03:11:13, 4 Dennis Kipkosgei 03:11:29, 5 Tumelo Moja 03:12:07, 6 Sphamandla Nkosi 03:12:42, 7 Siboniso Sikhakhane 03:12:42, 8 Malixole Kalideni 03:12:49, 9 Mphatso Nadolo 03:13:16, 10 Msawenkosi Mthalane 03:13:32

Elite Women 

1 Gerda Steyn 03:27:43, 2 Margaret Jepchumba 03:33:31, 3 Nobukhosi Tshuma 03:38:34, 4 Shelmith Muriuki 03:39:14, 5 Rholex Jelimo Kogo 03:40:39, 6 Mildred Chepkemei Kinyanja 03:42:42, 7 Bize Beyira Negasa 03:43:00, 8 Neheng Khatala 03:43:43, 9 Courtney Olsen 03:44:40, 10 Loveness Madziva 03:48:54

SEE FULL RESULTS HERE:

Mother and Daughter Run for Meaning at Two Oceans

Adnaan MohamedFeatures, Totalsports Two Oceans MarathonLeave a Comment on Mother and Daughter Run for Meaning at Two Oceans
By Adnaan Mohamed

Every runner knows the moment when the rhythm of their stride begins to shape the road ahead. For veteran broadcaster Vaylen Kirtley, that moment arrived far from any finish line, in Athens in 2004.

“The first major event I covered at the national broadcaster was the Paralympics,” she recalls.

The experience did more than fill airtime. It set her internal compass.

“Covering disability sport at such a formative part of my career laid the foundation to understand that the power of sport to transform and unify, is truly unique.”

That early assignment became the starting gun of a philosophy that has paced her career for more than two decades. Now, it finds its most personal expression on the open road at the Two Oceans Half Marathon powered by BYD.

This time, she will not be narrating the race. She will be living it alongside her daughter.

“My daughter, despite my best efforts, didn’t really enjoy running,” she laughs.

Then, like a runner finding their stride mid-race, something shifted. During her first year at university, her daughter discovered a quiet passion for running. What was once unfamiliar terrain became shared ground.

“Now it’s something we can do together, and I am so excited.”

Vaylen Kirtley and her daughter will be tackling the Two Oceans Half Marathon to raise funds for Jumping Kids Photo: Andries Kruger

For a first official half marathon, the choice of race carried weight. Two Oceans is not a route you stumble into. It is a ribbon of road woven into South Africa’s sporting soul, as iconic as the climbs it demands and the views it rewards.

For Kirtley, it is also deeply personal. She has called the race from the heights of Constantia Nek, run the Ultra in 2014, and tackled the Long Trail in 2019. Yet, she marks 2026 as the year that matters most.

Their run is more than a shared milestone. It is a moving tribute to purpose.

They will take to the course in support of Jumping Kids, a non-profit dedicated to empowering children with lower limb amputations or mobility challenges.

The organisation provides prosthetics, rehabilitation, education access, and opportunities in sport. Its mission echoes the belief Kirtley has carried since Athens, that sport is not only competition, it is transformation in motion.

“We see the power of sport in the performances of our national heroes and in events like the Comrades, the Dusi, the Midmar Mile,” she says.

The Two Oceans belongs in that same breath. On race day, each kilometre will carry more than effort. It will carry memory, connection, and purpose.

Like a long-distance run, the journey stretches beyond the visible horizon, powered by something deeper than pace.

To support their run, visit www.jumpingkids.org.za
(Jumping Kids, Reg. no: 2009/018078/08)

Mosiako in top form ahead of 2026 Totalsports Two Oceans half marathon showdown

Adnaan MohamedFeatures, News, Totalsports Two Oceans MarathonLeave a Comment on Mosiako in top form ahead of 2026 Totalsports Two Oceans half marathon showdown
By Adnaan Mohamed

Thabang Mosiako has timed his run into form with precision ahead of the Totalsports Two Oceans Half Marathon on 12 April, delivering back-to-back performances that underline his intent to challenge for the title in Cape Town.

The Nedbank Running Club athlete produced a commanding victory at the Phakamile Mabija Human Rights Half Marathon in Kimberley, clocking 1:04:37 to set a new course record. He finished 1 minute and 23 seconds clear of teammate Joel Mmone.

“What a great race,” said Mosiako. “The road was smooth and safe, it was well organised and everything was indeed perfect. Overall, I am happy with my performance.”

That result followed a strong showing at the Paris Half Marathon on 8 March, where he ran 1:00:44 to finish third, the third fastest 21km time of his career.

The 31-year-old, who is the 2023 South African half marathon champion and one of the country’s fastest ever over the distance, believes improved race management has played a key role in his current form following his recent marathon campaigns.

“I think this time around I was smarter after my second marathon. I took enough rest, that’s why I didn’t struggle with the buildup phase and that led me to the shape I have now.”

Mosiako will return to Cape Town aiming to improve on last year’s fifth-place finish and replicate his victory in 2024.

“I’m going for the Two Oceans Half Marathon again to correct the mistake I made last year,” he said. “I’m just praying to remain injury free and to have consistency in training. I’m really happy about what’s coming my way.”

Two Oceans Marathon NPC chairperson Chris Goldschmidt believes Mosiako will be among the leading contenders.

“We’ve been watching Thabang Mosiako’s recent performances with great interest. His form in the lead-up to the Totalsports Two Oceans Half Marathon powered by BYD certainly suggests that he is ready to challenge strongly for the title again. With athletes of this calibre lining up, we can expect an exciting and highly competitive race on 12 April.”

Race general manager Wade Bromfield echoed those sentiments.

“Thabang has shown impressive determination since finishing sixth last year, and his recent results indicate that he’ll arrive at the start line full of confidence. Performances like these add to the anticipation surrounding the Totalsports Two Oceans Half Marathon powered by BYD, and we’re looking forward to seeing how the race unfolds with such a strong field competing for top honours.”

The 2026 event carries a combined prize purse of R2.6 million, with the half marathon offering R422 600, adding further incentive to an already competitive field.

Event Information

  • Thursday, 9 April: International Friendship Run
  • Friday, 10 April: Trail Run (07:00)
  • Saturday, 11 April: Ultra Marathon (05:15)
  • Sunday, 12 April: Half Marathon (06:15)

Total Prize Purse (2026): R2.6 million

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