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Busiswa, Kings of the Weekend and The Kickstands for  Durban SPAR Women’s 10/5km Challenge Hollywoodbets Kings Park Stadium: Sunday 23 June

Save some energy to celebrate in the finishing area at Hollywood Bets Kings Park Stadium outer fields, after participating in this year’s Durban SPAR Women’s 10/5km Challenge on Sunday 23 June.

SPAR KZN has organised a fantastic line up of entertainment for runners with three acts penned to perform – dynamic duo The Kickstands, songstress Busiswa and Kings of the Weekend DJs SPHEctacula and Naves.

The Kickstands

Kicking off the after-race merriments, The Kickstands take to the stage with the dynamic duo of lead singer Ross Charles and lead guitarist Josh Swanson. Their infectious vibes have been tearing up stages since 2010, and they are renown as a top-notch opening act having warmed up the crowd for many a major act. The Kickstands covers a multitude of genres from Funk, Soul, Classic Rock to Folk.

Busiswa

Featuring after the local ban is songstress Busiswa. Hailing from the Eastern Cape, the singer, songwriter and performer combines her poetry with energising, irresistible beats. Making musical waves both at home and across the borders, she has collaborated with both African and American musicians, including American singer Beyonce Knowles Carter on the song My Power from The Lion King: The Gift soundtrack. Her tracks have featured in hits like the Black Panther and "Lahla" was used in the American dance film Honey 3.

Kings of the Weekend

Wrapping up the event, Kings of the Weekend will rock out the festivities. Comprising of DJs SPHEctacula and Naves, the two performers are rumoured to be party starters and huge crowd pullers. Their beats will begin shortly after the much-anticipated lucky draw give away.

To enter and be a part of this year’s SPAR Women’s 10/5km Challenge, visit www.sparwomensrace.co.za/durban/

 ENDS

 

Dates Announced for Durban SPAR Women’s 10/5km Challenge Sunday 23 June

Entries are open for the 34th running of the Durban SPAR Women’s 10/5km Challenge that takes place in and around the Hollywoodbets Kings Park Stadium on Sunday 23 June. 

The success of South Africa’s Most Beautiful Road Race strides ahead, with entries for 2024 capped at 12000. The uplifting theme for this year’s race is #ChooseYou with the underlying message of motivating oneself, encouraging women to prioritize self-care, both for their mental and physical well-being. 

Sharing moments: Revealing the colour and theme for the 2024 Durban SPAR Women’s 10/5km Challenge that takes place at Hollywoodbets Kings Park Durban on Sunday 23 June. The theme, #ChooseYou encourages self-empowerment. Wearing this year’s race shirts at an intimate function at the Grand Exotic are SPAR KZN Retail Ops Advisor, Cindy Watridge with 2024 Race Ambassadors Former Protea’s Netball star, Baby Proteas coach and teacher, Precious Mthembu and Obstetrics and Gynaecology specialist, Dr Marise Subrayan.

"Our theme “Choose You” amplifies our commitment to inspire a healthier community,” says Menelisi Luthuli, Marketing Executive, SPAR KZN. “In a world where external pressures often overshadow personal well-being, we encourage women to embark on a journey of self-care and self-discovery. SPAR advocates a balanced lifestyle where individuals prioritize their own needs alongside external demands, finding fulfillment in both. Ultimately, our theme this year emphasizes that self-care isn't selfish but rather crucial for lasting well-being and happiness.”

Two phenomenal strong local women are the 2024 Race Ambassadors. Inspiring youth wherever she goes, sporting star and role model Precious Mthembu is the current Baby Proteas Coach, she is an educator at Danville Park Girls’ High School and was a Protea Netball player, notching up 97 caps for South Africa. Joining her is Dr Marise Subrayan, an award-winning Obstetrics and Gynaecology specialist based at Durban’s St Augustine’s Hospital, who is passionate about educating and empowering women and girls about female-related health.

The Challenge route remains unchanged from the 2023 event, with the fast and flat ‘out-and-back’ course starting under the shadow of the Hollywoodbets Kings Park Stadium, on Masabalala Yengwa Avenue and finishing on the outer fields of this iconic Durban landmark. The 10km race begins at 8am and the 5km race at 9am. 

Entries for the 2024 edition of the Durban event are online at https://www.sparwomensrace.co.za/durban/. Online entries close at midnight on 16 June. The online entry for the 10km run is R180, with a KZN Athletics licence, or R230 with a temporary licence, and for the 5km is R180. Entries at race registration are R200 (with licence) and R250 (without licence) for the 10km and R200 for the 5km. Bulk entry collections are also available.

At this Durban Challenge, a field of highly competitive runners will compete in the national SPAR Grand Prix Series that travels around South Africa. The total Series Prize Purse is sitting at over R1,68 million this year.

Prize money for the first female athlete crossing the line in Durban is R33,000 with the runner-up earning R25,000 and third place winning R20,000. The first South African woman across the line will also earn R10,000. There are also prizes for top age category runners.

A variety of lucky draw prizes will be awarded at prize giving, including a chance to win a car. All participants (18 plus and T&C’s apply) can enter the lucky draw where one race number will advance to the main draw for a Proton X50 valued at R449,000. Seven ladies from the seven races around the country must attend the glitzy SPAR Grand Prix prize-giving to qualify to win this car.

For more information visit the race website, like the SPAR Women’s Race KZN Facebook page (SPARWomens10and5kmRace), or follow on Instagram (sparwomenskzn) or Twitter (sparladiesrace).

 

-ends

Maritzburg SPAR Women’s 10/5km Challenge Maritzburg: Sunday 20 August

Running an entirely individual race, young Tayla Kavanagh owned the Maritzburg SPAR Women’s 10/5km Challenge that took place in Pietermaritzburg on Sunday 20 August. 

Leading from the start to finish with a gun-to-tape dash, the 22 year old running for Hollywood Athletics Club, finished her 10km challenge in a time of 34.07. Kavanagh had a decent lead of 1 minute and 14 seconds to second place Jenet Mbhele, who finished in 35.21. A delighted third place Makhosi Mhlongo crossed 3 minutes and 21 seconds behind Kavanagh, in a time of 37.28.

A fresh looking Kavanagh, who resides in Hillcrest started after her run, “I had a good run, the course was undulating which suit me. The actual race was tough as I ran completely solo from the start. There was no one to help push me but it was a good test for me demanding my focus on keeping up my pace”

The leading lady’s next race will be in two weeks’ time when she will be hitting the streets of Durban for her home club’s race, the Hollywoodbets 10km run. Thereafter, the budding athlete will be heading to the 5km World Champs in Riga, Latvia running around the Baltic city on 1 October. This will be her second international race, having a Hollywood dream build up to her second global race, the determined star finished second in the recent Totalsports Women’s Race held in Durban recently, in a time of 33.44. Her first international race was in Germany last year where she took part  in the Race 2 Records 10km run.

“I really would love to run a fast time in Riga, even a personal best would be great.” Talking about her personal best, the trail blazer has a 32.10 best run that she set in 2021 at the SA Champs for 10km.

Both second-place Mbhele and third-place Mhlongo will be heading east where they will both be competing in the gruelling 50km World Champs in Hyderabad, India later this year. 28 year old Mbhele from Umzimkulu ran in the Comrades earlier this year where she finished tenth overall. 

A completely sold-out field of 3,100 ladies tackled the course, starting in a gorgeous mystical mist that enveloped Alexandra Park area before the clouds lifted and burnt off, and the day warmed up to a gorgeous sunny morning. 

CHOC House in Pietermaritzburg, the race charity for the event, were awarded a cheque of R20,000, with R5 from each entry being donated to them. 

Results 

1 Tayla Kavanagh 34.07; 2 Jenet Mbhele 35.21; 3 Makhosi Mhlongo 37.38; 4 Janie Grundling 38.36; 5 Slindile Hlatswayo 38.50; 6 Nokkhanya Memela 41.22; 7 Janene Carey 41.25; 8 Kadence Ribbink 43.15; 9 Dawn James 44.48; 10 Hannah Bullock 45.45

 

Junior

1 Kadence Ribbink 43.15; 2 Hannah Bullock 45.45; Mia Clendennen 49.13

 

Senior

1 Tayla Kavanagh 34.07; 2 Jenet Mbhele 35.21; 3 Slindile Hlatswayo 38.50

 

40 – 49

1 Makhosi Mhlongo 37.38; 2 Janine Grundling 38.36; 3 Pauline Rainbird 49.03

 

50 – 59

1 Janene Carey 41.25; 2 Dawn James 44.48; 3 Sibongile Ziqubu

 

60 - 69

1 Brenda Myburgh 57.58; 2 Alette Wegner 01:01.24; 3 Kathy Baxter 01:04.30

 

70 + 

1 Sybil Dinkemann 01:12.26; 2 Jeanette Eglington 01:16.41; 3 Christina Eckstein 01:22.45

 

ENDS

SPAR Women's Challenge Back with a Bang

Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa: The SPAR Women’s Challenge series is back with a bang and changes to the rules and prizes in the associated SPAR Grand Prix offer local runners massive new financial incentives.

For the first time since 2019, the SPAR Women’s Challenge races will be open to thousands of women in each of the six cities nationwide.

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, no races were run in 2020. In 2021, SPAR came to the rescue of the elite runners by hosting six races in a limited format. This was done in accordance with Covid-19 protocols giving the top runners an opportunity to compete and to earn money. 

Social runners were able to take part in a SPAR Women’s Virtual Challenge, running on their own and sharing their experiences online.

In 2022, the six races were spread out over six months, but numbers remained limited, with social runners once again taking part in a Virtual Challenge. 

The 2023 SPAR Women’s Challenge will return to its original format and will again be open to thousands of women runners and walkers of all ages and abilities. The popular 5km Fun Run is back and will be staged alongside the classic SPAR Women’s 10km Challenge, which incorporates the prestigious SPAR Grand Prix.

Former SPAR Grand Prix winner, Kesa Molotsane, is thrilled that the races are once again open to all.  “The SPAR Women’s Virtual Challenge was a brilliant idea, but there is nothing quite like a real SPAR Women’s Challenge event,’ she said. ‘It’s so exciting to encounter the different cultures and personalities at these races.  We were very grateful to SPAR that we were able to compete during the pandemic, but I think we all missed the festive atmosphere that always surrounds the SPAR Women’s Challenges.”

Kesa added, “I am looking forward to seeing new, exciting talent that always emerges every year. There may have been runners who couldn’t run in the restricted races but now have the chance to show what they can do.”

SPAR Group’s National Sponsorship and Events Manager, Charlene Subbarayan, is also delighted that the SPAR Women’s Challenges will once again involve thousands of women. “SPAR is all about promoting healthy living and good health means a healthy lifestyle so what better way, than to get everyone out in the open air, training for the SPAR Women’s Challenge series. The SPAR Women’s Challenge offers us a way of thanking our customers by providing them with a day of fun and entertainment, with plenty of spot prizes at all the races,” she said. 

“We are so happy that we can once again welcome thousands of women of all ages to our 10km races and 5km Fun Runs. Our target national entry is 70 000 women in 2023,” added Subbarayan.    

The President of Athletics South Africa (ASA), James Moloi, said the SPAR Women’s Challenge series is an important part of the South African athletics calendar. “Many women get a taste for running after training to take part in these unique women-only races. The SPAR Grand Prix races also offer the elite runners an opportunity to test themselves and the presence of international athletes, who are drawn to the race by the lucrative prize money. This has spurred our domestic runners to improve their times,” he said.    

In the SPAR Grand Prix, there are several exciting developments. In recent years, the dominance of athletes from Ethiopia and Namibia has made it difficult for the South Africans to earn the top prizes. This year, local athletes will win prizes in addition to the overall prize pool. In the 6 races, the first 2 South Africans across the finish line will win R10 000 and R5 000 respectively. They are eligible to collect the overall prizes as well, starting at R30 000 for a win, R25 000 for second place and R21 000 for third.

The prize pool for the overall SPAR Grand Prix has been similarly structured. The winner will receive R200 000, second place R100 000 and the prizes go down to tenth place. This year there will also be a separate ‘competition within a competition’ for South African athletes, with the 5 top local runners taking home a total of R185 000 in addition to the money they win in the overall SPAR Grand Prix. First place will score a handsome R75 000.

The total prize purse across the SPAR Grand Prix is now R1.9 million, 14% up on 2022.

Another important change comes in the number of races to count for the final points table. In previous years, the total points scored by an athlete over the 6 races counted. This, however, placed runners who had to miss 1 or 2 races because of international commitments or injury at a disadvantage. This year, a runner’s four best performances in the SPAR Grand Prix races will count for points. This means that a runner can miss two races and still be competitive.

The SPAR Women’s Challenge series incorporating the SPAR Grand Prix 10km races will be held in Cape Town, Gqeberha, Durban, Mbombela, Tshwane and Johannesburg.

Ends.

2023 SPAR GRAND PRIX CALENDAR

Cape Town – Sunday, 23 April 2023 – Green Point Common

Gqeberha – Saturday, 27 May 2023 – Pollok Beach, Summerstrand

Durban – Sunday, 25 June 2023 – Kings Park Stadium

Mbombela – Saturday, 15 July 2023 – Mbombela Stadium

Tshwane – Saturday, 5 August 2023 – SuperSport Park

Joburg – Sunday, 1 October 2023 – Marks Park Sporting Club

Durban SPAR Women’s 5km Challenge - back in action!

Durban SPAR Women’s 5km Challenge

Beachfront: Saturday 3 September

Back in action. A sea of teal took to the streets and the promenade around the beachfront in Durban for the Durban SPAR Women’s 5km Challenge, and to various routes throughout South Africa for the SPAR Virtual Challenge on Saturday 3 September.

 

Thousands of women relished being able to join other like-minded participants in the annual SPAR Women’s event. For the past two years, SPAR hosted two very successful Virtual Challenges nationally. With the announcement of the Covid19 restrictions being lifted, SPAR KZN organised an In-Person event to celebrate being able to participate together again, with a fun 5km loop around the Suncoast precinct and beachfront.

 

Thousands of virtual runners also competed en-mass, or individually, with athletes from outlying areas like Uvongo, Hluhluwe, and Newcastle organising small running groups to tackle familiar routes in their areas.

 

As an incentive for the more serious runners taking part in the In-Person race, the top five runners each received SPAR vouchers for their fantastic times in the shorter distance. The top five were 1. Nwabisa Mjoli 17.27, 2. Lisha van Onselen 18.05, 3. Silindile Hlatshwayo 18.43, 4. Nokuthula Ntshangase 20.14, 5. Mbali Mashaba 21.03

 

With life returning to normal, SPAR KZN is looking forward to hosting its most beautiful race, the annual Durban SPAR Women’s 10/5km Challenge next year in winter.

 

ENDS

 



SPAR Believes SA Youth Should be able to #livelimitless

SPAR BELIEVES THE SA YOUTH SHOULD BE ABLE TO #LIVELIMITLESS

 

The global pandemic has locked down our youth during a time of their lives where they are desperately looking to spread their wings.


The past 18 months have tested the country’s resolve and demonstrated the incredible resilience of all sections of the South African society. 

 

While the South African youth’s wings have been clipped temporary, they have shown that they may be locked down, but they will not be held back. 

As part of the 2021 SPAR Women’s Virtual Challenge’s campaign, we encourage South African women to #LiveLimitless and break down the barriers in their lives and redefine the limits that may exist. 

 

“What seemed impossible to us before has now become daily life—working from home and caring for our children at the same time? Impossible before, and now an average day,” said Alison Zweers, Managing Director of SPAR Western Cape.

 

“Making deals and holding meetings online? A strange and unknown concept that we now take in our stride. What further proof could you need to show that limitations are purely mental and how living without limits is truly possible.”

 

This year's theme has a strong focus on the youth, and we will be supporting the Petals Projects, which advocates for a shame-free education for all young women. 

There is a stigma and shame attached to their menstrual cycle for many young girls in South Africa. Due to the lack of access to simple hygiene products, they must make the difficult decision between embarrassment or education.

 

Entry fees for this year’s Virtual Challenge will support SPAR’s Petals Project, which aims to donate packs of sanitary pads to underprivileged girls removing one of the limitations to their education. 

 

SPAR is also proud to partner with three young South African women who embody what it means to #LiveLimitless. 

 

Chantel Struwig, Zizipho Soldati and Shirnell Swartz are three exceptional young women that refused to allow the challenges and limitations they had to deal with from an early age to define them. Instead, they have broken these shackles turning their challenges into opportunities. 

 

Struwig, born with a purplish-red mark covering most of her face, has become a vocal and virtual birthmark awareness advocate. Embracing her birthmark, the BCom Fashion student has overcome a negative self-image and encourages others to do the same using her social media platforms. 

 

The 26-year-old Soldati is an award-winning filmmaker, content creator, social media influencer and aspiring model. Soldati has not allowed a rare condition that causes very short limbs, called Phocomelia of the lower limbs, to put a limit on her dreams and ambitions. 

 

Swartz has excelled as a short speed skater representing South Africa at the Special Olympics, which has helped her discover her superb talent. She first got involved with Special Olympics South Africa when she was 13 years old at Casa De Sol School, where she found short speed skating.

 

This year you will again be able to not only create your own race number online, but you can also create your own certificate of completion – check out sparvirtualchallenge.co.za and follow the few easy steps.  

 

Entrants residing outside South Africa will unfortunately not receive a virtual challenge pack due to postal restrictions and courier fees. Your entry fee will still contribute by donating a pack of sanitary products for a schoolgirl in need. 

 

For more information on the SPAR Women’s Virtual Challenge, please see our FAQ section here: https://sparvirtualchallenge.co.za/faq/

 

Announcement video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I691zBf1Mag

 

Image attached: 

From left to right: Shirnell Swartz, Zizipho Soldati, and Chantel Struwig.

 

– ENDS – 

 

EVENT DIARY DETAILS: 

Date: 04 September 2021 

Time: 06h00 – 18h00 (subject to current lockdown restrictions) 

Location: Virtual Event (participants can select own route and distance) 

Website+Entries: https://sparvirtualchallenge.co.za/

How to Enter the SPAR Women’s Virtual Challenge! 

How to Enter the SPAR Women’s Virtual Challenge! 

 

Johannesburg, 02 June 2021: Entries are now officially open for the SPAR Women’s Virtual Challenge. On 4 September 2021, women will not be limited when they are participating in this virtual challenge.

 

“The incredible fortitude our country has shown over the last 18 months was the inspiration for the 2021 SPAR Women’s Virtual Challenge and its theme, #LiveLimitless. This year’s challenge celebrates the ways in which we have challenged, and in some cases broken down, the limits that lived in our minds before the pandemic. #LiveLimitless is calling on all South Africans to put on their running shoes once again and come together virtually to be part of a nationwide event that’s breaking borders and redefining limits!” Alison Zweers

 

Entries were opened on 26 May 2021 and the response from SPAR’s loyal following has been overwhelming. More than 5000 entries were placed within the first few days and unfortunately one of the few things that are limited is the amount of entries we have available. Race organisers are urging the public to enter early to avoid disappointment! 

 

#LiveLimitless

We have all been faced with challenges and obstacles in our lives and more specially over the last year. However, the SPAR Women’s Virtual Challenge is breaking boundaries and pushing limits. This year let’s overcome our obstacles and shoot for the stars. Let’s #LiveLimitless

  

How it Works 4 September 2021,  anytime between 06h00 and 18h00 (subject to government lockdown regulations). You can run, jog, or walk your own race, at your own pace, on your own route, at any distance, from any location you choose. 

 

How to Enter 

Guidance on entries and how the event works can be found at www.sparvirtualchallenge.co.za.

 

Once you have entered you will receive a confirmation email which will give you access to this year’s digital magazine. South African entrants will receive a virtual challenge pack with their entry containing a race t-shirt, a buff and a medal, to be collected from their chosen SPAR store or delivered to their chosen address (at an additional cost) For every entry, SPAR will donate a pack of sanitary products to a schoolgirl in need.

 

You can enter in a few easy steps, by entering your details, choose your pick up or delivery point and make your payment on our secure platforms. You can also help someone overcoming their limits by an additional, optional donation to the Jacaranda FM Good Morning Angels. 

 

Entries will close on 15 August 2021, and are limited to 75 000 participants.

 

This year you will again be able to not only create your own race number online, but you can also create your own certificate of completion – check out sparvirtualchallenge.co.za and follow the few easy steps.  

Entrants residing outside South Africa will unfortunately not be able to receive a virtual challenge pack due to postal restrictions and courier fees. Your entry fee will still contribute to the donation of a pack of sanitary products for a schoolgirl in need.  

 

For more information on the SPAR Women’s Virtual Challenge, please see our FAQ section here: https://sparvirtualchallenge.co.za/faq/

 

– ENDS –  

 

EVENT DIARY DETAILS: 

Date: 04 September 2021 

Time: 06h00 – 18h00 (subject to current lockdown restrictions) 

Location: Virtual Event (participants can select own route and distance) 

Website+Entries: https://sparvirtualchallenge.co.za/  


 

SPAR Women's Virtual Challenge 4 September 2021

 

SOUTH AFRICA’S MOST BEAUTIFUL VIRTUAL CHALLENGE GOES LIMITLESS

SPAR ANNOUNCE R1 MILLION INVITATIONAL SPAR GRAND PRIX SERIES

 

Johannesburg, South Africa: The SPAR Women’s Virtual Challenge is back for 2021 and this year, the challenge is going limitless with entries open nationwide. Along with the virtual challenge, SPAR is also bringing back the prestigious SPAR Grand Prix series, giving some much-needed support to South Africa’s professional women runners.

 

Online entries are now open for the 2021 SPAR Women’s Virtual Challenge. SPAR is inviting women across the country to join in on Saturday, 4th September 2021, anytime between 06h00 and 18h00 (subject to government lockdown regulations). Participants can run, jog, or walk their own virtual challenge, at their own pace, anywhere in South Africa.

 

The 2021 SPAR Women’s Virtual Challenge is set to be the ultimate antidote to Covid-19 fatigue and the lockdown blues that many South Africans are feeling. The 2021 challenge theme, #LiveLimitless calls on women to recognise how many obstacles they have overcome in spite of the restrictions and limitations that we have been faced with in the past year. 

 

“Following the first ever SPAR Women’s Virtual Challenge held in 2020, the challenge participants could never have anticipated that almost a year later, the nation would still be living with lockdown restrictions as the world continues to grapple with the Covid-19 pandemic. #LiveLimitless recognises that we have done and coped with so much in the past year that we never thought we would be able to,” says Alison Zweers, SPAR Managing Director Western Cape and Namibia. 

 

Every year thousands of women look forward to taking part in the SPAR Women’s Challenge races and their associated fun runs. Due to the lockdown imposed in 2020, SPAR changed the game by launching their first ever virtual challenge. “By hosting the second virtual challenge in 2021, we are once again giving women something to look forward to and we are really excited that no one will have to miss out this year. The fact that we have managed to find a way for our challenge community to keep coming together is really a testament to what #LiveLimitless is all about,” SPAR Group Marketing Executive, Mike Prentice enthuses.

 

Ensuring a limitless future for all, the SPAR Women’s Virtual Challenge 2021 event will benefit the SPAR Petal’s Project. Proceeds from this year’s entry fee will be used to help the Petals project donate packs of sanitary pads to underprivileged girls who often stay away from school when they are on their periods as they lack these basic necessities. SPAR Petals donations help keep these girls in school, giving them an equal chance to compete and lead a full life. Your contribution will help to remove the limitations that girls feel during menstruation and show them that there is no area in their life in which they cannot #LiveLimitless.

 

“This contribution would not be possible without the support of the women across South Africa who will be joining in or without the support of our sponsors. I would like to thank Asics, Garmin and Athletics South Africa for sticking with us and making this challenge possible,” Prentice acknowledges. “Our brand ambassadors, several of whom have been involved with our events for years, also play a huge part in making the virtual challenges a success and we are so excited about the group we have on board this year.”

 

This year’s challenge ambassador list includes familiar fan favourites and some new ambassadors who are eager to get SA excited about the challenge. Helping spread the #LiveLimitless message online will be; Bonang Gwampi, Siphokazi Menziwa, Nolo Skiti, Nomvuzo Zongo , Mimi Mahlasela, Leilani Kuter, Rene Kalmer, Bongi Msomi, Elana Afrika – Bredenkamp, Warrior Ric, Sarina Bosman, Charné Bosman, Willem Botha, Ouma Tema, Tauné Block, Lucille Slade, Dianne Broodryk, Sophia Matlou, Philicity Reeken, Martin Bester, Chantel Struwig, Donnalee Roberts, Ivan Botha, Lindie Strydom, Robbie Kruse, Zizipho Soldati, Kesa Molotsoane, Shirnell Swartz, Khutso Theledi, Izelle Hoffman, Jo-Dee Butler, Suga, Gino Fabbri, Yolanda Bukani, Jeanie Steyn, Faith Motau, Zinhle Twala and Precious Mthembu.

 

“We are looking forward to seeing everyone posting online on 4 September as they complete their routes,” says Zweers urging participants to enter and take some time for themselves and reflect on the tenacity we have all shown since the start of the pandemic. “Take this opportunity to #LiveLimitless, whatever that means to you, and do not be defined by the limitations you face. To #LiveLimitless is about answering the call to adventure, and instead of being defined by your limits, changing the narrative to be inspired by them.”

 

Entry to the SPAR Women’s Virtual Challenge is R60 and as part of the entry fee, every participant will receive a virtual race pack. The race pack includes an official virtual challenge t-shirt, access to the My Virtual Challenge digital magazine, a face buff and a medal.

 

This year there are even more ways to join in the fun online. Participants can visit the official race website, sparvirtualchallenge.co.za to generate their own race number and finish line certificate – perfect for pre and post-race selfies! Use #LiveLimitless and #SPARVirtualChallenge when posting to join the challenge community online!

 

For more information and to find out how to enter, visit www.sparvirtualchallenge.co.za. Entries are limited to 75 000 participants – enter now to avoid disappointment.

 

EVENT DIARY DETAILS: 

Date: 4 September 2021 

Time: 06h00 – 18h00 (subject to current lockdown restrictions) 

Location: Virtual Event (participants can select own route and distance) 

Entries+Website: https://sparvirtualchallenge.co.za/  


Maritzburg SPAR Women’s Challenge 10km/5km Sunday 18 August 2019

Media Release

Maritzburg SPAR Women’s Challenge 10km/5km

Sunday 18 August 2019

 

Entries are now open for the Maritzburg SPAR Women’s Challenge 10km/5km, the City’s “most beautiful road race”, which takes place in and around Alexandra Park in the Capital, on Sunday 18 August.

 

The popular running event is the fifth in the national Grand Prix series, which attracts both elite athletes as well as experienced and novice participants, with cash prizes for the top runners.

 

Last year, Nedbank CG runner Irvette van Zyl made a spectacular comeback after having given birth to her second child in June, winning the race in a time of 34.26, followed by KZN runner Jenet Mbhele of Umzimkulu Striders in a time of 34.47.  She currently sits in fourth place and Mbhele in a tie fifth place on the leaderboard of SPAR Grand Prix.  

 

All eyes will be on Namibian athlete, Helalia Johannes (Nedbank) who broke the SPAR South Africa series record in the Durban Challenge in June this year, winning in an astounding time of 30 minutes 59 seconds. Helalia also won the Port Elizabeth and Cape Town races earlier this year. 

 

While the elite athletes battle it out for their leaderboard positions, a host of women (and their supporters) will be there for many other reasons, whether it be to record their personal best times, have fun with friends and family, or to set themselves some healthy new goals, the race offers something for everyone.

 

Once again both the 10km and 5km events start at 8am outside Maritzburg College in Princess Margaret Drive, winding through the City’s picturesque Alexandra Park, and the boundaries of the CBD ending at The Oval Cricket Stadium in Alexandra Park, where the prize-giving and lucky draw will take place. 

 

In an effort to keep the intimacy of the race, a limit of 4,500 entries will be accepted with 1,750 for the 10km and 2,750 for the 5km.  Entries to the 10km distance are open to participants from age 14 and to the 5km from age 9, with the age restrictions being applicable on the day of the competition. Entry fees are R120 for 10km licensed athletes and for 5km runners, and R145 for 10km unlicensed athletes (which includes the R25 temporary licence fee).

 

Entries can be done online at www.sparwomensrace.co.za/maritzburg by using the EFT or credit/debit card payment options. EFT entries close on Monday 5 August at midnight, and credit/debit card entries on Monday 12 August at midnight. Manual entries (subject to the limit of 4,500 entries) can also be done at the race registration, which takes place on Friday 16 August (10 am to 5 pm) and Saturday 17 August (10 am to 3 pm) at The Oval Cricket Stadium in Alexandra Park.

 

Groups entering more than 10 people using the “Multi-Entry” online option on the website can have their race packs and promo bags delivered directly to the team co-ordinator. For these group-entries to be delivered, they must be processed, paid for and confirmed by Friday 2 August 2019.

 

At race registration, all participants receive their race number, a “one-size fits most” race T-shirt and a promo bag (the contents of which may vary from bag to bag). All participants also receive a breakfast pack at the finish line.

 

To entertain children, SPAR provides a Kids’ Zone at the Oval, which is not a child-care facility - adults still need to mind their children, and they cannot be left there unsupervised.

Pietermaritzburg’s Choc (Childhood Cancer Foundation) is once again the official race charity, with R2 from each entry donated to them. Last year R9,000 was raised for this worthwhile cause that supports children battling with cancer, and their families.

 

For more information visit the official race website on www.sparwomensrace.co.za /Maritzburg or like the Facebook page, Twitter and Instagram or email the race organisers on maritzburg@sparwomensrace.co.za. 

 

Durban SPAR Women’s 10/5km Challenge celebrates 30 years on

Media Release

Durban SPAR Women’s 10/5km Challenge celebrates 30 years on

 

Entries are open for the much-loved Durban SPAR Women’s 10/5km Challenge, the race that started the now iconic national women’s running event, celebrates its 30th anniversary this year on Sunday 23 June.

 

The Challenge, has over the years, seen hundreds of South Africa’s top athletes, including a number of distinguished Olympians, take the honours. Many of the sportswomen who have appeared in the top three of the race, are written in the annals of SA road-running history, including the likes of Zola Budd-Pieterse, Poppy Mlambo, Gwen Griffiths (van Lingen), Carlien Cornelissen, Nicole Fuller, Tanith Maxwell, the Kalmer sisters –Rene and Christine, the Phalula sisters – Lebogang and Lebo-Diana,  Irvette van Zyl and Nolene Conrad to name a few. 

 

This list, of course, includes two Durban favourites, Blanche Moila, who has appeared in the top three twice, and Grace de Oliveira who won twice (1994 and 1995) and appeared in the top three four times. Both have run all races since its inception.

 

The inaugural event has come a long way since it began in 1990 with field of 2,200 when the now USA-based SA athlete Colleeen de Reuck won in a time of  34:16.  Fast track to 2018, where Zimbabwean-based Betha Chikanga shaved off 1:09 from that time, bagging the win at 33:07 in a field of close to 14,000 participants.

 

Historically, the race route has remained fairly consistent around the Durban beachfront and CBD. The record time is still held by de Reuck who clocked in at 31:38 in 2000, followed in 2009 by Rene Kalmer with 32:27 and in 1991 by Gwen Griffiths (van Rensburg) with 32:28.

 

“Over 29 years more than 330,000 women and girls, including a smattering of some rather enthusiastic men, have beaten a track around the City in a show of camaraderie, and spirit,” says Max Oliva, MD of SPAR KZN.  “We look forward to continuing this wonderfully, colourful journey with thousands more like-minded fitness enthusiasts for many, many more years to come.” 

 

This year the race route remains the same as last year starting off in Masabalala Yengwa Avenue opposite the outer fields of Jonsson Kings Park Rugby Stadium, which is also the finish. 

 

To celebrate 30 years on, SPAR will award the winner of this race R30,000, as well as the usual cash category prizes.  Elite runners participating in the SPAR Women’s 10km Grand Prix Series will be vying to increase their standings on the leaderboard. Currently Namibian runner Helalia Johannes (Nedbank) is in poll position having won the Port Elizabeth race on 4 May in a regional record time of 31.50 minutes.

 

Participants will receive a breakfast pack upon completion of the event, and are encouraged to remain after the race and enjoy the entertainment on offer, with some big lucky draw prizes up for grabs to mark the 30th birthday.

 

Entry fees are R145 for a 10km non-licensed entrant, which will include a temp licence, R120 for a 10km licensed entrant and R120 for all 5km entrants. Entrants for the 10km challenge must be 14 years or older and for the 5km must be 9 years or older on the day of the competition.

  

Entries can be done online via the race website - EFT payments close on 10 June and Credit Card payments close on 17 June. A manual entry option is available, subject to the limit of 15,000 not having been reached, at race registration  which takes place at Hall 6 at the Durban Exhibition Centre on: Thursday, 20 June and Friday, 21 June from 10:00 to 17:00 and Saturday, 22 June from 10:00 to 15:00. All entrants will receive a promo bag at race registration. 

 

To enter online or for more race information, www.sparwomensrace.co.za/durban. 

 

For more information like the KZN SPAR Women’s Race Facebook page, Twitter and Instagram.

 

ENDS

Maritzburg SPAR Women’s 10/5km Challenge Sunday 19 August - results

Maritzburg SPAR Women’s 10/5km Challenge

Pietermaritzburg: Sunday 19 August

 

Drama unfolded today (Sunday, 19 August) in the Maritzburg SPAR Women’s 10/5km Challenge as Irvette van Zyl running for Nedbank claimed victory in KZN’s capital in a time of 34.26.

 

Van Zyl, and a group of four elite athletes led from the onset, getting to the 4km mark looking fresh and energised. The tightly bunched pack parted ways nearing the Time Freight avenue, with Glenrose Xaba, Kesa Molotsane, Manorallo Tjoka and Neheng Khatala rounding the turning circle in Park Drive at the bottom of Princess Margaret.

 

Pioneering, van Zyl continued straight passing the circle and made her way through to the avenue in the Mayor’s Garden running solo. Having slowed down in the uncertainty of being left by the leading pack, van Zyl lost critical seconds deciding if her homework was in fact correct and her decision was the correct course.

 

Powering up the incline, van Zyl got back into stride, rounding back onto Park Drive, passing through the half way mark at 16.43. She was followed by Rudo Mhonderwa and Rutendo Nyahora who were neck-and-neck at the 5km mark, going through at 16.58.

 

Confusion ensued with the front runners between 4km and 5km, now consisting of four runners and Lebogang Phalula trailing just behind, with no sign of van Zyl and the lead bicycle. The crucial decision by the four of the five who followed the vehicles which were forced off the route as no vehicles are allowed through the avenue in the Mayor’s Garden. Van Zyl started to round the roundabout but remembered from the previous year, the route going through the park.

 

“We were told that the race was exactly the same from last year, and we received an sms yesterday about the water table being at the top of the park. So, I knew that we needed to go through the park. Three of us in the leading pack had done the race last year, so it wasn’t new to us. I knew the route, and I knew where I was going so I am happy that I stuck to my decision to go solo,” said a relieved van Zyl.

 

For Xaba and Molotsane, the Maritzburg race was a make or break race for them as going into the PMB race, the two athletes had a single point separating them in the Grand Prix.

 

“Five runners were disqualified for following the incorrect route.  At the conclusion of the race, objections were lodged, and a jury was convened. A unanimous decision was made and Irvette van Zyl is recognised for running the correct route, therefor she officially is the winner of the 2018 Maritzburg SPAR 10km race,” stated Race Director, Brad Glasspoole at the media briefing following the announcement.

 

The five runners disqualified are Glenrose Xaba, Kesa Molotsane, Manorallo Tjoka, Neheng Khatala and Legogang Phalula.

 

“It was quite a dramatic day for the top runners, but we are pleased that the policies and procedures in place were able to help resolve the results. I would like to thank the officials for their professional handling of this. Alongside all of this, we had 4,502 people out on the route who had a magnificent day in glorious weather,” said Max Oliva, MD for SPAR KZN.

 

The final race in the Grand Prix takes place in Johannesburg on 7 October, which promises to be an exciting conclusion to the elite race.

 

For more info visit www.sparwomensrace.co.za/Maritzburg or like the race’s Facebook page.

 

Female Senior

1 Irvette van Zyl 34.26, 2 Jenet Mbhele 34.47, 3 Rutendo Nyahora 34.56, 4 Portia Ngwenya 35.16, 5 Rudo Mhonderwa 35.38, 6 Patience Murowe 36.16, 7 Nobukhosi Tshuma 36.28, 8 Cornelia Joubert 36.37, 9 Cherise Sims 36.52, 10 Mokulubete Makatisi 36.59

 

Female Junior

1 Liza Kellerman 38.38, 2 Simangaliso Madlala 39.35, 3 Cherry Lee Schoeman 40.28

 

Female 35 – 39

1 Fikile Mbuthuma 37.59, 2 Cary-Ann Smith 43.53, 3 Nikki Kelbrick 58.52

 

Female 40 – 49

1 Ronel Thomas 40.23, 2 Elizabeth Dlhiwayo 40.57, 3 Janene Carey 41.52

 

Female 50 -59

1 Grace de Oliveira 44.45, 2 Xolisile Mwelase 48.11, 3 Gail Babich 48.40

 

Female 60 -69

1 Blanche Moila 49.11, 2 Jenny Taylor 51.29, 3 Sibongile Zakwe 01:00.35

 

Female 70+

1 Gill Tregenna 59.25, 2 Ivy Gertrude Lottering 01:20.51

 

ENDS

Photographs by Rogan Ward 

 

 

Classy Run for Kesa Molotsane at Maritzburg SPAR Women's 10km Challenge - August 20

MEDIA RELEASE

CLASSY RUN FOR KESA MOLOTSANE AT MARITZBURG SPAR WOMEN’S 10 KM CHALLENGE

 

Kesa Molotsane (KPMG) had a classy run in the inaugural Grand Prix series of the Maritzburg SPAR Women’s 10km Challenge on Sunday, August 20 winning in a convincing time of 34.21, followed by Rutendo Nyahora (Nedbank) in 34.34 and Irvette van Zyl (Nedbank) in 34.37.

 

In the penultimate race on the SPAR Grand Prix, the leading lady extended her domination over the log. Out of the starting blocks, Irvette van Zyl (Nedbank) edged to the front of the pack, leading marginally for majority of the race, with Lebogang Phalula (Boxer) and Rutendo Nyahora (Nedbank) tailing her closely on her shoulder.

 

Out of nowhere, the star runner started her assault to the front with about 4km remaining. Looking strong, she charged her way through the runners, joining the top three, matching their pace for the last few kilometres of the run. Striding away from van Zyl as they wound their way to the stadium, she secured her position on the top step of the podium, cementing her first spot on the log. Having started the 2017 series with a first in Cape Town, a first in Port Elizabeth, a second in Durban and third in Pretoria, she went into the Pietermaritzburg race with a decent 19 point lead ahead of van Zyl.

 

“I really enjoyed the run today, it was a really nice route. I love the hills, I grew up in a hilly area, so they don’t bother me. It was cold, and I took a while to warm up but I am really glad that I ran. It was a good test before I take on the 5,000m in World Student Games in Taipei this week. I am the only South African running the 5,000m and I want to do my country proud, so today has motivated me and given me the opportunity to challenge myself.”

 

Molotsane departed directly after the race, heading straight to the airport to go compete in Taiwan with her first 5,000m heat taking place on 25th August and the finals on 27th August. “I needed special permission to run in Pietermaritzburg from the Federation, but I think it was good for me ahead of running against the top international athletes. I wanted to retain my position in the Grand Prix to stay on top of the leaderboard, so needed to compete today.”

 

The class act said she didn’t have issues changing from track to road, or vice versa. “A lot of people find it challenging and demanding to handle both track and road, but it is easier for me, it isn’t so much of a shock. I think it is because I concentrate on the longer distances.”

 

Second on the leaderboard, van Zyl said, “I gave it my best but my best wasn’t good enough. I needed to push it as I find myself in a difficult situation with points on the Grand Prix log, I needed to win and get bonus points to stay in the game.”

 

“I am an impatient runner, so I tend to break early and take up the pace. It usually works for me but I just couldn’t hang in there. Kesa ran really well. I have had a tough year, with the injury that forced me out of the Durban race, I have been working hard to have a fighting chance. But I am glad it was a pain free run. I also like hilly courses, so enjoyed the my first time on the Maritzburg course.”

 

Second on the day, the petite Zimbabwean, Rutendo Nyahora overtook van Zyl, leaving her behind on the final stretch of road leading into the stadium. “I am feeling fine on the back of running a marathon. My running was down, so I had to kick hard and my plan worked.”

 

Molotsane shaved off 20seconds from the previous winning time of 34.41 that Lebogang Phalula clocked in 2016.

 

A total of 4,500 took to the two distances in a chilly 3 degrees. Peter Deeb, Marketing Director of SPAR KZN said, “Having the Maritzburg race being included in the Grand Prix has certainly raised the profile of the race. Everyone had a fantastic time, and we were full to capacity. It was a chilly morning to start off with, and the course had a lot of hills. We are very pleased with the numbers, and it is always wonderful to give back to our community as road running has a huge following here in Pietermaritzburg.”

 

Results

Open

1 Kesa Molotsane (KPMG) 34.21, 2 Rutendo Nyahora (Nedbank) 34.34, 3 Irvette van Zyl (Nedbank) 34.37, 4 Lebogang Phalula (Boxer) 34.50, 5 Betha Chikanga 34.58, 6 Maria Shai (Boxer) 35.02, 7 Glenrose Xaba (Boxer) 35.05, 8 Nolene Conrad (KPMG) 35.11, 9 Nicole Louw (KPMG) 35.23, 10 Rudo Mhonderwa (Nedbank) 35.32

 

35- 39

1 Janie Grundling (Boxer) 37.22, 2 Makhosi Mhlongo (32Gi) 37.41, 3 Fikile Mbuthuma (Nedbank) 39.02

 

40-49

1 Tanith Maxwell (Boxer) 37.56, 2 Janene Carey (Boxer) 39.55, 3 Delia Jay (Dolphin Coast Striders) 44.40

 

50-59

1 Judy Bird (KPMG) 39.54, 2 Grace de Oliveira (Boxer) 44.10, 3 Gail Babich (Savages) 46.47

 

60-69

1 Blanche Moila (Savages) 49.19, 2 Sonja Laxton (RAC) 50.34, 3 Jenny Taylor (Saints Athletics) 51.13

 

70 plus

1 Gill Tregenna (Westville) 59.22

 

Juniors

1 Nicole Louw (KPMG) 35.23, 2 Shanley Koekemoer (KPMG) 37.27, 3 Cherry Lee Schoeman (Boxer) 39.53

 

-ends

SPAR Women's Race - Pietermaritzburg: The Oval - Sunday 20 August

The race is on for this weekend’s SPAR Women’s main event that takes place around Alexandra Park on Sunday morning.

Back to defend her title is Gauteng’s Lebogang Phalula. Having completed the race last year in a dazzling time of 34.41, the second fastest time clocked in recent times, Phalula is hoping to improve on her Grand Prix standing where she is sitting in fourth place currently.

Sporting the number 1 this weekend is Irvette van Zyl running in the colours of Nedbank. Van Zyl has had mixed fortunes on the road this year, with two second places, and a first in the last SPAR Grand Prix event held in Pretoria. The three time Grand Prix winner had one glitch when she was forced to retire in Durban due to her niggling back injury. She is currently second on the GP log.

Leading the pack is the hard-working KPMG athlete, Kesa Molotsane. Molotsane has accumulated 107 points in the four races held prior to the Pietermaritzburg 10km. In all of her races, she has an impressive presence on the podium with two firsts kicking off her GP year, followed by a second in the Durban race and a third in the Pretoria race. She is 19 points clear of Olympic runner, van Zyl.

Waving the KZN flag, Jenna Challenor will be back. Having had a quiet year plagued with injuries, it will be interesting seeing the one-time winner flying around the familiar route, but this time with many more elite athletes in the front pack. Back from training in Scotland, Durban athlete Tanith Maxwell, also a one-time winner and a regular feature in the Pietermaritzburg race, has turned her focus on the gruelling longer distances, will be stretching her legs around the picturesque setting.

Pietermaritzburg running fans will also be pleased to know that the Comrades darling, Caroline Wostmann is pencilled down as an entry running for KPMG. 

The running club, KPMG is creaming the points with all of their representative athletes performing well. The club has 441 points in total, with the ever-present impressive team of Nedbank sitting on 350 points currently.

A maximum capacity field of 4,500 runners is expected to be taking to the tarmac around Alexandra Park in the two race distances, with the route being described as an out and back. Both fields having an all-in start at 8am. The predicted weather looks to be a chilly 9 degrees with clear, sunny skies at the start time, and warming up to 21 degrees during the course of the day.

Entries are still available at Race Registration at The Oval Cricket Stadium, Alexandra Park on Friday 18 August (10am to 5pm) and Saturday 19 August (10am to 3pm) or until the maximum 4500 are reached. 

 Entries are open to all from ages of 14 years and up in the 10km event and 9 years in the 5km races. Entry fees are R100 for the 10km licensed athletes and for the 5km runners. R110 is the entry fee for the non-licensed athletes; the extra R10 includes a temporary licence for the day.  

Kesa Molotsane will be taking to the roads this weekend in Pietermaritzburg for the upcoming SPAR Women’s Challenge on Sunday.

 Previous winners:

2016: Lebogang Phalula (Boxer) 34.41

2015: Tebogo Masehla (Boxer) 36.10

2014: Rene Kalmer (Modern Athlete) 34.13

Road Closures for the Maritzburg SPAR Women's 10/5 km Challenge

Pietermaritzburg: Sunday 20 August

Runners and walkers are gearing up for the Maritzburg SPAR Women’s 10/5km Challenge, which takes place in and around The Oval in the picturesque Alexandra Park on Sunday 20 August.

An expected 4,500 participants will be taking to the streets with both the 5km and 10km beginning at 8am. As this year is the first time that the race has been included in the national SPAR Grand Prix Series, there will be much interest in watching the elite athletes pounding the road in an endeavour to improve their log standings.

“We urge entrants to take note of the road closures and ensure that you plan to arrive well before the race as main access roads start closing from 07:30,” says race director Brad Glasspoole. “We also encourage residents to note the closures which should only have a minimal impact on the City for a short time.”

The road closures and opening times are as follows:

Sunday, August 20

Balmoral – closed from 03:00 – 11:00

Princess Margaret– closed from 03:00 – 11: 00

Park Drive between Princess Margaret and Princess Elizabeth – closed from 03:00 – 11:00

Princess Elizabeth – closed from 03:00 – 11:00

Park Drive from College Rd to Princess Elizabeth – closed from 07:00 – 11:00

Alexandra Road from Cross Rd to Alan Paton Ave – closed (inbound only) from 07:00 – 10:00

Alan Paton Ave from Alexandra Rd to Burger St – closed (inbound only) from 07:00 – 08:30

Alexandra Road – closed in both directions from 07:30 until approximately 08:45 (to accommodate the large field)

Entries for the challenge are still open, with two options to enter. Enter online paying with credit card at www.sparwomensrace.co.za/maritzburguntil August 14. Entering using a manual entry form can be done at race registration which is on Friday 18 August (10:00 to 17:00) and Saturday 19 August (10:00 to 15:00) at The Oval Cricket Stadium, Park Drive, Alexandra Park.

Entries are open to all from ages of 14 years and up in the 10km event and 9 years in the 5km races. Entry fees are R100 for the 10km licensed athletes and for the 5km runners. R110 is the entry fee for the non-licensed athletes; the extra R10 includes a temporary licence for the day. 

For more info contact the race organisers on maritzburg@sparwomensrace.co.za or visit the official race on www.sparwomensrace.co.za or like the Facebook page.

 

Tish Jones wins Durban SPAR Women’s 10km Challenge

 

Tish Jones wins Durban SPAR Women’s 10km Challenge

 

DIMINUTIVE British distance runner, Tish Jones (KPMG), broke through the elite and highly competitive field of South African athletes to win the Durban leg of the SPAR Women’s 10km Challenge today (Sunday, June 11) in a personal best time of 32 minutes 58 seconds.

 

Among the leaders right from the start, Jones shrugged off a trio of Nedbank runners which included Zimbabwean long distance runner, Rutendo Nyahora, together with Nolene Conrad  (KPMG) soon after rounding the halfway mark in the fast, flat Durban beachfront course and finally broke away on her own.

 

Running strongly in the virtually perfect windless and warm conditions, Jones jumped into the lead and ran solo for the last four kilometres and finished 33 seconds ahead of second-placed Kesa Moletsane (also KPMG) who finished in 33:31 with third-placed Lebogang Phalula (Boxer) crossing the finish line in 33:39.

 

The top runners averaged 3 min 15 sec per kilometre with six runners crossing the finish line withing a minute of the winner in the shadow of the Growthpoint King’s Park Rugby Stadium.

 

Described as “the country’s most beautiful road race”, Jones was running for only the second time in this popular series, having first shown her mettle in winning the women’s event in the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon in 2:36:13 last year.

 

The British runner, who is based and trains in the Western Cape, came fourth in the last London Marathon, missing the cut for the British team to compete in this year’s World Championships, also in London, with only three runners gaining selection for this event.

 

Speaking at the press conference after the race she said she had planned to run a sub 33-minute race and having achieved this could be highly satisfied with her previous best times over this distance both set last year with a 33:16 in Leeds in November and a 33:05 in Houilles, France, in December.

 

“I always try to remain relaxed and to maintain a steady pace,” she said, “but whatever you choose to be good at you have to just make up your mind to go all out for.”

 

Jones said she would now focus on next year’s Commonwealth Games Marathon and also defend her title in the Cape Town Marathon.

 

Jones added that she would also seriously consider entering in two of the remaining three races in the SPAR 10km Grandprix Series.

 

Moletsane said she had been ill for the past two weeks but had entered this race on account of her high status in the SPAR Grand Prix, which is spread over all six races in the series.

 

Her second place today (June 11) earned her 29 points more to add to the 59 she already has, 29 also for coming second in the Cape Town leg and 30 for winning the Port Elizabeth leg.

 

 

-ends

 

RESULTS

 

OPEN

1 Tish Jones (KPMG) 00:32:58; 2 Kesa Molostane (KPMG) 00:33:31; 3 Lebogang Phalula (Boxer) 00:33:39; 4 Elisabet Kebede Arsedo (Nedbank) 00:33:48; 5 Ruthendo Nyahora (Nedbank) 00:33:50; 6 Glenrose Xaba 00:33:56; 7 Rudo Mhonderwa (Nedbank) 00:34:03; 8 Nolene Conrad (KPMG) 00:34:07; 9 Bertha Chikanga 00:34:15; 10 Mapaseka Makhanya (Olifantsfontien) 00:34:26.

JUNIOR

1 Nicole Louw (Afs-KPMG) 00:35:26; 2 Nicole Van Me (KPMG) 00:36:11; 3 Chery-Lee Schoeman  (KPMG) 00:39:51; 4 Nomthandazo Memela 00:40:03; 5 Nokukhanya Mtshali 00:41:19

 

40-49

1 Bulelwa Simoe 00:36:55; 2 Janene Carey (Boxer) 00:38:56; 3 Ronel Thomas (Boxer) 00:39:10

 

50-59

1 Judy Bird (KPMG) 00:39:09; 2 Grace de Oliveira 00:43:11 (Boxer); 3 Gail Babich (Savages) 00:45:21

Monark to perform at this year’s SPAR Women’s 10/5km Challenge in Durban

Monark to perform at this year’s SPAR Women’s 10/5km Challenge in Durban


The finishing area of the Durban SPAR Women’s 10/5km will be bouncing to the sounds of top South African pop band Monark who will be performing at the finish on Sunday 11 June at GrowthPoint Kings Park Stadium outer fields.


Monark, who came onto the music scene in 2013 after dominating SA’s airwaves, will be the headline act for the thousands of runners directly after the challenge’s prize giving. The band will be performing popular tracks ‘Hush’, ‘Smiling’, ‘Something’ and their recent release tune ‘Broken’ that is making waves on playlists around the country. They offer listeners something completely fresh and unique in their style and set trends sonically, stirring up tastes in the local music landscape.

The band is slowly changing the face of pop music within our borders, with their craft songs, which they say have “great meaning and soul stirring hooks”. The Monark members who are from Johannesburg and Potchefstroom, comprise of Eugene Coetzer (vocals and percussion), Ewald Jansen van Rensburg (guitar), Deon de Klerk (bass) and Graeme Wuth (drums).

Their debut album Negatives features 18 songs, was released worldwide on 14 July 2014, peaked at no. 1 on the iTunes Album Chart on the day of its release. These crowd pleasers delighted audiences after the Pretoria race last year and are sure to deliver an after-action satisfaction performance to #SHEroes participating in the Durban SPAR Women’s 10/5km race.

Monark takes to the stage directly after the top runners receive their awards at 10am. Their performance will be followed by the race lucky draw where female finishers of both the 10km and 5km events, who are present, stand a chance to win over R25,000 in lucky draw prizes.

Online entries are open at www.sparwomensrace.co.za with payment by credit card (until June 4) or EFT (until May 29). Manual entries will only be accepted at the race registration on the three days prior to the event. Entry forms are available from participating SPAR stores in KwaZulu-Natal and at Race Registration. No entries will be taken on race day.

For more info email durban@sparwomensrace.co.za or like the Facebook page KZN SPAR Women’s 10/5km Race for up to the minute postings.

 

Durban SPAR Women’s 10/5km Challenge – Sunday, June 11

Durban SPAR Women’s 10/5km Challenge – Sunday, June 11

 

Online entries are now open for this year’s Durban SPAR Women’s 10/5km Challenge, which takes place on Sunday, June 11.

 

The race, which is now in it’s 28th year, is a firm fixture on the KZN event calendar in KZN and annually draws a field of around 17 500 runners and walkers, along with countless supporters that come to enjoy the camaraderie and fun along the route and at the finish.

 

The theme for the challenge this year is “SHEroes” celebrating the “Superhero” status of women. “Every woman has a unique story to tell about their own inner beauty, strength and determination. In short, every woman is a Super Hero in their own way,” says Max Oliva, Managing Director of SPAR KZN, “We look forward to welcoming these wonderful “SHEroes” to this year’s race where they can showcase their determination and collective energy in one of the most talked about, and certainly the most beautiful, running and walking events in town.”

 

Once again participants have an option of taking part in the more competitive 10km distance starting at 8am or can enjoy the shorter, half distance 5km at 9:30am.  The challenge starts in Masabalala Yengwa Avenue outside the finish venue at the Growthpoint Kings Park outer fields, where there will be live music to entertain finishers and supporters.

 

Entries are limited to the first 17 500 ladies and can be done either online; by using the bulk entry process, or at the race registration venue at the Durban Exhibition Centre three days prior to the event.

 

Prize money for the first position in the open category is R10 000, second position R7 500 and third R5 000, and there are also various other category prizes across the board.  For the professional athletes participating in the challenge as part of the nationwide SPAR Grand Prix Series, the stakes are much higher as the prize money for the series sits at an impressive R173 000 this year.

 

For the first time, non-South African athletes are eligible to accumulate Grand Prix points which means that the field now includes those elite non-South African athletes. Currently Louisa Leballo (Nedbank) leads the Grand Prix log having taken the honours in Cape Town on April 2 in a time of 32.58 minutes. The next race takes place in May in Port Elizabeth, followed by Durban in June.

 

A donation of R2 will be made per entry to this year’s official race charity CANSA Mkhuhla Care Home in Durban, a “home-away-from-home” for cancer patients receiving treatment.

 

Entrants for the 10km challenge are required to be 14 years or older and for the 5km must be 9 years or older on the day of the competition.

 

Race Registration takes place at Hall 6 at the Durban Exhibition Centre on:

•   Thursday, 8 June from 10:00 to 17:00,

•   Friday, 9 June from 10:00 to 17:00 and

•   Saturday, 10 June from 10:00 to 15:00.

 

All female entrants will receive a promo bag at race registration and on race day, all those who complete the race will receive a breakfast pack.

 

Entry fees are R110 for a 10km non-licensed entrant, which will include a temp licence, R100 for a 10km licensed entrant and R100 for all 5km entrants. 

 

For all the relevant race information, as well as to enter online go to www.sparwomensrace.co.za/durban 

 

For more information like the SPAR Women’s Race KZN Facebook page.

 

Lebogang Phalula flies solo through Maritzburg SPAR Women’s 10/5km

Lebogang Phalula flies solo through Maritzburg SPAR Women’s 10/5km

Sunday 7 August

Lebogang Phalula (Boxer) flew through the finish line in this morning’s (Sunday 7 August) Maritzburg SPAR Women’s 10/5km in a respectable time of 34.41 – slicing off 1min 29secs off last year’s winning time.

The visibly relaxed athlete, whose only quest was to win the race, said after her run, “I managed to break away from the seeded runners in the first kilometre of the race, and I was pretty much alone from there on. I asked my friend Cornelia (Joubert) to stick with me for this race but she was unable to.”

“This was my first Maritzburg race, and I was not expecting so many hills, which were pretty tough, but I did enjoy it especially from the 8km mark where it was pretty much a downhill stride for me – it felt like I was floating.”

There is much excitement in the Phalula household as her sister, Lebo will be representing South Africa at the Rio Olympics in the Marathon this coming Sunday. For Lebogang, her focus is on the Totalsports 10km Race taking place in Johannesburg on Women’s Day.

Finishing 75 seconds behind Phalulua, Jenet Dlamini, (Umzimkhulu) crossed the line in a time of 35.56 followed by Cornelia Joubert (Boxer) 45 seconds later in 36.41.

Dlamini from Umzimkhulu stated that overall she was happy with her race, “It was a tough run for me having run the Hammarsdale 10km race last week so my legs were a bit tired.”

It was also Joubert’s first experience at the Maritzburg SPAR Women’s race, and although she was unfamiliar with the route, she was aiming for a top five position. “I was pleased with my result and my time even after having rested quite a bit this week as I had pushed myself in the 21.1km SA Champs in PE, where I finished tenth last weekend.”

There were a record number of entries this year of 4039 that competed in ideal running conditions. The capital of KwaZulu-Natal was slightly overcast with a bit of a nip in the air. The youngest runner clocked in at 9 years old and the oldest runner was 73 year old Beryl Trussler who finished in a time of 53.29.

Alexandra High athlete, Thembekile Mthimunye (17) took the honours in the 5km race breezing through in a time of 25.47.

“Well done to everyone who came out to brave the slight chill in the air. It was particularly festive this year, perhaps young and old alike have been inspired by the spirit of the Olympic Games in Rio? Whatever the reason, it was a joy to see so many people coming out in force to participate and have so much fun,” said MD for SPAR KZN, Rob Philipson.

The official race charity CHOC, will receive R8000 donation from the race entries.

Results

10km Open

1 Lebogang Phalula (Boxer) 34.41, 2 Jenet Dlamini (Umzimkhulu) 35.56, 3 Cornelia Houbert (Boxer) 36.41, 4 Jen Challenor (KPMG) 37.01, 5 Makhosi Mhlongo (Savages) 38.08, 6 Anet Coetzee 38.27, 7 Sizisandele Mkhize 39.14, 8 Janene Carey (Boxer) 39.48, 9 Suzette Botha (Eskom) 39.50, 10 Abigail Solms 41.31

15 – 19 years

1 Nosihle Phungula 47.45, 2 Fezeka Hadebe 50.55, 3  Kirsten Ahrens 1.05.18

35 – 39 years

1 Jen Challenor 37.01, 2 Nonsikelelo Mbambo 43.26, 3 Sindiswe Jali 49.39

40 – 49 years

1 Janene Carey 39.48, 2 Suzette Botha 39.50, 3 Xolisile Mwelase 47.04

50 – 59 years

1 Elana Pessenbacher 50.41, 2 Robyn Mellett 53.55, 3 Ntombifikile Mtungwa 57.27

60+ years

1 Sandra Fismer 47.53, 2 Jenny Tauloe 53.06, 3 Barbara Wright 1.10.01

-ends