Sports Blog

Vincent Leygonie Retains South African BMX Freestyle Title - https://www.runridedive.com/index.php/2026/06/04/vincent-leygonie-retains-south-african-bmx-freestyle-title/ High-flying BMX action took over the SkyLab BMX Park in Bryanston as the Park Lines BMX Tournament hosted the official 2026 South African BMX Freestyle Championships. Sanctioned by Cycling South Africa and the UCI, the event attracted the country’s top BMX Freestyle riders. Competitors battled for national titles, UCI ranking points, prize money, and championship honours. At the end of an action-packed day, Vincent Leygonie successfully defended his Pro Men’s title. As a result, he was once again crowned South African BMX Freestyle Champion. Header Image: Pro Men’s Winner – Vincent Leygonie © Eric Palmer South Africa’s Best Riders Gather In Johannesburg The purpose-built SkyLab BMX Park at Jozi-X Adventure Park provided the perfect setting for the championship. The course featured a range of ramps, transitions, and line options. Consequently, riders needed to combine creativity, technical difficulty, style, and consistency to impress the judges. Both Amateur and Pro divisions were contested. Riders were scored on use of the park, amplitude, execution, trick variety, and difficulty. Meanwhile, the Pro division offered more than national rankings. Riders also competed for a share of the R30,000 prize purse and Garmin Instinct 3 smartwatches. Amateur Riders Showcase Emerging Talent The Amateur Division highlighted the next generation of South African BMX Freestyle riders. Several competitors were making their event debut. Furthermore, the division delivered one of the closest contests in recent years. Eight riders advanced to the final. Caromba Claims Amateur Victory Johannesburg rider Sinjin Caromba delivered a standout performance in only his second BMX Freestyle competition. He used the entire course with confidence and speed. His run included huge airs, creative transfers, 360s over both box jumps, a Nac Nac Seat Grab, and Tuck No-Handers. As a result, Caromba earned the highest score of the division and secured victory. He will now move into the Pro ranks for the 2027 season. Wodrich Continues His Progression Patrick Wodrich returned determined to improve on his 2025 result. His run featured big Backflips, strong combinations, and impressive amplitude. Consequently, he secured second place overall. Heyns Completes The Podium Cape Town rider Stefan Heyns impressed judges with a balanced and consistent performance. His effective use of the park and variety of tricks earned him third place. Pro Division Delivers Championship Drama The Pro Men’s Division attracted South Africa’s top BMX riders. With valuable UCI points on offer, competition was intense throughout the day. Ultimately, eight riders advanced to the final. Fulton Impresses On Pro Debut After winning the Amateur Division in 2025, Sean Fulton stepped up to the Pro ranks. He rode confidently throughout the competition and secured a respectable fifth-place finish. Peters Shows His Class Cape Town’s Malcolm Peters once again demonstrated his ability. His run included a Backflip Turndown, Tailwhip, multiple Flairs, and a smooth 360 over the spine. Consequently, he finished fourth overall. Nkosi Extends Podium Streak Johannesburg rider Nkosinathi Nkosi continued his run of strong performances. His score was built on technical tricks and excellent course use. As a result, he secured third place. Loubser Produces Technical Masterclass Murray Loubser returned to Park Lines after missing the 2025 event. Widely regarded as one of South Africa’s most versatile BMX riders, he packed his run with technical combinations and difficult trick variations. Ultimately, his consistency earned second place. Leygonie Defends National Crown Defending champion Vincent Leygonie was in outstanding form throughout the event. His championship-winning run combined huge amplitude with flawless execution. Highlights included multiple Barspins, Backflip variations, Tailwhips, quarter-to-quarter transfers, and a 360 Tuck No-Hander over the spine. Consequently, Leygonie posted the highest score of the day and secured his second consecutive national title. Best Trick Contest Closes The Show The crowd-favourite Insta360 Best Trick Contest provided a spectacular finish. A thrilling battle developed between Malcolm Peters and Vincent Leygonie. Both riders pushed the limits in pursuit of victory. However, Peters stole the show with a Backflip Opposite Tailwhip over the big box. Remarkably, it was a trick he had never landed before. He stomped the landing cleanly on his first attempt and claimed the Best Trick title. BMX Freestyle Continues To Grow Park Lines organiser Ryan van der Spuy said the event continues to play an important role in BMX development across South Africa. He highlighted the strength of the Amateur division and the progression shown by young riders. Additionally, he praised the high standard of the Pro competition. According to Van der Spuy, the level of riding continues to improve every year. Therefore, the future of South African BMX Freestyle looks extremely promising.

GC Shake-Up Expected for the Trailseeker Series at Van Gaalen - https://www.runridedive.com/index.php/2026/06/04/gc-shake-up-expected-for-the-trailseeker-series-at-van-gaalen/ With R100 000 on the line for the overall champions at the end of the 2026 Ford Trailseeker Series, the battle for primacy over the course of the season is the golden thread linking the six events. Just a month after the Cradle contest, and three weeks out from the Sondela showdown, the battle at Van Gaalen marks more than just the mid-point in the series. For men’s standing leader, Marc Pritzen, it is an opportunity to cement his spot at the top. In the women’s general classification, Sarah Maré is poised to benefit from consistency, commitment, and remaining injury-free. Though Samantha Sanders could leapfrog from sixth to first with a victory, setting up a fascinating intra-Efficient Infiniti Insure showdown. Header Image: A victory for Samantha Sanders (leading) could see her move to 70 points, which would be enough to take the series lead following her second place at the Cradle in May. Photo by Anthony Churchyard. Taking place on Saturday, 6 June, the Van Gaalen leg of the Ford Trailseeker Series should see fiercely competitive racing. Famed as a mountain biking destination since 2008, the Van Gaalen Cheese Farm brings together the properties of multiple land owners to create an extensive network of over 80 kilometres of trails. The diversity of riding on offer makes it possible to host rides and races for the whole family, alongside the premier marathon-distance race. The elite men, elite women, and the avid amateur mountain bikers taking on the long course face a 67.7-kilometre route with 1 200 metres of climbing. From a racing and enjoyment perspective, the fact that the climbing is front-loaded into the first 45 kilometres should impact the tactics on the day. The strongest climbers will need to fight to get away early, while the fastest finishers will have to hang tough to remain in contact for the first one and a half to two hours to force the race down to a sprint. On current form, after being able to stick with Samantha Sanders for 145 of the 158 kilometres of the King Price Race to the Sun, it seems likely that Sarah Maré will be able to force the contest into the closing kilometres on Saturday. The Efficient Infiniti Insure rider finds herself in third on the overall standings after two rounds of the 2026 Ford Trailseeker Series, yet due to World Series XCO commitments for Candice Lill and an injury that required surgery for Vera Looser, Maré is the effective leader. She currently has 36 points in the bank, 5 more than Frances Swanepoel (née Janse van Rensburg), who is missing the Van Gaalen event, and 6 more than her teammate, Sanders. On 25 and 21 points, respectively, Danielle du Toit and Roxanne Kemp are 11 and 15 points adrift of Maré. Only Kemp will be racing Van Gaalen for Safari Essence Titan Racing, and should gain points, though it is less likely that she will close the gap on the de facto series leader and Sanders. Round 3 of the Ford Trailseeker Series also sees Luzaan Durand, sixth at the Cradle and twelfth overall, returning to the start line, alongside Tania Bugarin Ortiz , and Lilian Baber. Baber was twelfth from a stacked field at the Banhoek round, in January, and could upset the marathon specialists at Van Gaalen. Sanchia Malan makes the trip up to the North West from KwaZulu-Natal and will be hoping to challenge for a top-five placing for the first time in the series this year. Ricci-Lee Brookstone, best known for her performances on the road, has grown in stature on the mountain bike and will, along with Rachel Seaman and Kera Botha, not simply complete the elite women’s line-up but look to shake it up. Marc Pritzen headlines the men’s field for the third leg of the Ford Trailseeker Series. The Honeycomb 226ers star currently leads the overall standings after a victory and a second place thus far, but his nearest rival, Jaedon Terlouw, is also on fine form. Terlouw was victorious at the King Price Race to the Sun on 30 May and has the skills to exploit the descents of the Van Gaalen course, even if he may lose time to Pritzen on the longer climbs. Pritzen, on 70 points, and Terlouw, on 42 points, have a healthy buffer on the chasing pack of Wessel Botha, Arno du Toit, Jan Withaar, and Ignatius du Preez. Yet, with 40 points for a victory, a win by either of those four will dramatically change the look of the table. Of the quartet, Du Preez and Withaar are the most likely to cause an upset on current form. Du Preez sat out the King Price Race to the Sun, after securing third in the Cradle round of the Ford Trailseeker Series, while Withaar finished third behind Terlouw and Tristan Nortje at the end of the country’s premier gravel bike race last weekend. Johan de Villiers won the Sondela leg of the series in 2025 and is thus always a dangerous outsider. Herman Fourie, Jordon Boshoff, and Travis Rademan-Ludeke are likewise men to watch, as is Philip Buys. A true legend of the South African mountain biking scene, the Ford Prime Bunch team leader is overdue for a stellar result after a slightly disrupted first five months of 2026. 21-year-old Ernest Roets focuses on cross-country racing for much of the year, but that firepower could serve him well on the punchy route. Halalisani Ndebele, Jean du Plessis, Alan Gordon, Unathi Nxumalo, Tumelo Makae, Noah Odendaal, Henré Myburgh, Stephan Aldum, Marco de Sousa, Thabiso Zindela, Alec Colesky, Wesley Boshoff, Wium du Toit, Diwan Prinsloo, John-James Martens, Daniel Scheepers, Luan Vermeulen, and Gerhard Bekker complete the elite men’s line-up. The depth of the field and the prediction for near-perfect bike racing weather should encourage mountain bike fans to tune in to the Ford Trailseeker Series’ race coverage. Clear skies and crisp, but warming, temperatures will serve the racers well. To see them in action, follow @trailseekerseriesmtb on Instagram and like the Ford Trailseeker MTB Series Facebook page for regular updates on race day, Saturday, 6 June. Highlights from the race and the series can be viewed on the Ford Trailseeker Series YouTube channel. For more information, visit www.trailseeker.co.za. Ford Trailseeker Series Leaderboard Elite Men’s Standing after Round #2 of 6: Marc Pritzen: Honeycomb 226ers (70) Jaedon Terlouw: Toyota Specialized Imbuko (42 | - 28 points) Matthew Beers: Toyota Specialized (40 | - 30 points)* Wessel Botha: Insect Science (26 | - 44 points) Luke Moir: Mondraker Factory Racing (25 | - 45 points)* Arno du Toit: Insect Science (25 | - 45 points) Ignatius du Preez: Toyota Specialized Imbuko (25 | - 45 points) Michael Foster: Ford Prime Bunch (22 | - 48 points) Jordan Sarrou: BMC Factory Racing (20 | - 50 points)* Jan Withaar: Insect Science (20 | - 50 points) Elite Women’s Standing after Round #2 of 6: Vera Looser: Efficient Infiniti Insure (62 | Injured)* Candice Lill: Seattle Coffee Co Sabi Sabi Symbtech Consulting (40 | - 22 points)* Sarah Maré: Efficient Infiniti Insure (36 | - 26 points) Frances Janse Van Rensburg: Cycle Nation Enza Construction (31 | - 31 points) Tyler Jacobs: Liv Factory Racing (30 | - 32 points)* Samantha Sanders: Efficient Infiniti Insure (30 | - 32 points) Alessandra Keller: Thömus Maxon (25 | - 37 points)* Danielle du Toit: Safari Essence Titan Racing (25 | - 37 points) Roxanne Kemp: Safari Essence Titan Racing (21 | - 41 points) Hayley Preen: ChemChamp Honeycomb (20 | - 42 points) *Unlikely to race again in the Ford Trailseeker Series this year.

Proteas Women To Embark On Historic T20i Tour To Zimbabwe - https://www.runridedive.com/index.php/2026/05/29/proteas-women-to-embark-on-historic-t20i-tour-to-zimbabwe/ Cricket South Africa (CSA) and Zimbabwe Cricket are pleased to announce the first-ever T20 International (T20I) series between the Proteas Women and Zimbabwe, set to take place in Bulawayo from 11 - 19 September. The five-match series will be hosted at the Queens Sports Club, with fixtures scheduled for 11, 13, 15, 17 and 19 September. The opening encounter will mark the maiden senior women’s T20I clash between the two nations, following previous meetings involving the SA Emerging Women at the 2024 African Games T20 tournament in Ghana, as well as the One-Day International (ODI) Quadrangular Series featuring South Africa, India, Zimbabwe and Ireland in Potchefstroom in 2017. CSA Chief Executive Officer, Pholetsi Moseki, commented: “This is an important and exciting moment for women’s cricket in Africa. As CSA, we are proud to be part of a historic occasion that not only expands international opportunities for the Proteas Women but also contributes to the continued growth and visibility of the women’s game across the continent. “Zimbabwe Cricket has shown a strong commitment to the development of women’s cricket, and we look forward to what we believe will be a competitive and meaningful series for both teams and their supporters.” Zimbabwe Cricket Managing Director Givemore Makoni said hosting one of the world’s top teams represented another important milestone in the growth of women’s cricket in the country. “We are extremely pleased to welcome South Africa Women to Zimbabwe for what promises to be a historic and exciting series,” he said. “South Africa is one of the strongest teams in world cricket, and this tour presents our players with a valuable opportunity to test themselves against elite opposition in home conditions. “This series reflects Zimbabwe Cricket’s continued commitment to investing in the women’s game and creating more opportunities for our players to compete at the highest level. “We believe these matches will contribute significantly to the development of our national team while also inspiring the next generation of women to take up the sport.” Fixtures - Proteas Women T20I Outbound Tour against Zimbabwe Friday, 11 September - Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo Zimbabwe vs South Africa at 13:30 Sunday, 13 September - Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo Zimbabwe vs South Africa at 13:30 Tuesday, 15 September - Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo Zimbabwe vs South Africa at 13:30 Thursday, 17 September - Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo Zimbabwe vs South Africa at 13:30 Saturday, 19 September - Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo Zimbabwe vs South Africa at 13:30

Jaedon Terlouw and Samantha Sanders Victorious at Race to the Sun - https://www.runridedive.com/index.php/2026/06/01/jaedon-terlouw-and-samantha-sanders-victorious-at-race-to-the-sun/ Jaedon Terlouw and Samantha Sanders won the 2026 King Price Race to the Sun titles from fiercely competitive elite men’s and women’s races on Saturday, 30 May. Under blue skies on a warm North West Province winter’s day, Terlouw launched a solo raid with just under 40 kilometres of the 158-kilometre course remaining to win ahead of his teammate, Tristan Nortje, and Insect Science’s Jan Withaar. Sanders had to be more patient in her pursuit of victory, distancing all but Lisa Bone over the second half of the route, but doing enough in the final kilometre to be able to savour her success with a celebration on the Sun City finish line. The irrigation canals flowing from the Hartbeespoort Dam into the surrounding farming communities provided a beautiful backdrop for the opening kilometres. Photo by Dominic Barnardt. Race day had started misty and cool on the banks of the Hartbeespoort Dam, but warmed as the sun rose into a beautiful winter’s morning. The racing hotted up as the mercury rose, proving once again why the King Price Race to the Sun is South Africa’s premier gravel race. No other event in the country brings such a mix of road, mountain, and gravel bike specialists to the fore. Perhaps because the route from Die Oewer to Sun City mixed fast rolling gravel roads with sections of asphalt and short technical stretches. This allows road racers to compete with the more technically adept off-road campaigners.   The story pre-race had been how Ryan Gibbons and his Fly Cool Collective, in particular, would fare against the mountain bike teams, Toyota Specialized Imbuko and Insect Science. The answer was well, until a muddy section proved his undoing.   Fly Cool Collective set the early pace until the group started to break apart in the Sediba Kwêle game reserve section, nearing the halfway point of the race. With 55 kilometres to go, the race entered a new phase in which Terlouw and Nortje began trading attacks. The pressure exerted by the Toyota Specialized Imbuko combination whittled the leading group down to four, as only Gibbons and Withaar could follow the repeated accelerations.   Terlouw and Nortje were happy to let Gibbons sprint for the King Price King of the Mountain hotspot prize, then attack on the next technical segment shortly thereafter. Having left the broad gravel roads for meandering tracks through the grasslands, the surface roughened. A muddy section along one such track proved Gibbon’s undoing. A dropped chain and a cautious chase allowed Terlouw, Nortje, and Withaar to create a gap that the former World Tour road racer could not bridge across.   Terlouw then accelerated, and Withaar was unable to follow, allowing the Ride Joburg champion to fly solo through the final 40 kilometres. Behind Nortje was able to conserve energy, then attack Withaar, too, creating a perfect one-two for Toyota Specialized Imbuko. Withaar had to be content with third, while Gibbons lost fourth on the road to Jordan Boshoff, who finished with a powerful flourish.   “It was an awesome event!” Terlouw stated. “The Fly team took control from the start, until about halfway, when we went through the water point and started making it hard. When we hit the Reserve, we tried to make it even harder and drop a few guys on the corners through there. Back out on the district road, Tristan and I tried a few attacks, and eventually I managed to get away with one of my attacks. And from there it was a super hard time trial to the finish.”   In the elite women’s race, the war of attrition steadily burned off contenders. Though Cycle Nation Enza Construction played their joker early in an attempt to disrupt Efficient Infiniti Insure’s tactics. Bone’s teammate, Marzaan Mellett, attacked early, after just 23 kilometres, and established a maximum advantage of 1-minute over the Sanders-led main peloton.   Having finished on the King Price Race to the Sun podium before, but never having won the race, Sanders must have been wondering if all her efforts would leave her empty-handed once more. Despite having to work to shut down Mellett’s break and then to keep the tempo high, the eventual race winner never tired. By the halfway point, she had reduced the lead group to just five. Sarah Maré joined Sanders for Efficient Infiniti Insure in that final selection, while Tshenolo Pro Cycling was represented by Lucy Young and Taneal Otto. Bone was the lone Cycle Nation Enza Construction rider to make the group.   In Sediba Kwêle, inside 60 kilometres to go, Young began to lose contact. The next to be distanced was her teammate, Otto. Bone kicked to claim the King Price Queen of the Mountain prize, and still had the reserves to follow Sanders when Maré was eventually dropped, too. Heading into the final kilometres, it looked like the day’s primary protagonist would be forced to sprint the fast-finishing Bone for the title.   Fortunately for Sanders, leading into the finishing chute gave her an advantage that Bone could not overturn on tired legs. Crossing the line, the queen of the 2026 King Price Race to the Sun was able to sit up and enjoy her victory. Bone finished second and Maré third. Taneal Otto was fourth, ahead of Maude le Roux, who had finished strong and overhauled Young on the run into Sun City.   “I have to say it was a really cool race with very positive racing, all the women were keen to make it exciting, which is great,” Sanders said. “At the QOM, I said to Lisa that I wasn’t going to contest for the hotspot, but let’s keep rolling. And that’s where we managed to get away with Sarah . I just drove the break really hard in a group of three, rather than five, and from there it worked out perfectly.”   2026 King Price Race to the Sun Results Elite Men’s Results: Jaedon Terlouw: Toyota Specialized Imbuko (4:11:55) Tristan Nortje: Toyota Specialized Imbuko (4:13:06 | +1:11) Jan Withaar: Insect Science (4:14:16 | +2:21) Jordan Boshoff: Project Dream SA (4:17:53 | +5:58) Ryan Gibbons: Fly Cool Collective (4:17:55 | +6:00) Elite Women’s Results: Samantha Sanders: Efficient Infiniti Insure (4:50:01) Lisa Bone: Cycle Nation Enza Construction (4:50:03 | +2) Sarah Mare: Efficient Infiniti Insure (4:51:14 | +1:11) Taneal Otto: Tshenolo Pro Cycling (5:00:40 | +10:39) Maude le Roux: Tshenolo Pro Cycling (5:01:47 | +11:46)

Ingco Parys 400 To Open 2026 Sa Rally-raid Championship - https://www.runridedive.com/index.php/2026/06/01/ingco-parys-400-to-open-2026-sa-rally-raid-championship/ South African Rally-Raid competitors and enthusiasts of the sport have been waiting in anticipation for the 2026 season to start with the upcoming INGCO Parys 400, that is scheduled to take place on 19 and 20 June from Stonehenge River Lodge on the Kopjeskraal Road outside Parys in the North West Province and promises to deliver all the action to make up for the months of interruptions. Header Image - supplied SA Rally Raid This race will now form the opening round of the championship after the Stella event in the North-West Province had to be postponed due to the outbreak of Foot-and-Mouth disease, while severe storms and flooding in May in the southern Cape resulted in the Outeniqua 600 being postponed to August. It will be the eighth running of the event in the Parys area and competitors have experienced the terrain in dry and dusty as well as wet conditions, while many will remember the massive hailstorm during the maiden race in 2019. This year racers will again be competing in two provinces as the bulk of the route will be closer to Parys  situated in the Free State while the race route on the banks of the Vaal River will take them into the North-West Province. The Ingco Parys 400 will amplify the weekend buzz at this picturesque little town and will add an exciting activity for weekenders.  Although the racing will be a spectacle for spectators and enthusiasts, it will be a serious, albeit enjoyable outing for competitors who will be looking to open their 2026 scorecard with some valuable points – and a few hundred racing kilometres. For the 2026 edition of the Ingco Parys 400, the best sections of the route used for the double-header event last year, have been used to put together a challenging and fast-paced race. The race is scheduled to start at 09:30 on Friday morning, 19 June with a Qualifying Race close to Race Headquarters and the Designated Service Park (DSP) to determine the starting order for Stage One that will commence at 12:30. For the first stage, vehicles will follow a 14km (non-racing) liaison section via the R59 through the town to the Parys Airfield from where the stage will start and take competitors through open veld with some technical sections, sharp turns and water crossings. The event will finish at the airfield before returning  to the DSP at Stonehenge River Lodge. On Saturday, 20 June following the ceremonial start from Stonehenge River Lodge,  competitors will again depart through town on the minor Weiveld gravel road to the starting point for Stage Two, at 08:30 just past the bridge over the N1 from where teams will take on the 200km route, characterised by some muddy patches, open grasslands and typical mealie fields. The route will cross a few gravel roads and meander along the Free State backdrop towards the Weiveld Grain Silos and Boerevereniging Hall before reaching the R82, a major tar road, then circling back past the Dover Railway Station towards the silos and the finish close to the N1. From here the spectacle will travel via the R723 through Parys before taking the Kopjeskraal Road to the DSP for a 30-minute compulsory service break before a repeat of stage 2. These two stages will be a combination of fast and technical that will make for exciting action and an interesting event. With Parys a mere 150 kilometres from central Gauteng and about an hour’s drive from the West Rand and Potchefstroom, rally-raid enthusiasts are within a short drive to be part of the first race of the season. Spectators can look forward to experiencing spectacular vehicles, combined with new and familiar faces and world-class racing action.

Road Stars Take on MTB Kings at the 2026 King Price Race - https://www.runridedive.com/index.php/2026/05/28/road-stars-take-on-mtb-kings-at-the-2026-king-price-race/ On Saturday, 30 May 2026, the worlds of road and mountain bike racing will collide at the King Price Race to the Sun. South Africa’s premier gravel race features a fast-rolling route that suits the speed and tactical nous of road racers, but the mixed surfaces, unexpected challenges, and river crossing will play into the skillsets of mountain bikers on the start list. Ahead of the ninth edition*, cycling fans can look to riders like Ryan Gibbons, Tristan Nortje, Kent Main, and Wessel Botha to be in the mix for victory in the elite men’s race; while Samatha Sanders, Lisa Bone, Sarah Maré, and Lucy Young headline a fiercely competitive elite women’s line-up. Kent Main brings his Fly Cool Collective team to the King Price Race to the Sun, and their strength in depth is formidable. Photo by Tobias Ginsberg. “The King Price Race to the Sun usually sees bunch racing dynamics until fairly late in the 100-miler course, before the strongest rider strikes out solo in search of victory,” Race Director JP Nortje predicted. “With the shortening of the Sediba Kwêle section, which was relatively technical, the average speeds should be even higher, which could keep the groups together longer. The total distance is now also slightly below a full 100 miles, at 158 kilometres with 990 metres of climbing.” In the absence of the double defending champion, Marc Pritzen, Tristan Nortje starts as the red-hot favourite in the men’s race. The Cape Epic winner has raced sparingly since March, but the Toyota Specialized Imbuko rider is highly motivated whenever he pins on a race number and particularly so when approaching a race he has yet to win. His closest rivals are likely to be the Insect Science trio of Wessel Botha, Keagan Bontekoning, and Jan Withaar, as well as the Fly Cool Collective road stars, Ryan Gibbons and Kent Main. Gibbons has yet to race a gravel bike, but his World Tour pedigree and fast finish will have the mountain bikers concerned. Main has more gravel experience, and like Gibbons, would love to sharpen his skills on a course that suits him ahead of the South African Gravel Championships in two weeks. The competition between the Fly Cool Collective and the Tshenolo Pro Cycling Team, who will be represented by Brandon Downes and Gustav Roller at the King Price Race to the Sun, will add to the group dynamic, should they opt to work together against the mountain bike teams or in opposition to each other. Ryno Schutte, the current leader of the Mzansi National Road Series standings, is another road racer to watch. As are Casper Kruger, Keanan Roodt, and Christiaan Klopper. For the mountain bikers, Tristan Nortje will have the support of Ignatus du Preez to call upon. While their Toyota Specialized Imbuko team has Jaedon Terlouw as a second potential race winner, to counterattack off any moves the team leader makes. Johan de Villiers, Travis Rademan-Ludeke, Jordan Boshoff, Philip Buys, and Nico Bell could challenge for top ten finishes. Josh Rheeders, Always Steenkamp, Calvin Beneke, Willem Johannes Nieuwoudt, Rohan du Plooy, Daniyal Matthews, Jared Hay, JC Jooste, Noah Odendaal, Gavin and David Shelly, Matthew Horne, Thinus Mariz, Alec Coleske, Diwan Prinsloo, Jayden Naude, Ryno du Preez, Luan Vermeulen, Kyle Laing, Hendrik Lourens van der Westhuizen, Cullum Mitchell, Vincent Mettler, Andrew Worthington, and Johann Bothma complete the elite men’s line-up. In the women’s race, Lisa Bone’s recent gravel success, built on a foundation of an increasingly impressive road palmares, makes the road versus mountain bike showdown a little less clear-cut. The 2026 King Price Race to the Sun will be Bone’s second outing on the course, which seems particularly suited to her skillset, and neither Samathan Sanders nor Sarah Maré will want to go to the line with the Cycle Nation Enza Construction rider, recently returned from racing the Traka200 and Marly Grav in Europe. Maré won the King Price Race to the Sun in 2023, and could do so again. Though it is Sanders who is the more likely victor of the Efficient Infiniti Insure teammates. Tshenolo Pro Cycling’s Taneal Otto and Lucy Young could also use their team strength to counter the power of Bone, Sanders, Maré, and Catherine Kruger. As perhaps the only true gravel specialist in South Africa, Kruger (née Colyn) will use every ounce of her experience to take the fight to her rivals. These also include Bianca Nel, Sonica Klopper, and Maude Elaine le Roux. Ansonia van Velden, Megan Botha, Mazaan Mellett, Jana van der Merwe, and Simoné Burger complete the elite women’s field. A top ten finish for at least one of those five riders beckons. This keeps the racing both interesting and competitive well beyond the battle for victory. As does the race for “sub” finisher medals. At the King Price Race to the Sun, Sub-5, Sub-6, and Sub-7-hour finishes are rewarded with a special medal. Though to achieve those times, riders will need to avoid stopping too long at the famous water points. The Beestekraal Church congregation and the Magalies Citrus farmers pride themselves on their hospitality, and this year, 226ers will be elevating the aid station experience with world-class sports nutrition products too. To find out more about the King Price Race to the Sun, visit www.racetothesun.co.za. Follow @race2thesun on Instagram and to like the RACE2THESUN Facebook page to stay updated on race day, Saturday 30 May.

The Garden Route Giro Story Continues as 2027 Entries Open - https://www.runridedive.com/index.php/2026/05/26/the-garden-route-giro-story-continues-as-2027-entries-open/ The 2026 Garden Route Giro was praised as a stellar first edition. A gravel stage race where the racing thrilled, and every rider was treated to six days of ever-changing scenery, proper gravel, and the terrain upon which to write their narratives. To build a tale of adventure and endurance, of personal highs, moments of suffering, and the reward of pushing on and persevering through to the finish. The story continues in 2027 and entries to the second edition, which is set to take place from the 19th to the 24th of April next year, open on Wednesday, 27 May 2026, at 12:00 . The ever-changing landscapes of the Hessequa, Klein, and Great Karoos, and the Garden Route provide stunning backdrops for bike racing. Photo by Shift Media Co. “Our focus, when creating the Garden Route Giro, was to develop a gravel stage race which inspired exciting racing for the elite men’s and women’s titles, but also rewarded regular riders with a memorable and enjoyable experience,” Henco Rademeyer, of Dryland Event Management, explained. “The positive feedback we’ve received suggests that we have created something special, and we’re excited to build on the positives of 2026 to make 2027’s race even more remarkable.”   “The Garden Route Giro route will remain challenging, but balance distance and difficulty with fast tar road sections and breathtaking views. For every mountain pass ascent, there will, of course, be a thrilling descent, and we’ve seen that the strength of the groups makes traversing undulating roads fun, fast, and efficient. We will be launching the 2027 route at the end of August 2026, but gravel enthusiasts can bank on six days of proper gravel, with about 600 kilometres of racing and 11 000 metres of accumulated ascent,” Rademeyer confirmed.   A buzz was created around the inaugural edition. The vibe in the peloton was one of insiders sharing a love of a band yet to make it mainstream. Of intrepid adventurers being rewarded for opting not to wait and see, but to dive in and experience something truly remarkable.   “I loved the intimate setting and the routes. The family feeling and small towns,” former South African road, mountain bike marathon, and gravel champion Cherise Willeit praised. “The shorter routes with enough time to relax and connect are a big plus,” industry stalwart Charl Neethling added. “That, plus community inclusion at every race village, a comfortable race village setup in each town, and effective organisation, all came together to make it a special week.”   Pinarello Q36.5 Pro Cycling Team’s Douglas Ryder is no stranger to bike races. Ryder was among a select group who made use of the Platinum accommodation packages and enjoyed some of the Garden Route’s most luxurious boutique hotels while racing his gravel bike. “I loved the gravel, the routes, the premium package accommodation, and the people in the organisation,” Ryder smiled.   2026 participants returning for 2027 will be rewarded with exclusive early access, allowing them to enter 24 hours before general entries open and they will also be sent a limited-edition Garden Route Giro Founders’ cycling jersey, custom-made by First Ascent. This jersey will be shipped free of charge to the riders, regardless of where they are in the world.   On the bike, the success of the first Garden Route Giro was the diversity of the route. Starting among the pastures of the Hessequa, an undulating opening day was followed by four mountainous days as the race crossed into and out of the Klein Karoo en route to Knysna, in the Garden Route. A final indigenous forest fill stage took the race to Wilderness, and a similar theme will be followed in 2027. Green fields will give way to semi-arid plains, valleys of surprising floral diversity, and high mountains dotted with flowering proteas.   11 months out from the 2027 edition, it is too early to predict road conditions. Though it is safe to expect proper gravel, long smooth and fast hard-packed segments, some rutted and rough sections, and the odd rocky corner on a technical descent. Weather, in the build-up to the event, will play a role in determining the exact state of the roads, but that is part of the adventure of gravel.   Off the bike, the highlights are easier to predict. Dryland Event Management will once again be calling upon the local communities to showcase their hospitality and to provide much of the catering, under the expert guidance of Chef Gerbie van Deventer. Biogen’s world-class sports nutrition will power water points and post-stage recovery. In the afternoons, a chill zone will provide snacks and drinks to aid in further recovery.   All race entries include lunch, which will be served in the various race villages, but for 2027, breakfasts and dinners have been included in the tented accommodation packages too. Participants opting to stay in the race village will enjoy a simple breakfast on-site, as well as a hearty dinner filled with local favourites, only small-town South Africa can prepare to perfection.   The Gold and Platinum packages also include breakfast but do not include dinner, giving riders the flexibility to enjoy the wide variety of local restaurants at their own pace. However, the hotels and restaurant chefs are well aware of the nutritional demands of a stage race and will ensure that meals available to riders are both high quality and suited to endurance fuelling needs.   2027 participants will receive an official race garment, a First Ascent race bag, as well as gravel gifts from other partners to fill a jam-packed registration bag. The ride-only entry structure allows for the creation of a bespoke Garden Route Giro experience, where everyone can select the accommodation level and extras they desire to enhance their six days of gravel racing.   To share in the stories from the 2026 race and gain inspiration for the stories that will continue in 2027, follow @gardenroutegiro on Instagram and like the Garden Route Giro Facebook page.   Entries to the 2027 event, which is set to take place from 19 to 24 April next year, open on Wednesday, 27 May 2026 at 12:00 . South African based gravel riders can visit www.gardenroutegiro.co.za for more information and to enter online, while international participants can click through to entries.dryland.co.za to discover all the key details and for online entries.   2027 Garden Route Giro Date: 19-24 April 2027 Details: 6-Day, Solo, Gravel Stage Race Distance: 600km with 11 000m of climbing Race Entry Fee: R32 950 per rider until 31 December 2026 (thereafter R35 900) Campsite Only: R7 500 (Single and Double Occupation)* Standard Tent: R7 950 (Single Occupation)* Luxury Tent: R13 500 (Single Occupation) or R22 500 (Double)* Gold: R22 900 (Single Occupation) or R34 900 (Double) Premium: R49 900 (Single Occupation) or R79 900 (Double) Supporter Meal Package: R6 000 (All Meals from Lunch on 19 April to Lunch on 24 April 2027) Entries: entries.dryland.co.za Facebook: Garden Route Giro Instagram: @gardenroutegiro Website: www.gardenroutegiro.co.za | entries.dryland.co.za *Tented accommodation packages include breakfast and dinner. Lunches are included with the Race Entry.

Oceans 8 Charity Swim 2026 Raises Over R1.5 Million - https://www.runridedive.com/index.php/2026/05/28/oceans-8-charity-swim-2026-raises-over-r1-5-million/ The Oceans 8 Charity Swim has grown into one of KwaZulu-Natal’s most impactful charitable events, with more than 300 swimmers raising R1,517,687 through the 2026 edition, which took place at Vetch’s Beach at the Durban Undersea Club on 23 and 24 May. Image credit: Anthony Grote Photography With final donations still being processed through to the end of May, this total is expected to increase further, with all donations going to 14 beneficiary charities across conservation, education, rehabilitation, and care. A standout achievement this year came from Robert Tout (33), a Gauteng resident who raised an exceptional R101,185 while swimming the 8-Mile event in support of the National Sea Rescue Institute. “Starting as a small event in 2023 with big dreams of making real impact, we are incredibly proud of how Oceans 8 has grown and the way people are coming together to support others in need,” said Nicci Carvalho, Oceans 8 event spokesperson. “The conditions were incredible, with fish over the reef and lovely weather. It felt like a celebration, not only of athletic achievement but of impact and the privilege of swimming in the ocean.”   A Growing Movement for Good Created by charities for charities, Oceans 8 is South Africa’s first warm-water ocean challenge of its kind, designed to connect sport with sustainable fundraising. This year, more than 300 swimmers took part across the 1-, 4-, 8- and 16-mile events, collectively swimming approximately 1,455 miles for charity over the weekend. A notable trend in 2026 was the increase in 1-Mile participants, reflecting growing community engagement and wider accessibility for swimmers supporting the 10 invitational charities. The event also welcomed a significant number of participants from Gauteng, alongside a strong return of swimmers who have now taken part in all four editions of Oceans 8.   Oceans 8 By Numbers 2026 R4,554,486 raised since 2023 inception R1,517,687 raised in 2026 (101% of fundraising target achieved) R101,185 raised by top performer, Robert Tout Over 300 swimmers participated Approximately 1,455 miles swum for charity 14 beneficiary charities supported annually 4 founding charities driving long-term impact Development Swimmers Programme   This year also saw a continuation of the Oceans 8 Development Swimmers Programme, made possible through four anonymous donors and a contribution from sponsor, Alu Direct. Five young swimmers and their coach, Janet Dlamini, were brought to the event for a life-changing ocean experience. Janet’s journey began at age 16 after witnessing a life-saving rescue, inspiring a lifelong commitment to lifesaving and youth mentorship at Zinkwazi Beach. Today, she works with underprivileged youth, using swimming and lifesaving skills to guide them toward positive futures. Her swimmers this year included: Newly qualified lifeguards aspiring to become professional divers Young trainees aiming for careers in the Navy and maritime safety Emerging lifeguards developing both competitive and professional aquatic skills Coach Janet shared her gratitude, saying, “The best experience ever! Thank you for the amazing opportunity. We had so much fun. The guys were excited, a bit tired, but happy and proud.”   Thanks to Sponsors and Partners Oceans 8 extended its gratitude to all sponsors and supporters who made the 2026 event possible, including: arena, Stanley, Alu Direct, RCVR Electrolytes, LEDurban and Build It Hilton Village. Special thanks were also given to the volunteer teams, participating charities, safety and medical crews, and the wider community whose time and dedication helped bring the event to life.   8- and 16-mile charities supported by the Oceans 8 Charity Swim 2026: Duzi-Umngeni Conservation Trust National Sea Rescue Institute Project Rhino Singakwenza Early Childhood Education   1- and 4-mile charities supported by the Oceans 8 Charity Swim 2026: CROW (Centre for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife) Game Rangers’ Association of South Africa IPSS Search and Rescue Makabongwe Pre-School Made for More Nazareth House in Berea Pietermaritzburg Children’s Home Rise Against Hunger Africa Sport for Lives Umduduzi – Hospice Care for Children For more information, visit www.oceans8swim.co.za. Keep updated on all the action by following @oceans8_charityswim on Instagram and oceans8swim on Facebook.

READY TO PLAY | BUILDING AN ALL-ROUND PATHWAY - https://www.runridedive.com/index.php/2026/05/28/ready-to-play-building-an-all-round-pathway/ For many young South Africans, the journey into cricket doesn’t begin on a perfectly manicured pitch or in front of a crowd. It begins with access; to equipment, to safe spaces, and to someone who believes they belong in the game. Cricket South Africa’s (CSA) recently launched ‘Ready to Play’ programme is built on that simple, but powerful idea. The idea that every child, regardless of background, deserves the chance to pick up a bat, bowl a ball, and feel what it means to be part of the game. Across communities, in schools and hubs, the programme aims to reshape what that first moment looks like. For some, it’s receiving their very first cricket bat. For others, it’s stepping onto a field for the first time, guided by coaches who understand that development is about more than just technique; it’s about confidence, belonging, and opportunity. This past season, the Hollywoodbets Pro Series showed us the importance of taking the first step to nurturing the building blocks of our pathway. The finalist teams in the Hollywoodbets Pro50 and Pro20 competitions came together to pack essential care packages that were donated to Sukuma Primary School in Umlazi and John Dube High School in KwaMashu in KwaZulu-Natal. From hygiene products to everyday school necessities such as pens, rulers and erasers, each item that was packed carries the same intention, to support young people in ways that extend beyond the boundary. “It’s incredibly important for us to recognise the role we can play beyond the boundary,” said World Sports Betting Western Province Women’s captain, Leah Jones. “Taking part in something like this reminds us that the game has given us so much, and it’s our responsibility to help open those same doors for the next generation.” Fellow finalist, DP World Lions Women Captain, Kgomotso Rapoo, echoed the sentiment, highlighting the impact of access at grassroots level. “Programmes like Ready to Play are changing lives in ways that go far beyond cricket. “When young people are supported in a holistic way, both in the classroom and on the field, it builds confidence. And confidence is where everything starts.” As part of CSA’s broader development pathway, the initiative seeks to nurture the game from its foundation, ensuring that every aspiring cricketer has the opportunity to begin their journey. Because before every cover drive, every wicket, and every Proteas cap… someone, somewhere, was simply given the chance to be ready to play.

Rip Curl Vic Bay Surf Pro and Pro Junior Surf Events Return - https://www.runridedive.com/index.php/2026/05/25/rip-curl-vic-bay-surf-pro-and-pro-junior-surf-events-return/ Rip Curl South Africa is proud to announce the Rip Curl Vic Bay Surf Pro Men's and Women's WSL QS 2,000 events, as well as the Rip Curl Vic Bay Pro Junior Men's and Women's WJR 1,000 events at Victoria Bay in June. These events will form the official start of the 2026/2027 Africa Qualifying Series. Header Image: Louise Lepront in action at the Vic Bay 2025 event © Kody McGregor Who Rip Curl South Africa and the World Surf League (WSL) Africa will host the 2026 Rip Curl Vic Bay Surf Pro, with support from George Municipality and George Tourism. Additional sponsors include Bliz Eyewear, Bilt International, Yeti, The Pottery in George, and the Royal St Andrews Hotel in Port Alfred. These tournaments will attract the top surfers in the country as they bid for points, qualification and prize money. What The Rip Curl Vic Bay Surf Pro will feature a WSL Africa Qualifying Series (QS) 2,000 event for men and women, alongside a Pro Junior tournament for men and women. The event marks the official start of the 2026/2027 WSL Africa Qualifying Series season. When The contest takes place from June 19-21, 2026, a prime window period for excellent surf at this premier right-hand point break. Where The event will run at Victoria Bay on the Garden Route, one of South Africa’s most recognised high-performance surf breaks. Why The Rip Curl Vic Bay Surf Pro continues the momentum generated by the recent Rip Curl contests in Port Alfred, where both events reached maximum capacity and enjoyed excellent surf conditions throughout the competition period. The addition of the Pro Junior divisions and a dedicated broadcast across the full event window will further increase exposure for the surfers, the event, and the Garden Route region. WSL Africa Regional Director Tasha Mentasti said the event continues to play an important role in the regional surfing calendar. “WSL Africa is excited to return to the iconic Garden Route for the 2026 Rip Curl Vic Bay Surf Pro, marking our second consecutive year hosting this event in one of South Africa’s most celebrated surf destinations,” said Mentasti. “As the official start of the 2026/2027 Africa Qualifying Series, the Rip Curl Vic Bay Surf Pro plays a key role in setting the tone for the season ahead. “Thanks to the investment and support from Rip Curl South Africa, we’ve been able to elevate the event further this year by adding a Pro Junior division and delivering a dedicated broadcast across the full duration of the competition. “This not only enhances opportunities for emerging talent but also significantly increases the visibility of the event and the region. “It is particularly rewarding to work alongside partners who understand the broader impact of these regional qualifiers. “Events like the Rip Curl Vic Bay Surf Pro bring meaningful economic and social benefits to small coastal towns, especially during the quieter winter months, while continuing to grow the sport at both a grassroots and professional level.”

SA Hockey Announce Senior Women’s Squad For World Cup Journey - https://www.runridedive.com/index.php/2026/05/19/sa-hockey-announce-senior-womens-squad-for-world-cup-journey/ South African Hockey has announced the South Africa Senior Women’s Squad for 2026, with the selected group set to come together for an upcoming national training camp as preparations continue to build towards the FIH Hockey Women’s World Cup. The squad brings together a compelling blend of established senior internationals, players who have continued to perform strongly on the domestic stage, and an exciting group of emerging talent pushing their way into the national conversation. The camp will provide an important opportunity for the national programme to deepen combinations, assess the broader playing group and continue shaping the team’s pathway towards the game’s biggest stage. The 32-player squad reflects the strength and growing depth of the women’s game across the country. The selection follows the recent Senior Women’s IPT, with the majority of the squad having featured at the 2026 edition of the tournament. Among those named are experienced national team figures such as Onthatile Zulu, Hannah Pearce, Stephanie Botha, Kayla De Waal and Marlise van Tonder, while players including Jodie Blows, Jehan Abrahams, Nomsa Mzizi, Reabestwe Phume and Baylee Engelke form part of a younger generation continuing to make a strong impression. The camp represents another significant step in South Africa’s long-term preparation, with the national programme focused on building a squad capable of competing with confidence and ambition on the world stage. Beyond tactical and technical work, the gathering will allow the coaching and selection structures to strengthen the environment, test combinations and continue driving standards as the road to the World Cup sharpens. South Africa Senior Women’s Squad 2026 Name Caps Name Caps Ane’ Janse van Vuuren 9 Laiken Brisset 5 Baylee Engelke 0 Lerato Mahole 24 Bianca Wood 47 Marlise Van Tonder 48 Cailynn Den Bakker 27 Morgan De Jager 12 Caylin Maree 5 Nomsa Mzizi 3 Cerian Fourie 7 Ntsopa Mokoena 49 Daniella De Oliviera 7 Ongeziwe Mali 48 Donne De Wet 0 Onthatile Zulu 79 Edith Molikoe 57 Paris-Gail Isaacs 18 Hannah Pearce 63 Reabestwe Phume 2 Jana-Mari Botha 2 Richele Norval 2 Jean-Leigh Du Toit 48 Shanna Mendonca 8 Jeanri Thomas 7 Stephanie Botha 53 Jehan Abrahams 0 Taheera Agousti 43 Jodie Blows 0 Tamlyn Kock 4 Kayla De Waal 42 Tegan Fourie 31 The announcement signals the next chapter for the South African Women’s programme, as a talented group begins the work of turning depth into strength, promise into performance and ambition into a World Cup-ready unit.

South Africa Name Men’s Squad for FIH Hockey Nations Cup - https://www.runridedive.com/index.php/2026/05/19/south-africa-name-mens-squad-for-fih-hockey-nations-cup/ The South African Hockey Association has announced the SA Men’s squad that will carry the nation’s hopes at the FIH Hockey Men’s Nations Cup South Africa 2026, set to take place at Hartleyvale Stadium in Cape Town from 11 to 20 June 2026. With international hockey returning to South African soil in one of the sport’s most significant annual competitions, the hosts have named a strong 20-player group for a tournament that will bring together nine ambitious nations, all chasing the title and the coveted pathway towards the FIH Hockey Pro League. The squad blends established international quality with players who have continued to force their way into the national picture through domestic and provincial performances. The Cassiem brothers, Dayaan and Mustapha, form part of a dangerous attacking group alongside the returning Tevin Kok. Sam Mvimbi, Andrew Hobson, Nic Spooner and Calvin Davis represented the South Africans at Olympic Games in Paris and will be key to the experience. Kenton Melville, who played in the unofficial matches against Netherlands, has his first call up to receive international caps, while a further nine players have featured in less than 10 tests for South Africa, including IPT player of the tournament Niel Raath. The Cape Town showpiece will mark the return of the Men’s Nations Cup to South Africa, following the inaugural edition staged in Potchefstroom in 2022, a tournament that South Africa emerged victorious at. This time, Hartleyvale will provide the stage as the home side looks to turn local energy into momentum against a field that includes France, Ireland, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, Scotland and the United States. SA Men’s Squad FIH Hockey Men’s Nations Cup South Africa 2026 Name Caps Name Caps Andrew Hobson 48 Kenton Melville 0 Ayakha Mthalane 7 Luke Wynford 14 Brendan du Toit 4 Mustapha Cassiem 65 Calvin Davis 18 Niel Raath 6 Carlon Mentoor 5 Nic Spooner 82 Cullin de Jager 7 Peabo Lembethe 86 Dayaan Cassiem 89 Sam Mvimbi 73 Hans Neethling 9 Sihle Ngubane 34 Jamie Seale 5 Tevin Petersen 2 Jared Cass 4 Tevin Kok 74 South Africa will open their campaign in front of a home crowd taking on France. 48 hours later  they will be up against USA before rounding off their group stage against Ireland on Youth Day. With the Nations Cup arriving in Cape Town just months ahead of the 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup, this tournament presents a powerful platform for the SA Men to build rhythm, sharpen combinations and make a statement on home turf.

Lovemore makes it three medals in two weekends - https://www.runridedive.com/index.php/2026/05/18/lovemore-makes-it-three-medals-in-two-weekends/ Hamish Lovemore added two more medals to his impressive collection when he collected a silver and a bronze at the ICF Canoe Sprint and Paracanoe World Cup in Brandenburg, Germany over the weekend. In icy conditions, Lovemore raced to a spectacular second place in the final of the 1 000m K1 event on Saturday, and then followed that up with a bronze medal in the 5 000m K1 event on Sunday. The two medals from this week's World Cup regatta mean South Africa's top sprinter has now picked up three World Cup medals from two weekend's of racing in Europe and, although it is still early in the process, places him on track to qualify for the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028. Saturday's silver medal in the 1 000m race will be particularly pleasing for Lovemore after he finished ninth in the final of the Olympic-distance event at the opening World Cup in Szeged, Hungary a week ago. While he was never really in contention for a win seven days ago, Lovemore paddled an almost perfectly-judged race this week. He was never far off the pace on Saturday, and led the field through the 750m mark before being edged out by the fast-finishing Hungarian Balint Kopasz, with Australian Thomas Green claiming third, ahead of last week's winner, Portugal's Fernando Pimenta. "I'm so happy ... it's the best end to the trip," said Lovemore after his race on Saturday. "The conditions were really difficult coming from South Africa – the cold! It's the first time I have had to wear a thermal with a rain jacket underneath." In the 5 000m, Danish powerhouse Mads Pedersen, a completely dominant force in the longer events in 2025, was not going to allow Pimenta to outsprint him as happened last weekend. This week the Dane broke away and paddled to a big 30-second victory with Lovemore matching last week's result in third, 11 seconds behind the Portuguese speedster. In other results, Esti Olivier reached two C Finals and finished second and ninth in the 200m and 500m respectively, while Christjan Coetzee ended sixth in the 200m men's C Final. Helen Jansen van Vuuren reached the semi-finals of the 1 000m. SA Paddler Results Men Hamish Lovemore: K1 1 000m – Final 2nd; K1 5 000m – 3rd Chrisjan Coetzee: K1 200m – C Final 6th; K1 500m – Heats 7th Nic Weeks: K1 200m – Heats 7th; K1 500m – Heats 8th Weeks & Coetzee: K2 500m – Heats 9th Women Esti Olivier: K1 500m – C Final 9th; K1 200m – C Final 2nd; K1 5 000m – DNF Helen Jansen van Vuuren: 1 000m – Semi 9th; K1 5 000m – 31st Headeer Image: Paddle Photography /Paddlesport SA /Gameplan Media

Lovemore leads the way for Team SA - https://www.runridedive.com/index.php/2026/05/14/lovemore-leads-the-way-for-team-sa/ Hamish Lovemore once again led the charge for South Africa as he collected a bronze medal and reached a final in the season-opening ICF Canoe Sprint World Cup regatta in Szeged, Hungary over the weekend. Header Image: Hamish Lovemore (right) on the podium for the 5 000m alongside Portugal's Fernando Pimenta (centre) and Denmark's Mads Pedersen. (ICF /Gameplan Media) Lovemore led the six-person team's results with a third place in the 5 000m event that wrapped up competition on Sunday afternoon, after he had earlier reached the final in the Olympic-distance 1 000m K1 race on Saturday. The Szeged regatta was the first World Cup to count towards the new ranking system for LA28 qualification, which means Lovemore picked up valuable points in his quest to be return to the Olympic stage in Los Angeles in 2028. The big winner in the men's races was 36-year-old Fernando Pimenta, who won the Olympic distance 1 000m event before outsprinting Denmark superstar Mads Pedersen at the finish of the 5 000m event after the pair had broken away from Lovemore earlier in the six-lap race. Lovemore finished ninth in the 1 000m. Cape Town's Uli Hart finished 11th in the 5 000m event while Esti Olivier ended eighth in the women's 200m B Final. The only other South African paddler to progress through heats and semi-finals into a final was Nicholas Weeks, who finished seventh in the 200m men's C Final. Hart and Helen Jansen Van Vuuren were eliminated in the semi-finals of the men's and women's 1 000m respectively, while Jansen van Vuuren ended 24th in the women's 5 000m race. The next World Cup takes place in Brandenburg in Germany from Thursday to Sunday with Lovemore, Olivier, Weeks, Jansen van Vuuren, and Chrisjan Coetzee all taking part once again. Full SA Paddler Results K1 Men 5 000m: Hamish Lovemore – Final 3rd Uli Hart – Final 11th K1 Men 1 000m: Lovemore – Final 9th Hart – Semi-final 9th K1 Women 200m: Esti Olivier – B Final 8th K1 Men 200m: Nicholas Weeks – C Final 7th Chrisjan Coetzee – Heats 7th K1 Women  5000m: Helen Jansen Van Vuuren – Final 24th K1 Women 1 000m: Jansen van Vuuren – Semi-final 9th K1 Women 500m: Olivier – Heats 8th K1 Men 500m: Weeks – Heats 7th Coetzee – Heats 7th

Strength Training for Longevity: Building a Body That Lasts - https://www.runridedive.com/index.php/2026/05/11/strength-training-for-longevity-building-a-body-that-lasts/ Most people pick up their first set of weights with one thing in mind: how they look. It is a perfectly reasonable place to start. But if that is the only reason you are training, you are missing the bigger picture by a considerable margin. The most compelling argument for strength training has nothing to do with aesthetics. It is about how well your body functions at 60, 70 and beyond. It is about staying independent, staying sharp and staying out of the doctor's surgery. And the evidence behind it is stronger than most people realise. This is not a message aimed at elite athletes or seasoned gym-goers. It is aimed at anyone who wants to age well, maintain their quality of life and reduce the risk of the health complications that cut so many people's active years short. Resistance training, done regularly and done sensibly, is one of the most powerful preventative health tools available to us. It is time we started treating it that way. Muscle is about far more than size We tend to think of muscle as something you build to look good or perform better in sport. In reality, muscle is one of the body’s most important functional tissues. It plays a direct role in regulating blood sugar, supporting your metabolism and keeping your weight in a healthy range. The more of it you carry, and the better condition it is in, the more capably your body handles the food you eat and the energy you burn. The problem is that we start losing muscle mass from our mid-thirties onwards. Without intervention, that loss accelerates with every passing decade. The knock-on effects are significant: slower metabolism, rising blood sugar, greater fatigue and a steadily increasing risk of type 2 diabetes and other chronic conditions. This is not an inevitability. It is a default outcome for people who do not train. Resistance training is one of the most direct and reliable ways to slow that process down, and research published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine has found that regular muscle-strengthening activity is associated with a meaningful reduction in all-cause mortality. For something that requires no prescription and no specialist equipment, that is a remarkable return. Nutrition plays an equally important role here. Adequate protein intake is essential for muscle protein synthesis, the process by which the body repairs and builds muscle tissue after training. For many people, particularly those over 40, meeting daily protein targets through food alone is a challenge, which is why a quality whey protein supplement can make a practical and meaningful difference to long-term muscle health. Your bones need it too Bone density follows a similar pattern to muscle. It peaks in early adulthood and gradually declines from there, particularly in women after menopause. The consequences of ignoring this are serious. A hip fracture in later life is not simply a painful inconvenience. It carries a significant risk of long-term decline, loss of independence and, in some cases, far worse outcomes. The statistics make for sobering reading. What many people do not appreciate is that bone responds to load. When you resistance train, you are not just building muscle. You are sending a direct signal to your skeleton to maintain its density and strength. You are also developing the balance and neuromuscular co-ordination that matters enormously when it comes to avoiding falls in the first place. Strength training, in this sense, is as much about injury prevention as it is performance. The benefits you cannot see Perhaps the most surprising research to emerge in recent years concerns the brain. Regular resistance training has been linked to meaningful improvements in mood, reduced anxiety and better cognitive function as we age. Studies point to the increased production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor, a protein that supports the health and growth of brain cells, as one of the key drivers behind this effect. This matters for a generation increasingly aware of the risks of cognitive decline. The people who train consistently as they age tend to be not only physically stronger, they tend to be mentally sharper too. The connection between physical conditioning and long-term brain health is one of the most significant areas of ongoing research in the field, and the early findings are difficult to ignore. It is also worth noting the role that creatine supplementation plays in supporting both muscular and cognitive health. Once considered purely a performance supplement for athletes, creatine monohydrate has attracted growing scientific interest for its potential role in maintaining muscle mass and energy metabolism as we age, with emerging research also pointing to neurological benefits. The question worth asking There is a distinction that health professionals increasingly draw between lifespan and healthspan. Lifespan is how long you live. Healthspan is how many of those years you spend feeling well, moving freely and living on your own terms. It is the difference between simply reaching old age and genuinely enjoying it. Strength training is one of the most accessible and well-researched ways to extend healthspan. You do not need to be an athlete, a gym regular or particularly young to begin. The research is clear that the earlier you start, and the more consistently you continue, the greater the return. But it is equally clear that starting later still delivers significant benefit. It is never too late. The habits you build today are the foundation your future self will stand on. That is reason enough to start lifting. The content of this article is not intended as medical advice. Consult with your health practitioner regarding your personal needs for training, supplements or anything else related to your personal health journey. 

SA Hockey IPT | Southern Gauteng and Western Province Crowned - https://www.runridedive.com/index.php/2026/05/09/sa-hockey-ipt-southern-gauteng-and-western-province-crowned/ SA Hockey IPT 2026 | Southern Gauteng and Western Province Crowned Champions of South Africa The South African Hockey IPT reached its conclusion at the University of Johannesburg on a cold Saturday night, with two outstanding finals bringing the curtain down on a week of elite provincial hockey. photo credit: Marcel Sigg In the women’s final, it was a thrilling Gauteng derby as Southern Gauteng and Northerns Blues battled for national supremacy in a tense and fiercely contested encounter. Clear opportunities were few and far between in the opening half, although Southern Gauteng came closest when a dangerous deflection crashed against the crossbar and away. The game was desperate for a moment of brilliance and Bianca Wood delivered exactly that. The Southern Gauteng star produced a sensational finish, lifting the ball emphatically into the roof of the net to ignite the packed crowd at UJ. Northerns Blues threw everything forward in search of an equaliser and came agonisingly close when Ntsopa Mokoena missed a golden chance to level matters. Southern Gauteng punished the miss moments later. Hayley Kilfoil reacted quickest to a looping ball inside the circle and hammered home to seal a famous victory. The result confirmed Southern Gauteng as champions of South Africa for the first time since 2021. Western Province claimed the bronze medal after edging North West in a shootout following a goalless draw. WP Peninsula secured fifth place with a 3-0 victory over KZN Raiders, while Free State finished seventh after defeating Eastern Province 1-0. Women’s Individual Awards • Top Goal Scorer – Bianca Wood (Southern Gauteng) • Best Goalkeeper – Marlise van Tonder (Western Province) • Best Young Player – Baylee Engelke (Northerns Blues) • Player of the Tournament – Paris-Gail Isaacs (Southern Gauteng) The mens final will live long in the memory as one of the great games of hockey in South African Hockey history. Western Province struck first through Kenton Melville in the opening quarter, but Southern Gauteng responded before the end of the period when Sihle Ngubane produced a brilliant finish to restore parity. The two sides remained locked at 1-1 heading into halftime. Western Province regained the advantage in the second half after a slick attacking move saw the ball cut back to an unmarked Thabang Jeyi, who calmly fired home to silence the UJ crowd. Reuben Sendzul produced one of the goals of the tournament with a brilliant reverse stick strike to make it 3-1. Southerns pulled a goal back late on through Liam Hermanus to set up a grandstand finish. And a grandstand finish is what we got. Cameron le Forestier levelled with just 170 seconds left in the game but Niel Raath re-established the lead for Western Province with a brilliant penalty corner flick that looked to seal the title. Sihle Ngubane won a penalty corner for Southern Gauteng and Hermanus fired a leveller in the final seconds. The game would go to a shootout, which would extend for two sudden death rounds but the defending champions would finally find the killer punch and retain the title in dramatic fashion The bronze medal was secured by North West, inspired by Jethro Eustice in a dramatic 3-2 victory over KZN Raiders to earn their first medal in five years. Northerns Blues finished fifth after defeating Free State 4-2, while SG Witsies claimed seventh place in a thrilling 4-3 win over Eastern Province. Men’s Individual Awards • Top Goal Scorer – Niel Raath (Western Province) • Best Goalkeeper – Cullin de Jager (Southern Gauteng) • Best Young Player – Ozair Pillai (Western Province) • Player of the Tournament – Niel Raath (Western Province)

SA Hockey IPT 2026 | Finals Bound and Relegation Heartbreak - https://www.runridedive.com/index.php/2026/05/09/sa-hockey-ipt-2026-finals-bound-and-relegation-heartbreak/ The penultimate day of the South African Hockey IPT delivered everything expected of finals weekend. Dramatic shootouts, dominant displays, heartbreak and relief all unfolded as the finalists were confirmed and the relegation battle reached its conclusion. Header Image: Marcel Sigg In the first women’s semi-final Southern Gauteng and Western Province produced a pulsating contest that kept spectators on the edge of their seats throughout. Western Province struck first through Rebecca Kaps to take the lead into half-time, but Bianca Wood hauled Southern Gauteng level in the final quarter to send the match to a shootout. Western Province looked in complete control when they raced into a 2-0 lead in the shootout, but Southerns clawed their way back to force sudden death. Tamlyn Kock and Morgan de Jager held their nerve as Southern Gauteng completed a remarkable comeback to eliminate the defending champions and book their place in the final. The second semi-final saw Northerns Blues and North West battle fiercely for control early on, but it was the Pretoria side who settled quickest. Ntsopa Mokoena broke the deadlock with a powerful finish before Baylee Engelke doubled the advantage in the third quarter. North West threw everything forward in response but could not find a way through as Northerns secured their place in the gold medal match. In the women’s relegation games, Cerian Fourie starred with a hat-trick while Tatum Kroutzadded a brace in a commanding 5-1 victory for KZN Raiders over Eastern Province. ThandileDeyi grabbed the consolation for EP, but the result confirmed Eastern Province’s relegation to the B Section in 2027 while the Raiders secured survival. WP Peninsula also retained their A Section status after a strong final quarter display against Free State. Khanyisile Gusha struck twice either side of an Isabella Booysen goal to seal a 3-0 victory. Women’s Final Day Fixtures • 7th Place Playoff – 09:00 – Free State vs Eastern Province • 5th Place Playoff – 09:00 – WP Peninsula vs KZN Raiders • Bronze Medal Match – 13:00 – Western Province vs North West • Final – 17:15 – Southern Gauteng vs Northerns Blues In the men’s competition the defending champions Western Province delivered a ruthless performance in a repeat of the 2025 final against WP Peninsula. Niel Raath and Carlon Mentoor both scored hat-tricks while Brett Horn and Reuben Sendzul added further goals in an emphatic victory. Liam Sorensen netted a late consolation for Peninsula. The second semi-final between Southern Gauteng and KZN Raiders was far tighter, with the breakthrough only arriving shortly before half-time when Marvin Simons produced a clinical finish to hand Southerns the lead. In the second half a brilliantly dinked finish by Cameron le Forestier doubled the lead. Lumi Matwele breathed life into the game with a brilliant reverse stick strike to half the deficit. Southerns had a late goal disallowed but held on for the win and a place in the final. Earlier in the relegation battle Northerns Blues came from behind to preserve their A Section status with a dramatic 3-2 victory over Eastern Province. Luken Brunette opened the scoring before EP turned the game on its head in a devastating 60-second spell through Xander Elkington and Kian Cambier. The Blues responded brilliantly as Taine Tanner-Ellis levelled matters before Ruard Booysen scored the decisive goal to secure survival. Free State also confirmed their place in the A Section for 2027 with a 5-2 victory over SG Witsies. Ross Breytenbach and Melrick Maddocks both scored braces while Kaden Henderson added another. Neil van Onselen and Keanan Wax replied for Witsies, who now drop to the B Section. Men’s Final Day Fixtures • 7th Place Playoff – 11:00 – SG Witsies vs Eastern Province • 5th Place Playoff – 15:00 – Northerns Blues vs Free State • Bronze Medal Match – 11:00 – WP Peninsula vs KZN Raiders • Final – 19:15 – Southern Gauteng vs Western Province