Totalsports Women’s Day 10km race a triumph as Emmarentia turns pink for the day

Runners had a great day but the real winner was PinkDrive who received R75 000 for their breast cancer work.

The start of the race where competition was fierce. Photo: Tobias Ginsberg

Thousands of women, mostly dressed in bright pink, competed in the Totalsports Women’s Day 10km race on August 9 in Emmarentia to mark the occasion and raise awareness about PinkDrive.

PinkDrive is a non-profit charity that creates and improves breast cancer awareness, education and provides access to treatment for women who otherwise might not be able to get medical help.

Glenrose Xaba won the Totalsports Women’s 10km race with an impressive time of 00:34:26. Photo: Tobias Ginsberg

Glenrose Xaba from the Boxer Athletics Club was the runner to beat, crossing the finish line first and successfully defending his title after winning it in 2019.

“The route was tough. It was very hilly, and the competition was tough. I entered the Totalsports Women’s Race because it celebrates Women’s Day and because it supports PinkDrive. My mom has cancer, so I decided to run for her today. Winning today shows that I am dedicated and disciplined, and that I am in good shape after having a lot of injuries over the past two years.”

The start of the Totalsports Women’s 10km race on Women’s Day. Photo: Tobias Ginsberg

Head of Totalsports Jonathan Stein said, “We had a fantastic time celebrating National Women’s Day with thousands of runners and walkers across three cities. We’ve missed the excitement and amazing vibe that the entrants bring to the race.

“We would like to thank each entrant and spectator for joining us today, without your support the event would not be possible. Finally, a shout-out to all the PinkDrive representatives that were with us. You do amazing work, and your zest to always help those in need leaves us in awe. It’s an absolute pleasure to have PinkDrive as the event charity.”

Runners kitted out in pink for Women’s Day enjoy the run and festive atmosphere. Photo: Tobias Ginsberg

PinkDrive received a donation of R75 000 during the prize-giving ceremony. For more information on PinkDrive please visit www.pinkdrive.co.za

Top 3 results from the Totalsports Women’s race in Johannesburg:

First: Glenrose Xaba 00:34:36
Second: Irvette van Zyl 00:34:42
Third: Cacisine Sosebo 00:35:21

Races were also run in Cape Town and Durban making it a truly South African event to celebrate women and raise awareness about breast cancer. Fortunate Chidzivo was the winner of the race in Cape Town with a time of 00:35:28, and Tayla Kavanagh crossed the finish line in Durban with an impressive 00:33:11.

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