Former West Rander crowned Totalsports Women’s Race champ

The streets of Johannesburg and Durban resembled a ‘sea of pink’ on August 9 with runners and walkers coming out in their masses to participate in the iconic Totalsports Women’s Race – South Africa’s largest Women’s Day celebration.

Former West Rand Irvette van Zyl was the athlete to beat in Johannesburg while Cacisile Sosibo showed the women a clean pair of heels in Durban.

Running in the colours of Hollywood Athletics Club, Irvette (Pretoria East) claimed her sixth Totalsports Women’s Race Johannesburg victory on the day (having won in 2017 and 2007 – 2010), in a deserving time of 34 minutes 58 seconds. Rutendo Nyahora came in second, with Lebo Phalula finishing third.

“I loved this race last year, so I had to come back and just try to be the best that I could be,” said Van Zyl.

“Coming into the race I wanted to be tactical, take it easy on the downhills so that I could be OK on the uphills. We stayed together until about the 5km mark, and then the break happened. I knew that the second half of the route was quite difficult and that if I could just maintain until then I could push through until the end. I am chuffed with today’s race. I had a rough start to the year due to injury, so being here today, being healthy and fit, and able to enjoy running again is awesome. I’m happy to come away with the win. I really enjoyed the event. The atmosphere was great as always. It’s awesome to be here on Women’s Day, celebrating women together,” she said.

“We had a fantastic time celebrating National Women’s Day with a sea of enthusiastic runners and walkers, all dressed in pink, symbolising unity across two vibrant cities,” said the head of Totalsports, Jonathan Stein.

“Each city boasted an electrifying energy and incredible vibe. A heartfelt congratulations go out to Irvette van Zyl and Cacisile Sosibo for their outstanding achievements, claiming gold in the Totalsports Women’s Race 10km in Johannesburg, and Durban, respectively. Watching your incredible performances was truly awe-inspiring.”

Stein added, “We would like to thank every participant and spectator who joined us today; your unwavering support makes this event possible. A special shout-out goes to our incredible event charity, PinkDrive, your dedication to making a difference and assisting those in need is truly remarkable. We are proud to know that together, we can make a meaningful impact on the lives of many.”