A powerful line-up of some of Africa’s best distance athletes faces the starter’s gun in the second Totalsports Women’s Day Race through the heart of Cape Town on Saturday (9 August).
Headed by Kenyan Christine Njoki, who set an South African allcomers 10km record of 30:14 at the first of the series of three events in Durban last weekend, leading athletes from Kenya, Ethiopia, Lesoth, Tanzania, Zimbabwe and South Africa will be in action through the journey through the historic streets of District Six.
Four of the top five athletes from Durban will be in action, with only fifth-placed South African, Tayla Kavanagh, missing. Njoki’s compatriots Clare Ndiwa (second in Durban) and Jane Chacha (third), Neheng Khatala of Lesotho (4th), Ethiopian Getenesh Agafaw (9th) and Kenyan Monica Jeptarus (10th) will compete in the Mother City with several additional athletes joining the party.
Ethiopian Selam Gebre, well-known in Cape Town racing circles, Transfora Ngimbudzi of Tanzania and Cape Town-based Zimbabwean, Fortunate Chidzivo, will be looking for competitive top ten placings, with Gebre, boasting the field’s third-fastest 10km time (31:42) seeking a podium position.
While Durban’s route promoted fast running, with many personal best times recorded, the Cape Town route through District Six and returning to the Grand Parade finish through the Company Gardens is a celebration of the city’s heritage and provides some challenging climbs and turns for athletes chasing top honours.
An added bonus this year will be the almost-forgotten sound of the historic City Hall clock, chiming the hour for the first time in fifteen years above the statue of Nelson Mandela on the balcony, following its recent restoration.
In 2024, Christine Njoki faced fierce competition from Ethiopia’s Tadu Nare at the Totalsports Women’s Race Cape Town. In a thrilling sprint to the finish, it was Njoki who claimed victory, edging out Nare by a mere second. South Africa’s Glenrose Xaba delivered a strong performance to secure third place and complete the podium.
“My experience at the Totalsports Women’s Race Cape Town in 2024 was amazing. There was so much energy from both the runners and the organisers,” said Njoki. “The Totalsports Women’s Race is such a special event because they value women. They not only celebrate our love and hard work but also acknowledge the challenges we face. It’s an honour to compete in a race like this.”
“We are thrilled to welcome Christine Njoki back to the Totalsports Women’s Race Cape Town after her fantastic performance in Durban,” said Nikki Crous, Head of Marketing at Totalsports. “Christine is an incredibly exciting athlete to watch, and her energy is truly inspiring. We wish her all the best as she sets out to defend her title in Cape Town. It’s going to be a race to remember!”
The return to racing of leading local track, cross country and road athlete, Kyla Jacobs, following the birth of her daughter five months ago. “Being part of an event that empowers women through sport is truly special – and something I’m deeply passionate about,” said Jacobs.
“People often look to the winner of a race for inspiration, but lining up alongside so many women from different walks of life gives you an entirely new perspective.
“There’s inspiration in every single woman out there. Sport has changed and shaped my life, and I’m incredibly grateful for events and sponsors like the Totalsports Women’s Race that provide a platform for us to compete, connect, and thrive.
“More than any other, this race reminds me how strong women are – especially moms! I’m excited by the strength and inspiration from all the incredible women and mothers taking part, and I hope to inspire my little girl, Lienke, and all the other little girls out there to never give up on their dreams.” I’m really looking forward to sharing the joy of running and the essence of womanhood with everyone on the day.”
