On Sunday, 9 August 2026, the Totalsports Women’s Race Cape Town brought together 10,000 participants in celebration of South Africa’s National Women’s Day. The iconic mass-participation event combined high-caliber elite competition with community fitness, entertainment, and charitable support for breast cancer awareness.
Jerono Triumphs on Debut
Kenyan runner Daisilah Jerono claimed victory in her South African racing debut, crossing the finish line in a time of 31:29. Jerono, currently ranked seventh in the world for the half marathon in 2026 following a 1:05:21 performance in Berlin, entered the race to assess her training progress and set a strong mark over the distance.
Despite facing windy conditions and an undulating course, Jerono secured the top spot on the podium. She reflected fondly on the vibrant atmosphere and expressed gratitude for the warm support of the local crowd. Fellow Kenyan runner Faith Cherono secured second place, while Lesotho’s Neheng Khatala completed the podium in third position.
Purpose and Entertainment
Beyond the competitive elite field, the event united women of all ages and fitness levels across the Mother City. The race actively supported PinkDrive, a non-profit organization dedicated to raising breast cancer awareness, delivering health education, and offering free screening services to medically uninsured individuals throughout South Africa.
Participants and supporters were also treated to an energetic live performance by South African music powerhouse Busiswa, whose chart-topping hits across Kwaito, House, Gqom, Amapiano, and Afropop added to the celebratory atmosphere.
Organizers Praise Event Spirit
Leadership from the organizing partners highlighted the success of the Cape Town edition. Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports, commended Jerono’s standout performance while praising the thousands of women who took to the streets to support PinkDrive and celebrate Women’s Month.
Nikki Crous, Head of Marketing at Totalsports, similarly reflected on the power of community, extending gratitude to all participants, volunteers, partners, and supporters who contributed to making the day a memorable success centred on fitness, friendship, and purpose.
The 2026 Race Series
The Cape Town event marked the second leg of a three-city nationwide series celebrating Women’s Month. The series kicked off in Durban on Sunday, 02 August 2026, where Neheng Khatala of Lesotho took victory in a time of 32:06. Following Jerono’s victory in Cape Town, the celebration moves to Johannesburg on Sunday, 16 August 2026, with routes starting along Judith Road and Orange Street before finishing at Marks Park.
