Collins Kgadima and Karabo Mailula delivered stellar performances at the Sappi Tuks Race, ensuring that Tuks athletes stood proudly on the winner’s podium on Saturday, 15 February 2025. Ideal running conditions at the Hillcrest Sports Campus set the stage for an exciting and competitive race, welcoming participants of all ages and skill levels.

Kgadima was victorious in the half marathon, clocking a time of 1:09.46. An elated Kgadima said afterwards he was motivated to make Tuks supporters proud.

"Due to an injury, it is my first race of the year. I owe a lot to my coach, Samuel Sepeng, who guides me."

Kgosi Tsosane (38) took home silver, alongside Albert Kipngetich Kangor (41), who secured bronze. Their respective times are 1:10:27 and 1:12:09.

On the women's side, the experience of Mitsie Van Der Westhuizen (50) shone through as she was "happy" to bag the gold medal with an impressive time of 01:31:03. Anja Heenop (32) took second, with Leandre Van Der Merwe (38) rounding out the top three.

Arguably, the race of the day came from Sibusiso Nzima, carding just over half an hour, 30 minutes and 46 seconds over 10 km. The 38-year-old said, "I am happy with how I'm progressing. I am training hard to get faster over 21 km and 10,000 m."

He also added that he "has a lot left in the tank" and expressed his "love for running."

Simon Mokonyama (32) came through in second at 32:15, followed by young Mogokgong Brian Mangena (24), who placed third, clocking a 32:38.

Fan favourite Karabo Mailula (22), from the University of Pretoria, got plenty of cheers as she added another victory to her resumé. She secured a dominant win in the 10 km race, finishing with a time of 35:06. In the battle for second, Annique Burger (31) clocked 40:11, earning her the runner-up spot, while Therea Louw (46) got a podium with a finish with her time of 40:56.

As the Sappi Tuks Race wraps up, it's clear that the event continues to attract top-tier athletes, pushing the boundaries of local road racing and giving a chance to those who participate for fun or personal achievement. Notables, such as Olympic swimmer and world record holder Tatjana Smith, also appeared in this year's 10 km race.

Sappi's sponsorship ensures the race's continued success, with the company committed to supporting the flagship event until 2029. This long-term partnership certainly provides a platform to further elevate this local event.