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SA Womens Hockey Squad announced for the FIH Hockey World Cup - https://www.runridedive.com/index.php/2026/07/27/sa-womens-hockey-squad-announced-for-the-fih-hockey-world-cup/ South African Hockey has announced the 20-player Women’s squad selected to represent the country at the 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup in Belgium and the Netherlands. Photo: Marcel Sigg The squad was confirmed following South Africa’s recent four-match Test series against Namibia in Cape Town and brings together an exciting combination of international experience and emerging talent. The squad includes 10 Olympians, 9 of which did duty in Paris in 2024, including captain Edith Molikoe and the players that joined the 50-club this week in Ongeziwe Mali and Ntsopa Mokoena. Hanna Pearce, Taheera Augousti and Thati Zulu add to the core experienced group, while the likes of Ane Jansen van Vuuren and Caylin Maree will hope to make the step up from Junior World Cup to Senior World Cup a seamless one. SA Hockey President Deon Morgan congratulated the selected players. “Representing South Africa at a World Cup is one of the greatest honours available to a hockey player,” said Morgan. “We congratulate every player selected and recognise the years of commitment, sacrifice and hard work that have brought them to this moment. We also acknowledge the coaches, families, schools, clubs and provinces who have played an important role in their journeys. “This squad will carry the hopes of the South African hockey community, and we wish them every success as they prepare to represent our country.” The South African Women will continue their final preparations with a training and match programme in Scotland before travelling to Netherlands for the World Cup.FIH Hockey World Cup – South African Womens Squad Name Caps Name Caps Ane’ Janse van Vuuren 11 Lerato Mahole 28 Baylee Engelke 2 Marlise Van Tonder 52 Bianca Wood 50 Morgan De Jager 16 Cailynn Den Bakker 30 Ntsopa Mokoena 51 Caylin Maree 8 Ongeziwe Mali 51 Edith Molikoe 60 Onthatile Zulu 83 Hannah Pearce 67 Paris-Gail Isaacs 22 Jean-Leigh Du Toit 50 Shanna Mendonca 12 Kayla De Waal 45 Stephanie Botha 56 Laiken Brisset 9 Taheera Augousti 46 FIH World Cup 2026 Group stage Fixtures SA Hockey Women 16 August 2026 – 10:00 vs. England 18 August 2026 – 15:00 vs. India 20 August 2026 – 09:30 vs. China

outh Africa Complete Series Sweep Against Namibia - https://www.runridedive.com/index.php/2026/07/25/outh-africa-complete-series-sweep-against-namibia/ South Africa completed a 4-0 series victory over Namibia with a 4-0 win in the final Test at Hartleyvale Stadium. Photo - Jan van Zyl The match was moved to Hartleyvale and marked significant milestones for Jean-Leigh du Toit and Bianca Wood, who both earned their 50th international caps. South Africa made another positive start but were initially unable to turn their possession and attacking pressure into goals. The breakthrough eventually arrived shortly before the end of the first quarter when Caylin Maree converted to give the hosts a 1-0 lead. Namibia remained competitive and created a few opportunities to draw level during the match. They continued to frustrate the South Africans, limiting clear chances and keeping the contest at 1-0 with only 12 minutes remaining. South Africa eventually pulled away in the closing stages, scoring three further goals to secure a comfortable victory. Ongeziwe Mali scored the first of the late goals before Hannah Pearce converted from a penalty corner. It was Pearce’s sixth goal of the series. Jean-Leigh du Toit completed the scoring from another penalty corner, marking her 50th international appearance with a goal. The victory completed an unbeaten four-match series for South Africa as they continued preparations ahead of the FIH Hockey World Cup. The South African Women will next announce their World Cup squad before travelling to Scotland for further preparation matches ahead of the tournament. FIH World Cup 2026 Group stage Fixtures SA Hockey Women 16 August 2026 – 10:00 vs. England 18 August 2026 – 15:00 vs. India 20 August 2026 – 09:30 vs. China

South Africa Secure Series with Third-Test Victory - https://www.runridedive.com/index.php/2026/07/23/south-africa-secure-series-with-third-test-victory/ South Africa produced a superb opening five minutes on their way to a 4-1 victory over Namibia in the third Test of the series at Elkanah House. Image: ACK Sports Photography Thati Zulu captained the South African side, who were looking to build on victories in the opening two matches of the four-Test series. The hosts could hardly have asked for a better start as they raced into a three-goal lead inside the opening five minutes. Hannah Pearce opened the scoring in the second minute, calmly converting a penalty stroke to continue her impressive scoring form in the series. South Africa immediately increased the pressure and doubled their advantage shortly afterwards. Stephanie Botha played an excellent ball through the Namibian defence, allowing Zulu to finish and mark her opportunity as captain with a goal. The score quickly became 3-0 when Zulu shaped to shoot inside the circle. The ball continued through to Bianca Wood, who finished superbly to complete a dominant opening spell from the South Africans. Following the fast start, South Africa continued to enjoy much of the possession and created several promising attacking opportunities. They will, however, be disappointed that they were unable to maintain the same level of intensity and put further distance between themselves and a determined Namibian side. Namibia remained organised, worked hard defensively and prevented South Africa from adding to the score for much of the remainder of the contest. South Africa eventually found their fourth goal in the final quarter when Pearce converted a second penalty stroke, completing her brace for the match. Namibia continued to compete until the end and were rewarded with their first goal of the series when Charlize Rix scored a late consolation past Marlise van Tonder. The result gives South Africa an unassailable 3-0 lead in the four-match series, with all three victories providing valuable preparation ahead of the FIH Hockey World Cup. The fourth and final Test of the series takes place at Hartleyvale on Friday at 10:00.

RMB National Rowing Squad Opens International Season - https://www.runridedive.com/index.php/2026/07/22/rmb-national-rowing-squad-opens-international-season/ The RMB National Squad kicked off its 2026 international season with solid performances at the World Rowing Cup III in Lucerne, Switzerland, followed by the Henley Royal Regatta in England, marking the crews' first international racing of the year as they build toward the World Rowing Championships in Amsterdam this September. Photo supplied Four athletes flew the South African flag across the two regattas: Courtney Westley and Katherine Williams in the women's pair, Chris Baxter in the men's single sculls, and Paige Badenhorst in the women's single sculls. Lucerne: World Rowing Cup III Racing against some of the world's top crews on the Rotsee from 26 to 28 June, the South African squad delivered a strong account of themselves: Courtney Westley and Katherine Williams (women's pair) finished 8th overall. Paige Badenhorst (women's single sculls) finished 9th overall. Chris Baxter (men's single sculls) finished 15th overall. Henley Royal Regatta The squad then travelled to England for the Henley Royal Regatta, widely regarded as the UK's most prestigious regatta and a fixture that attracts many of the world's top international crews to the banks of the Thames every year. Both South African scullers made it through to the semi-finals. Paige Badenhorst reached the semi-final of the Princess Royal Challenge Cup, in what proved to be the race of the regatta — a neck-and-neck battle with Austria's Magdalena Lobnig that was decided by just half a length at the finish. Lobnig, an Olympic bronze medallist and former European champion in the single sculls who has since become a world champion in coastal and beach sprint rowing, went on to contest the final, where she lost to Great Britain's Lauren Henry. Chris Baxter reached the semi-final of the Diamond Challenge Sculls, where he was beaten by Portugal's Diogo Gonçalves, a bronze medallist at the 2025 World Rowing Under-23 Championships. Gonçalves went on to reach Sunday's final, where he faced four-time champion Olli Zeidler of Germany. Courtney Westley and Katherine Williams were knocked out in the quarter-finals of the Hambleden Pairs Challenge Cup by Italy's Laura Meriano and Alice Codato, fourth-placed finishers at the 2025 World Rowing Championships and the eventual winners of their event. A New Chapter Under Andrew Grant These results mark the first international assignment for the RMB National Squad under new coach Andrew Grant, and they point to the positive influence he is already having on the programme. Reaching the semi-finals of the world's most prestigious regatta, and pushing eventual finalists and champions across both events, reflects a squad building real momentum heading into the World Rowing Championships in Amsterdam this September and onwards to LA 2028. RMB's Continued Support "We are incredibly proud of how these athletes have performed in their first international outings of the season," said Michael Edwards of RMB. "Lucerne and Henley are two of the toughest tests in world rowing, and to see our athletes competing so closely with the best in the world is a testament to their hard work and the direction Andrew is taking the squad. RMB remains fully committed to supporting these athletes and we will be right behind them every stroke of the way." Looking Ahead With Lucerne and Henley now behind them, the RMB National Rowing Squad turns its focus to final preparations for the World Rowing Championships in Amsterdam this September, where the squad will look to build on the momentum gained from this encouraging start to the season.

Van Voorst fifty fires SA u19 women to dominant win - https://www.runridedive.com/index.php/2026/07/20/van-voorst-fifty-fires-sa-u19-women-to-dominant-win/ Captain Mieke van Voorst delivered a crucial half-century to inspire the South Africa Under-19 Women to a 52-run victory over Pakistan in the third Youth T20 International (T20I) in Karachi on Sunday, giving the visitors a 2-1 lead in the five-match contest. Van Voorst was named Player of the Match after striking nine fours on her way to a 42-ball 57, helping South Africa post a commanding 158/6. Two wickets apiece from Miya Lalor (2/14), Respect Mabasa (2/9) and Melissa van der Merwe (2/20) then saw Pakistan bowled out for 106 in 18 overs. The SA U19 Women won the toss and elected to bat. The visitors recovered well after a tricky start, having been reduced to 33/3 in the powerplay following early breakthroughs from Mahnoor Zeb (1/23), Maham Nazakat (2/29) and a run-out. The skipper then combined with Chris-Mari Bezuidenhout (23) in a stabilising 42-run partnership before the latter, along with Jezé Campher (2), departed in quick succession. Van Voorst found another capable partner to take the game to the hosts late in the innings, sharing an outstanding 76-run partnership from just 40 deliveries with the explosive Daneli Boshoff (39* off 20 balls; 2 fours, 3 sixes). The captain brought up her half-century before becoming Nazakat's second wicket in the final over. With Pakistan set a daunting target to chase, South Africa piled on the pressure in the early stages of their defence. Lalor, van der Merwe and Mabasa removed the hosts’ top three batters before a run out from Diedre van Rensburg further reduced Pakistan to 26/4 after six overs. Despite a valiant knock from Shahar Bano worth 39 off 22 balls, the SA U19 Women continued picking up wickets at regular intervals. Reabetswe Dithupe (1/21), Boshoff (1/11) and Shreeya Subbiah (1/18) also chipped in with wickets as Pakistan were eventually dismissed for 106 with two overs remaining. The fourth Youth T20I will get underway at 19:00 local time (16:00 SAST) on Wednesday, 22 July at the National Stadium in Karachi. SA U19 Women’s Squad Mieke van Voorst (captain, Easterns), Chris-Mari Bezuidenhout (Mpumalanga), Daneli Boshoff (Boland), Jezé Campher (Garden Route Badgers), Jae-Leigh Filander (Western Province), Reabetswe Dithupe (North West), Miya Lalor (Western Province), Respect Mabasa (Limpopo), Makwana Moriri (Central Gauteng Lions), Rethabile Nthoba (Free State), Shreeya Subbiah (KZN Coastal), Melissa van der Merwe (Boland), Diedre van Rensburg (North West), Ashleigh Van Wyk (Easterns) and Chanel Venter (Titans). Fixtures - Youth T20I Series 1st YT20I - SA U19 Women won by 4 wickets PAK U19: 103/6 after 20 overs; A. Habib 38 (50), Z. Ayyaz 30 (40); A. van Wyk 3/15, M. Lalor 2/21 SA U19: 104/6 after 16 overs; C. Venter 41 (32), C. Bezuidenhout 22 (20); S. Bano 2/16, M. Nazakat 2/17 2nd YT20I - Pakistan U19 won by 47 runs PAK U19: 125/4 after 20 overs: R. Farhan 68* (64), K. Khan 23 (24); M. Lalor 1/23, R. Dithupe 1/26 SA U19: 78 all out after 17.1 overs; D. van Rensburg 20 (24), M. van Voorst 16 (20); M. Zeb 3/21, M. Nazakat 2/8 3rd YT20I - SA U19 Women won by 52 runs SA U19: 158/6 after 20 overs; M. van Voorst 57 (42), D. Boshoff 39* (20); M. Nazakat 2/29, M. Zeb 1/23 PAK U19: 106 all out after 18 overs; S. Bano 39 (22), A. Habib 17 (18); M. Lalor 2/14, Respect Mabasa 2/9 Wednesday, 22 July at 16:00 4th Youth T20I - Pakistan U19 vs SA U19 Women (National Stadium, Karachi) Friday, 24 July at 16:00 5th Youth T20I - Pakistan U19 vs SA U19 Women (National Stadium, Karachi)

GR Stella 1000 marathon set to deliver ultimate rally-raid test - https://www.runridedive.com/index.php/2026/07/20/gr-stella-1000-marathon-set-to-deliver-ultimate-rally-raid-test/ When the South African Rally-Raid Championship arrives in Stella in the North West Province later this month, competitors will face the ultimate test of endurance as they tackle the GR Stella 1000 Marathon, the only three-day event on the 2026 championship calendar and the longest, toughest challenge in South African rally-raid racing. Image Dave Ledbitter Taking place from 24 to 26 July, the GR Stella 1000 Marathon will cover almost 1,000 kilometres of demanding terrain, placing crews, vehicles and teams under sustained pressure in a way no other event on the national calendar can. More than outright speed, success at the marathon event demands careful strategy, faultless navigation, mechanical reliability and the ability to manage both driver and machine over three gruelling days of competition. As title sponsor, Toyota Gazoo Racing South Africa lends its name to an event that reflects the values at the heart of Toyota’s motorsport philosophy. The company’s commitment to Quality, Durability and Reliability (QDR) has long been proven in the harshest rally-raid environments around the world, including the Dakar Rally and the FIA World Rally-Raid Championship (W2RC), where GR Hilux has established itself as one of the benchmark vehicles in international competition. The GR Stella 1000 Marathon provides South African competitors with the country’s closest equivalent to that level of endurance racing, offering a true test of both human and mechanical resilience. “The 1000 Marathon has always been one of the iconic events on the South African motorsport calendar,” said Glenn Crompton, Vice President: Marketing at Toyota South Africa Motors. “Marathon racing is at the very heart of rally-raid. While our event is contested over three days rather than the two weeks of the Dakar Rally, it asks many of the same questions of crews and their vehicles. It tests people and machinery in a way that no normal weekend event can.” The Stella area already earned international recognition during the inaugural South African Safari Rally in 2025, when it hosted the overnight bivouac for the marathon stage of the FIA World Rally-Raid Championship. Many of the country’s leading competitors experienced the demanding terrain during that event, providing a taste of what awaits when they return later this month. While the event looks firmly to the future, it also continues a proud Toyota tradition. The company’s association with South African marathon rally-raid racing stretches back more than four decades, from the original Toyota Trans Kalahari events through the legendary Toyota 1000 Desert Race and now the GR Stella 1000 Marathon. Throughout that period, Toyota has consistently demonstrated the quality, durability and reliability that underpin both its production vehicles and its global motorsport programme. The 2026 edition of the GR Stella 1000 Marathon will once again bring together the country’s leading rally-raid competitors for three days of intense competition across the vast cattle farming region surrounding Stella. The event will feature demanding special stages, overnight servicing, and the kind of relentless endurance challenge that has made marathon rally-raid racing one of the most respected disciplines in motorsport. With championship points, pride and endurance all on the line, competitors will arrive in Stella knowing that only those who can combine speed with consistency, precision and reliability will stand atop the podium when the final kilometres have been completed. “We are extremely honoured and proud of our longstanding relationship with Toyota and highly respectful of their outstanding performance over many decades and look forward to the forthcoming GR Stella 1000 Marathon in the North-West Province in a week’s time,” said SARR CEO, Archie Rutherford.

South Africa Open Namibia Series with Convincing Victory - https://www.runridedive.com/index.php/2026/07/20/south-africa-open-namibia-series-with-convincing-victory/ The South African Women began their final preparations ahead of the FIH Hockey World Cup with victory in the opening Test against Namibia. Photo: ACK Sports Photography South Africa will face England, China and India at the World Cup, with the four-match series against Namibia offering the team an important opportunity to fine-tune their combinations and finalise their squad. The match also marked a special milestone for Ntsopa Mokoena, who earned her 50th international cap. South Africa started brightly but initially struggled to turn their possession into clear goal-scoring opportunities. They eventually found the breakthrough through Kayla de Waal, who turned sharply before firing a low strike past Petro Stoffberg at the near post. The hosts doubled their advantage from a penalty corner in the second quarter. Hannah Pearce stepped forward and powered a drag flick beyond Stoffberg for her sixth international goal. Namibia improved as the quarter progressed, disrupting South Africa’s rhythm and limiting the number of clear chances created by the home side. South Africa nevertheless carried a two-goal advantage into the half-time break. Pearce added her second of the match in the third quarter, finding space during the second phase of a penalty corner and guiding the ball into the far corner. Mokoena then capped her milestone appearance with her 12th international goal, finishing off an excellent piece of work from Thati Zulu down the right-hand side. Mokoena was later named Player of the Match. South Africa continued to create a number of dangerous circle entries but will feel that greater consistency and quality in front of goal will be required as the series progresses. It was nevertheless a positive opening victory for South Africa, who maintained their unbeaten international record against Namibia. The second Test of the series takes place on Tuesday at 17:00 at Elkanah House High School.

McGregor's 15th, Dill's 1st wins at Berg River Canoe Marathon - https://www.runridedive.com/index.php/2026/07/19/mcgregors-15th-dills-1st-wins-at-berg-river-canoe-marathon/ Two paddlers at the opposite ends of their paddling journeys took the honours at the finish of the Berg River Canoe Marathon in Velddrif on Saturday with Hank McGregor and Neriyah Dill wrapping up the 2026 titles. John Hishin /Cape Town Sports Photography 11-time World Champion Hank McGregor (Team Euro Steel) cruised home to his 15th Berg victory in the men's race, while 20-year-old Neriyah Dill (Salt) had to dig deep on the last day from Zoutkloof to Velddrif to become a dominant winner of the women's race. McGregor, at 48-years-old, was never seriously threatened once he took control on Day 2 and ended up winning comfortably by almost 13 minutes. Dill, competing in just her third Berg, had to overcome illness on the 56km final day, but despite reaching Velddrif second, a few minutes behind Christy Shrimpton, she was a clear champion, finishing the four days with a total time more than an hour better than her nearest rival. The men's race suffered a dramatic start on Day 4 when third-placed Tom Lovemore (Salt) and fifth-placed Anders Hart withdrew before the start due to illness. That meant the top five positions were shuffled before the start, but virtually settled with the podium places going to three KZN paddlers, McGregor, Jeremy Maher and Msawenkosi Mtolo (Plastic & Chemical Trading), while Western Cape's Heinrich Schloms finished fourth. Maties student Joshua Glyn-Cuthbert, who was lying second until he cruelly suffered a broken paddle on Day 3, finished Day 4 third within the leading group, and was rewarded for his efforts with a top-five finish overall – a poor consolation prize for a competitor who deserved so much more as the only paddler who really put McGregor under any pressure. McGregor was content to simply be part of the big front group on Day 4. The top three overall, with Glyn-Cuthbert and Paul Marais, reached Oordraplek at Kliphoek, about 10km from the finish, together. Marais and Mtolo drifted off the leaders leaving the other three to fight for stage honours. In the final sprint it was no surprise the wily McGregor beat Maher and Glyn-Cuthbert for the veteran to claim a clean-sweep of stage wins in the four-day race. The 48-year-old McGregor's win further adds to his legendary status in the gruelling four-day race and also adds a year to his record as the oldest finisher. The women's stage was no repeat of Days 1 to 3 with an ill Dill starting and doing all she could to hang on to 2023 winner Christy Shrimpton. The weakened champion apparent could however not stay with her nearest rival and had to settle for second on the stage. Despite failing in her quest to match McGregor's four wins on four stages, Dill was a comfortable overall winner and her biggest regret will probably be that she was in no condition at the finish to celebrate her win with as much enthusiasm as she would have liked. McGregor, the undisputed King of the Berg, is in all likelihood moving toward the end of his glittering paddling career, while Dill, who won her third attempt after finishing second and third in 2024 and 2025, is very much starting out on an upward trajectory and can at best be described as the Paddling Princess. SELECTED RESULTS Men (under position, name, Day 1, Day 2, Day 3, Day 4, Overall) 1 Hank McGregor (4:42:35, 3:36:18, 5:45:59, 4:31:00) 18:35:54 2 Jeremy Maher (4:52:12, 3:39:10, 5:46:01, 4:31:03) 18:48:27 3 Msawenkosi Mtolo (4:45:27, 3:51:52, 5:53:20, 4:31:29) 19:02:09 4 Heinrich Schloms (4:52:53, 3:44:27, 5:56:33, 4:36:07) 19:10:02 5 Joshua Glyn-Cuthbert (4:42:36, 3:38:51, 6:21:04, 4:31:05) 19:13:38 6 Paul Marais (4:55:57, 3:50:51, 5:56:33, 4:36:12) 19:19:34 7 Daniel Buys (5:02:48, 3:52:07, 5:59:33, 4:32:08) 19:26:37 8 Zamokuhle Meyiwa (4:54:03, 3:54:56, 5:58:31, 4:43:28) 19:30:58 9 Sibusiso Zulu (5:02:01, 3:50:08, 5:56:34, 4:43:31) 19:32:16 10 Stefaans Erlank (5:02:02, 3:50:07, 6:10:23, 4:43:28) 19:46:01 Women 1 Neriyah Dill (5.23.33, 4:05:07, 6:25:03, 5:19:47) 21:13:31 2 Christy Shrimpton (5.35.36, 4:27:18, 6:59:08, 5:14:57) 22:17:00 3 Natasha Bradford (5.46.03, 4:34:10, 7:05:18, 5:31:51) 22:57:24

Pakistan Level Series In Second Youth T20

Pakistan Level Series In Second Youth T20 - https://www.runridedive.com/index.php/2026/07/19/pakistan-level-series-in-second-youth-t20/ South Africa under-19 Women went down by 47 runs in the second Youth T20 International (T20I) against Pakistan in Karachi on Friday, with the home side levelling the five-match series at 1-1. Player of the Match Ravail Farhan top-scored for Pakistan with an unbeaten 68 off 64 deliveries, including nine fours and two sixes, to help the hosts post 125/4. Mahnoor Zeb then returned with leading figures of three for 21 as the SA U19 Women were dismissed for 78 in 17.1 overs. The touring side won the toss and elected to bowl first. Pakistan responded to that challenge with an improved start with bat in hand, as openers Farhan and Komal Khan (23) put on a confident 63-run stand. Despite a crucial breakthrough from Reabetswe Dithupe (1/26), who dismissed Khan in the ninth over, Farhan continued to anchor the home side's innings. The right-hander combined with Zoofishan Ayyaz (11), Raahima Syed (8) and Fizza Fiaz (7) to guide Pakistan to a competitive total. Miya Lalor (1/23) and Ashleigh van Wyk (1/26) were the other wicket-takers for South Africa. In pursuit of 126 for victory, the SA U19 Women faced early pressure at the crease as Pakistan’s left-arm seamers Shahar Bano (1/12) and Mahnoor Zeb (3/21) reduced the visitors to 31/2 in the powerplay. A 28-run partnership between Diedre van Rensburg (20) and captain Mieke van Voorst (16) for the third wicket was the highlight of the South African innings. Zeb, Mah Noor (2/19) and Maham Nazakat (2/8) shared the bulk of the wickets, while a clinical display in the field helped Pakistan wrap up a comprehensive victory with 2.5 overs to spare. The third Youth T20I will take place on Sunday, 19 July at the National Stadium in Karachi, with the match live-streamed on the Pakistan Cricket Board’s YouTube channel. SA U19 Women’s Squad Mieke van Voorst (captain, Easterns), Chris-Mari Bezuidenhout (Mpumalanga), Daneli Boshoff (Boland), Jezé Campher (Garden Route Badgers), Jae-Leigh Filander (Western Province), Reabetswe Dithupe (North West), Miya Lalor (Western Province), Respect Mabasa (Limpopo), Makwana Moriri (Central Gauteng Lions), Rethabile Nthoba (Free State), Shreeya Subbiah (KZN Coastal), Melissa van der Merwe (Boland), Diedre van Rensburg (North West), Ashleigh Van Wyk (Easterns) and Chanel Venter (Titans). Fixtures - Youth T20I Series 1st YT20I - SA U19 Women won by 4 wickets PAK U19: 103/6 after 20 overs; A. Habib 38 (50), Z. Ayyaz 30 (40); A. van Wyk 3/15, M. Lalor 2/21 SA U19: 104/6 after 16 overs; C. Venter 41 (32), C. Bezuidenhout 22 (20); S. Bano 2/16, M. Nazakat 2/17 2nd YT20I - Pakistan U19 won by 47 runs PAK U19: 125/4 after 20 overs: R. Farhan 68* (64), K. Khan 23 (24); M. Lalor 1/23, R. Dithupe 1/26 SA U19: 78 all out after 17.1 overs; D. van Rensburg 20 (24), M. van Voorst 16 (20); M. Zeb 3/21, M. Nazakat 2/8 Sunday, 19 July at 16:00 3rd Youth T20I - Pakistan U19 vs SA U19 Women (National Stadium, Karachi) Wednesday, 22 July at 16:00 4th Youth T20I - Pakistan U19 vs SA U19 Women (National Stadium, Karachi) Friday, 24 July at 16:00 5th Youth T20I - Pakistan U19 vs SA U19 Women (National Stadium, Karachi)

Brazil Claims Inaugural Surf & Turf Challenge Ballito Pro Title - https://www.runridedive.com/index.php/2026/07/19/brazil-claims-inaugural-surf-turf-challenge-ballito-pro-title/ Brazil emerged victorious in the inaugural Surf & Turf Challenge at the 57th Ballito Pro Presented by O'Neill, with the unique crossover event a massive crowd-pleaser. Hosted at Willard Beach on Thursday (16 July), the competition brought together football legends and professional surfers in an entertaining relay-format contest celebrating this year's Waves of Unity theme. Photographer: Luke Patterson "The inaugural Surf & Turf Challenge exceeded every expectation," said O'Neill Brand Director Paul Canning. "The atmosphere on the beach was great as spectators watched football icons and professional surfers work together in a unique format. With the timing coinciding with South Africa’s return to the FIFA World Cup, it truly reflected our Waves of Unity theme, demonstrating how sport has the power to bring people together.” A Unique Sporting Contest Each team consisted of one football legend paired with two professional surfers, representing their respective countries. The competition opened with the football player attempting to score past former KwaDukuza Super Strikers goalkeeper Nkosi Zulu. Once a goal was scored, the first surfer paddled into the line-up to ride two scoring waves before returning to shore to tag their teammate, who completed another two rides. Surf judges combined the wave scores with the football challenge to determine the winning nation. The competing teams were: Brazilian surfers: Douglas Silva and Rafael Barbosa Footballer: Kyle Deutschmann (South African National Beach Soccer Team, former Manning Rangers and African Wanderers) South African surfers: Luke Thompson and Sarah Baum Footballer: Simon Makubela (Former Kaizer Chiefs, Orlando Pirates, Manning Rangers and Bafana Bafana striker) Moroccon surfers: Teva Bouchgua and Lillia Tebbai Footballer: Ajibha Mtamela (Former AmaZulu FC, African Wanderers and Stanger United) American surfers: Lucas Owston and Luke Guinaldo Footballer: Vusi Nsele (Former Stanger United) Australian surfers: Winter Vincent and Joel Vaughan Footballer: Muzi SiMoroccangudu (AmaZulu coach working closely with Orlando Pirates and football agent Mike Makaab) Portuguese surfers: Gui Ribeiro and Maria Salgado Footballer: Wiseman Cele (Kwadukuza Youth Sports Manager) Final results from the Surf & Turf Challenge: 1. Brazil 2. South Africa 3. Morocco 4. United States of America 5. Portugal 6. Australia Celebrating the Next Generation of Football Talent The day's football celebrations also showcased the culmination of the KwaDukuza Behind Bafana Bafana U15 Soccer Development Programme, hosted in partnership with KwaDukuza Municipality. The programme began in June with qualifying five-a-side tournaments involving eight U15 teams identified through SAFA development structures, with the top teams advancing to the finals played at Willard Beach before enthusiastic Ballito Pro crowds. Individual awards: 1. Goalkeeper of the Tournament: Sanele Xulu 2. Best Player: Andile Mngadi 3. Top Goal Scorer: Lindelani Madikizela 4. Administrator: Riccardo Moonsamy Overall results: Shakashead FC Shayamoya FC Etete FC Festival visitors have also enjoyed the Behind Bafana Bafana Fan Zone, where FIFA World Cup matches have been screened throughout the festival, bringing supporters together to celebrate football while enjoying the Ballito Pro atmosphere. The Ballito Pro Festival Continues While the Surf & Turf Challenge has become an instant festival favourite, there is still plenty to experience at the Ballito Pro Presented by O'Neill before it concludes. Festivalgoers can still enjoy: World-class WSL Challenger Series surfing as competitors battle for Sunday's finals. The Ballito Pro Music Concerts Presented by Corona. Corona Sunset Sessions and After Dark entertainment. Retail village, food vendors, beach activities and family entertainment. Red Bull BMX displays and extreme sports. Litter4Tokens recycling initiatives and the WESSA Stop the Strangle ocean conservation campaign. The Mandela Day 67 Minutes for the Ocean beach clean-up on Saturday, encouraging the public to help protect South Africa's coastline. The Ballito Pro Presented by O'Neill is hosted in partnership with KwaDukuza Municipality, the World Surf League, Surfing South Africa, and public and private sector partners committed to youth development, tourism growth and sustainable coastal activation.

McGregor stumbles into the lead on Moving Day - https://www.runridedive.com/index.php/2026/07/17/mcgregor-stumbles-into-the-lead-on-moving-day/ On a day that everything did not go according to plan, 11-time World Marathon Champion and 14-time race winner Hank McGregor took control of the Berg River Canoe Marathon and opened up a gap on young Maties student Joshua Glyn-Cuthbert. Photo: John Hishin /Cape Town Sports Photography At the finish of Day 2 on Thursday, the 48-year-old veteran had built a solid two-and-a-half minute lead over his young rival, but while he is now in the perfect position to ensure his 15th victory, the paddle from Zonquasdrift to Bridgetown proved how quickly things can go wrong. The pair paddled together until Train Bridge, about 30km into the 46km stage, before McGregor was able to make a small break and looked ready to power away from his young rival. "It was a tough day out," said the Team Euro Steel paddler after finishing. "It started well, but then I made one or two mistakes. Firstly I took the wrong channel and came across a tree block, and Josh was gone ... he never followed me down that section. "I actually paddled back up the channel and then came across more tree blocks, and eventually ended up swimming." "I managed to gather my thoughts, but there was a lot of pulling myself towards myself. There was nobody around so there was no point being too vocal, but inside I was releasing a lot of frustration. I caught him about 10 minutes later and then we came across some sort of blockage and I had to portage. "I just managed to run under faster than he did and when I was putting in I swam again. I managed to use my surfski skills to get into the boat in deep water, but obviously it is then full of water so I had to pump for the next couple minutes. From then I just put my head down and said "I am tired of making mistakes, it's time to open a gap now," and I managed to get away with about seven kays to go. "So the day was a solid finish for me, but I made some stupid mistakes," added the veteran. The lead does means it will be a major upset if the world's most successful marathon kayaker paddler does not extend his record number of wins and add 12 months to his record as the oldest winner. Behind the two leaders there were some other significant changes to they leaderboard. KZN's Jeremy Maher stormed through the field and moved up from seventh into third place, 10 minutes behind Glyn-Cuthbert. 2024 champion Tom Lovemore is another 45 seconds back after moving up from sixth to fourth and is still in the fight for a podium spot. One of the big losers was Msawenkosi Mtolo who slipped from third into fifth, ahead of Heinrich Schloms, Anders Hart, and Paul Marais – up from 11th to eighth. Benjamin Mntonintshi fell from fifth to ninth while Zamokuhle Meyiwa rounded out the top ten in the same position he started. Neriyah Dill tightened her grip on the women's race and added 22 minutes to her overnight lead. She now enjoys a massive 34-minute advantage over former champion Christy Shrimpton, who in turn extended her lead over Natasha Bradford. It is going to take a major disaster for Dill to be caught and after finishing second and third in her first two attempts at the four-day marathon in 2024 and 2025, it looks almost a foregone conclusion she is going to complete a full-house of podium places. Day 3 is a brutal test on Friday. The Queen Stage is a massive 75km from Bridgetown to Zoutkloof and includes a portage around the Misverstand Dam wall, but the mass start format means big groups across the dam and makes it tough to make up time. SELECTED RESULTS Men (under position, name, Day 1, Day 2, Overall) 1 Hank McGregor (4:42:35, 3:36:18) 8:18:53 2 Joshua Glyn-Cuthbert (4:42:36, 3:38:51) 8:21:27 3 Jeremy Maher (4:52:12, 3:39:10) 8:31:22 4 Thomas Lovemore (4:51:20, 3:40:47) 8:32:07 5 Msawenkosi Mtolo (4:45:27, 3:51:52) 8:37:20 6 Heinrich Schloms (4:52:53, 3:44:27) 8:37:20 7 Anders Hart (4:52:52, 3:47:05) 8:39:58 8 Paul Marais (4:55:57, 3:50:51) 8:46:48 9 Benjamin Mntonintshi (4:51:19; 3:55:37) 8:46:56 10 Zamokuhle Meyiwa (4:54:03, 3:54:56) 8:48:59 Women 1 Neriyah Dill (5.23.33, 4:05:07) 9:28:40 2 Christy Shrimpton (5.35.36, 4:27:18) 10:02:54 3 Natasha Bradford (5.46.03, 4:34:10) 10:20:13

SA Hockey Men Squad Announced for the 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup - https://www.runridedive.com/index.php/2026/07/17/sa-hockey-men-squad-announced-for-the-2026-fih-hockey-world-cup/ South African Hockey is proud to announce the SA Hockey Men's squad selected to represent the country at the 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup. Photo: Marcel Sigg The 20-player squad brings together an exciting combination of international experience, athleticism and emerging talent as South Africa prepares to compete against the best teams in world hockey. The squad includes captain Dayaan Cassiem and experienced campaigners Mustapha Cassiem, Nic Spooner, Sam Mvimbi, Andrew Hobson and Calvin Davis. They are joined by a number of players who have continued to make an impact throughout South Africa’s recent international programme. South Africa will head into the global showpiece determined to build on the progress made by the team in recent seasons and to proudly represent the country on the world stage. SA Hockey Men's World Cup Squad Name Caps Name Caps Andrew Hobson 53 Jared Cass 10 Ayakha Mthalane 15 Kenton Melville 8 Brendan du Toit 4 Luke Wynford 23 Calvin Davis 29 Mustapha Cassiem 70 Carlon Mentoor 15 Nic Spooner 87 Cullin de Jager 18 Sam Mvimbi 83 Damian Knott 6 Sihle Ngubane 43 Dayaan Cassiem 99 Tevin Kok 84 Hans Neethling 19 Trevor de Lora 32 Jamie Seale 13 Zenani Kraai 40 South African Hockey congratulates all the players selected and wishes the squad every success as they prepare to carry the hopes of the nation at the World Cup. SA Hockey Men's World Cup Fixtures 16 August 2026 – South Africa vs. Spain 18 August 2026 – South Africa vs. Ireland 20 August 2026 – South Africa vs. Australia More Than Hockey. One Team. One Nation.

Van Wyk, Venter Inspire SA U19 Women’s Victory Over Pakistan - https://www.runridedive.com/index.php/2026/07/16/van-wyk-venter-inspire-sa-u19-womens-victory-over-pakistan/ The South Africa Under-19 Women claimed a four-wicket victory in their opening Youth T20 International (T20I) against hosts Pakistan Under-19 in Karachi on Tuesday, with Ashleigh van Wyk and Chanel Venter delivering outstanding performances with the ball and the bat, respectively. Photo: Ashleigh van Wyk takes a wicket in the first YT20I against Pakistan (PCB) Van Wyk led the way with the ball in the first innings for the first-time visitors, claiming impressive figures of 3/15 with her leg-spin as Pakistan were restricted to 103/6 in their 20 overs. South Africa successfully chased down the target with four overs to spare, largely thanks to Venter’s assertive knock at the top of the order, scoring 41 off 32 balls, including three fours and two sixes. After losing the toss and being sent in to field, the SA U19 Women made an outstanding start as the opening bowling pair of Miya Lalor (2/21) and Van Wyk claimed three wickets without conceding a run to rock the hosts. Pakistan recovered well from 0/3 through a 61-run partnership between Zoofishan Ayyaz (30) and top-scorer Aqsa Habib (38), before late contributions from skipper Fizza Fiaz (14) and Shahar Bano (18) helped the home side post 103/6. The SA U19 Women’s chase began brightly as openers Venter and Chris-Mari Bezuidenhout (22) raced to a 47-run opening stand during the powerplay. However, the run-out of Bezuidenhout, followed by the dismissal of Mankwana Moriri (1) in the seventh over, reduced the tourists to 50/2. Despite another setback, this time captain Mieke van Voorst (0) being run out, Venter continued to lead the charge, helping South Africa reach 78/3 at the halfway mark before eventually falling in the 11th over. The SA U19 Women wrapped up the chase soon after, with Jae-Leigh Filander (9*), Lalor (14) and Daneli Boshoff (6*) guiding the visitors to victory at the end of the 16th over and a 1-0 lead in the five-match Youth T20I series. The second match will take place on Friday, 17 July, at the National Stadium in Karachi. SA U19 Women’s Squad Mieke van Voorst (captain, Easterns), Chris-Mari Bezuidenhout (Mpumalanga), Daneli Boshoff (Boland), Jezé Campher (Garden Route Badgers), Jae-Leigh Filander (Western Province), Reabetswe Dithupe (North West), Miya Lalor (Western Province), Respect Mabasa (Limpopo), Makwana Moriri (Central Gauteng Lions), Rethabile Nthoba (Free State), Shreeya Subbiah (KZN Coastal), Melissa van der Merwe (Boland), Diedre van Rensburg (North West), Ashleigh Van Wyk (Easterns) and Chanel Venter (Titans). Fixtures - Youth T20I Series SA U19 Women 1st YT20I - SA U19 Women won by 4 wickets PAK U19: 103/6 after 20 overs; A. Habib 38 (50), Z. Ayyaz 30 (40); A. van Wyk 3/15, M. Lalor 2/21 SA U19: 104/6 after 16 overs; C. Venter 41 (32), C. Bezuidenhout 22 (20); S. Bano 2/16, M. Nazakat 2/17 Friday, 17 July at 17:00 2nd Youth T20I - Pakistan U19 vs SA U19 Women (National Stadium, Karachi) Sunday, 19 July at 17:00 3rd Youth T20I - Pakistan U19 vs SA U19 Women (National Stadium, Karachi) Wednesday, 22 July at 17:00 4th Youth T20I - Pakistan U19 vs SA U19 Women (National Stadium, Karachi) Friday, 24 July at 17:00 5th Youth T20I - Pakistan U19 vs SA U19 Women (National Stadium, Karachi)

Youth hangs on to experienced at Berg River Marathon - https://www.runridedive.com/index.php/2026/07/16/youth-hangs-on-to-experienced-at-berg-river-marathon/ The 2026 Berg River Marathon is perfectly set up for a fascinating battle of contrasts as the 48-year-old world-beating Hank McGregor edged out young, rising star Joshua Glyn-Cuthbert on Day 1 from Paarl to Zonquasdrift on Wednesday. John Hishin /Cape Town Sports Photography The two paddled across the line together and were officially separated by almost exactly a second with Msawenkosi Mtolo just less than three minutes behind with a group of three – Sibusiso Chwayi, Benjamin Mntonintshi and 2024 champion Tom Lovemore – finishing in positions four to six, almost six minutes further back. In the women's race, U23 Neriyah Dill has already built a big lead. Despite a swim in Klei Rapid, the Peninsula paddler has a 12-minute advantage after the 62km opening stage, with 2023 champion Christy Shrimpton second, and Natasha Bradford rounding out the top three, another 11 minutes back. Dill, who prepared for the Berg with four comfortable wins from the four "pre-Berg" races was never really in much trouble despite her mishap early on in the opening stage and is quietly confident going into Day 2 from Zonquasdrift to Bridgetown on Thursday. Berg River Marathon "I had a brilliant day, except obviously at Klei Rapid with the unnecessary swim," said Dill after the finish. "Quite a few of us just went into there at the same time and I could not get the right line. Other than that and one little treeblock I got stuck in, it was a really good day." "Tomorrow I will just try and get a good wave and navigate my way through the trees and treeblocks and just not make any mistakes." Up front, a group of four formed quickly with McGregor (Team Euro Steel), Lovemore (Salt Kayaks), Glyn-Cuthbert (Maties) and Mtolo (Plastic & Chemical Trading) dominating the action almost from the start cannon, with the chasers drifting out of contention soon after leaving Paarl. Lovemore took a swim just after the halfway mark which meant the leading quartet was whittled down to a three-way battle for the final 23km, as the 14-time race winner McGregor, faced off against young Maties student Glyn-Cuthbert and experienced ultra-distance hard-man and five-time winner of the Dusi Non-Stop, Mtolo. Mtolo fell away after Hermon Bridge and the race is now set up for a classic battle of the ages as the 48-year-old world-beating champion faces off against a 22-year-old future star who is less than half his age, but McGregor did not find things easy on Day 1. "It was at long day," said the 14-time winner. "The water wasn't that full – it was definitely on the low side. The shallow water and slow moving current was tiring." "I'm happy to be to be leading and mixing it up in the front ... you don't want to be playing catch up on the next couple of days. Josh knows what you're going and he's done all the pre-races ... in fact he has won all the pre so I think I'm in good hands with somebody like that who knows where he is going." "It is going to be tricky tomorrow and you can make mistakes," added McGregor. Day 2 is the shortest of the event at "only" 46km, but with some channels and treeblocks littering the route, there is plenty of opportunity for positions to change. The format is elapsed time start which means McGregor and Glyn-Cuthbert have the advantage of paddling together from the beginning of the stage. Mtolo is in the unenviable position of being in no-man's land and having to paddle alone with a group three chasing him, while two can work together up ahead. KZN's McGregor will be relatively happy to have finished with his young rival and on Thursday the wily 11-time World Champion is likely to be content to follow the Maties student into the channels to reduce the risk of getting lost and losing a big chunk of time. Selected Leading Results Berg River Marathon Men 1 Hank Mcgregor 4:42:35 2 Joshua Glyn-Cuthbert 4:42:36 3 Msawenkosi Mtolo 4:45:27 4 Sibusiso Chwayi 4:51:19 5 Benjamin Mntonintshi 4:51:19 6 Thomas Lovemore 4:51:20 7 Jeremy Maher 4:52:12 8 Anders Hart 4:52:52 9 Heinrich Schloms 4:52:53 10 Zamokuhle Meyiwa 4:54:03 Women 1 Neriyah Dill 5.23.33 2 Christy Shrimpton 5.35.36 3 Natasha Bradford 5.46.03

Benjamin Habig And Barry White Steal The Show - https://www.runridedive.com/index.php/2026/07/14/benjamin-habig-and-barry-white-steal-the-show/ The GR Legends Rally, the third round of the SA National Rally Championship saw the reigning SA National Rally Champions bag their third consecutive victory in their Volkswagen Polo NRC1 after a thrilling 13-stage duel with their closest rivals Jono van Wyk and Nico Swartz in a similar Rally Technic VW Polo NRC1. Photo: David Leadbitter Nico and Juandre Nienaber won two stages and had to fight their way back onto the final step of the podium in their Hyundai i20 NRC1 after overcoming myriad problems including a failed alternator, flat battery and fuel pump failure. The GR Legends Rally took place on the farmlands in the Bronkhorstspruit area as a last minute replacement for the postponed Algoa Rally and was notable for its high-speed sections and thick dust. Friday’s opening salvo saw Habig win the first four stages shaded by Van Wyk who ended the day just 0.2 seconds off the lead after Habig stalled in a sharp corner while blinded by his own dust which allowed Van Wyk to set up a Saturday showdown. Saturday’s opening two stages saw Habig battle with a loose rear belly plate which cost the KZN driver the lead as his Polo was 70km/h down on his rivals on the long straights as the offending part dragged under the car and battled with erratic handling as well as the loss of power steering. “The belly plate was acting like a plough for the next planting season”, Habig smiled at the Soetdoring Venue finish. “On corners, the plate lifted the rear of the car making it a real handful which was made worse when the power steering failed.” After the first service, where the Polo was repaired, there was another setback as the Polo started to overheat, requiring the driver to turn the wick down until the next service break where the hard-working technicians could resolve the issue. After the Polo was restored to full health, it was business as usual with Habig taking five wins from the remaining six stages to fight his way back into the lead battle. Victory for Van Wyk seemed assured until stage 11 when he wrong slotted after being blinded in his own dust, losing 43 seconds - and the rally lead. “I turned left instead of right in my own dust. That mistake cost us the victory”, he rued. Fourth overall and winning class NRC3 was George Smalberger and co-driver Etienne Lourens in their Shield Racing Volkswagen Polo after a clean run, barring a bent steering arm after hitting a rock, ending 39 seconds ahead of the NRC2 class winners Bruce Swatton and Craig Reyneke in their VW Polo, who took a commendable fifth overall in only the third rally for the newly built machine. Sixth overall and second in class NRC3 went to Rudolf Pretorius and Jack Radford in their VW Polo, comfortably ahead of the visiting Zambian crew of Mayur Patel and co-driver Colin Gander in their Subaru Impreza STi. The visitors had a near rally ending moment in Friday’s final stage when they hit a dip and jump at almost unabated speed. The Impreza launched into the air and landed heavily on its nose, and while the car suffered front end damage, they were able to complete the event, albeit at reduced pace. Lynton Swatton and Tommy Coetzee took eighth overall and the final step of the NRC2 class podium in their VW Polo, with the Cape pairing of Ismaeel Davids and Yusuf Ganief coming home in ninth in their Toyota GR Yaris after a rally fraught with technical issues which slowed their pace after setting consistent top four stage times. Chris Coertse and Elzaan van der Schyff rounded out the top ten in their Rally Technic Mazda2 NRC1. The former SA Rally champion was in the fight for a podium place, setting top three and four stage times until thwarted by fuel pressure issues and incurred lateness penalties as his team battled to cure the fault, which dropped them down the order. Mark Jones and Kes Naidoo were forced to retire their Toyota Gazoo Racing GR Yaris in the final stage with technical issues while Kent and Justin Rutherford retired their Shield Racing VW Polo in stage ten after losing drive with suspected driveshaft failure. Anton/Isabel Raaths retired their Toyota RunX after encountering brake problems. The GR Legends Rally also hosted rounds two and three of the Northern Regions Rally Championship; the Friday rally-within-a-rally was won by Juan de Wet and Gert Nienaber in their Subaru Impreza STi, followed by Johan de Bruin and Wallie de Bruyn in their Nissan 350Z, with Michael Mullany and Lehlohonolo Letuka taking their final step of the podium in their Subaru Forester. Saturday saw the de Bruins go one better taking the rally victory by eight seconds from Johan Strauss Jr and Kemaine Venter in their Subaru Impreza. Ashley and Les McKenzie had a strong run to third overall in their Ford Escort Mk1. The GR Legends Club Rally, run over four stages, was won by Rudolf Pretorius/Jack Radford in the VW Polo followed by Ashley/Les McKenzie in their Ford Escort and Schalk van Heerden Junior and Senior in their Datsun 1600 SSS. The SA National Rally Championship is proudly supported by Toyota Gazoo Racing, Dunlop, ATS Motorsport, TRAC, Ctrack, Fixed Mobile Telecoms and Mibern Medi-Call.

Durban's Tylor Houston Claims O'Neill Ballito Pro Skate Jam Title - https://www.runridedive.com/index.php/2026/07/14/durbans-tylor-houston-claims-oneill-ballito-pro-skate-jam-title/ Despite weather forcing a last-minute venue change, the 2026 O'Neill Ballito Pro Skate Jam delivered all the energy and spectacular tricks fans have come to expect, with Durban's Tylor Houston claiming the Open title after an exciting afternoon of competition on Saturday, 11 July. Photo: Jake Turnbull (11) from Australia claimed 1st place in the U16 Grom Division at the 2026 O'Neill Ballito Pro Skate Jam. Supplied by Olivia Jones Communications Originally scheduled for the Ballito Bowl as part of the Ballito Pro Presented by O'Neill (4 to 18 July), the competition was relocated to The Lot Skate Park at Ballito Junction Regional Mall to ensure ideal skating conditions. R30 000 in prize money was up for grabs across the Groms and Open divisions as some of South Africa's top skateboarders, alongside promising young talent, showcased their skills in an event that continues to strengthen Ballito's reputation as a hub for action sports. Commenting on his win, Houston said: “I didn’t even have words yesterday, trying to hold back the tears. It just means so much to me because, as a skateboarder, these are the moments you dream of - hearing your name called in first place, having fun and skating with your friends in a contest where everyone is dropping hammer after hammer. I just couldn’t ask for more. A massive thank you to all the sponsors and people involved that make this all possible!” Riaan van Biljon of OSP Events Co. said the day captured everything that makes the Ballito Pro Skate Jam so special: "It was awesome to see so many new and old faces there skating together. There is so much new potential coming through with the under-16 boys and girls. It was fantastic seeing parents supporting all the new talent here in Ballito. In the Open division we saw the likes of Brandon Valjalo skating for Red Bull alongside several other heavy hitters. Overall, it was a great day of skateboarding and an awesome event." Speaking after the event, O'Neill Brand Director Paul Canning said: “O'Neill is so stoked to partner in the Ballito Pro Skate Jam again this year. Although it was not in The Ballito Bowl, it’s awesome to have an amazing back up venue like The Lot which offered nice change up in competition. The Skate Jam is a real highlight for the Ballito community and one of the key events in the Ballito Pro festival.” South African Olympian Brandon Valjalo once again thrilled spectators with his technical ability, walking away with the Open Best Trick award for his big spin back tail on the big hubba. Ballito Pro Skate Jam Open Results 1st place: Tylor Houston (25) from Durban 2nd place: Kalvyn MacMillan (37) from Durban 3rd place: Josh Beukes (28) from Pretoria Ballito Pro Skate Jam U16 Groms Results 1st place: Jake Turnbull (11) from Australia 2nd place: Ashley Gindre (11) from Durban 3rd place: Jackson Myers (12) from Durban Special Awards Grom Best Trick: Jake Turnbull Best Up-and-Coming Skater: Jordan Gardner Best Trick: Brandon Valjalo Packed Programme for this Year’s Ballito Pro While the Skate Jam may be over, the Ballito Pro Presented by O'Neill continues until 18 July, with visitors still able to enjoy: Mandela Day 67 Minutes for the Ocean beach clean-up (18 July) O'Neill SMTH Shapes Rookie Rippers showcasing South Africa's rising surfing stars. Surf & Turf Celebrity Challenge combining surfing with soccer and rugby personalities. Red Bull MX activations and extreme sports showcases. FIFA-themed community activations and youth soccer initiatives. Ballito Pro Music Concerts Presented by Corona. Corona Sunset Sessions at Willard Beach, Battle of the DJs competition and After Dark entertainment. Beach sports, family activities, fashion showcases and retail experiences. Environmental initiatives including Litter4Tokens and WESSA ocean conservation campaigns. Coastal tourism experiences showcasing the KwaDukuza and iLembe region.

SA Hockey Men Seal Series Despite Late Malaysia Fightback - https://www.runridedive.com/index.php/2026/07/11/sa-hockey-men-seal-series-despite-late-malaysia-fightback/ South Africa’s Hockey Men secured the series against Malaysia after a thrilling 3-3 draw in the fourth test, played in pouring rain in KwaZulu-Natal. Photo - ACK Sport Photography Captain Dayaan Cassiem led South Africa out in his 99th test for his country, while Malaysia also celebrated a milestone as Shello Silverius reached his 100th international cap. South Africa endured the worst possible start as Malaysia struck twice in the opening quarter. Azimuddin Kamaruddin opened the scoring from a penalty corner, before Anuar doubled the visitors’ advantage with a strong finish to give Malaysia a 2-0 lead. The hosts responded in the second quarter through Trevor de Lora, who produced an outstanding instinctive finish into the back of the net. It was struck with superb power and marked De Lora’s first international goal on home soil, a moment he celebrated with clear delight. Despite South Africa beginning to dominate more of the contest, Malaysia held onto their advantage at the break, leading 2-1 at half-time. Early in the second half, parity was restored. Sihle Ngubane, enjoying a purple patch for the national team, received the ball in a dangerous area and unleashed a hard slap finish that smashed into the back of the net to bring South Africa level. With 10 minutes remaining, the game was locked at 2-2 and South Africa needed something special to underline their growing dominance. They found it through a brilliant counterattack. Viwe Mbata fed Mustapha Cassiem, and South Africa’s main man did the rest. Cassiem shaped to shoot, sold the defender with a clever fake, and then fired a bullet into the net to give South Africa the lead. But, disappointingly for the hosts, Malaysia struck late once again. The visitors won a penalty corner, and Azrai produced a superb deflection to level the match and secure a 3-3 draw. While South Africa will be frustrated not to have closed out the victory, the result was enough to seal the series ahead of Sunday’s final test. After four matches, South Africa lead the series 2-0, with two wins and two draws.

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