Neheng Khatala Claims Maiden Totalsports Women’s Race Victory in Durban

Years in the making, Lesotho’s national record holder, Neheng Khatala, secured her maiden Totalsports Women’s Race victory in Durban on Sunday, 02 August 2026 in a time of 32:06.

“I’m so excited to be part of the race today,” said a very happy Khatala. “It’s been a good year for me. The race was great and the route is fast. We tried to push the pace, but unfortunately the wind made it difficult. The ladies were very strong, so we maintained the pace together. At around the 5km mark, I knew I was going to win the race. I’m very grateful, and I’m also happy for the other ladies. Winning is always on my mind. As an athlete, you always have to aim to win. If it doesn’t happen, it doesn’t happen, but you need to stay mentally strong and always strive for the win or the best possible position.”

“Crossing the finish line first today means a lot to me,” she added. “Durban is where I set my national record. I missed it today, but I think if it hadn’t been for the wind, I would have run faster. I love this race. The organisers take great care of us, the event is exceptionally well organised, and everything is just perfect.”

Emma Pallant-Browne (Great Britain) came in second, while Friday Ndinda (Kenya) finished third.

“The Totalsports Women’s Race Durban once again delivered on every level. We witnessed impressive performances from our elite athletes, while thousands of women took to the streets alongside family and friends to celebrate the start of Women’s Month in a truly uplifting atmosphere,” says Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports. “It’s incredibly rewarding to see runners of all ages and abilities embracing the event, whether they were chasing a podium finish, a personal best or simply enjoying the experience together. We’d like to extend our sincere appreciation to Totalsports, our valued sponsors and partners, every entrant, and all the family members, friends and supporters whose continued support enables us to create an event that not only showcases elite racing but also inspires communities to lead active, healthy lifestyles. Durban has set the tone for a memorable Women’s Month celebration, and we look forward to carrying this incredible energy and positive spirit to the Mother City when the Totalsports Women’s Race takes place in Cape Town on Sunday, 09 August, followed by the Totalsports Women’s Race in Joburg on Sunday, 16 August 2026.”

According to Nikki Crous, Head of Marketing at Totalsports, the Durban race was the perfect way to kick off Women’s Month, uniting thousands of women in celebration of health, empowerment and community.

“Durban delivered an exceptional edition of the Totalsports Women’s Race, with remarkable performances from our elite athletes and an electric atmosphere created by thousands of participants. It is always inspiring to see women of all ages and fitness levels come together in celebration of health, empowerment and the joy of movement. We extend our sincere appreciation to every runner, sponsor, volunteer and partner whose passion, commitment and support made the day such a resounding success. We look forward to welcoming everyone back next year for another unforgettable Totalsports Women’s Race.”

EVENT INFORMATION: 2026 Totalsports Women’s Race

1. Sunday, 02 August 2026 / Totalsports Women’s Race Durban
Winner: Neheng Khatala (Lesotho) / 32:06

2. Sunday, 9 August 2026 / Totalsports Women’s Race Cape Town
Start Venue:
• 10km Start: Darling Street, Cape Town
• 5km Start: Castle Street
Finish Venue: Grand Parade, Cape Town

3. Sunday, 16 August 2026 / Totalsports Women’s Race Joburg
Start Venue: Orange Road and Buffalo Road Junction, Marks Park
Finish Venue: Orange Road and Buffalo Road Junction, Marks Park

LIVE PERFORMANCE: Renowned for her electrifying performances and chart-topping hits spanning Kwaito, House, Gqom, Amapiano and Afropop, South African music powerhouse Busiswa will perform live at the Totalsports Women’s Race in Durban on Sunday, 02 August, Cape Town on Sunday, 09 August, and Johannesburg on Sunday, 16 August 2026, ensuring participants and supporters enjoy an unforgettable race-day experience both on and off the route.

CHARITY SUPPORT: The Totalsports Women’s Race proudly supports PinkDrive, a non-profit company (NPC) dedicated to increasing breast cancer awareness, providing education, and offering free services to medically uninsured individuals across South Africa.

Like our Facebook page: Women’s Race / The PinkDrive
Follow us on Instagram: Women’s Race / PinkDrive
Hashtag: #Totalsports #TotalsportsWomensRace #LoveTheRun #PinkDrive
WhatsApp Line: 064 815 4116

For more information on PinkDrive visit www.pinkdrive.org For further information on the Totalsports Women’s Race visit www.totalsportswomensrace.co.za

CLICK HERE to submit your press release to MyPR.co.za.

Author: Jacky McClean from NEWSPORT MEDIA on behalf of Totalsports Women’s Race.