SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Fast 5’s Netball Challenge Durban South Regional - Hutchinson Park: Saturday 15 August

Dominating from start to finish, host team, Amanzimtoti Netball Club took the honours in the Durban South Regional of the SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Fast 5’s Netball Challenge at Hutchinson Park, Amanzimtoti on Saturday 15 August.

Comprising scholars from around the area, Toti’s Netball team took to the court earning convincing wins in all of their eight round robin games, netting 102 points courtesy of on-target sharp shooters, Hannah Grey and Micheala Clegg. Playmaker for the team, Tyra Norris was a firecracker in the centre, efficiently intercepting the ball on numerous occasions, and quickly feeding her attackers in the circle. Another ‘stand out’ player was their keeper, Zoey Quigley, who ‘towered’ above most of her opponents, constantly springing to life like a jack-in-the-box. 

The home team easily advanced to the semi-final, meeting three-times champions, Kingsway High School who have hoisted the trophy in consecutive years 2022 – 2024. The result was a convincing victory by Toti 18-4. In the second semi-final, defending champions, Kuswag Skool finished second overall and met travelling Hoërskool Suid-Natal who finished third place in the round robin games. In an action-packed game, only one point separated the two teams. Suidies took the game with 9 points ejecting the hard-working defending champs who scored 8 points. 

Long jump. Amanzimtoti Netball Club’s Tyra Norris stretches mid-stride to hang onto the wide pass as Hoërskool Suid-Natal’s Chantelle Coetzee desperately tries to intercept as Alexis Ahearne watches on during the Durban South Regional final of the SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Fast 5’s Netball Challenge that took place at Hutchinson Park on Saturday 15 August. Pic by Rogan Ward.

In the regional final, Suid Natal got centre pass, sending the ball quickly up to their post lady who fired off the first shot of the game with only 16 seconds on the clock. The ball arched over the goal, giving possession to Toti. Wasting no time, the ball made its way up to Grey who slotted in the first point of the game twenty seconds later. 

A quarter of the way through the first half, Suidies’ Chantelle Coetzee adventurously launched an attempt, successfully earning herself a 2 pointer – the only one of the game. At the blast of whistle for half time, the visitors pocketed their fourth point giving them a 2-goal deficit of 2 points. Midway the score was sitting at 6-4. The second half was littered with 1 pointers, with the fired-up Grey and Clegg adding 9 points with Suid Natal only successfully finding space around the jumper, Quigley to secure three points. The final score 15-7 in favour of Toti.

The tournament heads inland for the Southern KZN Regional hosted by Kokstad College on Saturday 22 August, where four-times winner, Shayamoya Area Secondary School aims to hold 8 teams at bay to secure their fifth title, the only team in the challenge with a 100% record. 

For more information, follow the tournament on social media.

Results:

Final

Amanzimtoti Netball Club 15 vs Hoërskool Suid-Natal 7

Semi-Final

Amanzimtoti Netball Club 18 vs Kingsway High School 4

Hoërskool Suid-Natal 9 vs Kuswag Skool 8

Round Robin

1 Amanzimtoti Netball Club 24pts; 2 Kuswag Skool 19pts; 3  Hoërskool Suid-Natal 15pts; 4 Kingsway High School 14pts; 5 RBP Netball Club 13pts; 6 Southcity Christian School 9pts; 7 Port Shepstone High School 6pts; 8 Creston College 3pts; 9 Kwamakhuta Comprehensive High School 3pts

Maritzburg Gears Up for SPAR Women's Challenge: Road Closures and Parking Information for Sunday 23 August

Maritzburg is set to welcome 4000 women for this year's SPAR Women's 10km/5km Challenge on Sunday 23 August, taking participants through Alexandra Park and the outskirts of the CBD. With such a big field on the road, organisers are urging residents and participants alike to plan ahead for the closures below.

Race Director Brad Glasspoole says. “We're encouraging everyone to plan ahead so you're on time. Both distances start promptly at 8am and we are at full capacity, which means there will be extra traffic getting to the start. We suggest participants leave home early and plan their routes so as not to miss the starting horn.'

Both the 10km and 5km start near Maritzburg College, following an "out-and-back" route that begins in Princess Margaret Drive and finishes at The Oval, Cricket Stadium.

Road closures and times, Sunday 23 August:

Balmoral Drive - closed from 03:00 -11:00
Princess Margaret Drive - closed from 03:00 -11:00
Park Drive between Princess Margaret Drive and Princess Elizabeth Drive - closed from 03:00 -11:00
Princess Elizabeth Drive - closed from 03:00 -11:00
Park Drive from College Road to Princess Margaret Drive - closed from 07:00-11:00
Alexandra Road from Cross Road to Alan Paton Avenue - closed (inbound only) from 07:00-10:00
Alan Paton Avenue from Alexandra Road to Burger Street - closed (inbound only) from 07:00 - 08:30
Alexandra Road between Alan Paton Avenue and Jesmond Road-closed in both directions from 07:30 until approximately 08:45
West Street / College Road (away from the CBD) closed from 07:00 till approximately 10:00

Residents: Those in the New Scotland Road area of Pelham will be able to access their residence from Campsdrift Road and egress via College Road towards the CBD between 07:00 and 10:00.

Parking: Event parking is available on the soccer fields off Prince Charles Drive (next to the BMX track), accessed via Alan Paton Avenue / Chief Albert Luthuli Street (near Alexandra Baths) into Park Drive. Additional parking is on the fields adjacent to Kershaw Park Tennis Club off Chief Albert Luthuli Street.

Race pack collection: The race is completely sold out. Participants can collect their race numbers on Saturday 22 August from 10am to 4pm at their selected SUPERSPAR store:

·       SUPERSPAR Greendale

·       SUPERSPAR Mega Edendale

·       SUPERSPAR Mega Parklane

·       SUPERSPAR Mills

·       SUPERSPAR Northway

·       SUPERSPAR Hilton Quarry

·       SPAR Nottingham Road

·       SPAR Breland (Dalton)

There is NO Race Pack Collection this year at The Oval Cricket Stadium. Goodie bags and medals will be issued out to the successful finishers as they cross the finish line at this year’s race.

For more info visit the official race on https://sparwomenschallenge.co.za/maritzburg/

Maritzburg SPAR Women’s 10/5km Challenge - Maritzburg Race Charity Announced

The Oval: Sunday 23 August A sold-out field of 4,000 runners will be making a big difference to this year’s Maritzburg SPAR Women’s 10/5km Challenge race charity, Dlalanathi.

Dlalanathi is a non-profit organisation based in Pietermaritzburg, focusing on providing psychosocial support for children through play by training and supporting caregivers. The organisation that started about 25 years ago was born from a personal journey of grief, dedicated to helping children and families navigating loss. 

Dlalanathi, meaning “play with us”, “play and be well,” signifies their mission to bring hope and healing to children impacted by loss through the joy of play. Their approach aligns with Nelson Mandela’s belief that children are the most vulnerable citizens in any society and the greatest of our treasures.

Through their work, they recognise the value of both children and caregivers, empowering them to be pillars of support in their homes, families, and communities. Their core values encapsulate hope, courage, respect, love and play - creating safe, nurturing spaces for children, youth, and families to heal, connect, and grow through play and creative expression.

Five Rand from every entry is being donated to Dlalanathi for their work in Pietermaritzburg and surrounds. They have a team of dedicated and passionate individuals. Their unwavering commitment, unconditional care, and ability to inspire hope make a profound impact on the lives of those we serve.

This year’s race will take place on Sunday 23 August with race pack collections for participants taking place on Saturday 22 August at the SPAR store that they selected. Goodie Bags will be presented to all finishing athletes on race day, as they successfully cross the finish line. 

For more info follow the race on social media or visit wwwsparwomenschallenge.co.za

SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Fast 5s Netball Challenge North Coast Regional - Grantleigh School: Saturday 1 August

Rain stopped play at the enthusiastic North Coast Regional where 11 schools were putting all the efforts into taking home the trophy in the opening tournament of the 6th SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Fast 5s Netball Challenge that took place at Grantleigh College on Saturday 1 August.

In the 21 games played, it rained goals with a total of 227 being netted. The second team from Khombindela High School were leading in the lunchtime fixture against Felixton College before umpires made the responsible call to halt play in the downpour. Only two more rounds in the pool games remained until the semi-finals.

High five. Hoerskool Richardsbaai’s Samantha Viljoen launches herself to intercept Felixton College’s Zenande Mncwabe during their pool game at the North Coast Regional of the SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Fast 5s Netball Challenge that took place at Grantleigh School on Saturday 1 August. Pic by Val Adamson.

The four previous champions were all looking good to advance to the semi-finals, with Dlangezwa High School also putting their hand up to be considered. Leading pool A was one time winner, Tholokuhle High School who had 12 points with one game in hand. Tied at second place was Hoërskool Richardsbaai who raised the trophy two years ago and Dlangezwa, both sitting on 10 points. Hoerskool Richardsbaai had scored a total of 21 goals while Dlangezwa, still with a game in hand, had a tally of 26 goals.

Defending champions, and two times winner, Khombindela High School's first team found themselves level on points with one time winner, Empangeni High School both on 15 points.

 Step to it. Weighing up her options, : Sabelwe Makhanyavs from Empangeni High School plans her attack while her team mate Xoliswa Cele watches her opponents moves. Elihle Nzuza and Coco Cameron playing for Grantleigh School  keep an eye on the ball during their pool game at the North Coast Regional of the SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Fast 5s Netball Challenge that took place at Grantleigh School on Saturday 1 August. Pic by Val Adamson.

Khombindela looked to be stronger, with a game still in hand, after they dominated their fixture against their neighbours, Empangeni - winning 13 to 8. Khombindela had racked up 5 goals in their three pool games while Empangeni slotted in 30 goals in their four pool games.

The tournament heads to Amanzimtoti where ‘Toti Netball Club will host the upcoming Durban South Regional on Saturday 15 August

For more information, follow the challenge on its social media channels.

SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Fast 5’s Netball Challenge 2026 - Date Announcement KwaZulu-Natal

Nearly 90 schools will have their court appearance at the upcoming SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Fast 5’s Netball Challenge that kicks off in August.

The tournament now in its sixth year has hosted 34 regionals in the five years since its inception in 2019. The first year, the fledgling tournament started with only four regionals, quickly growing to seven areas over the following two years. The successful Challenge has now doubled in size and travels to eight areas in KZN.

"SPAR KwaZulu-Natal is pleased to see how the Challenge has evolved over the years,” says Nelene Rampersad, Promotion, Advertising & Communication Manager for SPAR KwaZulu-Natal, sponsors of the tournament. “Our involvement goes beyond sponsorship; we believe in the power of sport to build confidence, discipline and creating a sense of belonging among young women and their peers.”

Netting the first tournament this year, Grantleigh School welcomes teams for the Zululand Regional on Saturday 1 August. Travelling down the coast, Toti Netball Club hosts teams for the South Coast Regional at Hutchinson Park on Saturday 15 August. The following weekend the Challenge moves inland to Kokstad College who opens up their picturesque school for the Southern KZN Regional. Wrapping up the August commitments, Durban Girls’ College is the venue for the Durban Central Regional on Saturday 29 August.

Thomas More College will enjoy having teams competing on their campus for the Upper Highway Regional on Saturday 5 September. The final local tournament, the Durban North Regional unfolds at Ashton International College in Ballito on Saturday 12 September. Concluding the Challenges, Pionier Hoërskool in Vryheid is ‘hoopful’ that teams participating in the Northern KZN Regional will shoot for glory on Saturday 19 September. 

Eight teams will be returning in the hopes of defending their titles. The North Coast Regional has had four champions, with Khombindela High School eager to retain the honour and earn their third title. Newcomer, Kuswag Hoërskool is the third team to hoist the South Coast Regional trophy and are keen to have a back-to-back victory. The only team with a 100% record in the challenge is Shayamoya Area Secondary School who will be determined to continue their dominance in the Southern KZN Regional. 

With home turf advantage, Durban Girls’ College will be vying for their fourth title in the Durban Central Regional. Another team on the prowl for their fourth title, Hillcrest High School have stood tall dominating the Highway area, the only other team to feature on the top step is Luthayi High School. Three teams have been crowned in the Durban North Regional, with Danville Park Girls’ High’s name engraved on the trophy twice and on the hunt for a third victory. Ferrum High School currently is the defending champions in the Northern KZN Regional, but host team Hoërskool Pionier have also had the honour of raising the regional trophy once, as have the Smurfs twice, representing Dundee High School. 

Eight weeks of action packed netball is due to unfold around KwaZulu Natal as the sixth SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Fast 5’s Netball Challenge tips off next month.

For more information, follow the tournament on social media.

SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge Grand Finals St Mary’s D.S.G.: Saturday 25 – Sunday 26 July

A new champion has been crowned at the SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge, congratulations to Our Lady of Fatima for winning their very first Grand Finals at St Mary’s D.S.G. on Sunday 26 July.

Wrapping up two days of phenomenal hockey, the Durban North Regional winner met a polished team from St John’s D.S.G. representing the Pietermaritzburg Central Regional in the final. St John’s started off hot in the first half, with several promising probes. Fifteen seconds into the first half, the yellow sticks from Maritzburg earned their first set piece. Firing in a low flying missile, keeper, Kayla Driver quickly diverted the shot in the first short corner of the game. 

Two minutes later, Driver was called into action again when Mia Howie from St John’s was gifted a superb through-ball. In a one-on-one scenario, Howie attempted two back-to-back shots but wasn’t allowed any space and soon the Fatima defenders swooped in to assist Driver. For the remainder of the first half, St John’s were relentless with constant attacks, but the Fatima backline confidently shut down all advances. 

The high tempo continued in the second half, but the tables were turned. A determined Fatima started running the ball up into the St John’s circle, finding their flair from the first day. With just under ten minutes left in the final, St John’s earned their second short corner but again, Driver blocked the shot without hesitation. 

Less than two minutes later, the ball was run down the left side for Fatima and passed to the waiting forwards in the circle. In a flurry, Fatima’s front line started peppering keeper for St John’s, Deborah Lock. On their third shot, Charly-Rose Boyall wasted no time slapping in the rebound directly into goals for the all-important goal. 

As time wound down, St John’s picked up the pace, desperately searching for the equaliser, but the Fatima defence didn’t falter and held strong for the final seven minutes. The final score was a well earned 1 nil to Fatima who broke their spell having five fifth places to their names in all of their runs at the Grand Finals. 

St John’s making their fourth appearance can be proud of their second silver, adding to their impressive results. They earned their first silver in 2024, a bronze in 2022 and in their first appearance in 2017, they finished fourth.

Leading up to the finals, both St John’s and Fatima topped their pools with wins in all of their games, including two tightly contested semi-finals. In Pool A, St John’s were victorious against Ferrum High School (6-0); St Patrick’s College (3-0); Amanzimtoti High School (7-0) and in the second last game on Saturday, beat host school and defending champions and seven-times winner, St Mary’s (2-0). Our Lady of Fatima were successful in Pool B against one-time winner, St Anne’s Diocesan College (3-1); five-time champions, Durban Girls’ College (1-0); Wartburg Kirchdorf School (7-0) and Grantleigh School (6-0).

In the first semi-final, St John’s met Durban Girls’ College who were returning for their fourteenth appearance. College finished tied on 9 points with St Anne’s but with a better goal difference after their four pool games and advanced to the semi. After a hard-fought clash, the yellow sticks netted one goal, courtesy of Paige Williams, against the highly decorated College team. 

In a nail biter second semi-final, Fatima met second the host school, St Mary’s who were keen to raise the trophy for the eighth time. With three seconds left on the clock, Fatima found a gap in the Saint’s defence, their Cinderella performance continuing to the main game of the Grand Finals thanks to yet another beautiful goal by Boyall.

A new concept for the tournament, the introduction of the Plate Final. The inaugural recipient was the Pietermaritzburg North Regional team, St Anne’s. This is their eleventh run at the Grand Finals, with a long list of achievements they were the first team to raise the handsome trophy in 2011 and adding to that, they are now the first winners of the Plate. 

Over the ten regionals, matric students have been adding their name to a lucky draw to win a bursary through Durban based, tertiary institution, eta College. Amahle Khumalo from Vryheid Hoërskool won for themselves a year’s bursary at the Sport Science, Coaching and Management college valued at R89,000.

Ten teams took to the field in the conclusion of the 16th year of the SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge, after 31 games over two days of high energy hockey, a total of 97 goals were scored with Our Lady of Fatima being the fourth team since the tournament’s inception in 2011. 

Results

1 Our Lady of Fatima (DBN North Regional); 2 St John’s D.S.G. (PMB Central Regional); 3 St Mary’s D.S.G. (Highway Regional); 4 Durban Girls’ College (DBN Central Regional); 5 St Anne’s Diocesan College (PMB North Regional); 6 Grantleigh School (North Coast Regional); 7 St Patrick’s College (uGu and Sisonke Regional); 8 Ferrum High School (Northern KZN Regional); 9 Wartburg Kirchdorf School (uMvoti and oThukela Regional); 10 Amanzimtoti High School (DBN South Regional)

SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge Grand Finals Ten Teams - St Mary’s D.S.G.: Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 July

Ten regional champions will be descending on St Mary’s D.S.G. turf for the Grand Finals of the SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge on Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 July.

A total of 34 schools have participated in the concluding tournament that wraps up the ten regionals. This is the first year in the history of the Grand Finals that all the reigning champions have made a prior appearance.

Travelling from Kokstad, the Ugu and Sisonke Regional Winner St Patrick’s College will be stepping onto the turf for their third time. From just up the road, St John’s D.S.G. representing the Pietermaritzburg Central Regional will be tackling their fourth final. In their three previous runs, they bettered their result having finished fourth, then third and last year second. Will a new team walk away with the top honours? 

Maritzburg teams, St Anne's Diocesan College and St John's D.S.G. will be facing finalists from around KZN in the Grand Finals for the SPAR KZN Schoolgirls' Hockey Challenge taking place next weekend (Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 July) at St Mary's D.S.G. in Kloof. Pictured here are St John's first team captain, Emma Williams (left), with St Anne's players; Inati Ncgobo (top), who just made the SA U16 team, and first team captain, Willow Crawford (right). Photo by Val Adamson.

Three teams have been crowned champions since the tournament’s inception in 2011. This year all three are back in the hopes to have their names engraved again. Host school and defending champions, St Mary’s D.S.G. representing the Highway area are on the prowl for their eighth title while Durban Girls’ College, flying the flag from the Durban Central region are back with a bang. Both St Mary’s and Girls’ College will be making their thirteenth appearance at the concluding tournament – the two most decorated teams.

Walking onto the turf for the eleventh time, St Anne’s Diocesan College from the Pietermaritzburg North Regional is the only other team who has hoisted the trophy at the Grand Finals and have played in the podium games in each of their runs.  Joining them with eleven impressive innings, representing the Northern KZN teams – Ferrum High School is on the scour for an elusive top four placing. 

The last team to secure their berth, Wartburg Kirchdorf School will proudly be making their eighth appearance for the uMvoti and oThukela region. Two teams return for their seventh outing, from the North Coast Regional, Grantleigh School and Amanzimtoti High School from the Durban South Regional. 

The first team to punch their ticket, Our Lady of Fatima are the most consistent team in the history of the Grand Finals. In their five previous excursions, they have earned a hard earned fifth place each year. Will their sixth break their cycle?

Joining the home team in Pool A are St John’s D.S.G.; Ferrum High School; St Patrick’s College and Amanzimtoti High School. Drawn in Pool B are St Anne’s Diocesan College; Durban Girls’ College; Our Lady of Fatima; Grantleigh School and Wartburg Kirchdorf.

Thirteenth Appearance

Durban Girls’ College: Durban Central Regional Winner - Gold (2013, 2014, 2015, 2022, 2023), Silver (2012, 2016, 2017), Bronze (2019), Fourth (2011, 2018, 2024)

St Mary’s D.S.G: Highway Regional Winner - Gold (2012, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2024, 2025); Silver (2022, 2023); Bronze (2011, 2013); Fourth (2015)

Eleventh Appearance

St Anne’s Diocesan College: Pietermaritzburg North Regional Winner – Gold (2011); Silver (2014, 2018, 2019, 2025); Bronze (2015, 2016, 2017); Fourth (2013, 2022)

Ferrum High School: Northern KZN Regional Winner – Fifth (2012, 2015, 2025); Sixth (2011, 2018, 2024); Eighth (2019); Ninth (2017) Tenth (2013, 2014)

Eighth Appearance

Warburg Kirchdorf School: uMvoti and oThukela Regional Winner – Fifth (2016); Sixth (2015); Seventh (2017); Eighth (2013); Ninth (2014; 2019); Tenth (2025)

Seventh Appearance

Amanzimtoti High School: Durban South Regional Winner - Tenth (2015, 2016, 2017, 2019), Eighth (2018); Ninth (2024)

Grantleigh School: North Coast Regional Winner – Seventh (2022, 2023), Eighth (2011, 2016, 2017, 2024)

Sixth Appearance

Our Lady of Fatima: Durban North Regional Winner – Fifth (2011, 2017, 2018, 2022, 2024)

Fourth Appearance

St John’s D.S.G.:  Pietermaritzburg Central Regional – Silver (2024); Bronze (2022); Fourth (2017) 

Third Appearance

St Patrick’s College: Ugu and Sisonke Regional Winner - Seventh (2024, 2025)

Maritzburg SPAR Women’s 10/5km Challenge - The Oval: Sunday 23 August

The pioneering race of the SPAR Women’s Challenge is back. The Maritzburg SPAR Women's 10/5km Challenge - the original iconic race in this hugely popular national series - returns to the streets of Pietermaritzburg on Sunday 23 August.

Entries for this year’s event are now open online, with the limit capped at 4,000 participants. The main race, the more challenging 10km is now only open to women, but men are welcome to support their friends and family by joining in the shorter 5km event. Both distances will set off at 8am, with the routes “out-and-back” starting in Princess Margaret Drive and finishing at The Oval, Cricket Stadium.

For teams of ten or more wanting to enter, a team leader will need to coordinate the group, by booking for them electronically. Bulk entries close on Monday 10 August and individual online entries close on Monday 17 August (or once the entry limit is reached).

Entries cost R200 for both distances. If a temporary license is required for the 10km race, this will need to purchased for R60 during the online entry process. 

This year participants will need to collect their Race Packs at a participating SPAR store. During the online entry process, participants must select a SPAR store closest to them, where they will collect their race pack which includes a race bib and T-shirt. Eight stores will be the pick-up points in and around Pietermaritzburg on Saturday 22 August from 10am to 4pm only. The Collection Points are: 

SUPERSPAR Greendale

SUPERSPAR Mega Edendale

SUPERSPAR Mega Parklane

SUPERSPAR Mills

SUPERSPAR Northway

SUPERSPAR Hilton Quarry

SPAR Nottingham Road

SPAR Breland (Dalton)

Every finisher will receive their race medal and their Goodie Bag after they have completed their run. 

For the more serious runners, prize giving starts at 10.30am followed by the usual fantastic lucky draws. 

This year the race charity is Dlalanathi, an organisation that provides psycho-social support for children facing trauma, through play by training and supporting care-givers.  

Given that Cape Town, Durban and Tshwane all sold out ahead of their entry closing dates, early entry is strongly advised.

To enter: visit https://sparwomenschallenge.co.za/Maritzburg/

KAVANAGH TRIUMPHS IN DURBAN TO EXTEND SPAR GRAND PRIX SERIES LEAD

Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa: Tayla Kavanagh continued to deliver in what has been a breakthrough season, extending her lead in the SPAR Grand Prix Series with a hard-fought victory at the Durban SPAR Women's 10/5km Challenge on Sunday 28 June.

Kavanagh, representing Hollywood Athletics Club, pushed the pace from the start of the women's 10km race, shaking off most of the field within the first few kilometres, with only Ethiopian athlete Selam Gebre (Nedbank Running Club) able to hang on.

Tayla Kavanagh (Hollywood) and Selam Gebre (Nedbank) chasing down the Durban SPAR Women's 10/5km Challenge title. Photo: Rogan Ward.

Gebre lost touch with around 500 metres to go, approaching the finish at King's Park, and Kavanagh broke clear to win in 31:32, just six seconds outside her personal best.

"I had very strong competition from Selam today, and I think we really produced a good race out there. We challenged each other a lot and really kept each other going, and I enjoyed the competition," said Kavanagh, who also won the first leg of the SPAR Grand Prix Series in Cape Town in March.

"I put together a good race and I'm really happy with the consistency I've been able to produce over my last couple of 10km races, so I'm really looking forward to what lies ahead for the rest of the season, and I'm just very grateful to be feeling healthy and strong at the moment."

Despite fading in the closing stages after Kavanagh put in a big surge, Gebre held on to take the runner-up spot in 31:45.

Tayla Kavanagh (Hollywood) and Selam Gebre (Nedbank) chasing down the Durban SPAR Women's 10/5km Challenge title. Photo: Rogan Ward.

After missing the opening race of the series in Cape Town, due to visa issues, Gebre picked up valuable points in the SPAR Grand Prix campaign.

"Tayla led for most of the race, and technically and physically I was not good today, but I admire how Tayla won the race. She deserved the win," Gebre said.

Lesotho national record holder Neheng Khatala (Hollywood) rounded off the podium by taking third place in 32:09, proving she had recovered well after taking eighth place at the Two Oceans ultra-marathon in Cape Town in April.

"Since I came back from the ultra-marathon my training has been going very well, and my plan was to run sub-33 today, so I think I did well," Khatala said.

Behind her, producing another impressive result after winning the SA half-marathon title in Gqeberha the day before, Cacisile Sosibo (Boxer Athletics Club) dug deep to finish fourth in 32:16.

Her Boxer teammate Karabo More, who earned the national mile title at the SA Road Running Championships in Gqeberha, ended fifth in 32:44.

There was a sellout entry of 13 355 athletes. Each entry contributed R5 to the race charity, iThemba Lethu from Manor Gardens. Ralph Rajagopaul, SPAR KZN’s Marketing Director, handed over a cheque to the value of R100,000 to Director, Melissa Leslie. 

One lucky participant, Veloshni Naidoo of Phoenix was as the lucky winner of a brand-new Hyundai EXTER vehicle, valued at R269 900.00 following the race.

Caption of Cover Photo: Top 3 at the Durban SPAR Women’s 10/5km Challenge Selam Gebre (Nedbank) 31:45 (second), Tayla Kavanagh (Hollywood) 31:32 (first) and Neheng Khatala (Hollywood)  (third). Photo: Rogan Ward.

Durban SPAR Women’s 10 / 5km Challenge - Plan your route

Durban: Sunday 28 June With 12,500 participants, along with thousands of supporters, heading into Durban for this year’s  SPAR Women's Challenge on Sunday, 28 June, organisers are urging all entrants to plan their travel arrangements and parking well in advance.

Thousands of participants will take to the streets for the 36th running of South Africa’s most beautiful race, with the routes taking participants around the Hollywoodbets Kings Park Stadium precinct and along the beachfront. The route is a fast and flat ‘out-and-back’ course starting under the shadow of the Stadium, on Masabalala Yengwa Avenue and finishing on the outer fields of this iconic Durban landmark.

The following road closures that will affect access into the area. The 10km race starts at 8am and the 5km at 9am on Masabalala Yengwa Avenue, outside Hollywoodbets Kings Park Stadium outer fields.

Road Closures for Sunday 28 June

From 02:00

·       Snell Parade between Athlone Drive and the VIP entrance to Suncoast Casino.

·       Battery Beach Road between Snell Parade and Masabalala Yengwa Avenue.

·       Masabalala Yengwa Avenue between Smiso Nkwanyana Road and Isaiah Ntshangase Road.

·       The South bound lane of Masabalala Yengwa Avenue between Smiso Nkwanyana Road and KE Masinga Road.

·       Kingsmead Way and Eden Gardens Crescent. 

From 04:00

•      KE Masinga Road (the 2 left lanes) between Eden Gardens Crescent and Masabalala Yengwa Avenue.

•      Masabalala Yengwa Avenue between Argyle Road and Smiso Nkwanyana Road

•      Somtseu Road at Masabalala Yengwa Avenue

From 06:00

•      The West bound lane of Athlone Drive between Snell Parade and Masabalala Yengwa Avenue

•      The off ramp from the M4 (Ruth First Highway) to Athlone Drive (in both directions)

Road Openings

Roads will be opened as soon as possible after the last competitor has left that portion of the route and the cleaning team has ensured that there is no litter.

Most roads will be reopened by 11:30.

FREE EVENT PARKING:

Access to the Parking on Hollywoodbets Kings Park fields KP3 & KP4 will be via Smiso Nkwanyana Road into Jacko Jackson Drive. Note– once this area is full access will be limited to emergency and official vehicles only.

Access to Hollywoodbets Kings Park Stadium fields KP9 and KP10 will be via Umgeni Road to Isaiah Ntshangase Road and through the Virgin Active Parking area onto the fields.

Parking on these fields is free.

10km ROUTE

The START is in Masabalala Yengwa Avenue, on the North bound carriageway North of Jacko Jackson Drive proceeding North, crossing onto the South bound carriageway at Simiso Nkwanyana intersection.

Turn right onto Athlone Drive towards the Ocean.

Turn right onto Snell Parade using the shortest route towards Suncoast Casino & Entertainment World.

Turn right onto Battery Beach Road moving across to the West bound lane.

Turn left onto Masabalala Yengwa Avenue using the Ocean side lane on the South bound carriageway.

Turn left onto Kingsmead Way using the slip lane.

Turn right onto Eden Gardens Crescent (counter clockwise at the circle).

Turn right onto K E Masinga Avenue (contra-flow).

Turn right onto Masabalala Yengwa Avenue moving to the inland lane of the South bound carriageway.

At Battery Beach Road intersection cross onto the North bound carriageway of Masabalala Yengwa Avenue.

Turn Left onto the Kings Park Stadium outer fields (using Gate F adjacent to the Kings Park Archery Club)

Turn left onto the outer fields with the FINISH on the field towards the South.

5km ROUTE

The START is in Masabalala Yengwa Avenue, on the South bound carriageway north of Jacko Jackson Drive proceeding North.

Turn right onto Athlone Drive towards the Ocean.

Turn right onto Snell Parade using the shortest route towards Suncoast Casino & Entertainment World.

Turn right onto Battery Beach Road.

Turn right onto the North bound carriageway of Masabalala Yengwa Avenue.

Turn Left onto the Kings Park Stadium outer fields (using Gate F adjacent to the Kings Park Archery Club)

Turn left onto the outer fields with the FINISH on the field towards the South.

Durban SPAR Women’s 10 / 5km Challenge: J-Cue up for a Magner’tic fun finish vibe

Durban: Sunday 28 June Save some energy for when you cross the finish line as this year’s entertainment after the Durban SPAR Women’s 10 / 5km Challenge will be sure to get you moving to  #CelebrateHer on the outer fields of the Hollywoodbets Kings Park Stadium on Sunday 28 June.  

Returning this year as the main act, Veranda Panda are back with their vibrant, colourful, eclectic music. The husband-and-wife duo have headlined at a variety of big festivals, including Splashy Fen, Sakifo in Reunion and Up the Creek to name a few. They have wowed crowds with their dynamic, high-energy set at one of Durban’s most iconic outdoor settings, Music at the Lake at the Botanical Gardens and now head to the Women’s Challenge stage. 

Liam and Jane Magner blend their classical instrumentation with cutting-edge electronic production, creating a powerful sonic experience. Jane carves up the stage with her electric violin and vocals, while Liam styles behind his desk firing out his electronic beats. Veranda Panda command the stage and connect with audiences in a way few others can – catch their Magner’tic performance from at 10.30am. 

Warming the crowds up before this, DJ J-Cue will welcome the throng of jovial finishers. The magician behind the decks will share his feel-good vibes and emotive music that has roots in soul, dance music, deep house, jazz and Afrocentric sounds. He starts spinning his discs at 09.15am

Every female participant sticking around after the official prize giving stands a chance to win some fabulous lucky draw prizes, as well as a SPAR voucher worth R10,000 to a woman who entered in-store. Plus, SPAR will be giving away a Hyundai Exter 1.2 Premium MT to the value of R269 900.

Participants need to collect their Race Packs at Race Registration which is on Friday 26 and Saturday 27 June on the outer fields of the Hollywoodbets Kings Park Stadium. Both days, the venue opens up at 10am with the closing time set for 6pm on Friday and 4pm on Saturday. No race pack collections will be accepted on race day. 

The gun fires at 8am on Sunday 28 June for the 10km and the 5km gets underway at 9am. 

For more info visit www.sparwomenschallenge.co.za/durban.

SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge uMvoti and oThukela Regional - Wembley College, Greytown: KZN Saturday 30 May

Back again, Wartburg Kirchdorf School successfully defended their title and hoisted the uMvoti and oThukela Regional trophy for the eighth time at the SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge that Wembley College hosted on Saturday 30 May. 

Wartburg met Greytown High School in a fiercely fought final where they managed to win the game 1 nil. 48 seconds into the game, Wartburg secured their first set play. The ball was sent to the top of the D, redirected to the player on the post who attempted to net their first goal. The result was a retake due to an unfortunate foul halting the shot. 

Wartburg had to dig deep as Greytown’s defenders blooped four more times in the circle giving the defending champs five takes of their short corner set pieces. Nearing 4 minutes into the game, Iminathi Mnqayi finally broke the cycle and netted the tournament winning goal. The ball was sent up to Mnqayi, wasting no time she zapped a shot off, finding the back of the box. 

A second before the final hooter sounded, Greytown kept everyone on the edge of their seats as they earned their second short corner of the game. In the all or nothing corner, Wartburg held their composure and managed to neatly clear the ball from danger, securing their eighth title. 

There was no one team that dominated the day, with all teams having a mixed bag of results. At the conclusion of the pool games, both Hamilton College making their second appearance and Greytown High School were all squared up on points, goals for and goals against. A quick penalty shoot-out ensued where Greytown were victorious 1 nil to finish second in the pool. 

Watching it go. Both Wartburg Kirchdorf School’ Shalom Matsika and Wembley College’s keeper, Stacy Sims-Handcock watch the ball roll dangerously close to the goals during the deciding 8 second penalty shootout in the uMvoti and oThukela Regional of the SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge that Wembley College hosted on Saturday 30 May, Pic by Val Adamson.

In the first semi-final, first in pool A - Wembley College met second in pool B – Wartburg. At the blast of the final whistle, both teams were level on nil nil. The game decider moved to a penalty shootout. After the first round, both teams had slotted in two goals out of their three attempts. A sudden death followed. Wembley went first but were unable to convert while Wartburg’s Phiwo Ntobela charged into the circle, meeting Wembley’s keeper, Stacy Sims-Handcock, rolling off the convergence, Ntobela scooped the ball in just before the dreaded 8 second whistle claiming the first slot for the final.

In the second semi-final, first in pool B – Domino Servite School met second in pool A – Greytown. In similar fashion – the final whistle sounded with no goals being scored and the decided then proceeded to a penalty shootout. In a marathon, the longest in the sixteen years of the SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge, Greytown eventually won in a riveting round of ten shootouts. Sbonga Ngwane netted the first of the third round of sudden death, taking her teams tally up to four. Ngwane charged in, balancing herself midway, attempting her first shot. Domino’s keeper, Emma Schobben defended easily but unfortunately, the ball rebounded in Ngwane’s favour, wasting no time to knock in the ball under Schobber. Domino’s Mayenzeke Mlaba bravely made a run with the ball but was greeted by a determined Sinothando Ngwenya who resolutely knocked the ball well out of play, obtaining their pass to the final. 

Stand in umpire, Talia Kotze from Wembley College was acknowledged for her hard work with the whistle and was awarded the title of Umpire of the Day. She happily stood in for Ladysmith High School and oversaw the three penalty shootouts. Shalom Matsika from Wartburg could not contain her excitement when she won a Princess stick in the fun treasure hunt lucky draw. 

Wartburg is the final team to advance to the Grand Finals being hosted by St Mary’s D.S.G. in Kloof in July. They will meet Our Lady of Fatima, (Durban North Regional); Amanzimtoti High School (Durban South Regional); St John’s D.S.G. (Pietermaritzburg Central Regional); St Anne’s Diocesan College (Pietermaritzburg North Regional) and St Mary’s D.S.G. (Highway Regional); Durban Girls’ College (Durban Central Regional); Grantleigh School (North Coast Regional); St Patrick’s College (Ugu and Sisonke Regional) and Ferrum High School (Northern KZN Regional).

Results

Final

Wartburg Kirchdorf School 1 vs Greytown High School 0

Third place playoff

Wembley College 1 vs Domino Servite School 0

Fifth place playoff

Hamilton College 3 vs Hermannsburg School 0

Semi-Final

Wartburg Kirchdorf School 0 (3) vs Wembley College 0 (2)

Domino Servite School 0 (3) vs Greytown High School 0 (4)

Standings

1 Wartburg Kirchdorf School; 2 Greytown High School; 3 Wembley College; 4 Domino Servite School; 5 Hamilton College; 6 Hermannsburg School; 7 Estcourt High School

SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge uMvoti and oThukela Regional - Wembley College: Saturday 30 May

Wrapping up the ten tournaments around KZN, Wembley College in Greytown hosts the uMvoti and oThukela Regional on Saturday 30 May.

Historically, one of the smallest regionals grows to eight participating schools, they will be divided into two pools with the first game tipping off at 7.30am. The games will last a total of 20 minutes running time, with the cross-pool playoffs allowing for a penalty shootout to reveal a result. 

Joining host school, Wembley College in Pool A is Hamilton College who are making their second appearance, Estcourt High School and Greytown High School take up the other two slots. Competitors in Pool B are Domino Servite School; Wartburg Kirchdorf School; Hermannsburg School and Ladysmith High School.

There will be 12 pool games with a winning team earning 4 points. If two teams draw having netted equal goals, they will both share 2pts, while a goalless draw increases a teams tally by 1 point, A loss registers zero points. Once all the pool games have concluded, the first cross-pool playoff takes place for seventh place. The two semi-finals will be played after that. The two teams that finished third in their pools will face each other in the fifth placed playoff. 

At 1.30pm the two defeated teams from the semi-finals will meet for the third place playoff. Shortly after that the main game commences for the honours of hoisting the regional trophy. Five teams have had this honour with Wartburg being the current defending champions. They have seven titles to their name followed by Ladysmith High School who have their name engraved three times on the trophy. Host school, Wembly have been victorious in this regional twice while both Greytown and Domino Servite winning once. 

Matrics participating in the challenge will have the opportunity to win a year’s bursary at eta College, a leading Sport Science, Coaching and Management tertiary institution in Durban. The bursary will be awarded at the Grand Finals which takes place at St Mary’s D.S.G. at the end of July.

The victorious team from this regional will head to the Grand Finals where they will meet nine other regional champs in July. They will meet Our Lady of Fatima, (Durban North Regional); Amanzimtoti High School (Durban South Regional); St John’s D.S.G. (Pietermaritzburg Central Regional); St Anne’s Diocesan College (Pietermaritzburg North Regional) and St Mary’s D.S.G. (Highway Regional); Durban Girls’ College (Durban Central Regional); Grantleigh School (North Coast Regional); St Patrick’s College (Ugu and Sisonke Regional) and Ferrum High School who were victorious last weekend at the Northern KZN Regional.

For more information, follow the tournament on Facebook: SparSchoolGirlsHockeyTournament and Instagram sparkznhockey or TikTok spar.kzn.hockey or use the hashtags: #ChixWithStix  #HeartoftheCommunity #SuperLocal #MyKZNSPAR #MySPAR 

SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge Northern KZN Regionals - Ferrum High School: Saturday 23 May

Ferrum has done it again, successfully defending their title, the host school walked away with their eleventh title in the Northern KZN Regional at the SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge on Saturday 23 May. 

In a fiercely fought regional final, the home team, Ferrum High School took on arch-rival Hoërskool Pionier from Vryheid. At the blast of the final whistle, the scoreline was all tied up on 1 all. 

The fast-flowing game pinballed between the two goals, Ferrum created the opening attack, earning their first set piece with only 33 seconds on the clock. Immediately, they were awarded their second short corner after another infringement in the circle by a Pionier defender. Standing firm, Pionier successfully halted the attack and responded by rocketing the ball up to a quick thinking forward who fired off the first shot that was miraculously saved by an outstretched foot of keeper, Lané le Roux. 

Deflection. An important save, Ferrum High School’s Lané le Roux desperately saves an early Hoerskool Pionier attempt in the opening minutes of the final of the Northern KZN Regional of the SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge that took place at Ferrum High School on Saturday 23 May. Pic by Rogan Ward.

Ferrum continued building pressure earning another two more short corners but were unable to find holes in a tight Pionier backline. Nearing 13 minutes of play, a break down the left by Pionier’s Charissa Volschek, beating the last defender before she neatly slotted in her shot for the opening goal. The tempo around the park stepped up a level as the players on the field were visibly energised, with both teams fired up by the goal, and the supporters rallying behind their teams. 

Three minutes later, Ferrum were back on the hunt in the Pionier circle. In a tense moment in the mouth of the goals, a penalty stroke was awarded for a lifted ball. A focused Sphe Ninela, calmly dragged her flick left, just beyond an outstretched, diving Mishke de Bruyn, levelling the score.

Moving to a penalty shootout, Pionier set off first with goalscorer Charissa Volschek adding to her teams’ tally. Ferrum’s Lariska Nell knocked in her attempt with Pionier’s Anje Erasmus and Ferrum’s Ava Strydom both securing goals in the second round. With the pressure mounting, Sarah Kgonono fired in her shot as she pierced the circle finding the right post. The ball ricocheted out of reach resulting in a dash for Pionier. Ferrum’s Ninela confidently strode goalwards, veering right and knocking in her attempt under de Bruyn, securing victory for the defending champs. 

It wasn’t an easy ride for the defending champs who had to overcome two penalty shootouts on their way to victory. In their first semi-final they met Vryheid High School who made it to the finals in 2024. The final score was nil nil at full time. Nell and Ninela both knocked in their attempts while le Roux kept a clean sheet in their penalty shootout. In the second semi, Pionier met Newcastle High School who finished second last year. In the early parts Newcastle dominated by Pionier skilfully slotted in two goals, giving them the ticket to advance to the regional final. 

The two finalists were drawn in the same pool and in their earlier clash, drew nil nil after a fierce 20 minutes of play. Ferrum topped their pool winning their remaining games while Pionier drew two of their fixtures, their second against Amajuba High School who held strong against the two times winner. 

Post CoViD, Ferrum have featured in every single final, with three of their games being decided through penalty shootouts, their second shootout against Pionier who were successful in 2022. Since Pionier’s victory five tournaments ago, Ferrum have reclaimed their domination in this area with five wins. 

In the build up to the semi-finals, Mercy Chituku from Vryheid High School walked away with a gorgeous Princess Stick as she won the fun lucky draw. Umpire of the Day went to neutral representative, Eric Blandin de Chaplin who was complimented for his consistent skills throughout the day, including the final.

Only one more regional remains in the ten challenges ahead of the Grand Finals in July. Ferrum is the ninth team to have earned a spot at the main concluding event, they will meet Our Lady of Fatima, (Durban North Regional); Amanzimtoti High School (Durban South Regional); St John’s D.S.G. (Pietermaritzburg Central Regional); St Anne’s Diocesan College (Pietermaritzburg North Regional) and St Mary’s D.S.G. (Highway Regional); Durban Girls’ College (Durban Central Regional); Grantleigh School (North Coast Regional) and St Patrick’s College (Ugu and Sisonke Regional).

This weekend Wembley College will host schools from Greytown, Ladysmith, Wartburg and surrounds for the uMvoti and oThukela Regional on Saturday 30 May.

Results

Final

Ferrum High School 1 (3) vs Hoërskool Pionier 1 (2)

Semi-Finals

Ferrum High School 0 (2) vs Vryheid High School 0 (0)

Newcastle High School 0 vs Hoërskool Pionier 2

Pool A

1 Ferrum High School 9pts; 2 Hoërskool Pionier 6pts; 3 Amajuba High School 2pts; 4 Sarel Cilliers High School 1pt

Pool B

1 Newcastle High School 15pts; 2 Vryheid High School 9pts; 3 Dundee High School 5pts; 4 St Dominic’s Newcastle 5pts; 5 Utrecht High School

SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge Northern KZN Regional - Ferrum High School: Saturday 23 May

Nearing this year’s conclusion, the penultimate tournament heads to Ferrum High School in Newcastle for the Northern KZN Regional in the SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge on Saturday 23 May. 

This is the ninth tournament in the set of ten challenges that travels around the province. Nine teams will be taking to the turf at Ferrum. Divided into two pools, host school Ferrum will be joined by Amajuba High School; Hoërskool Pionier and Sarel Cilliers High School in Pool A. Heading up Pool B are Dundee High School; Newcastle High School; St Dominic’s Newcastle; Utrecht High School and Vryheid High School. 

The games will be a demanding, quick fire 20 minutes running time that get underway at 8am. The first two teams to tip off are local teams Newcastle taking on St Dominic’s followed by the home team meeting Amajuba. After all the pool games have been concluded, the top two teams from each pool will play in a cross-pool playoff, with the two winning teams clashing for the honours of the regional champion. 

Points will be awarded to each team after each fixture: a win adds four points to the log, while a draw with goals adds two points and a goalless draw only increases the tally by one point. A loss results in zero points. 

Four teams have had the honour of raising the trophy in this area, with Ferrum on the prowl for their eleventh title. Pionier has earned the title twice while Sarel Cilliers and St Dominic’s both have their names engraved once on the trophy. 

Matrics participating in the challenge will have the opportunity to win a year’s bursary at eta College, a leading Sport Science, Coaching and Management tertiary institution in Durban. The bursary will be awarded at the Grand Finals which takes place at St Mary’s D.S.G. at the end of July.

The winning team from this regional will advance to the Grand Finals in July, meeting the nine other victorious teams from the various other challenges. The Northern KZN Regional winner will meet Our Lady of Fatima, (Durban North Regional); Amanzimtoti High School (Durban South Regional); St John’s D.S.G. (Pietermaritzburg Central Regional); St Anne’s Diocesan College (Pietermaritzburg North Regional) and St Mary’s D.S.G. (Highway Regional); Durban Girls’ College (Durban Central Regional); Grantleigh School (North Coast Regional) and most recently, St Patrick’s College (Ugu and Sisonke Regional).

The tournament wraps up next weekend with the tenth challenge, where Wembley College greets their opposition from Greytown, Ladysmith, Wartburg and surrounds for the uMvoti and oThukela Regional on Saturday 30 May.

For more information, follow the tournament on Facebook: SparSchoolGirlsHockeyTournament and Instagram  sparkznhockey or TikTok spar.kzn.hockey or use the hashtags: #ChixWithStix  #HeartoftheCommunity #SuperLocal #MyKZNSPAR #MySPAR 

SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge Ugu and Sisonke Regional - Kokstad College: Saturday 9 May

Successfully defending their title, St Patrick’s College from Kokstad earned their third consecutive victory in the Ugu and Sisonke Regional of the SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge hosted by Kokstad College on Saturday 9 May.

They met one-time winners, Hoërskool Suid-Natal in a tightly fought regional final. Thanks to a burst attack straight after the first whistle, the ball found Saint’s attacker, Ava Stanford who wasted no time slotting in the only goal of the final. 77 seconds into the game, the ball was firmly fed to Standford from the top of the circle. Standford, stationed on the goal post, confidently altered the direction of the pass into the back of the box. 

Swept off her feet. Enthusiastic keeping, Southcity Christian School’s Siyolise Ncawdi watches as Hoërskool Suid Natal’s Anabelle Van Der Merwe tumbles in the final round of the penalty shootout. Van Der Merwe slotted in her stroke, knocking out Southcity and advancing to the finals of the Ugu and Sisonke Regional in the SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge that took place at Kokstad College on Saturday 9 May. Pic by Rogan Ward.

This is the third time in their three regional final successes that they have opened the scoring. Their first against Suidies in 2024, but Suidies managed to equalise requiring the trophy to be decided by a penalty shootout. Last year they met another coastal team, Southcity Christian School and fired in an early goal, fiercely defending it until the final whistle. In similar fashion, vying for their third win - Saint Pats, with the upper hand played a calm, creative game opting to fire off a fair few overheads from the back sending Suid-Natal back. The game flowed to all parts of the field, with Suid-Natal not able to capitalise on their many advances, but quickly shutting down any further goals. 

In the build up to the final, the two finalists met in the opening fixture for Pool A with the game ending in a goalless draw. Suid-Natal proceeded to win all of their remaining games while the defending champs drew 1 all to Port Shepstone High School. Suid-Natal topped the log with 17 points and St Patrick’s finished second with 14 points. 

A dramatic conclusion unfolded in Pool B with the top three teams all ending level on points. In an identical spread sheet, all teams drew against each other and won their three other fixtures resulting in a total of 14 points across the top three rows. The deciding factor was on goals scored. Five-time champions, King Edward High School finished with an impressive 10 goals, while Southcity netted 9 in total, narrowly edging out host school and three times winner – Kokstad College on 8 goals scored. 

In the first semi-final Southcity advanced to take on neighbouring school, Suid-Natal. Suid-Natal were unable to find holes in the Southcity defence after two well earned short corners while Southcity had a rare one-on-one moment but standing tall, Suid-Natal’s Lindy Plomp charged down the brazen attempt. With no goals being scored, the game headed to a penalty shootout. Suid-Natal’s Chloe Barnard and Anika Du Toit slotted in their attempts. Missing their first attempt, Southcity’s Reagan Rosslee knocked in her attempt. The final round, all-rounder Anabelle Van Der Merwe met a zealous Southcity keeper, Siyolise Ncwadi resulting in a stroke that Van Der Merwe easily slotted for her team’s third – knocking Southcity out. 

In the second semi-final, King Edward met St Pats. Saint’s Geah Marais slotted in an early goal after a free hit outside the circle found her available in the circle. With her back to the goals, she neatly spun around slotting in the all-important goal. King Edward worked hard trying to equalise but were unable to pierce the St Patrick’s defence.

Making great strides with the whistle, Stryda Perry from Creston College was awarded the Umpire of the Day prize. Boitumelo Ramaota from St Monica’s Diocesan walked away with a magnificent Princess hockey stick that she won in a fun filled lucky draw. 

Only two more tournaments remain in this year’s SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge before the Grand Finals at St Mary’s D.S.G. in Kloof in July. St Patrick’s College is the eighth team to earn their spot at the concluding tournament. They meet Our Lady of Fatima, (Durban North Regional); Amanzimtoti High School (Durban South Regional); St John’s D.S.G. (Pietermaritzburg Central Regional); St Anne’s Diocesan College (Pietermaritzburg North Regional) and St Mary’s D.S.G. (Highway Regional); Durban Girls’ College (Durban Central Regional) and Grantleigh School ( North Coast Regional).

Results:

Regional Final

Hoërskool Suid-Natal 0 vs St Patrick’s College 1

Semi-Finals

Hoërskool Suid-Natal 0 (3) vs Southcity Christian School 0 (1)

King Edward High School 0 vs St Patrick’s College 1

Pool A

1 Hoërskool Suid-Natal 17pts. 2 St Patrick’s College 14pts; 3 Port Shepstone High School 13pts; 4 Bergview College 5pts; 5 St Monica’s Diocesan 2pts; 6 Ixopo High School 1pt

Pool B

1 King Edward High School 14pts; 2 Southcity Christian School 14pts; 3 Kokstad College 14pts; 4 Mount Currie High School 5pts; 5 Creston College 5pts; 6 Scottburgh High School 0pts

SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge Sisonke & Ugu Regional - Kokstad College: Saturday 9 May

The popular SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge travels to Kokstad College where 12 schools take to the field for the Sisonke & Ugu Regional on Saturday 9 May. 

One of the biggest tournaments geographically in the challenge, teams from the south coast through to Matatiele participate in this vibrant regional. Host school, Kokstad College will have two fields running games concurrently. The 12 teams will be divided into two pools, each of the games runs for 20 minutes. There are 30 pool games, followed by the cross-pool playoffs that will feature the top two teams from each pool. The winners of each semifinal advance to meet in the regional final. 

Points will be awarded after each game: four points for a win, two points for a draw with goals, a single point for a goalless draw and then zero points for a loss. The final three fixtures allow for a penalty shootout if the games result in a draw. 

Getting the day underway, defending champs – St Patrick’s College meet travelling team, Hoërskool Suid-Natal in the opening game for Pool A. On the second field host school, Kokstad College take on Southcity Christian School in the opening fixture for Pool B. Joining St Patrick’s and Suid-Natal are Bergview High School; iXopo High School; Port Shepstone High School and St Monica’s Diocesan. Filling up Pool B are Creston College; King Edward High School; Mt Currie Secondary and Scottburgh High School. 

Five teams have had the honour of advancing to the Grand Finals representing this area. St Patrick’s are on the hunt for their third title after winning the last two consecutive years. King Edward has hoisted the trophy five times, the last in 2022. Kokstad have their name engraved three times, while Creston College had two successes in the earlier years and Suid-Natal were victorious once in 2023. 

Winding down the regionals, three more teams remain to earn their spot at the Grand Finals which takes place at St Mary’s D.S.G. at the end of July. Seven teams have already secured their spot: The winner of this challenge will meet Our Lady of Fatima, (Durban North Regional); Amanzimtoti High School (Durban South Regional); St John’s D.S.G. (Pietermaritzburg Central Regional); St Anne’s Diocesan College (Pietermaritzburg North Regional) and St Mary’s D.S.G. (Highway Regional); Durban Girls’ College (Durban Central Regional) and most recently XYZ from the North Coast Regional.

One lucky Matric pupil stands a chance to win a year’s bursary at eta College, a leading Sport Science, Coaching and Management tertiary institution in Durban. At each of the regionals, Matrics can enter the lucky draw in the hopes of winning this great prize. The bursary will be awarded at the Grand Finals. 

For more information, follow the tournament on Facebook: SparSchoolGirlsHockeyTournament or Instagram  sparkznhockey or TikTok spar.kzn.hockey or use the hashtags: #ChixWithStix  #HeartoftheCommunity #SuperLocal #MyKZNSPAR #MySPAR 

SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge North Coast Regional - Grantleigh School: Saturday 2 May

The fierce rivalry continued as the top two teams battled it out in the final of the North Coast Regional at the SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge on Saturday 2 May, with host school, Grantleigh School, reclaiming the title.

In the last eight regional finals, Grantleigh have met Felixton College seven times. Out of these seven clashes, the title has been decided by a nail-biting penalty shootout three times. In an action-packed conclusion, the 2026 edition unfolded with a shootout after the teams drew with the scoreline sitting at 1 all at the final whistle. In 2022 Grantleigh edged out Felixton in the 8 seconds, and in last years dramatic final, Felixton managed to earn their third title. 

Bounce in her step. Felixton College’s Storm Weaver watches her shot head goalwards as Grantleigh School’s Lisa Mbhamali desperately tries to defend. Weaver’s shot levelled the score at 1 all in the final at the North Coast Regional in the SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge that Grantleigh hosted on Saturday 2 May. Pic by Rogan Ward

Grantleigh were first to score in the ninth minute, piercing the Felixton defence in the third short corner of the game. Their feisty little playmaker, Klaradyn Kotzé was in the right spot at the right time, slotting in Grantleigh’s opening goal. Felixton responded with various attacks, capitalising on a burst down the right. The ball rapidly moved to Storm Weaver, camped out at the top D. Wasting no time, she rocketed off a shot as soon as she stepped into the circle – levelling the score. 

In the first round of the shootout, Grantleigh’s Izzy Currie slotted in her attempt, while Zara van der Merwe’s angle was cut down by home team keeper, Casey Lee, with the shot veering wide. In the second round, Smilesihle ‘Smile’ Sibiya deflected Leandri Marius’s effort. Felixton’s Emihle Nkosi utlised all of her 8 seconds as she rounded Lee and ran the ball right over the goal line to level the score. In the final round, the pocket rocket, Kotzé made sure with a no-frills run directly into the circle before knocking in her second goal of the final. Captain for Felixton, Kathryn Johnston charged in, trying to draw Lee out, drifting right. Her cunning plan unfortunately fizzled out as she quickly ran out space to fire in an equaliser. The final shootout score of 2-1 giving Grantleigh a well deserved victory after a long, hot day of hockey. 

Balance. Felixton College’s Zenande Mncwave watches keenly as her pass threads up through the Grantleigh School’s defenders during the final at the North Coast Regional of the SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge that Grantleigh hosted on Saturday 2 May. Pic by Rogan Ward

In the build up to the finals, 46 goals were scored in the 15 games with Felixton netting a total of 16 goals in their five fixtures while Grantleigh scored 13. In the opening match, the two opponents took to the field in a dress rehearsal for the final, with Grantleigh narrowly taking the win 1 nil. 

Off the ball, Empangeni High School’s Surita Ackerman took ownership of a beautiful Princess hockey stick which she won in the fun lucky draw ‘scavenger hunt’. Khethelo Ntuli, representing Empangeni High School, was acknowledged for his skills with the whistle, being awarded the Umpire of the Day. 

Earning their eighth title, Grantleigh now heads to the Grand Finals where they will take on nine other regional champions at the Grand Finals taking place in July at St Mary’s D.S.G. Six other teams have already secured their spot with three more tournaments still to play to reveal the final contenders. Grantleigh join Our Lady of Fatima, (Durban North Regional); Amanzimtoti High School (Durban South Regional); St John’s D.S.G. (Pietermaritzburg Central Regional); St Anne’s Diocesan College (Pietermaritzburg North Regional) and St Mary’s D.S.G. (Highway Regional) and Durban Girls’ College (Durban Central Regional).

This weekend the action heads inland to Kokstad for the Sisonke and Ugu Reigonal.

Results

Regional Finals

Grantleigh School 1 (2) vs Felixton College 1 (1)

Round Robin

1 Grantleigh School 20pts; 2 Felixton College 16pts; =3 Empangeni High School 10pts; =3 Eshowe High School 10pts; 5 St Catherine’s High School 4pts; 6 John Ross High School 0pts

Durban SPAR Women’s 10 / 5km Challenge: Every Child Deserves a Champion - Race Charity Announced

‘The true measure of society is how it treats its most vulnerable members – especially children.’ Marian Wright Edelman

Durban, South Africa: 4 May 2026: The Durban SPAR Women’s 10 / 5km Challenge is delighted to be partnering with iThemba Lethu, the official charity for their 2026 race which takes place on Sunday 28 June.

iThemba Lethu, based in Manor Gardens, serves the greater Cato Manor community. An NPO which began 25 years ago cares for vulnerable children affected by poverty, crime and gender-based violence. Their priority is the future of children, transforming hardships into tales of hope.

iThemba Lethu has been announced as the official race charity for this year’s Durban SPAR Women’s 10 / 5km Challenge which takes place on Sunday 28 June. Pictured at the announcement are Sfundo Cele  (Financial Administrator iThemba Lethu) ; Nozipho Mkhize (SPAR KZN Advertising & Sponsorship Manager) and Nobuhle Ngcobo (Night Carer – iThemba Lethu), Picture by Val Adamson.

The organisation has three proactive programmes. Destiny for Youth which concentrates on life preparation, leadership and literacy for young people in Grades 4 – 12, they help learners discover and realise their full potential to empower them to have hope filled futures.

Their second programme is their Transition Home where iThemba Lethu cares for 12 abandoned / vulnerable little ones from newborn to 3 years old, championing the belief that early childhood is one of the most critical times in a human’s life. Their facilities, with full time loving caretakers, provide a safe place to nurture these children as they usher in a loving new chapter in their forever families.

Decades ago, iThemba Lethu pioneered the first community ‘Breastmilk Bank’, critical to the nutrition of the babies in their care. There are few natural resources more important to human immunity and health than breastmilk. In partnership with Department of Health they collect and supply this vital resource.

From each entry received for the Durban SPAR Women’s 10 / 5km Challenge, R5 will be donated to this impactful local charity who are quietly changing little lives, striving to give them a fulfilling future they deserve.

To enter the Durban SPAR Women’s 10 / 5km Challenge, go to www.sparwomenschallenge.co.za/durban.

To find out more about the race charity, visit iThemba Lethu’s website www.ithembalethu.org.za.

Durban SPAR Women’s 10/5km Challenge Team work makes the dream work

Durban: Sunday 28 June: Gather your colleagues, work mates, friends and family and enter this year’s Durban SPAR Women’s 10 / 5km Challenge on Sunday 28 June as a group.

“This is a great opportunity for groups of colleagues, clubs, relatives and schools to make the Challenge into a real fun team experience,” says Race Director Brad Glasspoole. “We encourage people to show in true team spirit – they can dress up, wear matching outfits, walk, run, dance and sing – and add to the vibe of the day - as we gather on the road to enjoy the theme #CelebrateHer.” 

Bulk entries for ten or more people wanting to participate in the challenge closes at midnight on Friday 12 June, with individual online entries closing as the clock strikes 12 on Monday 22 June. If you are entering a team, your team coordinator will need to do so electronically via the online entry portal, and click on Bulk Entry.  

There is a special day organised specifically for bulk entry collections where your team leader can go along and collect all your crew's race packs on Thursday 25 June. 

For more info visit the race website, www.sparwomenschallenge.co.za/durban