By: Lonwabo Mtyeku | Photo Credit: Supplied
Seen Here: Cancer survivor Ntokozo Dludla is among the inspiring women sharing their journeys of hope, resilience and recovery ahead of the 2026 Totalsports Women’s Race, in partnership with PinkDrive. Photo Credit: Supplied
JOHANNESBURG – The 2026 Totalsports Women’s Race is once again proving that it is about far more than crossing a finish line. As thousands of women prepare to participate in South Africa’s premier women’s road running event, powerful stories of resilience, hope, and survival are taking centre stage.
Taking place across three major cities – Durban on 2 August, Cape Town on 9 August, and Johannesburg on 16 August – the race continues to unite women from all walks of life. With PinkDrive serving as the official charity partner, the event has become a platform for raising awareness around breast cancer while celebrating the extraordinary strength of survivors.
Among those inspiring participants is Durban resident Selina Govender, who was diagnosed with Stage 4 breast cancer with widespread bone metastasis in 2021 at the age of 37.
After undergoing a mastectomy, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and ongoing treatment, Govender is now approaching five years with clear scans.
Seen Here: Cancer survivor Selina Govender is among the inspiring women sharing their journeys of hope, resilience and recovery ahead of the 2026 Totalsports Women’s Race, in partnership with PinkDrive. Photo Credit: Supplied
“Cancer taught me that we can’t always control what life throws at us, but we can control how we rise above it,” said Govender. “Pay attention to your body, never skip your check-ups, and above all, never lose hope.”
A regular participant since 2017, Govender will once again take part in the 10km race in Durban, walking the route as part of her commitment to maintaining her health and wellbeing.
The race has also become a symbol of triumph for Cape Town’s Rayghanah Cassiem, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in August 2005 and given only five years to live.
Twenty-one years later, Cassiem continues to defy expectations.
Her journey has included surgery, chemotherapy, radiation treatment, and a recurrence that progressed to Stage 4 cancer. Rather than surrendering to the diagnosis, she embraced life with renewed purpose.
Seen Here: Cancer survivor Rayghanah Cassiem is among the inspiring women sharing their journeys of hope, resilience and recovery ahead of the 2026 Totalsports Women’s Race, in partnership with PinkDrive. Photo Credit: Supplied
“Being given a second chance at life changed everything for me,” said Cassiem. “Cancer taught me not to take a single day for granted.”
Today, she dedicates much of her time to supporting other cancer patients through outreach programmes while continuing to participate in sporting activities including hiking, dragon boat paddling, and road running.
For Johannesburg resident Ntokozo Dludla, being diagnosed with cancer at 36 brought fear and uncertainty, but also revealed the strength of community support.
“My support system became my anchor,” Dludla reflected. “Family, friends, and even strangers showed me kindness and love in ways I will never forget.”
Dludla believes physical activity plays a vital role in recovery and wellbeing, helping patients maintain strength, mobility, and mental resilience throughout treatment.
She says the Totalsports Women’s Race represents far more than fitness.
“It’s about confidence, connection, celebrating life as a woman, and creating awareness about holistic health.”
The event’s partnership with PinkDrive continues to amplify its impact, helping drive awareness, screening, education, and support services for communities across South Africa.
According to Nikki Crous, Head of Marketing at Totalsports, the stories of women like Govender, Cassiem, and Dludla embody the true spirit of the race.
“The Totalsports Women’s Race is built on the strength, courage, and resilience of women whose stories continue to inspire and unite us. This event is far more than a race – it is a powerful platform for awareness, connection, and hope.”
As entry demand reaches unprecedented levels, both the Cape Town and Johannesburg races have already sold out, highlighting the event’s growing popularity and significance.
Beyond the medals and finish lines, the Totalsports Women’s Race remains a celebration of perseverance, empowerment, and the unbreakable spirit of women who continue to overcome extraordinary challenges.
In every step taken this August, participants will not only be running for fitness or fun—they will be running for awareness, for hope, and for every woman whose journey proves that courage is stronger than cancer.
