Van Zyl and Daniel clinch Region 5 Marathon

Battling through rain-soaked streets and slippery turns, South Africa’s long-distance star Irvette van Zyl and Paulus Daniel of Namibia rose above the elements to claim the women’s and men’s half-marathon titles at the inaugural CAA Region 5 Marathon in Pretoria yesterday. Van Zyl, known for her relentless pace and racing grit, powered to yet another commanding win to secure the R50 000 prize money, while Daniel delivered a composed and tactical performance to outlast a competitive men’s field. 

The start of the Region 5 Half Marathon and 10km races. Photo Credit: SMacPix.

Van Zyl ran a measured race, sitting comfortably behind the frontrunners for much of the route before unleashing a powerful surge on the hilly final stretch. Her perfectly timed move carried her to victory at the Union Buildings, where she crossed the line in 1:14:55.

“It was quite a surprise today. I didn't have any expectations coming into the race. I planned to average 03:45min/km but the race drastically changed in the last 10km. I stayed in fifth place for long periods in the race. A lot happened in the last 3km and I managed to take the lead. The last bit was hilly and it worked to my advantage. I’m really happy. It was a great day for me,” she told #TheTopRunner. 

The Hollywoodbets AC top runner was followed into second place by Mildred Chepkemu Kinyanja, who was 31 seconds off the pace. Namibian Lavinia Haitope, who clinched the region 5 title, completed the podium in 01:15:31.

The lead bunch chasing Paulus Daniel of Namibia who went on to win the race. Photo CRedit: Tumelo Mabua.

In the men's race, Daniel outpaced a formidable men’s field featuring top contenders including Onalenna Khonkhobe, Jobo Khatoane and Lucky Mohale to claim the regional title and the R50 000 cheque. The Namibian clocked 01:04:12 for his victory. Runner-up Khonkhobe was 13 seconds off the pace after crossing the line in 01:04:25. Erick Ngeno finished in third place in 01:04:47.

“It was a tough race. The competition was tight. I’m happy with my overall performance. This victory of for my country,” said Daniel.

Paulus surges away from the field. Photo Credit: Tumelo Mabua.

In other results, Stephen Mokoka clocked 30:06 to win the men's 10km, beating Cwenga Nose, winner of the regional title, by four seconds. Pontsho Motaung rounded-off the top three in 30:20. Karabo Mailula clinched the women's crown in a dominant 34:52, beating Namibia’s Maria Kanyangela, who won the women's region 5 title, by 01:39. Lizzy Hutamo was third in 36:58.

Deputy Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Peace Mabe leading the start of the Region 5 Marathon at the Union Buildings, Tshwane in South Africa on Sunday 12 October 2025. Photo Credit: Cecila van Bers.

Modupe Tladi won the men's 5km in 14:38. Jerry Motsau, winner of the regional title, was second in 14:49, while Tiisetso Malungane was third in 14:52.