05 May Totalsports Women’s Race 2026 backs PinkDrive across three cities
The Totalsports Women’s Race will once again lace up for a cause bigger than the finish line, as the 2026 series continues its long-standing partnership with PinkDrive, turning three cities into a moving ribbon of awareness this August.
Set for Durban on 2 August, Cape Town on 9 August and Johannesburg on 16 August, the event blends celebration and purpose like a perfectly paced race, with every stride echoing a call for early detection and education around breast cancer.
For PinkDrive, the partnership has become a powerful vehicle that carries its message far beyond traditional campaigns.
“Being involved in the Totalsports Women’s Race has allowed PinkDrive to move beyond traditional awareness campaigns and connect more deeply with local communities in a very practical, visible way,” says PinkDrive Operations Manager Nelius du Preez. “The Totalsports Women’s Race significantly expands PinkDrive’s community reach by connecting it with diverse women across urban, peri-urban and township areas – including participants from neighbouring provinces – while enabling on-the-ground screening services, strengthening word-of-mouth advocacy, and building trust through consistent, accessible engagement that brings breast health awareness and care closer to communities.”
Durban opens the series along the coastline, where the race becomes a gateway to healthcare access for many.
“The Durban leg of the Totalsports Women’s Race enables PinkDrive to connect with women in an accessible, trusted community setting – particularly those who may not engage with traditional healthcare services,” says Janice Benecke, PinkDrive KZN Marketing and Events Coordinator. “By integrating education and screening awareness into a lifestyle event, PinkDrive reaches women from diverse communities, removes barriers related to cost and access, and encourages early detection conversations in a supportive, non-clinical environment.”
Cape Town follows on Women’s Day, where the route through the city centre mirrors the journey toward stronger, informed communities.
“The Totalsports Women’s Race is an incredible platform that brings women together in celebration of strength, unity and wellness,” says Athandiwe Tyuluba, PinkDrive Western Cape Marketing and Events Coordinator. “It not only promotes an active lifestyle but also creates meaningful awareness around important health issues affecting women across our communities. My message to runners is: as you prepare for and participate in the race, remember that your health is your greatest asset. Take time to care for your body, know your status, and encourage those around you to do the same. Together, we can create a healthier, more informed community.”
Johannesburg anchors the series, where the race field stretches like a river of pink through Marks Park, drawing in a wide spectrum of participants.
“The Totalsports Women’s Race attracts a broad cross-section of Johannesburg – from corporate professionals to grassroots running clubs – so PinkDrive tailors its engagement to speak to both ends of that spectrum,” says du Preez. “For some, it’s about reinforcing routine screening; for others, it may be their first exposure to breast health education. Finally, PinkDrive leans into partnership-driven outreach. By collaborating with race organisers, local sponsors, and community groups, they extend their reach beyond race day – ensuring that the conversations and awareness sparked at the event continue into surrounding neighbourhoods.”
Across all three races, PinkDrive will offer on-site clinical breast examinations, self-check guidance and referrals, creating a safety net of care that travels with the runners.
“The Totalsports Women’s Race is a truly iconic celebration of women, and we are incredibly proud to continue our longstanding partnership with PinkDrive as the official charity of the 2026 series,” says Nikki Crous, Head of Marketing at Totalsports. “Across Durban, Cape Town and Johannesburg, the event remains a powerful platform to unite women in purpose, while continuing to shine a meaningful spotlight on breast cancer awareness, education and early detection through PinkDrive’s life-changing work.”
Entries opened on 20 April, with Cape Town already sold out, underscoring the race’s enduring appeal as both a sporting fixture and a force for change.
For more information on PinkDrive visit www.pinkdrive.org For further information on the Totalsports Women’s Race visit www.totalsportswomensrace.co.za
