Women urged to join Durban SPAR Women’s Challenge
Gugu Sokhela urges all the women to celebrate each other, give support and to always stay healthy even beyond the upcoming challenge.
Durban will come alive with colour and community this year as 12 500 runners and walkers are expected to take part in the 36th Durban SPAR Women’s 10/5km Challenge on June 28, with entries now officially open.
At the forefront is this year’s SPAR Woman of Impact, Gugulethu Sokhela, a 40-year-old Durban local from KwaMakhutha whose energy has made her one of the most recognisable faces behind the event.
As SPAR KZN’s Advertising Controller and an entrepreneur, Sokhela is using the platform to champion women’s strength, resilience and self-celebration under the 2026 theme, #CelebrateHer.
“This year is about appreciating women for everything they do and acknowledging their strength, resilience, and contribution to society,” Sokhela said.
She added, “Women wear so many hats every day, and this theme reminds us to celebrate ourselves and one another unapologetically.”
Also read: Annual SPAR Women’s 10/5km Challenge excites Durban runners
The race has been a Durban staple since 1990, growing into one of the country’s most beloved women’s events by blending fitness with sisterhood. Sokhela said its impact went beyond the finish line.
“The Durban SPAR Women’s 10/5km Challenge is more than just a race, it’s a movement that brings women and men together to celebrate fitness, unity, wellness, and empowerment. It creates a space where women from different backgrounds can come together, support each other, and prioritise their health while having fun,” she said.
For Sokhela, being named ambassador feels personal.
“It’s surreal and exciting. It’s not just about wearing the title it’s about being part of something meaningful and impactful, I hope my involvement inspires other women to believe in themselves,” she said.
Also read: Road closures ahead of Durban SPAR Women’s Challenge
Known for her warm personality and signature hugs, she balances her corporate role with a thriving custom cake business. Her impulsive creations have built her a loyal customer base and taught her the value of passion and consistency.
“Sometimes it feels like customers are not only purchasing the cake, but also my personality and the experience that comes with it,” she said.
The Durban SPAR Women’s Challenge will once again bring together women and men from all walks of life for a morning of fitness, fun and goodie bags. For Sokhela, it’s another chance to remind women that showing up for themselves matters.
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