Men in Secunda and Standerton suit up in Speedos for male cancer awareness

Embracing the slogan ” Lekker balls, lekker life”, numerous men in purple Speedos took to the streets in Secunda and Standerton on Friday as part of the nationwide Hollard Daredevil Run.

From Bloemfontein to Ballito, Paarl to Potchefstroom, Kimberley to Khayelitsha, and Stellenbosch to Secunda, you name it, thousands of men shed traditional running gear and wore only a purple Speedo, united by one important cause.

While the main event drew over 3 000 men at Zoo Lake in Johannesburg, thousands more ran at locations across the country, including Standerton and Secunda.

More than just a fun, memorable event, the Hollard Daredevil Run is an annual initiative that highlights the need for regular prostate and testicular cancer screening and encourages men to take proactive steps for their health and well-being.

“Every year, the support from Daredevils across South Africa has been truly remarkable. While the run is undoubtedly fun, it’s the meaningful cause, the sense of brotherhood and the shared purpose of creating awareness of male cancers that keeps Daredevils coming back year after year,” says Adél Kriel, Hollard South Africa’s Head of Experiential Marketing.

This year, the event carried the bold tagline “Lekker Balls. Lekker Life”, reinforcing the potentially life-saving importance of early detection.

“This tagline celebrates the idea that taking care of your health today means being more aware, prioritising regular screenings and getting checked early. Thank you to each participant and supporter for the difference they have made today,” says Kriel.

She explains that prostate and testicular cancers deserve attention, awareness and action.

“One in eight men is expected to be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime, with Black African men facing a 60% higher risk than other population groups. Prostate cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in South African men.

“Testicular cancer, while less widespread, is most common in young men aged 15-49, affecting approximately 1 in every 250 men. When caught early, both cancers are highly treatable.”

Last year’s Hollard Daredevil Run raised R1 200 000. This year, Hollard hopes to have an even greater impact.

While the 2026 event may be over, the opportunity to make a difference continues. South Africans are encouraged to support the cause by donating directly through the Hollard Daredevil Run BackaBuddy page.

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