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Comrades Marathon shocked by death of past winner Cheryl Winn

The Comrades Marathon Association (CMA) has expressed its sadness at the sudden passing of Cheryl Louise Winn, the 1982 women’s winner, a former Chair of the CMA Board, and a devoted servant of not only the Comrades Marathon, but the whole sport of road running in South Africa. ALSO READ | Comrades Marathon appoints new race director Tragically, she passed away while pursuing one of her passions, nature photography, on a family holiday in the Drakensberg. Ran six times Winn ran the Comrades Marathon six times from 1978 to 1984, never finishing lower than fifth position. Having finished fourth in her first race, she was runner-up twice in 1980 and 1981, then claimed the women’s title in 1982. While still running competitively, Winn became involved in the administrative side of the sport, initially at club and provincial level, and went on to play a leading role, alongside her late husband, Mick Winn, in the national federation, South African Road Running Association (SARRA), which later became Athletics South Africa (ASA). Winn is perhaps best remembered for her many years of service to the Comrades Marathon, leading to many describing her as the matriarch of the event. Once again working alongside her late husband, himself a former Chair of the CMA Board and Comrades Marathon legend, Winn filled several roles for the CMA, including as a Board Member. In 2017, she became the only former winner of the race to be elected Chair of the CMA Board, and when she stood down as Chair in 2021, she continued to serve the race as part of the Finance, Marketing & Membership, and Heritage & Traditions Committees, as well as the CMA Elders Committee. ‘Great loss’ CMA Chairperson Mqondisi Ngcobo says, “Cheryl’s passing is a great loss not only to the CMA, but to the whole athletics family. “She dedicated her life from 1978 to the service of the sport of athletics, and the Comrades Marathon in particular. “Cheryl’s legacy in this 104-year-old ultra marathon is unparalleled, and her passing is a devastating loss to the CMA family. “She remains the Comrades Marathon’s matriarch. “On behalf of the CMA Board, staff, race organising committee, our elders, sponsors, partners and participants, we pass our deepest condolences to the Winn family, and wish you strength as you deal with this tragic loss. May her beautiful soul rest in peace.”

Jack Draper hires Andy Murray’s former coach Jamie Delgado

Top 5 Bafana Bafana goal-scorers of all time

Hugo Broos’ Bafana Bafana are two matches away from qualifying for the FIFA World Cup 2026. Standing in the way are Zimbabwe in Durban on Friday and Rwanda in Mbombela next Tuesday. In the build-up to the games, let’s honour those who knew how to find the net for our national side. BAFANA BAFANA’S TOP 5 GOAL-SCORERS OF ALL TIME 1. Benni McCarthy – 31 goals At number one is the Hanover Park-born legend Benni McCarthy, with 31 strikes in 80 appearances. His international career took off at the 1998 AFCON in Burkina Faso, where he struck his iconic four goals against Namibia at just 20 years of age. Later that same year, McCarthy scored Mzansi’s first-ever goal at a World Cup in the 1-1 draw with Denmark in Toulouse. Bafana Bafana’s team vs Paraguay at the 2002 Korea-Japan FIFA World Cup. Bottom, left to right: Benni McCarthy, Quinton Fortune, Sibusiso Zuma, Bradley Carnell, Teboho Mokoena. Top, left to right: MaCbeth Sibaya, Pierre Issa, Lucas Radebe, Andre Arendse, Cyril Nzama, Aaron Mokoena. Image: Getty 2. Shaun Bartlett – 29 goals Behind McCarthy is Shaun Bartlett. Hailing from Maitland, Cape Town, the towering center forward found the net 29 times in 74 matches. His former clubs include Cape Town Spurs, FC Zurich in Switzerland, Charlton Athletic in the English Premier League, Colorado Rapids and NY Metro Stars in America’s Major Soccer League. He was famous for his aerial power and sharp finishing. 3. Katlego Mphela & Bernard Parker – 23 goals each Two former Kaizer Chiefs strikers. Katlego ‘Killer’ Mphela is remembered for his long-range rockets, especially the free-kick against Spain in the 2009 FIFA Confederation Cup. Bernard Parker was a superbly technical left-footed striker with 23 goals in 72 games. 4. PHILEMON MASINGA – 18 GOALS Phil ‘Chippa’ Masinga, the pride of Klersdorp, North West. Think his iconic thunderbolt goal against Congo, which booked Bafana Bafana its first-ever World Cup appearance at France 98. The former Leeds United target man retired from international football with 18 goals in 58 appearances. 5. Siyabonga Nomvethe – 15 goals Closing the list is Siyabonga ‘Bhele’ Nomvethe. Known for his sublime dribbling and speed, the former Udinese attacker scored 15 times for Bafana Bafana, including that famous finish against Slovenia to seal Mzansi’s first-ever win at a World Cup during the 2002 edition in Korea-Japan.

Historic first for Ba Women rugby – FBC News

Euphoria erupted across the Ba Rugby camp after the Ba Women’s team secured their spot in the Royal Tea Ranadi Cup Final, marking a historic first for the district. The Women in Black beat Rewa Women 53-24 this morning at the HFC Bank Stadium, Suva. The momentous semi-final victory not only propelled them into the grand final but also guaranteed the team promotion for the upcoming season which is a major breakthrough for grassroots women’s rugby development in the West. Article continues after advertisement Ba Rugby Union secretary Gabby Kautoga was overwhelmed with emotion following the win, and said that the achievement was the direct result of years of hard work and sustained investment. “It’s just a great feeling today, first offering glory and honour back to God. I would like to thank our sponsor, IGA New World, for believing in the girls and believing in the grassroots. This is the result today.” Kautoga said that while the team had reached the quarter-finals twice before, this is their first time reaching the Ranadi Cup Final, cementing a piece of history for the Ba Women’s combined team. He added that the achievement was part of a clear plan and vision to go one step further this year. The women in black will now face Macuata Women in the Ranadi Cup final. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.

Dave Allen vs Arslanbek Makhmudov: The hidden truth behind a calculated risk

Your support helps us to tell the story From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it’s investigating the financials of Elon Musk’s pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, ‘The A Word’, which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging. At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story. The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it. Your support makes all the difference. Read more It feels like Dave Allen has had several remarkable boxing careers in the 13 years that he has been a professional heavyweight. He has fought on the tiniest shows, in bad four and six-round fights in the sport’s forgotten lands, and he has also topped the bill at the O2 Arena. During the last two years, he has met men with records like two wins and 25 defeats, and also been in a significant fight in Riyadh. He has been on boxing’s wayward train for about a decade, losing seven of his 33 fights on both sides of the tracks. His career has looked over a few times, and Allen has looked in danger of just vanishing. On Saturday at the Utilita Arena in Sheffield, he is the star of the show when he fights Arslanbek Makhmudov, who not so long ago was considered one of boxing’s most lethal fighters. Makhmudov has collected a lot of chilling and fearsome nicknames and has stopped or knocked senseless 19 of the 20 men he has beaten. He has actually won in the first round on 13 occasions and has clearly intimidated men with his size and attitude; he enters the ring like a wrestler, hissing and sneering and then, once the bell has sounded, flattens his victims. Makhmudov stands about 6ft 6in or 6ft 7in and weighs in the region of 19st. He also looks like he could eat a galloping horse; there is a nice story about him wrestling bears for fun. It seems plausible, to be honest, given that there exists footage of UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov doing the same as a child. Allen, by contrast, often weighs in with a knitted hand puppet covering his privates. It’s a fun gimmick. Allen has stopped 19 of the 24 men he has beaten; in May, Allen stopped Johnny Fisher, who was unbeaten in 13 and fighting in his backyard. The Fisher win secured him two things: a fight on his doorstep in Sheffield, and a dangerous opponent in the opposite corner. Allen’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, admitted he was shocked when Allen picked Makhmudov, but it is a brilliant selection. open image in gallery Makhmudov (right) suffered his first loss in late 2023, when Agit Kabayel brilliantly targeted his body (Getty) Allen last fought in Sheffield in July of 2024 in front of a few hundred at Skate Central; the fight was over after just four rounds – Allen won on points – against a man with eight wins and 14 defeats. For Saturday, it looks like nearly 9,000 tickets for the Sheffield Arena have been sold. It is, even in a sport rich with fairytales, a remarkable story. Enjoy 185+ fights a year on DAZN, the Global Home of Boxing Never miss a fight from top promoters. Watch on your devices anywhere, anytime. Buy Now ADVERTISEMENT. If you sign up to this service we will earn commission. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent. Enjoy 185+ fights a year on DAZN, the Global Home of Boxing Never miss a fight from top promoters. Watch on your devices anywhere, anytime. Buy Now ADVERTISEMENT. If you sign up to this service we will earn commission. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent. “It’s still all a bit of dream,” Allen said. “I’m in the main event at the Sheffield Arena against the beast.” There was a time when Allen was on the heavyweight fringes, both popular and far better than he got credit for. In 2019, at the O2, Allen knocked out Australia’s Lucas Browne with a sickening body shot. Allen was the main event, tickets sold, the heavyweight division was fluid and Allen was in the mix – he was also a character and the public liked him. After the Browne fight, there was bold talk about Allen’s plans, but he was stopped in his next fight by Dave Price and it looked like he had missed the window. It might sound harsh, but it is true. It has taken Allen five hard years of highs and lows to get back into contention. He admits he lost his way, and that is being kind; in truth, he is lucky to be back, lucky to be in Saturday’s fight. He is also fully deserving of his status as the main-event fighter. open image in gallery Allen stopped Johnny Fisher emphatically last time out (Getty) Dave Allen from the summer of 2024 was never going to be in this position. He changed his attitude before the first Fisher fight last year in Riyadh, which he controversially lost on points, and was a different man for the rematch. He now has Saturday’s big fight, and there is a genuine chance of a potential bout against former world heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder. Talks have taken place, but first he must beat Makhmudov. This is a very different Allen: motivated, in shape and aware that he can no longer spend any time in boxing’s wilderness. In 2023, Makhmudov lost for the first time,

England v Wales: Red tape to red shirts – Karl Darlow to end long Wembley wait

Newport argued that Darlow’s move should have been given international clearance and that a delay out of their control had caused the issue – even taking an appeal to Fifa. “I was only told for sure I couldn’t play on the morning of the final,” added Darlow, who had been signed on loan from Nottingham Forest. “They were still waiting on confirmation of whether it had been done or not and the manager Justin Edinburgh was optimistic that it was going to be done. “In the end I wasn’t even allowed to be part of the matchday squad and I watched the game in the stands. Long time ago now. I’m 35 on Wednesday (8 October), so it’s been a long time coming.” Having watched on as Newport lost that final to York, and being on the bench for Newcastle in a Premier League tie against Tottenham, Darlow says it will be a bucket list moment if he finally makes it onto the pitch. Even if his early Wembley dreams were perhaps previously based on wearing the Three Lions while he did it. As long ago as when he was at Newport, the grandson of Wales’ 1958 World Cup forward Ken Leek had been eyed up by Football Association of Wales officials. Previous approaches under former bosses Chris Coleman and Ryan Giggs failed to persuade him to commit. Darlow says it was less about leaving the door open for England and more about feeling comfortable throwing his energies into international football as he fought to make a telling impact at club level. Now, established as Leeds’ first-choice in the top-flight and with sights set on a World Cup following in family footsteps, Darlow says he is glad he followed his instinct after an internet meeting with Craig Bellamy. “As a kid, Premier League football and international football are things you want to tick off in your career,” Darlow said, as he looks to win his ninth cap following his debut against Montenegro in September 2024. “The decisions I’ve made throughout my career have been where I felt that I can fully commit to things. “It got to this stage where I had the conversation with the manager on Zoom that it was something that really got me going and really motivated to say, ‘Right, I’m going to come into this and be 100 per cent’. Having a young family is a further motivation. “It’s something that I want my kids to look up to and be proud of that I’ve played international football, he adds. “I know it took a long time to get here but the fact is my kids are going to look back and say ‘My dad played for Wales’ and that’s a proud moment. “They haven’t got any Welsh in them but they are in red Welsh shirts constantly and know all the songs. “All the family will be there. It’s a proud moment and I’m going to give everything for this country to make sure that we come up with a positive result on Thursday.”

Gary Neville hits out after removing union flag from Manchester development site

Your support helps us to tell the story From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it’s investigating the financials of Elon Musk’s pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, ‘The A Word’, which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging. At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story. The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it. Your support makes all the difference. Read more Gary Neville, who played for England for more than 10 years, has revealed that he removed a union flag from one of his development sites in Manchester as it was being “used in a negative fashion”. The former footballer, who has developed properties since the age of 21, released a video on Friday following the Yom Kippur terrorist attack at a Manchester synagogue, outlining his thoughts on recent events and questioning the patriotism behind putting up union flags. The football pundit explained how he feels the nation is “being turned on each other” by “angry, middle-aged white men who know what they’re doing”. Neville described heading down Bury New Road and witnessing the Jewish community coming together in the aftermath of the attack and being “out in the streets defiant”. The ex-footballer turned property developer then compared it to a journey down Littleton Road in Salford, where he saw “probably 50-60” union jack flags, causing him to question why they are now being put up in such numbers. “Funnily enough on one of my development sites last week there was a union jack flag put up and I took it down instantly,” said Neville. “Some people might be watching this and thinking: ‘Gary you’re not really patriotic.’ I’ve played for my country 85 times, I love my country, I love Manchester and I love England. “I’ve been building in this city for 15-20 years, and there’s no one put a union jack flag up in 15-20 years, so why do you need to put one up now?” Neville added: “The union jack flag used in a negative fashion is not right and I’m a proud supporter of England, of Great Britain, of our country and will champion it anywhere in the world as one of the greatest places to live, “But I think we need to check ourselves, check ourselves and start to think about bringing ourselves back to a neutral point because we’re being pulled right and left and we don’t need to be pulled right and left at all.” Gary Neville: ‘I’ve played for my country 85 times, I love my country, I love Manchester and I love England’ (Peter Byrne/PA) Neville has voiced his opinions on political and social issues before, including speaking about workers’ rights ahead of the World Cup in Qatar, the working conditions of NHS staff in the UK, critiquing Boris Johnson when he was prime minister and, more recently, hitting out at Chancellor Rachel Reeves over her decision to increase national insurance tax. Faith and communities minister, Miatta Fahnbulleh, agreed with Neville’s assessment that there are people “trying to stoke tension” within the country and claimed that “life is really tough” for people across all communities at present. She told ITV’s Good Morning Britain: “We’ve seen this playbook before. Life is really tough for people across our communities. I spent a lot of time going around our communities, talking to people. People are ground down. “We’ve had a decade-and-a-half in which living standards haven’t budged and people have seen their communities held down. And you will get people trying to stoke division, trying to blame others, trying to stoke tension.” However, Reform UK MP Lee Anderson disagreed with Neville’s judgement of the current political climate and called on the former footballer to “just shut up” on X (Twitter). Anderson posted: “So @GNev2 is asking why people are now flying the union flag in their towns. I’ll tell you why – people feel threatened and feel they have not been listened to for decades. “You had no problem in playing in front of the England flag. And the middle aged English men you talk about are the same type men that paid your wages. I believe in free speech but on this occasion just shut up. “You are completely out of touch. And a bit of a hypocrite.”

Draw for Suva and Lautoka – FBC News

Power Volt Suva and 4R Electric Lautoka played out the first draw of the 2025 FMF Inter District Championship in Ba. Both sides finished 1-all, with both goals coming in the first half. A handball inside the Lautoka penalty box saw Suva’s Gagame Feni step up and make no mistake from the spot. Article continues after advertisement However, Mohammed Shazil Ali silenced the Suva crowd late in the first half with a powerful strike from outside the box that beat experienced goalkeeper Akuila Mataisuva. Merrill Nand could have extended Suva’s lead after the break when he was put through by Feni, but he failed to capitalize with only Lautoka goalkeeper Senirusi Bokini to beat. The Babs Khan-coached Suva side had three more scoring opportunities they couldn’t finish off. Ravinesh Karan Singh, Feni, and Nand all failed to find the back of the net when their chances came. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.

Message from Fiji FA CEO Mohammed Yusuf

Welcome to the 2025 FMF Inter-District Championship It is my great pleasure to warmly welcome you all to the 2025 FMF Inter District Championship (IDC) — Fiji’s most iconic football tournament. Over the years, this event has become more than just a competition. It is a true carnival of sport, a gathering of friends, a celebration of community, and a showcase of the passion that unites us all through football. This vibrant atmosphere would not be possible without the steadfast support of our sponsors. We extend our deepest gratitude to Flour Mills of Fiji (FMF), whose commitment and partnership enable us to stage this premier event. Their contribution goes beyond sponsorship; it represents a vital investment in the growth and promotion of football in Fiji. This year’s FMF IDC carries special significance as it marks the tournament’s much-anticipated return to 4R Stadium at Govind Park in Ba after nine years. From Tuesday, October 7 to Sunday, October 12, 2025, Govind Park will come alive with colour, energy, and excitement as fans and players come together for Fiji’s football spectacle of the year. Adding to the celebrations, Ba Football will proudly host a grand carnival to commemorate its 90th anniversary. This milestone is not only a reflection of Ba’s proud legacy and achievements but also an opportunity for fans and families to enjoy cultural programs, entertainment, and community festivities, all while honouring Ba’s contribution to Fijian football. Fans can look forward to an unforgettable week of festival-like celebrations. Thrilling pool matches will set the stage for the semi-finals, leading to the much-anticipated grand final on Sunday at Govind Park. Given the competitiveness of the Extra Premier League, BIC Fiji FACT, and the Extra Battle of the Giants, this year’s FMF IDC promises fierce battles, unforgettable goals, and moments that will live long in the memories of players and supporters alike. We are especially delighted that so many Ba fans living overseas have purchased tickets online to be part of this historic occasion. Their presence will not only add to the electric atmosphere at Govind Park but also deliver a significant economic boost to Ba Town — benefiting businesses, hotels, and local vendors. This is a true testament to the unifying power of football. As we gather for this grand celebration of the game, I encourage all district officials, players, and fans to embrace the true spirit of football. Let us rise above negativity, respect one another, and celebrate the joy, teamwork, and sportsmanship that make this tournament so special. Football teaches us lessons of discipline, respect, and unity. This is our chance to learn from one another, admire the skills on display, and honour the values of the sport we love. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all, please take note of these important guidelines: Mandatory Drug Testing: All players will undergo drug testing during the tournament. No Unauthorized Live Streaming: Broadcasting matches without authorization is strictly prohibited. No Vuvuzelas in the Pavilion: For the comfort and safety of spectators, vuvuzelas will not be permitted inside the pavilion area. We kindly ask for your cooperation so that everyone can enjoy the tournament in the true spirit of football. To all the participating teams, their officials, and the thousands of passionate fans: I wish you a memorable and enjoyable tournament week. Let us celebrate the game that unites us all, and may the best team emerge victorious at the 2025 FMF Inter District Championship. Vinaka vakalevu, and enjoy the FMF IDC!

F1 Q&A: Piastri & Norris title battle and Bearman’s first season

McLaren have won the constructors’ championship but Oscar Piastri has sounded fed up since qualifying at Monza, and with the ‘papaya rules’. Is it time the drivers’ title actually becomes a more gloves-off, not-so-friendly fight? – Nick The conversations at McLaren following the Singapore Grand Prix are certainly going to be long and involved, and may well be tense. Oscar Piastri made it clear during the race that he was not happy with the fact Lando Norris had collided with him in his overtaking move at Turn Three, and clearly questioned whether it complied with the team’s internal code of conduct governing on-track battles. As Piastri put it: “That wasn’t very team-like, but sure. Are we cool with Lando just barging me out of the way?” When he was told the team would take no action in the race, but would review it afterwards, Piastri said that was “not fair”. This follows the Italian Grand Prix, when Piastri was ordered to give second place back to Norris, after the Briton lost it because of a slow pit stop. And Hungary, where Norris was allowed to switch to a one-stop strategy and ended up beating his team-mate despite being three places behind him after a difficult first lap. And Canada, where Norris drove into the back of Piastri but immediately accepted blame. In this situation, it’s easy to see why Piastri could feel hard done by, although he insisted after the race he was not concerned Norris was getting preferential treatment. It remains to be seen, of course, what Piastri says about Singapore when he gets to the next race in Austin, Texas. So far, both McLaren drivers have bought into the team’s philosophy. Fundamentally, that is that the team should be fair and equitable and the drivers are allowed to race, on the proviso they don’t compromise the team’s interests. Essentially, that means don’t crash into each other. After Singapore, both Norris and team principal Andrea Stella said nothing would change on that front now the constructors’ championship is sewn up. The team still want to win the drivers’ championship, and Max Verstappen is still a threat, albeit a distant one, so Piastri and Norris can’t throw caution to the wind. They also want to beat each other, and the outcome of any contact is always uncertain in F1. So, while it seems likely that the tension will increase between Piastri and Norris as the championship fight comes to a head, any decision to start throwing punches on track, so to speak, would come with risk. Crashes also cost money, of course.

Category: Sports