One of South Africa’s most iconic drives has just been ranked number one in the world, putting it ahead of some of the planet’s most famous routes.

Garden Route, South Africa (04 April 2026) – You don’t need a passport stamp to experience one of the greatest road trips on Earth. You just need a good playlist, a sense of adventure and a stretch of road that South Africans have been bragging about for years.

And now, the rest of the world knows about it too.

In a new global study by Autotrader, in partnership with senior meteorologist Jim R N Dale, South Africa’s Garden Route has officially been ranked the best road trip in the world for driving conditions.

The research set out to understand what really makes a road trip feel effortless and enjoyable behind the wheel. Dale pointed out that visibility is the most important factor when it comes to ideal driving conditions, and from there, the study looked at five key elements: road surface conditions, clear days, wind speed, ground temperature and humidity comfort. All of these were combined into a “Perfect Driving Weather” score.

The Garden Route didn’t just perform well across those categories. It delivered a near-perfect score of 90.6 out of 100, placing it firmly at the top of the global rankings.

Running roughly 300 kilometres from Mossel Bay to Storms River, this iconic stretch offers more than just scenery. It’s a drive where everything seems to align. Clear skies that open up the horizon, gentle winds that don’t interrupt the journey and temperatures that make you want to keep going just a little bit further. Along the way, the Indian Ocean glimmers beside you, forests close in with that deep green calm, and mountain passes add just enough drama to keep things interesting.

Trailing just behind South Africa are some of the world’s most famous routes. Route 66 in the United States takes second place, followed by the Pacific Coast Highway. Both are known for their long, open stretches and reliable sunshine, while destinations like Italy’s Amalfi Coast, Spain’s Costa Brava and Australia’s Great Ocean Road also feature in the top ten.

1. Garden Route – South Africa
2. Route 66 – United States
3. Pacific Coast Highway – United States
4. Amalfi Coast Road – Italy
5. Costa Brava Coastal Roads – Spain
6. Great Ocean Road – Australia
7. Icefields Parkway – Canada
8. Loire Valley Drives – France
9. Kahekili Highway – United States
10. Norwegian Atlantic Road – Norway

But even among those globally celebrated drives, the Garden Route was number 1 for a reason.

Erin Baker from Autotrader captured the magic of it perfectly, “Every driver knows the feeling: windows down, the road stretching out under a clear sky, conditions so perfect you could stay behind the wheel all day.”

“We wanted to find out which of the world’s great roads most often deliver this experience and were pleasantly surprised by just how many countries across the globe have roads that scored highly in our Perfect Driving Weather index.”

“Whether you’re planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip along the Garden Route or a weekend loop somewhere closer to home, the right conditions and the right car can turn a good drive into an unforgettable one.”

But South Africans knew this already. This isn’t a hidden gem or a place you need to discover. It’s a route that families have travelled for generations, where friends have made memories on long weekends and where solo trips have turned into something meaningful along the way.

So the next time you find yourself on that road, windows open, music playing, taking in the coastline and everything that comes with it, remember this: you’re not just on a good drive… you’re on the best one in the world.

Sources: Autotrader 

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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook and Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes and hear their incredible stories:

Or catch an episode of Good Things with Brent Lindeque or our Weekly Top 5 below. The videos here are always changing, updated with the latest episodes from these two shows. Both are part of Good Things TV, created to bring South Africans balance at a time when the news can feel overwhelmingly negative. Our goal is simple: to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in our country – and to leave you feeling a little more proudly South African. 

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Just when his fans thought they had said their goodbyes, the Eastern Cape’s adored heavyweight traveller, Talhado, has officially made a surprise comeback!

Jeffreys Bay, South Africa (24 March 2026) – At the beginning of the year, the shores of Gqeberha brought in a very special visitor – an adult male southern elephant seal who spent nearly three weeks hauled out in the busy harbour.

According to Bayworld Museum Marine Mammals, after moving between a few spots, he settled at the Talhado Slipway – his favourite resting place. The Talhado staff welcomed and protected him, and so he earned the name ‘Talhado’!

Many visitors worried he might be ill due to his tatty skin, but he was simply undergoing his annual catastrophic moult.

Gqeberha’s midday summer heat proved a bit much, and by mid-morning, Talhado would slip into the water to cool off – floating for hours before hauling out again in the evening. While he rotated between slipways, his favourite remained the Talhado slipway, where he was left in peace.

After a few weeks of resting, moulting, and losing significant weight, Talhado finally headed back to sea.

His adoring fans were convinced that he had left for good (or at least until next year), but Talhado had other travel stop plans.

On Saturday, the NSRI Station 37 received reports of a Southern Elephant Seal hauling out on local beaches in Jeffrey’s Bay – and lo and behold, it was Talhado!

“Many will recognise this visitor as Talhado, the same seal who spent three weeks moulting at the Talhado slipway in Port Elizabeth Harbour in January and early February. He has now made his way down the coast to Jeffreys Bay,” NSRI confirmed.

The sea rescue organisation stressed the importance of the public maintaining a safe distance from him as he is a wild animal undergoing a natural physiological process.

Residents and visitors are requested to follow these safety protocols to ensure both public safety and the animal’s welfare:

• Maintain Distance: Keep at least 10 meters away from the seal at all times.
• Control Pets: Dogs must be kept on a leash and well away from the area.
• Do Not Intervene: Do not attempt to feed him, pour water on him, or encourage him back into the surf. He is ashore because he needs to rest.
• No Harassment: Please keep noise levels down and do not crowd the animal.

The NSRI team is working closely with Bayworld to monitor his condition and requests that anyone who happens to spot the seal on local beaches, to kindly report his location to the Bayworld Stranding Hotline on 071 724 2122 or contact NSRI Station 37 on 079 916 0390.

Sources: NSRI Station 37 | Bayworld Museum Marine Mammals

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Or catch an episode of Good Things with Brent Lindeque or our Weekly Top 5 below. The videos here are always changing, updated with the latest episodes from these two shows. Both are part of Good Things TV, created to bring South Africans balance at a time when the news can feel overwhelmingly negative. Our goal is simple: to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in our country – and to leave you feeling a little more proudly South African. 

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Kindness knows no borders… or targets! Nisha’s 35th birthday fundraiser has taken off, and she’s already surpassed her goal to support the Breath of Life safe house.

East London, South Africa (16 March 2026) – Overwhelmed with gratitude. This is the heartfelt sentiment that best captures how Nisha Varghese feels following the outpouring of support from her community and beyond.

Kind hearts near and far, from East London to across the seas, have responded with heartwarming generosity to her birthday wish!

On 25 March, she will turn 35, and to celebrate her 35 years of life, she launched a fundraiser to raise R35,000 for a cause that remains close to her heart: the Restore Trust’s Breath of Life house.

For Nisha, every child, regardless of the circumstances they are born into, deserves a fair start in life. One where they are safe, fed, held, given stability and a chance at a secure future.

In just a little over two weeks of launching her fundraiser, Nisha hasn’t just successfully reached her target, she has surpassed it!

“I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the outpouring of support the babies at Breath of Life will receive as a result of this campaign,” Nisha tells us, reeling from the public’s amazing response.

With a few more days left before her special day, and with supporters still generously donating towards positively impacting the lives of babies still waiting for their forever families, Nisha is doubling her target.

“Because we reached the goal with plenty of days to spare, it enabled me to double my target to do even more for the babies.”

Nisha is now rallying to raise R70,000 in the remaining 11 days of the campaign. And with the tally already sitting at R62,996 at the time of publication, we think her chances of reaching this new milestone are looking very bright indeed!

Nisha has been supporting Breath of Life for years, and last year’s campaign helped fund the salaries of the dedicated baby carers who look after the babies 24 hours a day.

Breath of Life is unique in that the babies at the home live with a House Mom, House Dad and House Siblings, along with carers, ensuring the babies have stability and love until they are adopted or reunited with suitable blood relatives.

“This year, any additional funds raised will go toward essential supplies such as diapers, formula, and medicine, as well as covering the cost of urgent medical procedures if needed and when waiting times in the public health sector would delay care,” Nisha explains.

With the momentum still going strong, Nisha’s birthday fundraiser for the Breath of Life house has been nothing short of amazing.

We wish you an early happy birthday, Nisha and celebrate the true inspiration you are to us all.

Sources: Nisha Varghese 

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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook and Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes and hear their incredible stories:

Or catch an episode of Good Things with Brent Lindeque or our Weekly Top 5 below. The videos here are always changing, updated with the latest episodes from these two shows. Both are part of Good Things TV, created to bring South Africans balance at a time when the news can feel overwhelmingly negative. Our goal is simple: to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in our country – and to leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

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South Africa – and especially the small town of Uitenhage – stood up for their animals and achieved the most incredible thing, ever. A new home for the animals!

Eastern Cape, South Africa (13 March 2026) – Two months ago, the Uitenhage SPCA faced a mountain they weren’t sure they could make it over.

Following a meeting with the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality, the animal welfare organisation, which has looked after the town’s animals independently for 110 years, was ordered to vacate the property it called home.

Without anywhere to go, they and the 60 animals in their care fell into crisis. Even as uncertainty cast the darkest cloud over their small team of animal heroes, they couldn’t give up. Instead, they started looking for a safe space to land.

In reality, the pressure started to mount. With operational space limited to two shipping containers on their old property, the team still kept the doors open. The animals in Uitenhage needed them.

Then, as hope so gracefully does, she showed up. In a glimmer. They tracked down a property. One that would give them ample space and facilities for hundreds of animals. It was a certain rung up the ladder, but the biggest challenge still lay ahead. They needed the funds to make an offer on it.

A race against time for more reasons than one. A fundraiser was launched and the plea went out. The goal was set at R2,7 million. And then the most incredible thing happened. Within two months, they actually got there.

We covered some of the inspiring stories that became a part of this journey. In Uitenhage and even beyond, acts of kindness both great and small in measure helped push the needle further and further…

Riley van Eck, a Grade 5 boy at Grey Junior School rallied his fellow learners to raise over R10,000. Willow, a doggie battling his own brave fight with cancer, helped bring in R42,000 more with his story.

Schools, bike shops, butcheries, salons, racing clubs, farms, shopping centres, fellow rescuers, and families all chipped in.

The town came alive, too. Trivia evenings, discos, bike rides, market days. All to raise funds for the SPCA. People really showed up and kept the momentum going.

Then there were the angels. First, an anonymous donor left an unbelievable donation of half a million rand. The profound act of kindness shifted the barometer in the most powerful way and suddenly, the Uitenhage SPCA were ten steps closer.

This week, it happened again. The organisation had reached somewhere around 70% of its goal before a donor named Penny dropped in and gave the final push needed to give the Uitenhage SPCA and its animals a proper future.

They shared the news this week. Obviously, we cried.

“WE DID IT! The Barometer Has Reached the Top!

Today we share the most incredible news with our SPCA Uitenhage family…

We have reached our goal of R2.7 million for #RebuildSPCA!

Just when the journey felt almost impossible, an extraordinary woman named Penny walked into our lives and changed everything. Through her incredible generosity and compassion, Penny stepped forward and provided the final support needed to take our barometer all the way to the top.

Because of her kindness — and the incredible support of so many donors — we can now move forward and make an offer on the property we have had our hearts set on. Finally, we can put pen to paper and secure a future home for our animals.

But Penny’s generosity didn’t stop at helping animals. She also showed deep concern for the wellbeing of our staff and volunteers who have been carrying the emotional weight of this difficult time. Her compassion for both people and animals is truly inspiring.

In less than two months, something extraordinary has happened. A small SPCA in Uitenhage took on what felt like a Herculean challenge… and together with our community, our donors, and Penny’s remarkable support — we achieved it.

We feel immense relief, gratitude, and a renewed sense of hope. It reminds us that when a community comes together for a cause, incredible things can happen.”

This isn’t the end of the journey for the SPCA. Looking ahead, they will still need to build kennels and a clinic, prepare the property (if their offer is successful), and create a safe new home for their animals.

For a moment, the focus is on the incredible light shining on this little team right now.

“But today we celebrate the most important milestone of all We have secured a future. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you to every single person who shared our posts, donated, encouraged us, and stood beside us since our call for help on 20 January. You reminded us that the world is filled with kind, compassionate people — and because of you, SPCA Uitenhage can continue serving animals and this community for many years to come.”

This goes to every single person who helped. Look at what YOU made possible.

Sources: Linked above.

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Conservationists are working to bring life back to land that has been degraded over many years. Their secret tool? Spekboom.

Eastern Cape, South Africa (12 March 2026) – Did you know that spekboom, also known as elephant bush, is a miracle plant?

The Eastern Cape was once covered in dense, low tangles of shrubs and small trees that kept the soil healthy, held water in the ground, and provided food and shelter for wildlife. This is called the Albany thicket biome or subtropical thicket. Over generations, livestock were left to graze through it, and the land has never fully recovered.

Today, only about 10% of that original thicket is still intact, and when land loses its plant cover, it sets off a harmful chain of events. The soil erodes and doesn’t retain water well. The ground dries up, and ultimately, drought hits harder.

Spekboom is shaping up to be a hero in the story. You might recognise it – It’s a common garden plant – but in its natural environment, it does something extraordinary.

As it grows, its branches spread low to the ground and trap fallen leaves, which slowly rebuilds the soil beneath it. Its roots allow rainwater to sink into the ground rather than wash away. It’s so tough that it survives drought, and even provides food for livestock when everything else has dried up. It also absorbs carbon from the atmosphere, making it a hero in the fight against climate change, too.

Once enough spekboom is established in an area, the whole landscape slowly starts to recover.

The UN Environment Programme reports that more than 60 projects across the Eastern Cape are now working to restore a whopping 800,000 hectares of degraded land by 2030.

The golden thread that runs through these projects is conservationists’ reliance on spekboom! Workers who grow spekboom cuttings and plant them by hand across degraded land.

“The efforts that have been put into spekboom restoration will benefit future generations. We are banking for the long term,” said Luyanda Luthuli, a landscape practitioner of Living Lands, one of the organizations forming the initiative. “I am excited and hopeful for the future and for seeing the fruits of our labor towards restoring ecosystems, restoring resilience.”

This restoration initiative also creates hundreds of jobs in a region marked by poverty, unemployment and inequality.

The environmental initiative has already been recognised by the United Nations as a World Restoration Flagship, an award given to outstanding efforts to restore nature and the critical benefits it provides to people.

“The thickets of the Eastern Cape are vital wildlife habitat, and they also underpin water security, food systems, sustainable livelihoods and climate resilience,” said Salman Hussain of the UN Environment Programme (UNEP). “Restoring them is one of the most powerful ecosystem-based approaches available to us. With sustained investment, we can protect biodiversity while strengthening communities and local economies.”

Sources: Linked above.

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Or catch an episode of Good Things with Brent Lindeque or our Weekly Top 5 below. The videos here are always changing, updated with the latest episodes from these two shows. Both are part of Good Things TV, created to bring South Africans balance at a time when the news can feel overwhelmingly negative. Our goal is simple: to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in our country – and to leave you feeling a little more proudly South African. 

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The Eco Rollers help the town’s vulnerable turn a heavy load into something that simply rolls home!

Kenton-on-Sea, Eastern Cape (11 March 2026) – Members of the Rotary Club of Kenton-on-Sea, alongside the Kariega Foundation, have started distributing ‘Eco Rollers’ to vulnerable households across the greater Kenton area.

The initiative comes as drought conditions continue to place pressure on access to water in the region.

“Members of the Rotary Club of Kenton-on-Sea, together with the Kariega Foundation have begun distributing Eco Rollers to vulnerable households in the greater Kenton area, where ongoing drought conditions continue to place pressure on access to water.” the Rotary Club of Kenton on Sea shared on Facebook.

So far, 18 Eco Rollers have already reached families who need them most, with another 32 set to be delivered in the coming weeks following community engagement that identified households facing the greatest challenges.

The Eco Roller is manufactured locally. The rolling barrel container (pictured below) allows water to be transported by rolling instead of being carried – a clever solution especially for those who need to walk great distances just to access water to bring back home.

“The Eco Rollers, manufactured locally in East London by Eco Tanks, allow up to 70 litres of water to be rolled rather than carried, easing the burden for elderly residents who often walk long distances to collect water.” shares the Rotary club.

Local Rotarians Ray and Carol Oliver have been championing the initiative, helping drive the ‘rollout’ within the community. The project has also been made possible thanks to international collaboration. Support from the Rotary Club of Gibsons and the Rolling Water Foundation in Canada helped fund the Eco Rollers.

The programme is set to expand through the upcoming Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) near Makhanda, where dozens of student leaders from across the Eastern Cape will each receive an Eco Roller.

“Looking ahead, the programme will expand through the upcoming RYLA Summit 2026 near Makhanda, where 77 student leaders from across the Eastern Cape will each receive an Eco Roller and become champions of the initiative in their own communities.”

These young leaders will then take the idea back to their own communities, becoming ambassadors for the initiative and helping spread the solution even further.

The remaining Eco Rollers allocated to the summit will be distributed through Rotary’s local community networks. Altogether, 150 Eco Rollers will be rolled out through the initiative, each one easing the daily burden of water collection for a household that needs it.

“March is Rotary’s Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene Month, and this initiative reflects Rotary’s ongoing commitment to improving access to safe water and practical solutions for communities facing water challenges.” shares the club.

Sources: Linked above.

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Or catch an episode of Good Things with Brent Lindeque or our Weekly Top 5 below. The videos here are always changing, updated with the latest episodes from these two shows. Both are part of Good Things TV, created to bring South Africans balance at a time when the news can feel overwhelmingly negative. Our goal is simple: to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in our country – and to leave you feeling a little more proudly South African. 

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They spend most of their days fighting against the tides to save others, but last Friday, the volunteers of the NSRI Gqeberha station proved that a true hero’s mission doesn’t always start on the shoreline.

Gqeberha, South Africa (11 March 2026) – They are usually the first responders at the first sign of danger on our shores and in our turbulent waters, but recently, members of the NSRI Gqeberha station rolled up their sleeves for a different kind of rescue mission.

This effort didn’t require launching a craft to pull someone from a rip current or responding to a drowning in progress; however, it will still help save many lives in critical condition.

On Friday, 6 March, a group of volunteers participated in the NSRI Blood Drive, donating blood to help make a life-saving difference.

“Every unit of blood can make a life-saving difference, and we’re proud to be part of a community that shows up when it matters most. A huge thank you to everyone who took the time today to give the gift of life,” the organisation said.

One unit of whole blood can help up to three people, and in some cases, blood is separated into red cells, platelets and plasma, where each part is used for a specific medical purpose. A single donation can support a cancer patient, help someone recover after surgery, assist a mother after a difficult birth, or give a trauma patient the strength to survive the critical first hours after an accident.

That is what these incredible volunteers and two-time heroes have made possible, motivated by the sheer compassion of looking out for those who find themselves in life-threatening situations.

“If you’re able to donate, please consider doing so! One donation can help multiple patients in need,” the NSRI encourages.

If you’re between 16 and 75 years old, weigh 50kg or more, in good general health, and lead a safe lifestyle, you can donate blood. Visit the South African National Blood Service website to connect with a donor centre or drive near you.

Sources: NSRI (Station 6 Gqeberha)

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Or catch an episode of Good Things with Brent Lindeque or our Weekly Top 5 below. The videos here are always changing, updated with the latest episodes from these two shows. Both are part of Good Things TV, created to bring South Africans balance at a time when the news can feel overwhelmingly negative. Our goal is simple: to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in our country – and to leave you feeling a little more proudly South African. 

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When students use their skills to shine a light on animal welfare, we shine the light on them!

Makhanda, South Africa (10 March 2026) – A group of fourth-year students at Rhodes University recently took on a friendly challenge in seeing who could create the ‘best publicity video’ for the SPCA Grahamstown Charity shop!

The group of Journalism and Media students, focused on documentary video specialisation, competed in putting together a short, documentary-style video that promotes the charity shop. And when young storytellers turn their cameras toward a good cause, everyone wins, especially the animals the SPCA works so hard to protect!

The charity shop supports the organisation’s work in serving animals through the sale of pre-loved items and treasures, generously donated and given a second life by supporters and shoppers.

The SPCA has just shared the winning video! Here it is:

The short doccie was created by Qiqa Penxa and shone the light not only on the special finds at the shop, but also its volunteers and their commitment to helping Makhanda’s animals. It made us see all the qualities that matter – community, family, helping, and kindness!

“Margie, Brian, Anna and the volunteer team have created a truly unique space, providing the community with affordable goods while supporting animal welfare in our town.” shared the SPCA, “Thank you to our donors and shoppers as well as our hardworking team – we are so grateful to you all.”

Penxa left a comment on the SPCA’s post, sharing her appreciation for their work.

“You guys are great! So glad I was apart of this.” she said. 

Sources: Linked above. 

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Or catch an episode of Good Things with Brent Lindeque or our Weekly Top 5 below. The videos here are always changing, updated with the latest episodes from these two shows. Both are part of Good Things TV, created to bring South Africans balance at a time when the news can feel overwhelmingly negative. Our goal is simple: to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in our country – and to leave you feeling a little more proudly South African. 

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Nick is spending his retirement years focused on giving back in one of the most meaningful ways – helping his Kenton community.

Kenton-on-Sea, South Africa (10 March 2026) – Nick Albrightson has spent a lifetime pushing his limits.

Twenty-one Comrades Marathons. Two Washies – the gruelling 160 km run from Port Alfred to East London. Two Dusi Canoe Marathons. The Midmar Mile. The Amashova Cycle Race from Pietermaritzburg to Durban. Three completions of the Mont Aux Sources 50 km Challenge. He even walked the Comrades route.

By any measure, it’s a remarkable list. But when Nick reflects on those years of endurance sport, it’s not the finish lines he talks about first – it’s the people who cheered him on along the way.

“These were some of the toughest challenges I’ve taken on, and I mention them because none of them were done alone. Along the way I was always supported by people who generously gave their time, encouragement, and help to see me through.” says Nick.

So when retirement arrived – or as Nick calls it, his “permanent holiday” – he found himself asking how he could give back.

“After retiring, I asked myself how I could give back to the community. The answer felt obvious: becoming an accredited First Responder with Gardmed.”

Now Nick serves as Head of the First Responder Team for Coastal Kindness, a volunteer-driven NPO based on the Sunshine Coast that focuses on community health and wellbeing. It works alongside local medical services and volunteers to strengthen healthcare and emergency response across the Kenton area with training, education and practical support.

It’s a mission that has been at their core since the very beginning, when COVID shook the world and brought out its helpers.

Kenton-on-Sea & Boesmans Tourism, who have shined a bright light on the organisation and volunteers like Nick, recognise the careful, life-saving work that goes into being a dedicated first responder.

“First Responders are often the first on scene in an accident or medical emergency, providing immediate care and support until advanced medical help – such as a paramedic or doctor – arrives. Their role can include assessing and stabilising patients, performing CPR or using an AED if needed, controlling bleeding, treating injuries, and offering reassurance to patients and their families in difficult moments.”

One of the greatest things about helpers coming together, is the community that forms in the process. That sense of connection is something Nick values deeply.

“One of the things I value most is the camaraderie among our First Responders. We support one another, freely share our time, skills, and resources, and work together for the greater good. It’s an incredible community to be part of, and I’m proud to serve.”

When the post went up celebrating Coastal Kindness and their community champion, that gratitude extended in the comments section, where suddenly, organisations and community members across town hopped in to honour Nick. Not only has he committed to his role as a first responder, his helping hands go far beyond…

He has volunteered in keeping the surrounding coast and its estuaries cared for, he has helped maintain road verges and collected trash along roadsides, and he has assisted his local Rotary Club! Thanks to people like him, who freely give their time, a community has better backup when it matters most.

“If I can save even one life, it makes everything worthwhile.”

Sources: Linked above. 

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Or catch an episode of Good Things with Brent Lindeque or our Weekly Top 5 below. The videos here are always changing, updated with the latest episodes from these two shows. Both are part of Good Things TV, created to bring South Africans balance at a time when the news can feel overwhelmingly negative. Our goal is simple: to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in our country – and to leave you feeling a little more proudly South African. 

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More than 1,200 runners went against wet conditions to support the Lake Farm Centre Charity Run, with Achilles athletes delivering standout performances.

Eastern Cape, South Africa (10 March 2026) – Rain and windy conditions were not enough to stop more than 1 200 runners from turning out for the 31st annual Charity Run hosted by Lake Farm Centre on Saturday.

The annual fundraiser once again brought together competitive athletes, casual runners and families, all rallying behind the Eastern Cape organisation that has spent decades providing care and opportunities for intellectually challenged residents.

On the road, Achilles Athletics Club produced one of the standout performances of the day. Their athletes claimed the men’s 25km Rolf Kordes Endurance Challenge title and swept the podium in the 10km race.

Gift Chigomarawa led the charge in the 25km, crossing the line in 1:31:51. Khaya Gqwetha of Vukani Running Club followed in 1:33:29, while Jeniel Zana of Run4Christ Athletics Club secured third in 1:35:10.

In the women’s 25km race, Tracy Campbell of Nedbank Running Club finished first in an impressive 1:51:42. Dane Cronje from Charlo Athletics Club took second place, while Abbie Mitchell of Bestmed Athletics Club rounded out the podium in 1:54:36.

The 10km race belonged to Achilles runners, with Mxoleleni Tabata powering in a 34:43. The shorter 5km event also drew strong participation, with Asive Solomon finishing as the overall winner.

The event also carried a heartfelt moment as long-time runner Alan Taylor was honoured for his extraordinary contribution to the running community.

“The Charity Race is in its 31st successful year, and so I bid farewell to everyone, and may the running community continue to support Lake Farm Centre.”

Lake Farm Centre General Manager Amelia Laubscher said the turnout once again showed the strength of the running community.

“We are thrilled with the response this year, and would like to thank all the runners, suppliers and sponsors who made this fundraiser possible.”

Amelia further added on the importance of the 25km Endurance Challenge.

“Lake Farm Centre continued the 25km Endurance Challenge which was launched two years ago to honour Rolf Kordes, local former world class athlete, who used this Lake Farm 25km route for most of his training runs but is now coping with dementia.”

Off the course, the atmosphere had its own charm. The day wrapped up with prize giving and lucky draw prizes worth over R10 000, bringing a fitting close to the fundraiser’s 31st edition.

By the end of the day, the roads around Lake Farm had hundreds of kilometres covered. All in support of a cause that continues to bring the running community together year after year.

Sources: Supplied 

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Do you have something to add to this story? Please share it in the comments or follow GoodThingsGuy on Facebook and Twitter to keep up to date with good news as it happens, or share your good news with us by clicking here or click the link below to listen to the Good Things Guy Podcast with Brent Lindeque – South Africa’s very own Good Things Guy. He’s on a mission to change what the world pays attention to, and he truly believes there’s good news around us. In the Good Things Guy podcast, you’ll meet these everyday heroes and hear their incredible stories:

Or catch an episode of Good Things with Brent Lindeque or our Weekly Top 5 below. The videos here are always changing, updated with the latest episodes from these two shows. Both are part of Good Things TV, created to bring South Africans balance at a time when the news can feel overwhelmingly negative. Our goal is simple: to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in our country – and to leave you feeling a little more proudly South African. 

The post Strong Turnout Marks 31st Lake Farm Centre Charity Run appeared first on Good Things Guy.