Ten teens are coming together, using sport to powerfully rewrite the narrative that is often told about the youth of Lamontville. With fire and determination, they’re ready to make waves at the highly anticipated Oceans 8 Charity Swim.

Durban, South Africa (29 May 2025) – Sport is paving the way for a promising future for 10 passionate young swimmers in the heart of Durban’s Lamontville township as they prepare to realise their shared dream of competing in the Oceans 8 Charity Swim in June.

The six boys and four girls from LSA have been training, hoping for the opportunity to compete in this open-water swim that will not only test their sporting limits but also enhance their mental and physical well-being.

Thanks to funding from the Balwin Foundation, the 10 competitors from Lamontville Swimming Academy (LSA) will get to dive into a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to compete in the high-profile, open water swim taking place at Vetch’s Beach, Durban Undersea Club.

The swimming event presents a unique opportunity for each child, with the competition building confidence in young swimmers, as well as exposing them to further sponsorship and upliftment opportunities.

From Township Pool to Ocean Challenge

Life in Lamontville is characterised by various challenges such as crime, drug abuse, and unemployment. However, LSA offers a beacon of hope for the township community by teaching swimming skills and nurturing young talent.

An anonymous donation in 2024 enabled four LSA swimmers to participate in the Oceans 8 Charity Swim for the first time as part of the Youth Development Swimmers Programme. The story of these swimmers captured the hearts of many and led to generous gear donations from Arena South Africa, as well as greater visibility for the Academy’s mission.

“As a coach, it’s been inspiring to work with such a dedicated group in our swimming club. These young swimmers are showing real character, training hard, and aiming high. Some have already competed and done incredibly well. We all share the same vision, to grow in the sport, compete on big stages, and represent our community with pride,” commented Coach Lungisani Zulu.

“We’ve already produced many lifeguards serving across Durban’s beaches, but my dream is to one day see the first swimmer from our community stand on the Olympic podium. With support from Oceans 8, Arena, Balwin Foundation NPC and our local leaders, we’re building something powerful.”

With the 2025 event fast approaching, Oceans 8 Charity Swim event spokesperson, Nicci Carvalho, said she was excited to host swimmers from the LSA again this year and is incredibly grateful for the support toward their Youth Development Swimmers Programme.

“Together, we’re opening up opportunities and creating real change – in and out of the water.”

Sources: Supplied

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Far too many kids in the Eastern Cape are born into challenging circumstances that place them in a very disadvantaged position. Jono Kruger has made it his personal mission to support a cause that inspires them to learn, play, and gain the skills and motivation needed for success.

Mdantsane, South Africa (29 May 2025) – A significant percentage of youngsters in the Eastern Cape achieve poor results in language and mathematics, do not have access to sports equipment and have experienced some form of trauma or abuse.

It is this alarming and unfair reality, which threatens the potential and prosperity of many youth in a single province, that has inspired Jono Kruger to not only co-found Edu-Sport in East London but also support the cause in just about every way possible.

Edu-Sport is a youth empowerment organisation that provides education and sport to those who need it most. Through its Cubs Rugby Learning Academy, it provides educational and sporting opportunities to young children in the Mdantsane community of the Eastern Cape.

The academy’s primary goal is to provide a hub of excellence to children who could never afford the experience.

The Cub’s programme, in particular, is designed to ensure that the challenges these children face are addressed early on in their lives, while providing opportunities and a safe space for children to learn, play and grow.

To further fuel the initiative’s reach and impact, Jono will be running the ultimate human race, the Comrades Marathon, to raise critical funds for this life-changing work.

“We see Cubs players developing the passion, skills, knowledge, and motivation to become successful adults.

“Funds raised will contribute to the education, coaching and nutrition of the Cubs participants,” Jono says.

Every step Jono takes from the moment that the starting pistol goes off will be for the future generation.

Pledges or donations can be made on Jono’s crowdfunding campaign on Sport for Lives.

Sources: Sport for Lives | Edu-Sport

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If anyone had told rising rugby star Ntokozo Makhaza that he would one day be included in the Springbok alignment squad camp, he would have looked at them and laughed. But his hard tackles and sprinting tries have propelled him forward, bringing the incredible possibility of one day wearing the green and gold for South Africa within reach!

Cape Town, South Africa (28 May 2025) – Hailing from the small town of Harrismith in the Free State, Ntokozo Makhaza grew up playing a lot of soccer, but that soon changed when he was introduced to rugby in primary school, probably the very best thing to happen to him!

He currently plays for the UCT Ikeys Tigers as a wing and fullback and has recently become one of South Africa’s most exciting young rugby prospects.

Makhaza was for the second time named Player of the Year as well as Backline Player of the Year in the recent Varsity Cup season. But that is just the tip of the iceberg for the young player’s promising career, as he recently was informed that he has been included in the 54-man Springbok alignment camp!

The 23-year-old admitted that receiving the news came as a surprise, and that he couldn’t help but wonder if it was legit. However, once it was confirmed, Makhaza shared that he was nervous and excited for the opportunity to level up his game.

“I was very surprised that I’m part of the camp. A bit nervous, but excited. I’m just happy and motivated to see that people are watching and monitoring varsity rugby. It inspired me to believe more that the dreams I have are possible,” Makhaza tells UCT, where he is a Bachelor of Social Science student.

In another major step in his already impressive rise, Makhaza will also join the Free State Cheetahs in July for the upcoming Currie Cup season, affording him the opportunity to contribute to rebuilding a team that’s investing in youth.

“They’re giving youngsters a chance, and I want to make the most of that,” he says.

“It’s about learning, growing, and giving my best.”

With every opportunity that comes this rugby player’s way, Makhaza’s main focus remains on soaking up everything he can at the Springbok alignment camp, something he never imagined even in his wildest dreams.

“If anyone would say I would be part of the Springbok alignment camp a few years back, or even at the beginning of this year, I would have looked at him and laughed.

“To me, it’s an honour and I’m privileged and humbled. I think it’s been created by the coaches and players because of the opportunity and platform they gave me. I’m humbled and excited for the opportunity,” shares a grateful Makhaza.

Sources: University of Cape Town

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South African surfing star Jordy Smith has successfully claimed his second win of the season, climbing the leaderboard to claim the top spot ahead of his competition!

Australia (27 May 2025) — Legendary South African surfer and Durbanite Jordy Smith has claimed his second win of the World Surf League (WSL) season thanks to a smashing score at the 2025 Western Australia Margaret River Pro!

Against competitor Griffin Colapinto from the United States, Smith claimed a score of 12.00, placing the South African surfer in the first spot and 4.84 points ahead of Brazilian talent Italo Ferreira in the Championship Tour standings. It was pace and patience that stood in the surfer’s favour most during the final heat, as well as a dedication to making every wave count.

The 37-year-old surfer dedicated the win to both his family and iconic surf filmmaker Jack McCory who recently passed away.

“Jack McCoy is someone who has inspired me throughout my whole life. All his movies, his videos, his family, this is for you guys.”

There are still five events left in the Tour schedule, with hopes high that Smith will keep his winning momentum! The next round will take place in sunny California for the Lexus Trestles Pro from 9 June.

Last month, in Punta Roca, El Salvador, Smith made fans enormously proud when he secured his 7th Championship Tour Victory in a riveting and emotionally charged moment for his supporters everywhere. This was the surfer’s first victory of this kind in 8 years and marked a proud moment for the veteran.

 

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Sources: Supplied

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Winning a golf tournament in a foreign country is an incredible feat, but imagine doing it alone, without anyone to share your triumph. Well, not on South Africa’s watch! A group of golfers went out of their way to celebrate a foreign champion and show him the BEST time. It’s the heartwarming story of trophies, tequila and new friends!

South Africa (27 May 2025) – Imagine being alone in a foreign country for a sports tournament, winning and having a group of kind locals go out of their way to celebrate your victory and make your stay as comfortable as can be!

This was the experience for a recent visitor who had come down to South Africa for an anticipated Sunshine Tour golf tournament at a local club.

Sharing this feel-good story with us was a member of the club and one of our Good Things Guy readers, who confirmed that a foreigner won the tournament, resoundingly too, but unfortunately didn’t have anyone to celebrate his triumph with.

After the other members noticed the champion sitting alone with his trophy, having a drink, the South African spirit of togetherness came alive in the best way as they asked him to join their table.

What began as a celebratory tequila (inspired by the winner’s Mexican origins) quickly escalated into an unforgettable display of hospitality!

After the round of tequila, they naturally wanted to order some more celebratory drinks, but the winner mentioned that it was getting late and that he still needed to get to the airport to pick up his rental car.

In true ‘Good Things Guy’ style, one of the gentlemen enjoying the celebration with him happened to be a general manager for a car dealership. He insisted that the winner not go pick up the rental car, but instead would provide him with a car to use during his stay.

After a fun evening in the company of new friends, the locals made sure he got back safely to his hotel and his car to use was promptly delivered the next morning, turning a lonely win into a heartwarming experience of camaraderie and genuine South African kindness!

Sources: Supplied

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South Africa’s Ruche Moodley takes on Silverstone just weeks after undergoing surgery due to a crash; this young athlete is showing just what he is made of!

United Kingdom (26 May 2025) – South Africa’s Ruche Moodley returned to the Moto3 grid with a lion-hearted performance at Silverstone, showing grit, determination, and an unwavering commitment to his dream, even as he raced through pain and penalties.

Just weeks earlier, the Gqeberha-born teen was left recovering from a dramatic crash during the Spanish Grand Prix. A mechanical failure sent him hurtling into the gravel on lap one, fracturing the radius in his dominant right arm. He underwent surgery in Barcelona, where a titanium plate and half a dozen screws were needed to patch things up. But even with his arm still bandaged, Moodley was back on the training bike, refusing to let a broken bone keep him off track for long.

“I was really frustrated not being able to race,” Moodley admitted. “From the moment I got back from hospital, I started training again. I just wanted to be ready.”

His recovery was nothing short of relentless. Between physiotherapy and fitness drills, he managed to miss only a single race, sitting out the French Grand Prix, before being medically cleared by the FIM to return for round seven at Silverstone.

“It felt great to get the all clear,” he shared before the British GP. “Watching the race from the couch was tough. I just wanted to be back on the bike.”

But racing at one of Moto3’s fastest, most physical tracks with a still-healing arm was no easy task. Add to that a double long-lap penalty carried over from the crash in Spain, and Silverstone became more than just a comeback; it was a true test of mental and physical resilience.

Moodley qualified 21st, managing both his tyres and the dull ache in his arm. In the race, he made the smart call to serve his penalties early to avoid carrying them into the next round.

“I knew I had to be cautious. If I got taken out early, those penalties would follow me,” he explained. “So I played it safe at the start, took my long laps, and just focused on finishing.”

That finish came in 20th place, an impressive result considering he was racing with limited strength, numbness in his arm, and no prior race rhythm after weeks off the track.

“That felt like the longest race of my life,” Moodley admitted. “I lost feeling in my arm towards the end, but I kept my head down. I was just counting down the laps.”

With his Silverstone return behind him, Ruche is focused on regaining full strength before heading to Aragon in two weeks.

“This race was about proving to myself that I can bounce back. I’ll be stronger at Aragon,” he said with quiet confidence.

Still only 18, Moodley’s resilience has earned him growing admiration both at home and on the world stage. One thing is certain: Ruche isn’t just chasing podiums; he’s proving that the South African heart belongs on the global grid.

Sources: Double Apex

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Oh, he didn’t just run, he soared! Sprinting teen sensation Bayanda Walaza didn’t just win the 100m race at the Boris Hankezovic Memorial in Zagreb; he smashed his own national junior record while setting a new one that will certainly be hard to beat!

Sports Park Mladost, Zagreb (26 May 2025) – I think it’s safe to say that sprinting teen sensation Bayanda Walaza is solidifying his position as a global force and breaking history with every race he runs!

In a stunning display of raw power and undeniable talent, this past Saturday, Walaza powerfully shattered yet another record at the Boris Hankezovic Memorial in Zagreb, clocking in at 9.94 seconds in the 100m!

Not only is this the fourth fastest time ever recorded by a South African and a new national junior record, but it also marks the breaking of his very own national U20 record of 9.99, which he set in Tshwane in March.

Walaza finished well clear of German sprinter Owen Ansah, who took second place in Zagreb in 10.20, EWN reports.

The incredible feat comes after the incredible gold win at the World Athletics Relays in Guangzhou, China, in which Walaza was a part of the team that delivered a world-leading time of 37.61 seconds in the men’s 4x100m relay.

This 19-year-old athlete has been on a meteoric rise since he first caught our attention last year when he made the 2024 SA Olympic team, where he went on to clinch silver in the 4×100 metres relay race. He further won gold in the U20 World Athletics Champs and has shattered just about every record in his midst!

Walaza’s success on the international stage provides an inspiring example of how talent can be cultivated and dreams can be realised. With every race, Bayanda Walaza isn’t just running; he’s breaking history and signalling a thrilling future for South African sprinting!

Sources: World Athletics

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Naor Lombard claimed the honour of being the highest point scorer in the Open Men’s division at the 2025 South African Lifesaving Championships all while defending his title as the Ironman.

Gqeberha, South Africa (25 May 2025) — At just 20-years-old, Naor Lombard has realised a lifelong goal after he earned his place as the highest point scorer in the Open Men’s division at the 2025 South African Lifesaving Championships.

This was a season-best performance for the Clifton Surf Lifesaving Club and National Team athlete, and one that’s come after dedicated training that included a full racing season in Australia.

“Being the highest point scorer has always been a goal of mine,” shared Naor. “I’m stoked with the result—but even more so with how much I’ve improved over the season.”

A standout moment saw Naor defend his title in the premier Ironman event. The Ironman event is notorious for the challenge it presents both physically and mentally.

However, as Naor explains, the real difficulty lies not in the racing but in the training.

Not one to refrain from giving others their flowers, Naor spotlighted the efforts of his Clifton teammates.

“Clifton is like family. The senior boys had this energy that felt electric—we pushed harder for each other, especially in the team events. I was racing even harder for the team than I was individually.”

Other athletes he celebrated included Amica de Jager who recently made an incredible comeback.

“Amica is such a dedicated athlete and a positive person—it’s always special to share a podium with someone like that, especially when we’re representing the same club and sponsor.”

Looking ahead, Naor will continue to navigate life as a student-athlete; undertaking an elite training schedule, part-time work and his studies.

The champ is also gearing up for biggies like the Coolangatta Gold, which also happens to be his favourite event.

His advice to others is wise beyond his years:

“The biggest lessons come from your losses. Review your races. Figure out what went wrong. And always stay clear of distractions. Fun doesn’t have to come at the cost of your goals.”

Sources: Christina Mallion 

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Mthi Mthimkhulu, a blazing 400m athlete from the University of the Free State (UFS), just proved that dreams do come true on the world stage after sprinting with heart at the World Athletics Relays in China, helping South Africa make some serious history!

Guangzhou, China (23 May 2025) – He set out to make his mark in a historic event for South African athletics, and Mthi Mthimkhulu did just that.

Earlier this month, the standout 400m athlete from the University of the Free State (UFS) recently represented South Africa as a key player in both the men’s and mixed 4x400m relay teams at the World Athletics Relays in Guangzhou, China.

According to UFS, Mthimkhulu competed in the SA men’s 4x400m relay heat alongside teammates Udeme Okon, Lythe Pillay, and Zakithi Nene on Saturday, 10 May. Together, they absolutely owned the track, clocking a world-leading time of 3:00.00 in the first heat!

The following day, Mthimkulu participated in the mixed 4x400m relay, where the team finished in fifth place.

And in a truly epic final, the men’s 4x400m relay team stormed to victory in a mind-blowing 2:57.50, not only winning gold but also shattering the South African record set at the Paris 2024 Olympics!

Mthimkhulu’s selection for the South African relay teams was based on his impressive ranking, as he is currently ranked in the top six in South Africa, UFS states.

The championships in Guangzhou proved to be a landmark event, with South Africa securing double gold medals in both the men’s 4x100m and 4x400m relays, while the women’s 4x400m team claimed a bronze medal.

All four South African teams advanced to the finals of their respective events, earning automatic qualification for the World Athletics Championships scheduled to be held in Tokyo in September 2025!

For Mthimkhulu, this wasn’t just a win, it was a triumph for South African athletics.

He humbly credits a large part of his success to his athletics coach, Thomas Jonda.

“If it wasn’t for him, I don’t believe I would have been in this position I am in today,” he said, adding that their commitment and belief as a two-man team helped them achieve these accolades together.

Sources: University of the Free State

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What began as a childhood pastime at the tender age of four has been groomed into a competitive passion for Bulelani Stephen, propelling him to become a professional chess player who is set to make SA very proud.

Johannesburg, South Africa (23 May 2025) – Chess is a game of patience, calculation, pattern recognition, identifying strategic patterns and making sound choices under pressure, often with limited time. It’s not for everyone, but for 16-year-old Bulelani Stephen, it is everything!

He started chess as a leisure sport when he was just four years old, before falling into a competitively driven love with it and has since worked his way up to becoming a professional chess player.

With the help of his school, chess coaches, parents and siblings, chess is no longer just a fun pass time for the Prestige College learner, it is a lifestyle and a career he is steadily pursuing.

This driven board master has obtained national colours since he was 14. He has now, after an impressive run at the South African Junior Closed Chess Championship in Cape Town last month, been presented with the opportunities to represent South Africa this year at the Fide World Cadet Chess Championship, the African Youth Chess Championship and the Commonwealth Chess Championship.

These global chess tournaments are more than just competitions for Bulelani, they are crucial steps toward his ultimate goal of becoming an International Chess Grandmaster someday.

However, one hurdle stands in his way.

“I have to sponsor myself financially for all these events and cannot do it without your help,” he says.

To help fund his audacious chess dreams, Bulelani has launched a BackaBuddy campaign, appealing for support to help him seize these life-changing opportunities.

To support his ascent in the world of chess, visit Bulelani’s crowdfunding page here.

Sources: BackaBuddy

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Or watch an episode of Good Things TV below, a show created to offer South Africans balance in a world with what feels like constant bad news. We’re here to remind you that there are still so many good things happening in South Africa & we’ll leave you feeling a little more proudly South African.

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