The iconic purple Speedo. Thousands of runners. One bold statement. The annual Hollard Daredevil Run once again brought together men and supporters across South Africa to raise awareness about prostate and testicular cancer — transforming city streets into waves of purple energy, courage, and hope.
Organised by the Hollard Insurance Group in partnership with the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) and the Prostate Cancer Foundation of South Africa, this year’s event united more than 7,500 participants nationwide. What began years ago as a brave, tongue-in-cheek initiative has evolved into a powerful symbol of empowerment — a movement that turns fun into a life-saving conversation.
At the Zoo Lake Sports Club in Johannesburg, excitement and cheers filled the air as runners from all walks of life — from corporate teams to high-school groups and social runners — laced up for a cause that affects millions. The sight of thousands of men jogging in bright purple Speedos drew smiles from onlookers, but the deeper message resonated: men’s health matters, and early detection saves lives.
Hazel Chimhandamba, Group Chief Marketing Officer at Hollard, explained that the event is about far more than spectacle. “As a nation, sport is in our DNA — if we can bring that same energy to health, we can change lives. The Daredevil Run is fun, yes, but its mission is serious. It’s about breaking stigma, getting men talking, and encouraging them to take charge of their health.”
The purple Speedo has become an unmistakable symbol of empowerment — a public declaration that speaking about men’s health should never be taboo. Each runner represents a father, brother, friend, or son who is saying: there’s no shame in getting tested.
A highlight of this year’s event was the participation of actor and cancer survivor Dr Jerry Mofokeng Wa Makhetha, who shared his story in a heartfelt video message played to participants. In it, he spoke openly about his diagnosis and recovery, encouraging men to be proactive and to “replace fear with action.” His openness struck a chord with the audience, reinforcing the event’s purpose: destigmatising cancer through visibility and conversation.
The Daredevil Run has grown into a powerful platform for advocacy and collaboration. CANSA and the Prostate Cancer Foundation set up on-site testing stations and information stands, offering attendees the chance to learn more about non-invasive screening. With new testing methods requiring only a small blood sample, the barriers to early detection are lower than ever. Runners were urged to take the next step after the event — to test, to talk, and to encourage others to do the same.
Adding to the celebratory mood, public figures such as Siv Ngesi and Joey Rasdien joined the crowd, using their voices to amplify the message of awareness and courage. The presence of well-known personalities alongside first-time participants highlighted the inclusive, community-driven nature of the initiative — proving that men’s health is everyone’s responsibility.
For Hollard’s marketing team, led by Chimhandamba, the challenge extends beyond organising the run itself. The goal is to ensure sustained awareness, long-term partnerships, and tangible impact. The event’s success is measured not only in participant numbers, but in the growing number of men who choose to get tested, talk about their health, and support one another year-round.
“The purple Speedo has become more than a garment,” said Chimhandamba in closing. “It’s a badge of bravery — a symbol of men showing up for themselves and for each other. Every step taken today is a reminder that saving lives can start with something as simple as a run.”
As the runners crossed the finish line, cheers, laughter, and music filled the air. Beneath the fun and camaraderie was a deeper truth: that awareness, early detection, and open conversation can change outcomes — and lives.
The Hollard Daredevil Run continues to remind South Africans that courage takes many forms. Sometimes, it’s running through the streets in nothing but a purple Speedo — not for attention, but for action.
