Fifty-four men manned up and bared skin at the 5 km Hollard Daredevil Run in Gordon’s Bay on Friday 23 October, raising awareness for testicular and prostate cancer.

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Purple Speedos were the uniform as men of all ages, shapes and sizes took to the streets across South Africa, proving that confidence isn’t just about what you’re wearing but how little of it you’re wearing. The run gathered donations for cancer research through Cansa and the PCF (Prostate Cancer Foundation).

The local run, organised by Wansy Savvy and co-hosted with the Krystal Beach Hotel, embraced this year’s slogan “Lekker balls! Lekker life!”

Runners set off from the hotel in Harbour Island, made their way to Old Harbour, then looped back to the start.

Prizes went to Smangaliso Makhatholela from SA Naval College for fastest runner, Barry Williams from NSRI Station 9 for best sportsmanship, and Dr Gareth Bain from Animal Welfare Society for best gees (spirit).

Gordon’s Bay was one of multiple runs across the Western Cape, with hundreds turning out in Stellenbosch, Green Point, Khayelitsha, Rondebosch, Paarl, Steenberg, Constantia, Century City and even at Parliament. While the main event took place with over 3 000 men in Johannesburg at Zoo Lake.

The playful spectacle carries serious weight. One in eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime, with Black African men facing a 60% higher risk. It’s one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among South African men.

Testicular cancer, though less common, hits young men aged 15-49 hardest, affecting roughly one in every 250 males. Caught early, both cancers are highly treatable.

“We dare you to challenge your co-workers and friends and bring your supporters,” says Taryn Flee from Wansy Savvy.

Runners numbers grew again this year, with organisers hoping for an even bigger turnout in 2027.

Donations to the Hollard Daredevil Run can still be made through the event’s BackaBuddy page.

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