Erica Terblanche and Hannele Steyn Inspire With Sporting Successes

Photo Credit: Erica Terblanche and Hannele Steyn

Erica Terblanche and Hannele Steyn show us why women in sport deserve more than just one month of recognition.

Cape Town, South Africa (17 July 2025) – Let’s celebrate women all year round, not just in August for Women’s Month, says Tania Colyn. In the busy area of Sea Point, two incredible South African women are quietly doing amazing things. South Africa often only celebrates women during Women’s Month in August, but their stories should be told all year round.

Erica Terblanche is a top endurance runner and adventure racer. She stood out not just by taking part, but by beating many of the men. Erica has won tough races all over the world, from the deserts of the Sahara to mountain trails in Turkey and the United States. She came first in races as long as 270km and was once second overall in a 24-hour non-stop race. These are just a few highlights from her long list of achievements.

What makes Erica’s story even more impressive is that she did all this without sponsors. She paid for her travel and race costs herself. Today, at 54, she still takes part in difficult races and often finishes ahead of younger athletes.

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Erica is not only a great athlete, but she also gives back. Every Monday, she runs a free training group on the Sea Point Promenade to help beginners go from short jogs to completing their first 10km run. She supports and cheers on every person, helping them reach their goals.

Another hero is Hannele Steyn. She is known as the “Last Lioness” of the Cape Epic Mountain bike race because she is the only woman who has completed all 21 editions of the race. She started in triathlons and duathlons, earning national honours, before moving into mountain biking. Like Erica, Hannele did not have sponsors and competed on her own.

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Hannele is a strong example of a woman in sport. At 59, she continues to inspire others, encouraging more women to take on tough rides. She is always happy to share her experience and offer support, showing that determination and passion matter more than age or fame.

These two women have done a lot for sport in South Africa. There are so many other women around the country doing amazing things, too, and they deserve to be seen and appreciated.