South Africa, 7th May 2026: The Wings for Life World Run is back, and athletes from across
the sporting spectrum are getting ready to join the masses. Among them is South African
Red Bull Athlete Thati Zulu, who is bringing the lessons of an elite field game to the open
road.

“I think what makes this run special is that it’s bigger than just performance,” says Thati.
“You’re running for a purpose, for people who can’t, and that shifts how you prepare mentally
and physically.”
It’s a fitting mindset for an event that does things differently. Participants around the globe
start at the same moment, then race to stay ahead of the iconic Catcher Car. The format
rewards strategy as much as speed, and tests even the most seasoned athletes.
For Thati, that means rebuilding her engine. Hockey is fast, sharp and reactive. The World
Run asks for something different.
“Hockey is very stop-start, high intensity,” she explains. “So for this, I’ve had to be more
intentional about building continuous endurance. I’ve been adding longer steady runs into
my routine, which is not something we usually prioritise in-season.”
In the lead-up to race day, her training has started to mirror the unpredictable rhythm of the
event itself.

“I like to mix in interval sessions that feel similar to match scenarios, short bursts of speed
followed by controlled recovery,” she says. “It helps me stay comfortable when my body is
under pressure.”
Strength and conditioning, core pillars in hockey, remain central to her prep.
“I’m still in the gym working on lower body strength and core stability,” Thati adds. “That’s
what keeps you efficient when fatigue starts to kick in during a long run.”
Then comes the part most runners underrate: the head game. For a hockey player, it’s
second nature.
“In hockey, you’re always thinking ahead, reading the game. I’ve taken that into my running,
pacing myself, staying patient, and knowing when to push.”
Recovery and nutrition have come into sharper focus as the race nears.
“I’ve had to be more mindful of recovery, ice baths, stretching, proper sleep,” she says. “And
nutrition is key. You can’t show up on race day under-fuelled and expect to perform.”

With race day closing in, Thati is leaning into the global pulse of the event.
“There’s something powerful about knowing people all over the world are doing this at the
same time,” she says. “It reminds you that you’re part of something bigger.”
Whether you’re an elite athlete or just starting your running journey, the Wings for Life World
Run is built for everyone willing to show up for a cause.
Join Thati Zulu and thousands of participants as they take on this one-of-a-kind race.
Together, we run for those who can’t.
Race Details:
 Locations: Centurion Irene Farm, Cape Town Greenpoint OR Gqeberha Hobie Beach
 Date: May 10th
 Time: 1:00 p.m.
 Registration: R220