For one afternoon each year, the streets turn purple as thousands of South African men swap their usual running gear for something considerably more eye-catching.
Image supplied.
The 2026 Hollard Daredevil Run will take place on Friday, 23 October 2026, with events happening across the country.
Now in its 18th year, the campaign supports the Cancer Association of South Africa (Cansa) and the Prostate Cancer Foundation of South Africa, funding education, awareness and screening initiatives around prostate and testicular cancer.
Making an uncomfortable conversation a little easier
The campaign may have a playful approach, but the reason behind it is anything but.
Since partnering with the Daredevil Run, Cansa has reached more than 59,000 men through awareness initiatives and conducts an average of more than 2,000 screenings each year.
Hundreds of abnormalities have also been referred for further medical care, while last year’s campaign alone saw Cansa complete 610 PSA screenings.
The Prostate Cancer Foundation of South Africa has similarly turned funds raised through the campaign into education and support. It has hosted 143 awareness events, assisted men and their families through its national helpline and expanded access to prostate cancer information in several South African languages.
This year, the foundation is also set to launch South Africa’s first National Prostate Cancer Registry.
Knowing when to get checked
Prostate cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among South African men, with one in eight men expected to be diagnosed during their lifetime. Black African men face a higher risk, making awareness and regular screening particularly important.
The Prostate Cancer Foundation of South Africa recommends annual PSA testing from the age of 40 for Black African men and men with a first-degree family history of prostate or breast cancer. For all other men, annual screening is recommended from 45.
Testicular cancer is less common but remains the most common cancer among men aged 15 to 49. Cansa recommends that men in this age group perform a monthly testicular self-examination and speak to a healthcare professional if they notice a lump, swelling or any unusual change.
Early detection is the message at the heart of the Daredevil Run. A check that takes only a small amount of time could make a significant difference when it comes to treatment.
Yes, there is a new tagline
This year’s campaign comes with the tagline Lekker balls, lekker life!, continuing the Daredevil Run’s tradition of using humour to get men talking about topics they might otherwise avoid.
“Wearing a purple speedo isn't just about having fun. It's about making a statement,” says Adel Kriel, head of experiential marketing at Hollard.
“Every participant who takes part in the Daredevil Run helps break down stigma, encouraging more men to prioritise their health and understand which health checks could one day save their lives.”
How to get involved
The main 2026 run will take place at Zoo Lake in Johannesburg at 3pm on Friday, 23 October, with additional runs taking place at various locations around the country.
Entry costs R200 and includes a registration pack and the iconic purple speedo, which will be couriered to participants.
Those who would rather support from the sidelines can also donate directly through the Hollard Daredevil Run’s BackaBuddy campaign.
Last year, the event raised R1,2m. This year, the aim is to go further, raising more funds, reaching more men and keeping the conversation around early detection going.
For more information, click here.
