The Biogen Half Marathon and Smecta 5km presented by Momentum Multiply took place on 11 January 2026. The twenty fourth edition of Gauteng’s premier half marathon is proudly hosted by Bedfordview Athletics Club for novice and seasoned runners to enjoy at the start of the year. Participants enjoyed perfect running weather for a scenic and challenging route through Bedfordview and Primrose.
The first big race of the year set the tone, and the winning male and female runners respectively were George Kusche from Nedbank Running Club with a time of 01:05:32, and Irvette Van Zyl from Hollywood Athletics Club CGA, who finished with a time of 01:17:01, both beating the previous years times. Second place male was taken by Namakoe Nkhasi from Nedbank Running Club Lesotho and female Nobukhosi Thuma from Entsika Athletics Club. Congratulations to the overall and respective age category winners. Over R60k in prize money was paid out.
Thank you to the sponsors Biogen, Momentum Multiply, Dis-Chem and all the co-sponsors SmectaGO, Gillette, Old Spice, Norflex Gel, Transact, Essentiale Extreme and Heneways who make races like ours possible for all runners to enjoy. The sponsors bring incredible value to the runners, including the race shirts, goody bags, medals, activations, product samples and services.
Brandon Fairweather, Biogen Brand Manager said, ‘Congratulations to all participants of the Biogen Half Marathon presented by Momentum Multiply, as well as the Smecta 5km dash! We are inspired to see so many people starting the year on the right foot, and a healthier note, with clear intentions to live and be their best in the months ahead. Special thanks to Bedfordview Athletics Club and community, as well all our co-sponsors, staff, teams and volunteers that make Gauteng’s Premier Running race possible. Wishing you strength, health and happiness! May you all continue to #UpYourStandards in 2026.
Damian McHugh, Chief Marketing Officer at Momentum Health said, ‘Momentum Multiply is proud to partner with Biogen and Dis-Chem to support the incredible 2026 Biogen 21K presented by Momentum Multiply. This race embodies determination, perseverance, and community, values that closely align with who we are at Momentum Multiply. Congratulations to all the runners who took on the challenge! We extend our heartfelt thanks to the organisers at Bedfordview Athletics Club, as well as the dedicated volunteers and enthusiastic supporters. Your efforts bring events like these to life. The 2026 Biogen 21K presented by Momentum Multiply is a fantastic way to kick-start the year, embracing the journey of health, wellness, and living your healthiest 2026.’
‘We thank the communities in Bedfordview and Primrose for their patience on race day. We really appreciate Better Bedfordview, a non-profit organisation that assists us with clearing the route and fixing 15 dangerous potholes on route. A big thanks to the EMPD, SAPS, Bedfordview and Primrose CPFs, RAG, Blue Hawk Tactical and Spider Tactical Reaction security companies who offer us that extra security and assistance on the day,’ said race director Charnia Yapp from Bedfordview Athletics.
The race supports the Lambano Sanctuary and the Namaqua Dog and Donkey Foundation, which undertakes the sterilisation, vaccination and treatment of animals in informal settlements on the East Rand. A big thank you to the runners for their donations and the Dis-Chem Foundation, who matched these donations. R35570 was raised for Lambano Sanctuary and R30670 for Namaqua Dog and Donkey Foundation.
The race committee extends their gratitude to everyone who helped make the day possible, from the field set up team, registration crews, water points to the marshals on route. The visible patrolling of the race route by the SAPS, Road Rangers, Bedfordview and Primrose CPF and the security companies – BHT, RAG, BSG and Spider Tactical – was appreciated.
View the race results here www.biogen21.co.za
