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Ultra Gobi 400km | Champions Crowned

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Junyue(CHN)

The champions of the 2025 Ultra Gobi 400km have been crowned!

The men’s title was decided yesterday, while the women’s champion emerged today after four intense days in the Gobi Desert.

Women’s Champion —Bib：230 Zheng Junyue (CHN)

Defending champion Zheng Junyue secured her second women’s title today, finishing 5th overall in 92:24:55 and earning the title of “Guanjun Marshall.”

Starting 41st, she moved steadily up the rankings from 13th to 5th. On the morning of October 5 at R4, she shared her race struggles. “I was fighting alone in the desert, completely cut off from the outside world. The path to R2 felt like it stretched straight up to the clouds. After leaving R2, I was supposed to turn, but I just kept going straight. Luckily, this mistake didn’t last long. Then I started searching for footprints like a wilderness hunter—I found quite a few at first, but after looking for a while, the footprints disappeared again,” Junyue said.

She emphasized that her focus was on enjoying the race rather than breaking records. After finishing, she explained her motivation: “Actually, there are so many people who take on crazy challenges in this world, but I’ve noticed few women would try this. I think I can say I’ve made an attempt this year, because I’m afraid I will lose my courage if I don’t.”

Junyue first joined Ultra Gobi in 2024, when she set a women’s event record of 79:43:19 and won the title after a dramatic race involving a wolf encounter and a final 13 km battle. “I will participate in the Ultra Gobi 400km a third time, but I’m not sure if I will do so next year,” she added.

Men’s Champion —Bib：236 Cody Poskin (USA)

Cody Poskin claimed the men’s title on October 6 with a time of 64:49:32, breaking the event record and earning the title of “Guanjun Marshall.”

In his first Ultra Gobi 400km, Cody led from the start and built a significant gap. On the evening of October 5, however, he ran into multiple navigation problems and his leg was cut by thorn bushes. Although he was upset, losing his temper and swearing loudly, he forced himself to calm down and find solutions each time.

Before the race, Cody had estimated a 60-hour finish, but the final 100 km proved much tougher than expected. His speed dropped to 70–80% of earlier pace, averaging just 5–6 km/h. “Before the race, I studied the maps. However, when I arrived at the actual race venue, I still relied on my on-the-spot improvisation to take the shortcuts I had planned beforehand,” Cody said.

Reflecting at the finish, he described Ultra Gobi 400km as an adventure about living life to the fullest. “Running 400km means adventure and exploration. It means grabbing life by the horns and making an intentional decision to live life to the fullest. Gobi is passion and freedom. Coming to China to compete this time is truly the right choice I’ve made in my life!” he said.

Text Credits: James Huang / Grace Gao
Photo Credits: Ultra Gobi

 

Junyue Repeats Last Year’s Victory at Ultra Gobi

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On day four of the GOBI ULTRA 400, after the men’s podium was determined the previous day, the lady winner was also decided. Zheng Junyue, already last year’s fastest, triumphed in the competition, which is still in full swing even after the first eight out of 55 runners have arrived. The athletes have until 18:30 local time on Thursday to complete the 400 kilometres.

With a time of 92 hours, 24 minutes and 55 seconds, Junyue fell well short of her performance last year, but still secured victory in the women’s competition and fifth place overall.

In the mixed zone at Gobi Spring, the Chinese athlete said: ‘I value my success this year more than last year’s victory. Twelve months ago, the motto was ‘fast, fast, fast’. But this year, first place wasn’t even the main focus. I wanted to enjoy ULTRA GOBI. I took photos, chatted with volunteers and friends along the route and was really happy in this unique landscape. This is the real Gobi!’

‘Just under 40 kilometres before the finish line, I knew I was going to win. Sometimes I was in the flow; sometimes the saying applied: ‘If you face something strong, you get stronger.’”

About two hours later, John William Carey and Lucy Schodell reached the finish line together.

Carey said: ‘I’ve never felt better than I do right now. Lucy and I are like brother and sister; we run together a lot. When we signed up for the ULTRA GOBI 400, we knew we’d be competing and enjoying the race together from start to finish.’

Schodell finished seventh overall and second in the women’s classification, completing the race in 94 hours, 27 minutes and 58 seconds.

“I didn’t actually expect a podium finish. We worked hard throughout the race and enjoyed it at the same time.”

‘There were some difficult moments, too. The second night was very cold; we got lost in the mountains, climbed unnecessary elevation and saw a large lake that wasn’t marked on any map.’

Carey and Schodell emphasised the outstanding organisation and work of the volunteers. ‘They were so friendly and helpful at all the checkpoints and aid stations.’

He Zheng was the best Chinese male athlete to reach the finish line at Gobi Spring in eighth place. He is from Gansu and said, “My father died a few months ago, so I dedicate this race and this finish to him. My whole family has always been very supportive of my running.”

Text Credits: Egon Theiner

African Bank Soweto Marathon: Full steam ahead

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The 30th edition of The People’s Race is well and truly on track, powering forward with thanks to the thousands of eager runners entered to date. With the unwavering support of headline partners African Bank, as well as the City of Joburg, Athletics South Africa and Central Gauteng Athletics; the planning processes and procedures are well on track for an exceptional race day come 29 November 2025. 

In March this year, the Soweto Athletics Clubs passed a resolution that the proposed vehicle to administer the organisation of the 2025 Soweto Marathon race event would be a Non-Profit Company (NPC). This NPC was elected by a majority vote, with nine (9) out of eleven (11) Soweto Athletics Clubs in attendance at an official meeting held earlier this year. 

Due to conduct of certain individuals, specifically, Thulani Sibisi, Stan Itshegetseng and Ishe Sadiki, in April 2025 the Soweto Marthon (Pty) Ltd initiated a Court process against these individuals. It is therefore not true that either the (Pty) Ltd nor the NPC took the Soweto Marathon Trust to Court. The Soweto Marathon (Pty) Ltd and the Athletics Clubs of Soweto initiated a Court proceed where they sought certain interdictory reliefs against these individuals. The relief sought, amongst others, were as follows:

  • Directing that the respondents stop abusing the Soweto Marathon for nefarious gains and bringing the name of the Soweto Marathon into disrepute;
  • Directing that the respondents stop calling and convening meetings in the name of the Soweto Athletics Club and the name Soweto Marathon;
  • Directing that the respondents stop spreading false allegations against the Soweto Marathon (Pty) Ltd and its director, Thokozani Mazibuko; and
  • Directing that the respondents stop contacting stakeholders and presenting false and misleading information.

It is unfortunate that the matter was decided on a technical basis and same has left room for the individuals to continue with their propaganda campaign and spreading lies. The Court concluded that due to the fact of the abovementioned resolution taken in March, it could only be the NPC representing the clubs before it and not the Soweto Marathon (Pty) Ltd. wherefore, the Court made no ruling on the merits of the matter. We therefore wish to reiterate that there was never a Court process between the Soweto Marathon NPC or Soweto Marathon (Pty) Ltd against the Soweto Marathon Trust. Further, the Court case was not to determine who should organise the race. 

The race organising team, race office and all partners and sponsors remain unchanged and committed as per the hugely successful 2024 Soweto Marathon – the country’s biggest one day road race. With this in mind, the Soweto Marathon NPC would like to remind the valued running community of its objectives of ensuring good and proper governance and sound financial accountability.

Lastly, On 6 October 2025, the Central Gauteng Athletics (CGA) addressed a letter to the NPC recording that it is aware of the developments around the Soweto Marathon race and that things need to be sorted out. The letter records, amongst others, the following:

“It is unfortunate that those who are currently serving suspension by the country’s governing bodies, are being given any airtime whatsoever. Working together is what is needed here, and I remind every single person taking the time to read this that: The Athletics Clubs of Soweto own this race – and they will focus on the race organizing committee to run this race by the people, for the people.”

 CGA concludes by wishing the NPC well in its organizing the 2025 Soweto Marathon race.

Ultra Gobi 400km Day 3

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Breaking the event record & A New Brotherhood is Born

Ultra Gobi 2025 — Men’s Podium Decided

The top three finishers of the Ultra Gobi 400km have been confirmed, with all three athletes delivering extraordinary performances in this year’s grueling race across the Gobi Desert.

Cody Poskin (Bib 236, USA)
Cody Poskin claimed the Ultra Gobi 400km championship title, crossing the finish line in 64 hours, 49 minutes, and 32 seconds. His exceptional performance broke the event record, earning him the prestigious title of “Guanjun Marshall.”

Jovica Spajić (Bib 240, Serbia)
Jovica Spajić secured second place with a finish time of 68 hours, 20 minutes, and 38 seconds, and was honored with the title of “Cheji Marshall.”

Aaron Kubala (Bib 234, USA)
Aaron Kubala rounded out the men’s podium, finishing in 68 hours, 28 minutes, and 38 seconds, and was awarded the title of “Zhenjun Marshall.”

Meanwhile, Zheng Junyue (Bib 230, China) made a strong push in the latter stages of the race, overtaking Ni Yusheng to temporarily move into 5th place overall.

A New Brotherhood at Ultra Gobi

Jovica Spajić (Serbia) and Aaron Kubala (USA) finished the race together, placing second and third respectively, but their journey became much more than a battle for podium positions.

The two athletes teamed up at Checkpoint 14 / Rest Point 4, located at the 161 km mark. Kubala had reached the checkpoint with a slight lead and was preparing to leave when Spajić arrived.

“Shall we run together?” the Serbian asked.
“How long do you need to get ready again?” the American replied.
“Five minutes.”

And so began a partnership that would last for the next two days and 240 kilometers, laying the foundation for a lifelong friendship.

“We became brothers,” Spajić declared.

“We experienced highs and lows at different times and helped each other out of the pain cave,” said Kubala.
“Aaron led the way through the nights, and when he was in trouble, I was there for him. I didn’t want to leave him,” Spajić added.

In such a competitive race as the Ultra Gobi 400, the two had to maintain a relentless pace to hold off Sangé Sherpa, who was both kilometres away and yet dangerously close behind.

“It was an emotional journey and a true adventure. Now I have a new brother. During our joint efforts, everything came naturally; nothing was forced. Our teamwork was a gift from God,” said Spajić.
“We ran together for hours without talking. Everything was relaxed, and we enjoyed every moment.”

Kubala reflected on the shared experience:

“The sunrises and sunsets were exceptional, and I felt so well supported by my family and girlfriend, even though they were far away.”

Spajić expressed pride in representing Serbia on the global stage through this prestigious event:

“This race is tough. The scenery is wonderful, and it’s worth seeing — but you really have to be well prepared to finish it.”

Ultra Gobi 400km Day 2

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Sportsmanship and the Countdown to the Finish Line

On Day 2 of the Ultra Gobi 400km race, the Gobi Desert became the stage for a moving display of sportsmanship. The athletes currently in second（bib 240 Jovica Spajić Serbia）and third place(bib 234 Aaron Kubala USA) encountered each other on the course and decided to join forces, running side by side for more than 80 km. In this extreme endurance challenge, they are not only fierce competitors but also companions on the journey—embodying the true spirit of “friendship through competition.”

Race leader Cody Poskin (bib 236, USA) has maintained his lead from the start and has now reached Checkpoint R7/CP25. According to calculations from the race control center, Cody is expected to arrive at the finish line around 7:00 AM Beijing Time on October 6, just as the Mid-Autumn Festival sunrise lights up the desert sky. He is on track to break the course record if all goes well. Meanwhile, the logistics and checkpoint teams are racing against time to set up R8 before he arrives.

Close behind, Jovica Spajić and Aaron Kubala are currently sharing second and third place. After entering Rest Station 6 together, they refueled, checked mandatory gear, and received warm encouragement from volunteers. Jovica took a quick 10-minute power nap before the duo set off again, with roughly 130 km remaining to the finish.

Running in fourth place is the legendary bib 215 Sange Sherpa Nepal. After two days and nights on the course, his mental toughness is on full display. Despite his fatigue and the accumulated toll of a summer packed with ultramarathons, he never doubts for a second that he will finish.

As the Mid-Autumn sunrise approaches, the race is entering its most thrilling phase. Tomorrow morning, all eyes will be on the finish line as Cody chases history, and every runner continues their epic journey across the Gobi.

More flashquotes from the Course：

Carla André, Portugal, at kilometer 155

“I’m in a good mood and good shape. Of course, I’m tired, but that’s okay. I manage my pace consciously. The only thing I want is to finish, and therefore I’m taking enough rest during the competition.”

“I saw very beautiful places, but I have to underline what a wonderful and professional job the organisers are doing. Staff and volunteers are amazingly friendly and attentive.”

“The rocky descent from the highest point of the course was challenging. I’m used to everything, but I did not expect such a section here at Ultra Gobi 400.”

“October 5th is a very special day for me — it’s my brother’s birthday, and I sent him best wishes in Chinese. Also, 20 years ago, I had a very serious car accident. In a certain way, it’s like my second birthday today.”

Julian Veermeer, South africa, at kilomter 157

“Others may complain, but for me, the mountains are the highlight of Ultra Gobi 400 so far. It may be confusing at times, but in the end the track is quite logical — just follow the water flow. And this area would be great for an epic mountain bike event, too!”

“I have some blisters, and it’s a pity that the organisers do not offer footbaths. These are just my two cents — overall, the organisation is grandiose.”

“Ultra Gobi is a huge learning curve for me. I see what is involved and that the weight of the material is key to perform. If I come back again, for sure I’ll be better prepared.”

Sona Kopcokova, Slovakia, at kilometer 161

“The switch between really hot and really cold is tiring.”

“The navigation can become quite difficult — that’s why it’s good to pair up with Melissa Venables.”

“I’m happy to be here, and I’m happy that I do not have trouble with nose bleeding yet, something that usually happens to me in hot and dry conditions.”

Melissa Venables, Great Britain, at kilometer 161

“The track is relentless in all senses — it offers a lot of challenges and a lot of beauty as well. Honestly, it is harder than expected. You always have to concentrate on something, like the navigation for example, and at the same time on the very varied terrain. There is soft sand, and in the next section, rocks.”

“In the mountains, we struggled a bit. I think we lost about two hours there.”

Text Credits:  Daniel Keppler / Egon Theiner / James Huang
Photo Credits:  Daniel Keppler / Ultra Gobi

 

ULTRA GOBI has begun, and everyone is already captivated

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These are images that you rarely, if ever, see: Five thousand runners preparing for an event that could change their lives and certainly boost their self-confidence. DJs are getting the runners going three hours before the start. Videographers and photographers in their droves in the crowd. And then, when the event starts right on time, there are over 30 camera drones in the air.

ULTRA GOBI series 2025 began on schedule today (1 October) with the first competitions(A: 121km team / B: 121km stage / C: 17km), but the ‘experience day’ wasn’t necessarily about the results. It was exciting to observe the orderly chaos instead. Each participating working group has its own colour: green stands for media professionals and blue for volunteers, for example. Around 238 volunteers were needed, and 2611 people applied to be involved.

One of the lucky ones is Linying, a dentist from Shandong who has taken time off from her job at a hospital in Chengdu to be here again. “I like the spirit of the event, and I want to play my part in making it a success.” Perhaps she will compete in one of the upcoming editions herself. Linying completes the half marathon in under 90 minutes and the full marathon in under four hours. “ULTRA GOBI motivates and inspires a healthy lifestyle!”

Hailing also from Chengdu, Huang Jiang is a data analyst at UESTC. Today, however, he is sweating his way through the first of four stages in the 121 km team competition in temperatures of 30°C. ‘ULTRA GOBI is a great experience; it’s already worth every drop of sweat,’ he says. He and his colleagues have big sporting ambitions: “We want to finish in the top ten!”

The destination for the first day is in the middle of nowhere, where a tent city has been set up for the 5,000 participants. This includes restaurants, activity zones, and everything else you could need. Spectacular images are also captured here by camera drones. And this is only the beginning of the journey.

“Rory, for one million rand, why do you run?”

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Champions! The one question we’re asked so often and it’s the one I find the most difficult to answer. Impossible to answer. Cue the music. Cue the lights. Camera zooms in on my face. Lights become brighter. The audience goes quiet. Room feels warmer. 

“Rory, for one million rand, why do you run?” 

Rory looks around for a lifeline, but he’s used them all. He used ‘Phone a friend’ when he felt discouraged and needed some encouragement to go for a run. He used 50/50 when it was starting to drizzle one day and he decided against going outside. And he wasted his ‘Ask the audience’ that one time when he needed advice on what to do with those silly soft flask thingies that bounce around in your pocket like a half alive fish. So here he was, forced to answer the most difficult question of his whole entire life.  

Champions, do you know why you run? If I had to ask you for one reason, what would it be? For me, it’s like asking for my favourite song or favourite movie. It literally depends on when you ask, what mood I’m in, where I am, what the weather is doing, and how strong my coffee was. But here I sit with one million rand (or the equivalent of two days’ electricity on a pre-payment meter) on the line. For the sake of the money, this is why I run: 

  1. Sometimes I run because I feel fat and the thought of maybe one day needing a mirror to see, um, well, that stuff down there terrifies me. 
  2. Sometimes I run because I have no content left in my brain. I’ll have nothing at all. And, without fail, every single time, within the first kilometre, I have at least 10 more ideas for videos to record on the driver’s seat of my car, half a one-man comedy show and a week’s worth of stuff for my radio show too.
  3. Sometimes I run because I miss all my other crazy beautiful people who also run. Also, there’s just something special about getting out of your car at 04h52 in the morning and seeing other lunatics who are doing the same!
  4. Sometimes I run because I have FOMO after seeing someone else’s run on social media, with photos captioned, “Easy shakeout with my besties!” Easy shakeout? You did 22km in 2 hours Barbara! Stop showing off! 
  5. Sometimes I run because I feel anxious and Google tells me that running is the best thing for anxiety. I disagree. A R100-million Powerball win would do the job too.
  6. Sometimes I run because I remember how absolutely amazing it feels when you finish and that beautifully perfect and delicious rush of accomplishment you get when you stop your watch at the end. You feel invincible. OK, I lie. None of this is true. It’s because I know there’s a triple shot flat white waiting for me.
  7. Sometimes I run because I remember I’ve signed up for that little 90km run between Durban and Pietermaritzburg and in the words of someone famous but I can’t remember who, “Those 90km are not gonna run themselves!”  

So, Champions, for one million rand, why do I run? I’ll tell you. Because somewhere between that first and last kilometre, while I’m doing it to keep lean and healthy, to get my creative juices flowing, to calm the FOMO, to kill the anxiety, to get that coffee at the end, to see my friends and to train for that beautiful 90km fun run, I remember it’s the one place the scam callers can’t find me! I love you. 2-nils.

PUMA Renews Partnership with HYROX 

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Global sports company PUMA has renewed and extended its partnership early with HYROX, the World Series of Fitness Racing, which is expected to draw more than 1.3 million participants around the world this season. Until 2030, PUMA will provide official sportswear for HYROX, featuring shoes with industry-leading NITRO™ technology, and become the exclusive title partner for the HYROX World Championships. PUMA has also signed three additional elite HYROX athletes as global brand ambassadors.

HYROX, which has successfully created a major movement in the industry by combining running and functional training into one fast-paced competition, is the world’s fastest growing fitness sport. PUMA recognized the great potential of this sport early on and has partnered with HYROX since the first race in Hamburg in 2017 before becoming a global partner in 2023. Since then, PUMA has used the partnership as a successful platform to increase brand awareness with the sport’s many passionate participants and provides performance products that are tailored to the needs of the athletes.

“HYROX, which has grown enormously in recent years, is one of our strategically most important partnerships as a sports brand, and a great showcase for our innovative performance products, such as our combination of NITRO™ technology and industry leading PUMAGRIP,” said PUMA CEO Arthur Hoeld. “Our products have proven that they support the different requirements of athletes in this very versatile sport and help them to achieve great results. We are very encouraged by the great feedback we have received from athletes and partners alike, which helps us position ourselves even stronger as a sports brand.”

Earlier this year, PUMA introduced its first performance collection for HYROX to include both apparel and footwear and will continue to expand this offering throughout the coming years, adding to its successful PUMA x HYROX collections more product innovations and athlete-driven storytelling, as the partnership continues to evolve toward 2030.

As part of Wednesday’s announcement at the first major of the season in Hamburg, PUMA also announced an exciting expansion of its roster of elite HYROX athletes.

PUMA’s newest HYROX ambassadors include Men’s Open Doubles world record holder, Jake Williamson, Women’s Pro Doubles world record holder and Australia’s fastest female, Joanna Wietrzyk, and Hidde Weersma, the Dutch athlete who won the Men’s pro 25-29 World Championships in 2024 and is the strength and conditioning coach of the NOCNSF – the body responsible for the participation of Dutch athletes in the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

They are now part of a roster of more than 60 PUMA-athletes in the sport, including recently crowned 2025 HYROX World Champion Linda Meier, 2024 HYROX World Champion Megan Jacoby and three-time HYROX World Champion and Men’s Pro world record holder Hunter McIntyre.

PUMA’s Vice President of Brand and Marketing, Richard Teyssier, commented: “The continuation of this partnership for the next years reinforces PUMA’s commitment to the growth of fitness racing and provides the right platform to increase our brand awareness within the HYROX community and beyond. On top of that, bringing together these outstanding athletes to our global team underlines our commitment to championing the next generation of fitness talent and to win the hearts of HYROX racers, positioning PUMA as the community’s most trusted and innovative brand”.

“This partnership marks a defining milestone in our journey, and the progress we’ve made has been nothing short of remarkable. Last year, we solidified this collaboration with PUMA becoming the official global apparel and footwear partner for all HYROX events, and today, extending this partnership to 2030 sets the stage for the next chapter of our evolution,” Moritz Fürste, Co-Founder of HYROX, added.

“From our very first race in Hamburg in 2017, PUMA has been with us since day one – a rarity in the world of sports partnerships. This relationship has not only shaped the identity of HYROX but has been truly foundational to the growth of the sport itself. This extended partnership allows us to keep pushing the boundaries of innovation, inspiring athletes, and ensuring that HYROX remains accessible to competitors of all levels, across the globe. PUMA’s Go Wild philosophy aligns seamlessly with the HYROX spirit – fearless, authentic, and relentlessly driven. Together, we’re excited to continue challenging limits and empowering individuals to unlock their full potential.”

With a remarkable 100% year-on-year increase, HYROX continues to soar in popularity. The 2024/25 season saw 74 events being held and attracted more than 650,000 participants. As the sport’s momentum continues, the 2025/ 26 season is set to draw 1.3 million participants across over 100 events by 2026, cementing HYROX as a global fitness phenomenon.

Celebrating the unique and early renewal of their contract extension, PUMA will be present in HYROX hometown for over four action-packed days at the Hamburg Exhibition Halls. The event will feature the first Major of the season, with elite racing taking centre stage as top tier athletes compete at the highest level. Over 15,000 athletes will compete in the ultimate test of strength and endurance and PUMA’s vision for HYROX for the next five years begin to unfold.

For more information about PUMA Go Wild, visit www.puma.com, or follow our journey on social media @PUMA. 

5FM TO AMPLI5 THE BREAST INTENTIONS COLOUR RUN 2025

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5FM is proud to announce that it will be Ampli5ing the Breast Intentions Colour Run 2025– not only tackling the tough topic of breast cancer awareness with the whole family, but also having a ton of fun and, more importantly making a practical, life-saving difference

The highly anticipated Breast Intentions Colour Run 2025 will be taking place from 10h00 on Saturday, 27 September 2025, at the scenic Thaba Eco Trails in Johannesburg. This vibrant, family-friendly event is more than just a fun run – it’s a bold step toward empowering women and saving lives.

As part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the event aims to raise funds for 100 life-saving mammograms for women in under-resourced communities. With every ticket sold, participants will directly contribute to the “Give Hope. Fund a Scan.” campaign, making a tangible difference in the fight against breast cancer.

Masi Mdingane, Business Manager for 5FM and Good Hope FM says, “5FM is not just about playing banging tunes and having EPIC parties. It’s also about making a meaningful, practical impact. Through this partnership, we’re amplifying women’s health initiatives and showing that we and the 5 Nation are here to help, not just talk. Together with Breast Intentions Colour Run, we’re creating a movement that’s massively fun, but also loud, proud, and purposeful.”

The day promises to be a celebration of wonderful women, stories of triumph, colour, fitness, and hope, featuring:
• A scenic 5km fun run/walk through Thaba Eco Trails
• Colour powder stations for a splash of fun
• Live DJ entertainment at the finish line
• Delicious food and drink stalls
• A feel-good, family-friendly atmosphere

5FM will be featuring insightful, inspiring content on the topic in the lead-up to the event and giving away 50 tickets to lucky listeners, and will also bring MASSIVE energy on the day with a 5 Weekend Breakfast Live broadcast from 07h00 to 10h00, on-site activations and the 5FM Chill Lounge, ensuring an EPIC experience for a wonderful cause.

Stay tuned to 5FM, download the 5FM app for iOS and Android, visit www.5fm.co.za and follow the station on all social media for ticket info and more information.

The 2025 African Bank Soweto Marathon

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DATE CHANGE: South Africa’s biggest one-day race will be held on 29 November 2025

The 30 th edition of “The People’s Race” has been rescheduled to take place on Saturday 29 November 2025 – one day earlier than previously scheduled. The change of date has been granted by the Central Gauteng Athletics Road Commission, courtesy of Mr Mandla Radebe.

The Soweto Marathon Non-Profit Company (NPC) which is carrying the race on behalf of the Soweto Athletics Clubs, confirmed that the movement of the race to one day earlier is due to the ZCC gathering taking place within the same precinct on Sunday 30 November 2025.

Soweto Marathon Spokesperson Jabu Mbuli says that in consultation with their valued partners as well as
the Athletics Clubs of Soweto; it was decided that whilst moving the date is unsettling, it is also unavoidable. On the plus side, it opens the race up to even more fans to participate in the country’s biggestone day road race;

 
“We must first apologise for any inconvenience caused to those who have already entered. This race is by the people, for the people – and it is our duty to ensure that, as much as is possible, the race day is open to everyone, and not in competition with any other major events. Our service providers have given us the green light, all is confirmed and in place for another hugely successful race and we welcome all from far and wide to come join in the energy, festivities, history and warmth of Soweto.”

The race will take place at Nasrec, Soweto, hosted by The City of Johannesburg; with the route unchanged as per the 2024 edition.

Sbusiso Kumalo, Chief Marketing Officer African Bank says, “African Bank is not just sponsoring a race — we’re investing in the heartbeat of Soweto. Every runner, every family member, every supporter brings economic energy that stays in the township, circulating and uplifting the community. We’re here because this community is our home, we were birthed here 60 years ago when African Bank ideated, and 50 years later since African Bank opened its first branch, we need to acknowledge our heritage. We’re here to celebrate our legacy, African Banks umbilical cord is in Soweto. 80,000 new customers who sign up with us each month, are predominantly from Soweto, and they are essence of why we stay. African Bank Soweto Marathon isn’t just a race; it’s a movement that shifts the trajectory of unemployment and economic
challenges. We run with our people, through highs and lows, because they continuously support us, and as a result – we back this race. Let’s make this the biggest race on the continent, and show what Soweto can do for South Africa’s economy.”

The African Bank Soweto Marathon race office will communicate accordingly with all those who have already entered as per the previous date communicated.

Soweto Marathon NPC would like to extend a heartfelt Thank You to their partners including African Bank; Gauteng Department of Sports, Arts and Culture; City of Johannesburg; Southgate Mall; Lenmed; SuperSport; VW Soweto; Castle Lite; Sowetan; eGenerators & Plant Hire; Action Photo SA; Athletics South Africa; South African Institute for drug-free sport.

Entry fees for all three categories are now open – and runners will undoubtedly welcome the news of the retained 2023 prices namely R380 for the marathon; R300 for the 21.1km and R280 for the 10km.

To enter, runners are encouraged to visit www.sowetomarathon.com. The prize money remains equal for both the
male and female categories, with the top prize awarded to the 42.2km Open winner set to take home R250 000.