Chase your 2026 goals as Absa RUN YOUR CITY Gqeberha and Cape Town 10K go live

The road ahead is clear, flat and fast. South Africa’s premier urban road-running spectacle, the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series, is back in 2026, and the first strides of the journey begin this week as entries opened for the Gqeberha 10K and Cape Town 10K.

A fixture on the local and international running calendar, the series blends elite-level speed with mass participation energy, drawing everyone from podium chasers to first-time 10km runners onto courses designed for rhythm, flow and personal bests. Gqeberha and Cape Town once again lead the charge, setting the tempo for a five-city tour that celebrates the heartbeat of South African road running.

“We are excited to kick off the 2026 Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series by opening entries for the first two of five iconic races, the Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K and Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K,” said Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports and Series Founder.

“Since inception, Gqeberha (in 2023) and Cape Town (in 2015), both events have delivered world-class racing and an unforgettable atmosphere. As we celebrate the 4th running of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K and 11th running of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K, we’re committed to elevating the experience even further with more excitement, exceptional performances, and that unmistakable city vibe runners love.”

These races are tailor-made for ticking off early-season goals. Gqeberha’s coastal route offers a smooth, sea-level test where legs can spin freely, while Cape Town’s point-to-point layout delivers a dynamic run through iconic streets, backed by one of the country’s strongest running cultures. In both cities, the crowd support acts like an invisible tailwind, lifting runners through every kilometre marker.

Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K by Anthony Grote

“Runners can expect 10km racing at its finest,” Meyer added. “Entries sell out quickly every year, so we encourage everyone to sign up early and secure their spot to avoid missing out.

Title sponsor Absa continues to position the series as more than a race day result.

“Gqeberha and Cape Town, the wait is over, entries for the 2026 Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K and Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K officially open on 11 December! This is your moment to lace up early, secure your spot, and own your streets with purpose,” said Jabulile Nsibanyoni, Head of Sponsorships, Brand and Marketing at Absa.

“The Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series is more than just a race; it’s a movement inspiring real, positive change. We can’t wait to welcome you at the start line and celebrate your journey all the way to the finish.”

With Durban, Tshwane and Joburg waiting later in the season like checkpoints on a long training cycle, the 2026 Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series promises another year where preparation meets opportunity – and the streets decide the story.

2026 Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series – Key Race Info

Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K

Date: Sunday, 01 March 2026
Start Time: 07:00
Start & Finish: Beach Road, Humewood, Gqeberha
Entry Fee:

  • Licensed Runner: R255
  • Temporary License: R30
    Entries Open: Thursday, 11 December 2025
    Entries Close: Monday, 23 February 2026 or once capacity is reached

Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K

Date: Sunday, 10 May 2026
Start Time: 09:00
Start Venue: Marine Drive, Milnerton
Finish Venue: Cape Town CBD
Entry Fee:

  • Licensed Runner: R255
  • Temporary License: R60
    Entries Open: Thursday, 11 December 2025
    Entries Close: Monday, 04 May 2026 or once capacity is reached

Later in the 2026 Series

  • Durban 10K: Sunday, 12 July
  • Tshwane 10K: Sunday, 23 August
  • Joburg 10K: Thursday, 24 September

More info:www.runyourcityseries.com
WhatsApp Line: 072 042 7613
Hashtags: #RunYourCity #AbsaRunYourCity

Maluadzi dedicates Absa Run Your City Cape Town 10K win to late mom on Mother’s Day

By Adnaan Mohamed

In a touching tribute on Mother’s Day, Kabelo Maluadzi delivered a performance to remember, winning the 10th edition of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Cape Town 10K on Sunday. 

The 27-year-old from Alexandra stormed through the streets of the Mother City in a blistering 27:49, crossing the finish line on Lower Long Street to the cheers of thousands lining the route.

Running in perfect, windless conditions, Kabelo led a sold-out field of 15,000 participants who set off from Marine Drive in Milnerton. The former South African cross-country champion made his intentions clear early on, surging to the front and dictating the pace.

His closest challenger, Kamohelo Mofolo of Lesotho, stayed within striking distance and finished just four seconds behind in 27:53. Veteran South African distance runner Stephen Mokoka claimed third in 28:06, while national marathon record-holder Elroy Gelant, still recovering from setting a new SA record of 2:05:36 in Hamburg, took a respectable fourth in 28:08.

Kabelo, emotional at the finish, revealed the personal significance of the win.

“My mom passed away when I was still young. I was thinking about her as I crossed the line. This is the best gift I could give her,” he said.

After finishing 20th in last year’s edition due to injury, he knew this was his chance to shine. “I’m fit now, and I believed anything was possible.”

For being the first man across the line (R30 000) and breaking the 28-minute barrier (R40 000), Kabelo – the Boxer Athletics Club standout — coached by Richard Mayer — takes home a total of R70 000.

The women’s race saw Glenrose Xaba prove her dominance once again, winning in 32:00. Despite a challenging middle section between 3km and 5km, Xaba kept her composure and powered ahead of Ethiopian Selam Gebre, who finished second in 32:13. South Africa’s Lebo Phalula, at 40 years old, showed she’s still a force to be reckoned with, securing third in 32:50.

Glenrose, who also pockets R70 000 for winning the women’s race and finishing under the 32:08 incentive mark, dedicated her victory to all mothers, saying, “This is for the moms who do so much for their children. We can’t always run fast times, but I’m happy I could perform in a strong field today.”

The race, now firmly established as one of South Africa’s premier 10K events, once again showcased the continent’s elite talent in a celebration of endurance, resilience, and heartfelt moments.

Celebrate 10 incredible years of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES in Cape Town – entries are open!

The Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES is turning 10! A decade of road running excellence calls for a celebration, and what better way to mark the occasion than with the 2025 Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K? Entries are officially open for this iconic race, happening on Sunday, 11 May 2025—so don’t miss your chance to be part of the action!

“Celebrating 10 years of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES in Cape Town is a huge milestone for us,” says Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports and Founder of the Series. “This race has become a staple in South Africa’s running calendar, blending elite competition, an electric atmosphere, and unbeatable views of the Mother City. We can’t wait to welcome runners of all levels—whether you’re chasing a PB, soaking in the city’s energy, or just enjoying the journey. This anniversary edition is going to be one for the books, so secure your spot early!”

Jabulile Nsibanyoni, Head of Sponsorships, Brand, and Marketing at Absa, adds: “Mother City, it’s time to hit the streets! The Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K is more than a race—it’s a movement. For every kilometer logged by Team Absa on Strava, we’ll donate R1 to our R1 campaign, ensuring we make a meaningful difference where it’s needed most. We can’t wait to celebrate your achievements and hear your stories at the finish line!”

This isn’t just any 10K. It’s a mass-participation race that winds through Cape Town’s most iconic landmarks, offering breathtaking scenery and an electric atmosphere. Whether you’re an elite athlete, a weekend warrior, or tackling your first race, this event is designed to inspire and challenge you in the best way possible.

“The City of Cape Town has been part of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES from the very beginning,” says JP Smith, Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security. “Over the past decade, this event has showcased our city’s beauty, energy, and love for sport. It’s a celebration of the thousands of runners who’ve taken part, those who’ve embraced a healthier lifestyle, and the unforgettable memories we’ve created along the way. We can’t wait to see athletes return to the iconic route in 2025 and experience the incredible vibe that brings our running community together.”

Western Province Athletics is also excited to be part of the milestone event. “The Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K continues to raise the bar for road running in our region,” says Farouk Mayer, President of WPA. “It’s an event that welcomes everyone—from elites to social runners—while championing health, fitness, and inclusivity. With entries now open, we encourage runners to sign up and be part of this special 10th-anniversary edition.”

2025 Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES – Event Dates

Sunday, 13 April 2025 – Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K
Sunday, 11 May 2025 – Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K

  • Start: Marine Drive, Milnerton
  • Finish: Lower Long Street, opposite Absa Building
  •  

Entry Fee:

  • Licensed Runners: R255.00
  • Temporary License: R60.00

What’s Included?

  • Performance T-shirt
  • Absa Entrant Gifts
  • Finisher’s Medal
  • Race Number & Timing Chip
  • Sponsor Activations
  • Entertainment & Refreshment Stations
  • Tog Bag Drop & Collection
  • Post-race festivities

Entries open: Monday, 10 February 2025
Entries close: Monday, 5 May 2025 (midnight) or once capacity is reached

Sunday, 13 July 2025 – Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K
Sunday, 24 August 2025 – Absa RUN YOUR CITY TSHWANE 10K
Wednesday, 24 September 2025 – Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K

Running for a Cause

The Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES is proud to support the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) as its official charity partner. CANSA has been leading the fight against cancer since 1931, funding research, raising awareness, and supporting those affected. When registering for an event, runners have the option to donate and contribute to a cancer-free future.

Cape Town, are you ready? Lace up, sign up, and be part of the 10th-anniversary edition of this incredible race.

Website:  www.runyourcityseries.com