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

Adriaan Wildschutt Smashes SA Half Marathon Record on Debut

By Adnaan Mohamed

Adriaan Wildschutt has done it again. The South African road running sensation added another national record to his growing collection on Sunday, turning heads in Spain with a breathtaking run at the Valencia Half Marathon.

In his first-ever outing over 21 kilometres, the 27-year-old from Ceres clocked 59 minutes and 13 seconds, slicing 23 seconds off Stephen Mokoka’s previous South African record of 59:36, set in 2020.

Wildschutt’s performance placed him fifth overall in a fiercely competitive race won by Ethiopian star Yomif Kejelcha in 58:02.

Adriaan Wildschutt trains hard on the track Photo: Facebook

His record run comes just weeks after Maxime Chaumeton (26:55) broke Wildschutt’s SA 10km record (27:28) set earlier this year at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Gqeberha 10K, marking a golden period for South African distance running.

The Olympic finalist, who represented South Africa in the Paris 2024 Games in the 10 000m, said he thrives on setting ambitious goals and putting them in plain sight.

“So many people have been asking me why I put my goals out there for everyone to see and potentially criticize,” Wildschutt explained in a post on social media.

“My response is simple … I like challenging myself, and I’m not scared to fail. I feel like I thrive under pressure, even if it’s pressure I put on myself. In the end, I’m doing this for myself and no one else.”

Wildschutt represents Western Province Athletics (WPA) when he competes in South Africa. He is however based in the USA.

Adriaan Wildschutt in action in the colours of Western Province Athletics (WPA) Photo: Supplied

After completing his collegiate career and earning his MBA from Florida State, Wildschutt moved to Arizona and joined the HOKA NAZ Elite professional running squad

Running in the HOKA Northern Arizona Elite colours, Wildschutt battled gusty winds over the final stretch but refused to ease up.

“It was quite windy the last 8k, and I know I can go even faster,” he said.

“For now, I’m very grateful to God and everyone who’s always supporting me.”

The Valencia performance marks Wildschutt’s fourth South African record, cementing his reputation as one of the country’s most versatile and consistent distance runners. He already owns national bests over 3 000m (7:32.99), 5 000m (12:55.02), and 10 000m (26:50.64). These achievements speak to years of relentless training and discipline.

WPA President Farouk Meyer praised the athlete’s record-breaking form, noting that his path to road-running success was forged on the track.

“Adriaan once again proved that if elite athletes want to perform on the road, they need to build their speed on the track,” said Meyer.

“He’s a perfect example of this philosophy. WPA is extremely proud of him.”

Wildschutt’s next stop is Tallahassee, Florida, where he will lead the South African senior men’s team at the World Athletics Cross Country Championships on 10 January 2026.

From Ceres to the world stage, Wildschutt continues to show that South African distance running is alive and kicking. And, in his case, sprinting into fresh territory with every stride.

Be the First to Win a Chery Tiggo 4 Pro LiTVehicle at the 2025 Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES in Gqeberha

The Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K is set to make its highly anticipated return to Gqeberha on Sunday, 13 April 2025. Adding to the excitement, one fortunate participant will have the opportunity to drive home in a brand-new Chery Tiggo 4 Pro LiT, valued at R279,900, courtesy of Chery South Africa, the event’s official Vehicle Partner.

Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports and Series Founder, highlights the significance of this prize:

“What better way to launch the 2025 season than by rewarding one lucky participant with a stylish and innovative Chery Tiggo 4 Pro LiT? This giveaway always generates excitement and sets the stage for an unforgettable race day. Chery vehicles combine performance, style, and advanced technology, making them an excellent choice for an active lifestyle. We are proud of our partnership with Chery and appreciate their ongoing support in enhancing this event for our participants.”

Tony Liu, Executive Deputy GM of Chery South Africa, shares his enthusiasm:

“We are delighted to continue our partnership with the Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES in 2025 and look forward to awarding our first vehicle of the year in Gqeberha. This series provides an outstanding platform to showcase our vehicles while contributing to the energy and excitement of each race. We look forward to welcoming the Gqeberha winner to the Chery family.”

A Dynamic 10K Experience

The Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K is more than just a road race—it is an opportunity to experience the city’s scenic beauty and vibrant atmosphere. Whether participants are elite athletes, casual runners, or taking on their first 10K, the event promises an inspiring and memorable experience.

How to Enter and Win the Chery Tiggo 4 Pro LiT

Participants must complete three simple steps to be eligible for the prize:

  1. Register for the event and pay the entry fee.
  2. Collect the race number during the designated race pack collection period.
  3. Be at the start line on race day and complete the 10km route.

Only runners who successfully finish the race will be eligible to win the vehicle.

2025 Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES

Sunday, 13 April 2025 – Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K

  • Start Time: 07:00
  • Start & Finish Venue: Beach Road, Humewood, Gqeberha
  • Entry Fee:
    • Licensed Runner: R255
    • Temporary License: R20

Entry Includes:

  • Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series Performance T-shirt
  • Absa Entrant Gifts
  • Finisher’s Medal
  • Race Number with Timing Chip
  • Sponsor Activations
  • Route Entertainment Points
  • Two Refreshment Stations
  • Tog Bag Drop and Collect Service
  • Post-Race Entertainment

Entries Open: Wednesday, 18 December 2024
Entries Close: Wednesday, 2 April 2025 (or once capacity is reached)

Additional Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series Events in 2025

  • Sunday, 11 May – Cape Town
  • Sunday, 13 July – Durban
  • Sunday, 24 August – Tshwane
  • Wednesday, 24 September – Johannesburg

The Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES is proud to support the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA), a leader in cancer research, education, and patient support since 1931. When registering for an event, participants can contribute to CANSA’s mission of advancing a cancer-free future.

For more information and to enter, visit the official event website: www.runyourcityseries.com