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Boxer Athletics Club re-signs Elite Runners and welcomes promising new talent in 2025

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Boxer Athletics Club re-signs Elite Runners and welcomes promising new talent in 2025

Boxer Athletics Club (AC) is excited to announce the re-signing of its top-tier athletes, including celebrated names like Elroy Gelant, Glenrose Xaba, Cacisile Sosibo, Precious Mashele, Kabelo Mulaudzi, Chris Mhlanga, and the dynamic duo Lebo and Lebogang Phalula. But that’s not all—the club is also thrilled to welcome promising new talent, such as Andries Sesedi, Karabo More, and Karabo Motsoeneng, setting the stage for what promises to be a standout season in 2025.

“We’re incredibly proud to see Boxer AC not only retaining its elite athletes but also welcoming fresh talent to the team,” shares Lee-Ann Pillay, Head of Marketing at Boxer Superstores. “It’s always exciting to watch our runners shine on the national stage, but we’re especially looking forward to seeing them excel at our very own events, like the Boxer Super Run in Durban and Tshwane. Their incredible performances at these and other major competitions highlight the strength and depth of our team. We’re confident 2025 will be another year of remarkable achievements both on and off the track.”

National Manager Rhyn Swanepoel echoes this enthusiasm. “The fact that all of our athletes have chosen to re-sign with Boxer AC speaks volumes about the trust and commitment we’ve built as a club. At Boxer AC, we focus on the small but important details—seamless travel arrangements, comfortable accommodations, and prompt payment of retainers and incentives. We also prioritize supporting our athletes during challenging times, whether that’s dealing with injuries, regaining form, or navigating personal struggles. This approach has fostered incredible loyalty, with athletes staying with us for many years—like Tanith Maxwell’s 16 years, Elroy Gelant’s 9 years, and the Phalula sisters’ 10 years with the club.”

South African long-distance sensation Elroy Gelant credits the club’s unwavering support for his continued success. “Re-signing with Boxer AC is an important decision for my career,” Gelant explains. “The club has been instrumental in my growth, providing the resources, support, and camaraderie I need to thrive. With their backing, I’m looking forward to competing in major events like the Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES, defending my SA 21km Championship title, and representing Boxer AC on the global stage at the World Athletics Road Running Championships in San Diego later this year. Beyond competing, I’m also passionate about inspiring the next generation through community outreach, and Boxer AC has been a key part of making that possible.”

Glenrose Xaba, who had a phenomenal 2024 season with multiple victories and national records, shares a similar sentiment. “Being part of Boxer AC motivates me to perform at my best,” says Xaba. “The club supports me in aligning my race schedule with my goals and stands by me through the highs and lows. I’m committed to staying healthy, pushing boundaries, and achieving new milestones in 2025. I couldn’t ask for a better team to have by my side.”

Boxer AC’s membership has grown to 400–500 athletes, with an ambitious target of reaching 1,000 by the end of 2025. New signings like Andries Sesedi, Karabo More, and Karabo Motsoeneng are already making waves. “Karabo More joined in August 2024 and immediately made an impact, winning the Boxer Super Run 5K in Durban and placing second in Tshwane. Andries Sesedi, an SA 10km champion, has been part of our plans for two years, and we’re thrilled to have him officially on board,” says Swanepoel.

In 2025, Boxer AC athletes will take part in an exciting array of events nationwide, including the Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES, the Boxer Super Run 5K, the Spar Women’s Challenge, the Totalsports Women’s Race, and various SA Championships across multiple distances.

Swanepoel concludes, “Our mission remains clear—to lead South African athletics across all disciplines, from cross-country to marathon events. With the incredible talent and dedication of our athletes, 2025 is set to be a landmark year for Boxer AC.”

Photo Credit: Gavin Ryan

Absa renews sponsorship of the iconic Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES

Tanika LaskeyFeatures, NewsLeave a Comment on Absa renews sponsorship of the iconic Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES

Absa is excited to announce the renewal of its partnership as the Title Sponsor of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES, a collaboration that began during the challenging days of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2021. At a time when many sponsors were stepping back, Absa boldly stepped forward, helping to grow South Africa’s premier 10km road running series from three cities to five. This partnership has drawn elite athletes, casual runners, and entire communities together in a celebration of fitness and unity across the country.

“Absa’s decision to come on board as Title Sponsor in 2021 marked the beginning of a dynamic era for the Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES,” says Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports and Series Founder. “Their energy and commitment immediately stood out, but the results have exceeded even our highest expectations. Absa’s focus on innovation, inspiration, and inclusivity aligns perfectly with our vision to make this series the most exciting and accessible road running event in Africa.”

Since the partnership began, the series has expanded its reach, growing from three events to five, and the numbers tell a powerful story. In 2024 alone, 45,589 runners took part, with four out of five events selling out before race day. Participants were treated to thrilling innovations, including the chance to win one of five Chery Tiggo 4 Pro LiT vehicles, valued at over R1.3 million in total. Beyond the races, the series has made a meaningful social impact, raising R182,340 for the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) this year.

2024 was also a standout year for athletic achievements. At the Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K, Kenya’s Christine Nalimo Njoki made history, running the fastest 10km by a woman on African soil with an astonishing time of 30:37. South Africa’s Glenrose Xaba followed closely, setting a new national record of 31:12, breaking Elana Meyer’s 2001 record. Lesotho’s Neheng Khatala also shone, setting a national record with her time of 32:01. Meanwhile, at the TSHWANE 10K, Xaba continued her streak, clocking 31:51 to set a new course record and the fastest 10km run at altitude in South Africa.

“Our vision has always been to give South African elites the chance to compete against the best in the world, right here at home,” says Meyer. “The incredible performances we’ve seen year after year speak volumes. We’re thrilled to continue this journey with Absa, building on the momentum to make this the most inspiring mass-participation road running event on the continent.”

Absa’s involvement goes beyond running. As part of the R1 Campaign, the series has raised nearly R5 million over two years to build vegetable gardens in schools, supporting sustainable food security and empowering communities. “The Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES is more than a race—it’s a movement,” says Sydney Mbhele, Absa’s Group Chief Marketing and Corporate Affairs Officer. “It revitalizes South Africa’s cities, celebrates the stories of every participant, and makes a tangible impact on communities. As we look to the next four years, we’re excited to elevate the race experience, foster unity, and champion endurance and purpose for all South Africans.”

Event Dates: 

1. Sunday 13 April 2025 – Absa RUN YOUR CITY Gqeberha 10k 
2. Sunday 11 May 2025 – Absa RUN YOUR CITY Cape Town 10k
3. Sunday 13 July 2025 – Absa RUN YOUR CITY Durban 10k 
4. Sunday 24 August 2025 – Absa RUN YOUR CITY Tshwane 10k
5. Wednesday 24 September – Absa RUN YOUR CITY Joburg 10k 

CHARITY SUPPORT: The Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES proudly supports the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) as the official charity of the entire series of events. A non-profit leader in the fight against cancer since 1931, CANSA enables research, educates the public and advocates for and supports all people affected by cancer, while leading SA towards a cancer-free society. When entering an Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES event online, runners can show their support by donating towards CANSA.

Facebook: @Gqeberha10k / @CapeTown10k / @Durban10k / @Tshwane10k / @Joburg10k

Instagram: @Gqeberha10k / @CapeTown10k / @Durban10k / @Tshwane10k / @Joburg10k

Hashtag:  #RunYourCity #AbsaRunYourCity

WhatsApp Line: 072 042 7613

Websites:  www.runyourcityseries.com

Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series excited to welcome Tshwane as its latest destination

Roxanne MartinEvent Update!Leave a Comment on Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series excited to welcome Tshwane as its latest destination

Stillwater Sports, the organizer of SA’s award-winning road running series is excited to welcome Tshwane as the latest destination of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series with the Absa RUN YOUR CITY TSHWANE 10K set to make its debut on Sunday 27 August 2023.

Featuring five groundbreaking events in 2023, the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series is more than just a series of traditional road races, this premium series has redefined the concept of mass participation, encouraging walkers, lifestyle enthusiasts, friends, and families, as well as elites both locally and from abroad to come together and take part in the most experiential road running events in the country.

“We are proud to bring the excitement of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series to Tshwane, a city that possesses all the qualities necessary to host a world-class 10km road run,” said Managing Director of Stillwater Sports and Founder of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series, Michael Meyer who was speaking at the official Absa RUN YOUR CITY TSHWANE 10K launch function that was hosted at the Premier Hotel in Pretoria today (21 June).

“We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to both the City of Tshwane and Athletics Gauteng North (AGN) for their invaluable support in making this event a reality. Their unwavering commitment, collaboration, and shared vision have been instrumental in bringing this exciting road run to Tshwane. The city’s exceptional infrastructure, cultural heritage, and warm hospitality provides the perfect backdrop for participants to embark on a memorable journey, while AGN’s dedication to promoting athletics and fostering a thriving running community has been truly inspiring.”

“Our aim is to create an unforgettable experience that transcends traditional road runs, inspiring a passion for athletics and sparking a culture of health and well-being,” continues Meyer. “With its scenic routes and inclusive atmosphere, the Absa RUN YOUR CITY TSHWANE 10K will not only showcase the beauty of its host city, but also provide a platform for athletes to showcase their talent and compete at the highest level. We are confident that this event will have a lasting impact on athletics in the region, attracting participants from all backgrounds, while encouraging a lifelong love for running.”

“We received a lot of interest from Absa colleagues, customers and community members when we hosted the first Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series in Gauteng last year. The extension of the series to two more cities, including Tshwane, came at the right time as we want to ensure that this event is accessible to all. Our biggest goal has always been to grow this platform and encourage more people to have an active lifestyle, while we get closer to our colleagues, customers, and most importantly, the communities in which we operate, and we are excited to activate in Tshwane,” said Absa Regional Segment Head, Premium, Jolene Grobler.

“Through the Absa Force for Good initiative, we will be able to change lives in this beautiful city and push people to their limits. For every 1km run/walked by Team Absa Walk Run members on Strava, Absa will donate R1 towards a worthy cause in the community of Tshwane. We look forward to welcoming thousands of participants on 27 August to create a meaningful impact in a fun way,” said Grobler.

Meyer closes off saying: “Together with the City, AGN, Title Sponsor, Absa and key sponsors such as PUMA, DHL and Chery to mention just a few, we are proud to celebrate the event’s debut by bringing world class performances and unparalleled excitement to the streets of Tshwane. We look forward to hosting an event that showcases the best of Tshwane’s spirit, athleticism, and community engagement.”

“We are thrilled to welcome the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series to Tshwane,” says City of Tshwane MMC Member of Mayoral Council, Peggy de Bruin. “The event represents a remarkable opportunity for our city to shine on the global stage, uniting runners from near and far in a celebration of athleticism, culture, and the indomitable spirit of Tshwane. We welcome participants and spectators with open arms as we showcase the beauty of our city’s landscapes, the richness of our heritage, and the warmth of our community. Get ready to witness Tshwane come alive with the energy and excitement of this monumental event.”

“As Athletics Gauteng North, we are excited and thrilled about the partnership with Stillwater Sports in delivering a successful inaugural Absa RUN YOUR CITY TSHWANE 10K, that will benefit the club members, provincial elite athletes as well as providing a boost to the sport at grassroots level,” says President of Athletics Gauteng North, Mr Hendrick Mokganyetsi. “Coming together is a beginning, staying together is progress and working together is success.”

To find out more and to enter the event, visit the race website https://runyourcityseries.com/tshwane-10k/

 

Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series Expands in 2023

Sean FalconerNewsLeave a Comment on Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series Expands in 2023

After a fantastic 2022 season, which saw the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series back to near capacity attendance, title sponsor Absa together with Stillwater Sports, the organiser of South Africa’s award-winning road running series, are excited to welcome Gqeberha and Tshwane as host cities, elevating the series from three to five mass participation events in 2023.

The two new cities will add a fresh and exciting experience for runners competing in those events. The Gqeberha event will take place on 2 April, and will see more world class performances in a city that is well known for breaking records. Later in the year, runners will line up in Tshwane on 27 August, for an experiential mass participation event in the Jacaranda City.

“We are thrilled to welcome Gqeberha and Tshwane as host cities of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series in 2023,” says Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports and Founder of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series. “Growing the series from three to five events is no small feat, and would not have been possible without the support of our title sponsor, Absa, which has been a driving force since we welcomed them onboard in 2021, and other key sponsors such as PUMA, DHL and Chery, to mention just a few.”

“Another important factor that should not be overlooked is the relationships that we have with each host city, which has contributed immensely to the success of the Cape Town, Durban and Joburg events, and ultimately the series. We are excited to work with Gqeberha and Tshwane, to further grow the status of the series,” he adds.

The full set of dates of the 2023 Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES will be:

Sunday 2 April 2023                        Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K

Sunday 14 May 2023                      Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K

Sunday 9 July 2023                        Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K

Sunday 27 August 2023                  Absa RUN YOUR CITY TSHWANE 10K

Sunday 24 September 2023            Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K

 

Proudly South African Series

The Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series has been revolutionising the sport in South Africa since 2015. A road running celebration like no other, the series began with the Cape Town leg in 2015, with the Joburg leg added in 2016 and the Durban leg in 2017. Now, in 2023, the two new events will see the series grow to five events.

“The Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series joins elites, avid runners, walkers and individuals looking to live healthier lifestyles,” continues Meyer. “World class achievements and fun for all participants go hand-in-hand at each event. In 2023 we are both excited and proud to take the action to five major cities, growing our reach while giving more South Africans the opportunity to be part of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series experience. Emphasis will be placed on hosting mass participation road races that highlight city landmarks, include magnificent views, and feature lively performances from some of the host city’s leading performing arts groups.”

In closing, Meyer adds: “We look forward to welcoming new runners to the series, but also urge the existing RUN YOUR CITY community to join us in the new cities to give Gqeberha and Tshwane the true RUN YOUR CITY experience. We can’t wait to welcome thousands of runners from across South Africa as well as elite athletes from around the world to the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series in 2023.”

Sponsorship Goals

Absa Chief Executive Product Solutions, Geoffrey Lee, says that his team is equally excited about the expanded series in 2023. “Our purpose at Absa is to bring possibilities to life, and we believe that everyone should have access to all our sponsorships. When we came onboard as a sponsor of the biggest mass participation event in the country, our key objective was to get the country moving in the right direction, and help our communities and colleagues to aspire to change their lives and that of their community for the better. We recognise that now, more than ever, we need to play an even greater role in bringing the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series closer to the people,” he says.

“We have witnessed on many occasions how sport has consistently served as a powerful vehicle for societal change, and a great unifier in challenging times for our nation. Through our Together we can be more, Siyabangena campaign, which runs concurrently with the Absa RUN YOUR CITY series of events, Absa challenges all runners and walkers to be a force for good and actively create change in communities, while providing an opportunity to get active, reach performance goals, connect with other runners and explore our beautiful South African cities,” he adds.

Entries for all five events will open on Monday 5 December 2022 on the official event website, www.runyourcityseries.com.