Altitude Duel: Munnik and Mphahlele Set to Ignite Joburg’s Boxer Super Run

By Adnaan Mohamed

The heartbeat of Jozi is about to quicken. When the Boxer Super Run Joburg makes its debut at Marks Park Sports Club on Sunday, 9 November, South Africa’s two premier speed merchants, Luan Munnik and Ryan Mphahlele, will line up for what promises to be a blistering 5K duel under the highveld sun.

It’s the kind of matchup that makes road running fans lean forward. Munnik, the 2024 Tshwane champion, meets Mphahlele, the 2025 Durban victor, in a head-to-head that could light up the streets of the City of Gold.

“The 5K is where speed and endurance collide,” says Munnik, whose 13:50 win in Tshwane confirmed his versatility as a middle-distance star who can handle the heat of the road.

“It’s where a 1500m track specialist like me can mix it up with the longer-distance road runners. It’s fast, tactical, and tests complete fitness.”

For Munnik, the Joburg race, with its challenging altitude and brand-new course, brings both excitement and opportunity.

“Joburg has such a strong running culture, and racing at altitude adds an extra layer of challenge. It’s great to see the series expanding, it keeps things fresh and exciting.”

The R147,000 combined prize purse, he says, is a “massive boost for South African running.”

“It encourages professionalism and shows that the event values the effort it takes to compete at the top level.”

And what about facing Mphahlele, one of SA’s most in-form athletes?

“Ryan ran a great race in Durban, his range from track to road has been impressive. We had a close finish at a street mile recently, so I’m looking forward to giving him a run for his money over 5K. Joburg’s altitude makes pacing tricky, but a smart race should bring a strong time.”

For Mphahlele, though, there’s no overthinking the challenge, just one clear mission: win.

Ryan Mphahlele and Elroy Gelant in action in Durban by Anthony Grote

“The 5K distance requires serious speed endurance to sustain the high tempo,” says the Durban champion, who clocked a sizzling 13:37 in October.

“I really enjoy the Boxer Super Run, and the prize purse is exciting. My goal is simple, I’m going for the win. The hills of Joburg will make it interesting!”

He’s also looking forward to soaking up the event’s trademark spirit.

“I love the energy around these runs, from the elites to the social runners, everyone brings great vibes. I can’t wait to run in Jozi and enjoy the atmosphere before and after the race.”

Also chasing glory is Chris Mhlanga, the ever-consistent Boxer Athletics Club standout who’s been a fixture in the top five of every Super Run he’s contested.

“The Boxer Super Run is the best and biggest 5K event in the country right now,” he says. “I run it for the love — the vibe, the people, the energy. In Joburg, I’ll be aiming for that podium again. A low 14-minute time would be great.”

For event organisers, this elite showdown marks another high point in the Boxer Super Run’s growing legacy.

“It’s going to be extra special to see two champions like Luan and Ryan go head-to-head,” says Lee-Ann Pillay, Head of Marketing at Boxer Superstores.

“With Chris Mhlanga also in the mix, and plenty of other contenders, we’re expecting world-class racing in Joburg. It’s going to be a day to remember.”

From the fast pack chasing gold to the social runners out for fun and finish-line selfies, the Boxer Super Run Joburg captures what South African road running is all about: community, competition, and pure, unfiltered passion for the sport.

Because in Jozi, even the air feels faster.

Event Details: Boxer Super Run Joburg 2025

Date: Sunday, 9 November 2025
Venue: Marks Park Sports Club, Johannesburg
Distance: 5KM (plus 1KM Kids Race)

Start Times:

  • 07:00 – OPEN WAVE: All runners welcome
  • 08:00–09:30 – SUPER SOCIAL WAVE: Fun runs, dress-ups, charity teams
  • 09:45 – ELITE WOMEN
  • 10:00 – ELITE MEN
  • 10:30 – 1KM KIDS RACE

Entry Includes:

  • Boxer Super Run Performance Tee
  • Goodie Bag & Race Number with Timing Chip
  • Finisher’s Medal
  • On-route entertainment & refreshment stations

Prize Purse: R147,200 Total

  • Elite Race: Top 8 men and women share the prize pot
  • Winners: R20,000 each
  • Open Wave: Category prizes for Junior, Open, 40–49, 50–59, 60–69 & 70+

Follow & Enter

Facebook: Boxer Superstores / Boxer Super Run 5K
Instagram: @boxer_superstores / @boxer_superrun5k
Queries: [email protected]

Speed Queens Set to Blaze Through Joburg at Boxer Super Run Debut

By Adnaan Mohamed

The women’s elite field is locked, loaded, and ready to fly as the Boxer Super Run makes its high-altitude Joburg debut at Marks Park Sports Club on Sunday, 9 November 2025.

With the R147 200 prize purse up for grabs, the women’s race promises to be a fast, fiery showdown on the city’s rolling roads.

Leading the charge is Glenrose Xaba, a two-time champion of the Boxer Super Run (Durban 2023 and Tshwane 2024. She now has her sights set on completing a rare golden hat-trick.

“What I really love about the Boxer Super Run is that it brings great competition and amazing energy wherever it goes,” says Xaba.

“The event is well organised, the atmosphere is electric, and it always feels like a celebration of running.”

Victory in Joburg, she admits, would be more than just another win, it would complete a perfect streak across all three debut host cities.

“Winning in Joburg would complete a special streak. Taking gold at all three debuts would be something I’m really proud of,” she says.

“Each race has its own challenges, so to come out on top again would be a great reward for all the hard work and consistency my team and I have put in.”

Xaba also praised Boxer’s continued investment in the sport.

“The event’s R147K combined prize purse is amazing! It shows that Boxer truly values and invests in athletes. That kind of prize money motivates us to give our absolute best and helps us continue building our careers.”

For Xaba, race day is all about strategy:

“My goal is to run my best race, to stay focused, control my pace, and finish strong. I’ll be aiming for the win, but I also want to execute my race plan well and see how far I can push myself.”

Running stride for stride with her training partner is Karabo More, the Boxer Super Run Durban 2024 champion, who says the Joburg leg is a celebration of local running culture.

“Hosting the race in Joburg is exciting. The city has an incredible running energy,” says More.

“It gives more athletes and fans the chance to be part of the experience and to showcase talent from this region on a bigger stage.”

More believes the R147K purse “is an amazing incentive. It shows how serious and prestigious the event is. My goal is to run strong, stay consistent, and execute my plan with focus, and hopefully chase a personal best.”

Also toeing the elite line is Zanthe Taljaart, eager for her Boxer Super Run debut.

“The 5km distance is fast, exciting, and highly competitive,” says Taljaart.

“It requires both endurance and speed. My goal is to run a strong, consistent race and aim for a sub-17-minute finish.”

Making her comeback from injury, Cian Oldknow sees the race as a vital stepping stone.

“The 5km distance is quite challenging, especially for someone like me who comes from the longer distances,” says Oldknow.

“This race will be a great way to test my fitness, it’s a building block, not a PB chase. I’m just keen to get back on the start line.”

According to Lee-Ann Pillay, Head of Marketing at Boxer Superstores, the women’s elite wave is always a crowd favourite.

“You never quite know what will happen on the day. The elite races almost always end in a nail-biting sprint finish,” says Pillay.

“We encourage all runners to stick around after their events to cheer on the elites and soak up the incredible atmosphere. It’s going to be an exciting day of running and celebration for everyone involved.”

With four of South Africa’s finest women athletes lining up, the Boxer Super Run Joburg is set to deliver a sprint-finish spectacle through the City of Gold where speed, strategy, and heart will decide who breaks the tape first.

Photo Credit: Anthony Grote

R147K Prize Purse Fuels Boxer Super Run Joburg Debut

Adnaan Mohamed

The stakes just got higher for South Africa’s fastest 5K specialists. When the Boxer Super Run Joburg hits Marks Park Sports Club on Sunday, 9 November 2025, athletes will be chasing more than just personal bests, they’ll be racing for a slice of a R147 200 prize purse.

Both the elite men’s and women’s champions will earn R20 000 each, while payouts extend to the top eight finishers in both races. Age-group podiums in the Open Wave will also share in the spoils, rewarding standout performances from Juniors to 70+ runners.

“Our goal is to elevate the profile of short-distance road running by rewarding top performances,” says Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports.

“The 5K may be short, but it demands both raw speed and tactical precision. With strong incentives on the line, we’re expecting world-class racing.”

The Joburg edition marks the first time the Boxer Super Run series lands in Gauteng, following successful events across South Africa that have drawn large, social fields alongside elite competition.

Known as the most social 5K in the country, the event blends festival atmosphere with serious racing at the sharp end.

“By offering R147 200 in prize money, we’re celebrating the dedication of South Africa’s elite athletes,” adds Lee-Ann Pillay, Head of Marketing at Boxer Superstores.

“We want to inspire every runner, from elites to social participants, to give their best on race day.”

The event schedule will see the Open Wave start at 07:00, followed by Super Social Waves from 08:00 to 09:30, before the spotlight shifts to the Elite Women at 09:45 and Elite Men at 10:00. A 1km Kids’ Race rounds off the day at 10:30.

ELITE WOMEN’S WAVE Boxer Super Run by Tobias Ginsberg

With its blend of high stakes, fast racing, and festival spirit, the Boxer Super Run Joburg is set to deliver an explosive debut where seconds matter and every stride could mean silverware and lucrative prizemoney.

Boxer Super Run Joburg – Key Details

Date: Sunday, 9 November 2025
Venue: Marks Park Sports Club, Johannesburg
Distance: 5km
Prize Purse: R147 200 (R20 000 to each elite winner)
Start Times:

  • 07:00 – Open Wave
  • 08:00–09:30 – Super Social Wave
  • 09:45 – Elite Women
  • 10:00 – Elite Men
  • 10:30 – Kids 1km Race

Follow:
Facebook: Boxer Superstores / Boxer Super Run 5K
Instagram: @boxer_superstores / @boxer_superrun5k

Boxer Super Run Joburg: Pick Your Wave, Own the Street!

By Adnaan Mohamed

Johannesburg, it’s time to hit the pavement! The Boxer Super Run lands at Marks Park Sports Club on Sunday, 9 November 2025, turning the city streets into a 5K playground for every kind of runner, from speed demons to tutu-clad fun-seekers.

Four waves, one epic morning: Open Wave, Super Social Wave, Elite Women, and Elite Men. Pick your vibe, lace up your sneakers, and let the good times roll.

Boxer Super Run Elite Men by Tobias Ginsberg

“Our goal is simple and that is to welcome every kind of runner to the event,” says Lee-Ann Pillay, Head of Marketing at Boxer Superstores.

“The beauty of the 5km distance lies in its inclusivity: it’s accessible for first-timers, fun for social joggers, and still delivers an exhilarating test for seasoned athletes chasing fast times.”

Early birds, get ready, the Open Wave bursts off at 07:00. Perfect for competitive runners, school teams, and anyone hungry to chase a PB.

From 08:00 to 09:30, it’s the Super Social Wave’s time to shine. Think funky costumes, squads of friends, laughter echoing down the streets. This wave is all about fun, flair, and epic selfies.

Boxer Super Run Social Wave by Tobias Ginsberg

“We encourage runners to get creative, dress up, and bring the energy. It’s a chance to make memories, not just mileage,” Pillay adds.

And then the heavy hitters arrive: Elite Women (09:45) and Elite Men (10:00). South Africa’s fastest will duel for the crown of King and Queen of the Boxer Super Run. This is a showdown that’ll have you cheering till your voice gives out.

Every runner gets a performance T-shirt, goodie bag, timing chip, and a finisher’s medal. Plus, the unbeatable buzz of running through a city that’s buzzing with energy.

Need-to-know:
Venue: Marks Park Sports Club
Date: Sunday, 9 November 2025
Distance: 5km
Start Waves:

  • 07:00 — Open Wave (competitive, early risers)
  • 08:00–09:30 — Super Social Wave (fun, costumes, squads)
  • 09:45 — Elite Women
  • 10:00 — Elite Men
    Extras: T-shirt, goodie bag, medal, timing chip, and endless smiles
Boxer Super Run Elite Women by Tobias Ginsberg

Follow the hype on Facebook (Boxer Superstores / Boxer Super Run 5K) and Instagram (@boxer_superstores / @boxer_superun5k).

Whether you’re chasing PBs, rocking a tutu, or just out for laughs, the Boxer Super Run proves one thing: in Jozi, 5K isn’t just a race, it’s a party on the move!

Boxer Super Run set for Joburg debut

By Adnaan Mohamed

Johannesburg is about to swap its traffic jams for jogging jams when the Boxer Super Run makes its City of Gold debut on Sunday, 9 November 2025, at the iconic Marks Park Sports Club.

Entries open this Friday, 26 September and if Durban’s record sell-out is anything to go by, they’ll vanish quicker than a sprinter out the blocks.

Billed as South Africa’s most social 5km, the race promises a carnival on the run: early-bird striders chasing PBs, charity teams in colourful costumes, and elites set to sprint for podium glory.

Boxer Super Run by Tobias Ginsberg

Like a relay baton, the energy will flow through every wave until the finish village buzzes with medals, music, and laughter.

“A new venue brings a new route and fresh experiences for everyone,” says Stillwater Sports MD Michael Meyer.

“It’s going to be a day for runners, families, and friends to celebrate together.”

Boxer Superstores’ Lee-Ann Pillay agrees: “It’s all about energy, fun, and community. Whether you’re running, walking, or cheering, you’re part of the action.”

With performance tees, goodie bags, and medals in store, the Boxer Super Run is set to turn Joburg’s streets into a moving festival. The only question: will you be on the start line or left behind at the tape?

Boxer Super Run by Tobias Ginsberg

EVENT INFORMATION: 2025 Boxer Super Run Joburg 

Date: Sunday 09 November 2025
Distance: 5km
Start Venue: Marks Park Sports Club
Finish Venue: Marks Park Sports Club
Event Waves & Start Times:  07:00 / OPEN WAVE (Anyone and everyone, club runners, serious runners, schools, runners who prefer an early start, masses)08:00 – 09:30 / SUPER SOCIAL WAVE (Dress up, groups, company groups, charities, runners who prefer a slightly later start)09:45 / ELITE WOMEN10:00 / ELITE MEN
Minimum Age of Entrant: 9 years old
Entries Open: Friday 26 September 2025
Entries Close: Monday, 03 November 2025 or ONCE CAPACITY HAS BEEN REACHED
Entry Includes: Boxer Super Run Event Performance T-shirtBoxer Super Run Goodie BagRace Number / Timing ChipFantastic On Route ExperienceBoxer Super Run Finisher’s Medal

Facebook: Boxer Superstores / Boxer Super Run 5K

Instagram: @boxer_superstores / @boxer_superun5k