By Adnaan Mohamed
Thousands of runners will storm the streets of the City of Gold on Thursday, 24 September, turning Heritage Day into a spectacular Joburg 10km takeover.
The sold-out Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K will unleash a stampede of running shoes onto Lilian Ngoyi Street from 08:00, with the M1 and M2 highways transformed into a giant sporting playground before the finish on Rahima Moosa Street.
For one morning, Joburg’s legendary hustle will have a new soundtrack: thousands of pounding feet, screaming spectators, pumping music and the thunder of a city celebrating its heritage.
This is road running with a Mzansi twist.
The route will be crammed with entertainment, cheer zones and sponsor activations from Absa, PUMA, Powerade, AVIS and Heineken, creating a colourful carnival designed to showcase the diversity, history and unmistakable swagger of Johannesburg.
Stillwater Sports managing director and Series founder Michael Meyer says the race will offer runners a different view of the metropolis.
“We’re excited to bring thousands of runners together in Johannesburg on National Heritage Day for what promises to be a fantastic celebration of running, culture and community.”
Meyer says the energy of the route, entertainment and spectators will create an atmosphere that is uniquely Joburg.
Absa Head of Sponsorship Jabulile Nsibanyoni says the event will turn the streets into a moving celebration of South African identity.
“At Absa, we are passionate about creating memorable experiences that bring communities together, and this event is a true reflection of that commitment.”
She says the entertainment has been carefully curated to celebrate Joburg’s rich heritage and cultural traditions.
“Both participants and spectators can look forward to a dynamic showcase of performances reflecting the warmth, diversity, and energy Joburg is known for.”
Then comes the speed trap.
PUMA Run Train Marketing Manager Rae Trew-Browne says the Heritage Day edition has a personality of its own.
“Every Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series event has its own personality, and Joburg’s Heritage Day edition promises to be particularly special.”
The PUMA Speed Zone will add another turbocharged dimension to the race.
“It’s a chance for every participant to embrace their own version of TOO FAST while enjoying the incredible atmosphere that makes the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series so special,” says Trew-Browne.
The stakes are already high after a sizzling 2026 series.
Adriaan Wildschutt won Gqeberha in 27:47, Joshua Cheptegei blitzed Durban in 27:19 and Salem Kibet conquered Tshwane in 28:45. Kenya’s Brenda Jepchirchir won Gqeberha in 30:15, while Doreen Cherop claimed victories in Durban and Tshwane in 30:43 and 31:35 respectively.
Cape Town’s 10K was cancelled because of a severe weather forecast.
Now Joburg gets the spotlight.
And on Heritage Day, the City of Gold will not be walking.
IT WILL BE RUNNING!
For further information please visit https://runyourcityseries.com/
