The 2026Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10Kis set to raise the pace and the pressure, with organisers unveiling a lucrative prize structure aimed at attracting elite performances on one of South Africa’s fastest road running courses.
The race, which celebrates its ninth anniversary on 12 July, forms part of the five-leg Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series that carries a combined prize purse of R1.686 million this year.
Each event on the series calendar offers total prize money of R337 200, with R267 200 allocated to the men’s and women’s open categories. Winners in Durban will earn R33 000, while second and third place finishers take home R24 000 and R21 000 respectively.
Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K by Geoff Redman
An additional R70 000 per event has been set aside for age category athletes, including juniors and runners over 40.
Organisers have also introduced substantial incentives for South African athletes capable of producing world-class times.
In the men’s race, athletes who break 27 minutes stand to earn a R300 000 bonus, while women who run faster than 30:20 will receive the same reward. A new South African record will carry an added R50 000 incentive.
Further bonuses will reward consistency across the series, with athletes earning extra payouts for repeated sub-28-minute performances in the men’s division and sub-32:08 performances in the women’s race.
Michael Meyer, race foundersaid the incentives are designed to reward excellence and elevate the standard of local road running.
“An impressive prize purse is a key pillar of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series, as it not only plays a vital role in attracting a competitive elite field and motivating everyday runners to push beyond their limits and deliver personal best performances, but also serves as a welcomed and deserved reward for athletes who put in the hard work and commitment to excel,” Meyer said.
“With Durban’s fast, flat course, this is the one event where quick times, personal bests, and record-breaking performances are always on the cards. Durban never disappoints. We look forward to witnessing world-class racing at its best on South African soil.”
The race starts on Masabalala Yengwa Avenue and finishes at Sunkist Lawns on the Durban Promenade.
TheAbsa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K will offer more than fast times and coastal scenery on Sunday, 12 July, with one participant set to win a brand-newChery vehicle valued at R279 900.
The incentive continues a trend that has seen Chery South Africa reward runners across the series since 2022. Eighteen vehicles have already been handed over, including the most recent winner at the Gqeberha leg in March.
“July is Durban’s time to shine on the road and to win big,” said race founder Michael Meyer. “We are excited to launch the Durban leg of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series, offering runners the chance to experience road running at its very best, whether they are elite competitors or social runners.
“One of the standout moments of the day will once again be the opportunity for one lucky participant to drive away in a brand-new Chery vehicle.”
The race will start at 08:00 on Masabalala Yengwa Avenue and finish at Sunkist Lawns along the Durban Promenade, a route known for its flat, fast profile.
Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K by Cindy Choromansky
Meyer said the partnership continues to enhance the event experience.
“Our valued partnership with Chery South Africa continues to bring excitement and meaningful rewards to the series, enhancing the experience for every runner on race day. Prizes of this nature not only elevate the event but also reflect our ongoing commitment to inspiring active lifestyles and creating memorable moments for both participants and their supporters.”
“We are proud to once again celebrate the spirit of Durban’s running community. Rewarding one lucky participant with a Chery vehicle allows us to honour the commitment and passion of runners while embracing the energy of this remarkable city.
“Durban’s coastal lifestyle and vibrant culture align strongly with the versatility of our vehicles, and we are honoured to support an event that continues to unite people through health, achievement, and community connection. We look forward to continuing to grow our Chery South Africa family.”
To qualify for the draw, runners must enter the race, collect their race number, start and complete the 10km distance.
The Durban race forms part of the 2026 series, which began in Gqeberha and will continue in Cape Town, Tshwane and Johannesburg.
Entries officially open today (Monday 20 April 2026) for South Africa’s premier Women’s Month celebration, the Totalsports Women’s Race, that will take place on three consecutive Sundays in August with the action kicking off in Durban on 2 August, followed by Cape Town on 9 August, and culminating in Johannesburg on 16 August 2026.
Thousands of women from across the country are expected to once again unite in celebration of movement, camaraderie, and empowerment, choosing between scenic 5km and 10km routes in each host city.
Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports, shares his excitement on entries opening: “The opening of entries for the Totalsports Women’s Race is always special to us. We encourage women of all ages and fitness levels to secure their place on the start line and be part of something truly meaningful. Whether you’re chasing a personal best or simply enjoying a walk with friends, this event offers an inclusive and inspiring space for every participant to celebrate Women’s Month in a powerful way.”
The Totalsports Women’s Race will once again support PinkDrive in 2026, contributing to the ongoing fight against breast cancer and raising awareness around early detection.
Meyer adds: “From a performance perspective, the Totalsports Women’s Race offers South Africa’s elite athletes an exceptional opportunity to compete in a world-class, women-only event on home soil. Spanning three cities, the series sets the stage for exciting head-to-head competition, complemented by an inspiring and energetic race-day atmosphere.”
Building on this sentiment, Nikki Crous, Head of Marketing at Totalsports, highlights the broader impact of the event:
“Entries opening signals the start of an incredible journey that brings women together from all walks of life. The Totalsports Women’s Race is more than just a race – it’s a celebration of strength, unity, and shared experiences. Each city offers its own unique energy, from Durban’s coastal charm to Cape Town’s iconic scenery and Johannesburg’s vibrant spirit. We encourage women to enter early, gather their friends and family, and be part of this unforgettable Women’s Month celebration.”
With limited entries available and high demand expected, participants are urged to act fast to secure their spot on the start line of one of South Africa’s most iconic women’s events.
Totalsports Women’s Race Cape TownStart Venue: 10km Start: Darling Street, Cape Town5km Start: Castle StreetFinish Venue: Grand Parade, Cape Town
Sunday, 16 August 2026
Totalsports Women’s Race JoburgStart Venue: Orange Road and Buffalo Road Junction, Marks ParkFinish Venue: Orange Road and Buffalo Road Junction, Marks Park
ENTRIES OPEN:
Monday, 20 April 2026.
ENTRIES CLOSE:
Durban: Thursday 02 July 2026, or once capacity has been reached. Cape Town: Monday 27 July 2026, or once capacity has been reached.Joburg: Monday 03 August 2026, or once capacity has been reached.
CHARITY SUPPORT: The Totalsports Women’s Race proudly supports PinkDrive, a non-profit company (NPC) dedicated to increasing breast cancer awareness, providing education, and offering free services to medically uninsured individuals across South Africa.
Like our Facebook page: Women’s Race / The PinkDrive
Tayla Kavanaghheads into the Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10Kin the kind of form that turns heads, yet the 24-year-old remains firmly grounded as she prepares for Sunday’s race in the Mother City.
The Hollywood Athletics Club runner has lit up the past three weeks with personal bests over 3000m, 5000m and 10km, building momentum like a runner finding a smooth downhill rhythm. Still, her focus stays on execution rather than expectation.
“I’m looking forward to taking part in the Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K,” said Kavanagh. “I ran it last year and thoroughly enjoyed the route and the competition. With this being my second 10km race of the season, I’m looking forward to putting together a strong run.”
Her recent 3000m victory in Stellenbosch, where she clocked 8:46.86, underlined her sharpness, coming soon after her 31:33 win at the Cape Town leg of the SPAR Grand Prix where she beat Glenrose Xaba.
Kavanagh believes her decision to spend more time on the track this season is paying off.
“It was a good decision,” she said. “As someone without a track background, it is so good to add track to the mix this year. I think it’s assisting me to be faster on the road. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the track season, but the road is where my full passion lies. I’m looking forward to being back on the road and seeing what we can do in the 10km distances.”
Cape Town also marks a meaningful point in her resurgence after injury setbacks in 2023 and 2024. Her fifth-place finish here last year signalled a return to form.
“I feel that the Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K last year is where I started to pick up my form again. That means it’s kind of a special race for me. I don’t have too many expectations. I’ve been enjoying the process of running. That’s when I perform at my best.”
Series founder Michael Meyer believes Kavanagh’s current trajectory makes her one to watch.
“Tayla has been nothing short of exceptional over the past few weeks, and her recent string of personal bests across multiple distances is a clear indication that she’s in outstanding form,” he said. “If her current trajectory is anything to go by, we can expect a truly special performance in Cape Town.”
The race starts at 09:00 on Sunday, 10 May, from Marine Drive in Milnerton and finishes in the Cape Town CBD.
The road to greatness in South African distance running just got smoother, and significantly richer. The Absa RUN YOUR CITY Serieshas fired the starter’s gun on its 2026 campaign by unveiling a R1.686 million combined prize purse, paired with one of the most aggressive SA athlete incentive structures ever seen on local roads.
Since its inception in 2015, the series has re-engineered the domestic road-running ecosystem, transforming 10km racing from a supporting act into the main event. In 2026, the five-city circuit once again strings together Gqeberha (March), Cape Town (May), Durban (July), Tshwane (August) and Johannesburg (September). The 10km specialists have five fast courses, five chances to chase both time and fortune.
“Offering an impressive prize purse is extremely important to us and we are proud to once again be able to do so at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series in 2026,” says Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports.
“We believe that a strong prize purse does more than reward dedication and loyalty towards the series – it fuels ambition and inspires athletes to chase extraordinary performances. That is why we are proud to continue growing our prize purse each year with 2026 featuring a combined prize purse of R1 686 000.00.”
Built for Speed and Sustainability
Each race carries a R337 200 prize allocation, with R267 200 reserved for the Open Category. The top 10 men and women split R133 600 each, while winners in every city bank R33 000, with R24 000 for second and R21 000 for third.
Depth and longevity are equally rewarded. “In addition, R70 000.00 per event has been allocated to Age Categories, rewarding the top three finishers in the Junior, 40–49, 50–59, 60–69 and 70+ age groups – ensuring excellence is celebrated across generations.”
Incentives that Reward the Stopwatch
If the prize purse is the foundation, the SA Athlete Incentive Schedule is the accelerant.
Elite men unlock bonuses for times under 28 minutes, with a headline-grabbing R300 000 incentive for smashing the 27:00 barrier, plus R50 000 for a new SA record. Elite women are similarly rewarded, with bonuses starting at 32:08, escalating to R300 000 for breaking 30:20, and an additional R50 000 for a national record.
Consistency, often the missing ingredient in elite development, is also rewarded:
Elite Men: R20 000 for two sub-28s; R30 000 for three
Elite Women: R20 000 for two sub-32:08s; R30 000 for three
“In 2025, we paid out an impressive total of R1.9 million in Prize Money and SA Athlete Incentives,” Meyer adds.
“Building on this momentum, our focus for 2026 is to reward exceptional performances even further and elevate the level of competition in South African middle-distance running. By empowering our elite athletes to build successful careers at home, we’re confident these incentives will attract the country’s top talent and deliver spectacular racing across all five events.”
Wildschutt Eyes African History
Fresh off a 2025 campaign that saw him erase four national records, Olympian Adriaan Wildschutt returns to the series opener in Gqeberha on 1 March with history in his sights — a sub-27-minute 10km on African soil.
“The Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series has been a huge help in providing opportunities for us to run fast and compete against high-quality athletes,” says Wildschutt.
“The incentives they provide also motivate us to prepare well for these races, which further enhances the competition.”
A Platform for Pure 10km Racing
Glenrose Xaba at Absa RUN YOUR CITY TSHWANE 10K 2025
For Kabelo Mulaudzi, three-time SA cross-country champion and six-time series winner, the value of the circuit goes beyond prize money.
“As an athlete who specialises in shorter distances, the Series allows me to focus purely on 10km racing without having to step up to half marathons or marathons just to earn decent prize money,” he explains. “For a long time in South Africa, there were very few opportunities for sub-marathon athletes to make a sustainable income, so the prize money on offer in this Series is a game-changer.”
Mulaudzi adds: “The time-based incentive structure really encourages fast and consistent performances… I strongly believe athletes should be rewarded for fast performances rather than appearance money, and I’m excited to test myself against some of the best athletes from Southern and East Africa in the Series.”
In 2026, the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series is setting the pace for what elite road running in South Africa can become.
Chery South Africa has announced the renewal of its sponsorship of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series, extending the partnership for an additional three years from 2026. The renewal follows four successful years of collaboration and coincides with the fourth anniversary of Chery’s relaunch in South Africa.
The partnership has played a key role in the continued growth and success of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series, with Chery South Africa serving as the Official Vehicle Partner. Chery’s fleet supports event logistics and operations across all host cities, contributing to a seamless race experience from build-up week through to race day.
“We are proud to welcome them for another three years as we continue to deliver world-class running events across South Africa.”
Wade Bromfield and Verene Petersen by Ray van Breda
Tony Liu, CEO of Chery South Africa, says the brand is excited to continue the journey. “Over the past four years, we’ve built a strong partnership and created memorable experiences for runners and Chery owners alike. We look forward to further strengthening our connection with the running community and the cities we celebrate.”
Chery at Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series by David-Sullivan
The Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series features five major 10km races in Gqeberha, Cape Town, Durban, Tshwane and Johannesburg. The renewed partnership will continue to focus on innovation, performance and enhanced runner and supporter experiences.
The road ahead is clear, flat and fast. South Africa’s premier urban road-running spectacle, theAbsa 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.
The stakes just got higher for South Africa’s fastest 5K specialists. When theBoxer 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,” addsLee-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
Durban’s beachfront turned into a runway of dreams on Sunday morning as 5,000 runners thundered down Snell Parade like a sea of determination, chasing glory beneath the coastal sunrise. But it was Ryan Mphahlele and Glenrose Xaba who broke the tap with record-shattering runs at the 2025Boxer Super Run 5K.
Mphahlele, in his debut at the event, scorched the tar in 13:37, setting a new course record and becoming the fastest South African ever on African soil over the distance.
“The last time that I ran a 5km was two years ago,” he said with a grin as wide as the promenade.
“The opportunity came especially in Durban, a coastal area. So I thought, let me come and top it. It was like a fitness run to me, to see where my fitness is at this time of the year.”
Ryan Mphahlele wins Boxer Super Run Durban by Anthony Grote
The 27-year-old from Thembisa treated the elite men’s race like a tactical tempo session, easing in, then dropping the hammer when it mattered most.
“Elroy was my toughest competition and of course Kabelo Mulaudzi really showed up. When I looked back, I saw Kabelo was moving closer, so I just had to take the sting out of him,” Mphahlele explained.
“It was my goal to win today, and it feels very good to cross the finish line first. I love Durban, I love the weather, and I’ll be back next year.”
Mulaudzi (13:39) crossed the line second, with veteran Elroy Gelant (13:42) rounding off the podium.
The women’s elite race was an equally fierce sprint for supremacy. Glenrose Xaba, unleashed her trademark kick to win in 15:27, holding off her Boxer training partner Karabo More(15:34) and Hollywood AC’s Tayla Kavanagh (15:35) in a thrilling chase to the finish.
“Today’s race was good. The pace was too fast,” said a jubilant Xaba, who is tuning up for the Valencia Marathon.
“I recovered very well after two long runs in preparation. I went with my coach’s strategy to just sit behind, but when you take the move, take it and don’t think about your training partner.
“It feels good to be back and on the podium. There’s a lot that I enjoy about the Boxer Super Run: the support, the atmosphere, the fans. It’s my second home here, so it’s nice to run at home again.”
Glenrose Xaba wins Boxer Super Run Durban 2025 by Anthony Grote
Launched in 2023 by Stillwater Sports, Boxer Superstores, and Coca-Cola, the Super Run has become a must-run fixture on the national calendar. It’s part sprint, part celebration and all spirit.
“What an incredible day of racing,” said Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports.
“From the country’s top elites to the thousands of everyday runners, today was a true celebration of running. Congratulations to Ryan and Glenrose on your remarkable victories. Your performances set a benchmark for the stars of tomorrow.”
Lee-Ann Pillay, Boxer Superstores’ Head of Marketing, added:
“Ryan and Glenrose took elite racing to the next level. Well done to Ryan on becoming the fastest South African on African soil. The vibe in Durban was fantastic. We can’t wait to build on this momentum as we look ahead to the Boxer Super Run’s Johannesburg debut.”
With a R147,200 prize purse and waves for every kind of runner, from elites chasing records to weekend joggers chasing PBs, the Boxer Super Run once again proved that Durban’s promenade isn’t just a stretch of road. On Sunday, it was a launchpad for history.
ELITE MEN’S WAVE Start by Anthony Grote
TOP 10 RESULTS: ELITE WAVES
Elite Men 1 Ryan Mphahlele 13:37, 2 Kabelo Mulaudzi 13:39, 3 Elroy Gelant 13:42, 4 Musawenkosi Mnisi 13:49, 5 Chris Mhlanga 13:51, 6 Zenzile Pheke 13:54, 7 Bongelani Mkhwanazi 13:54, 8 Simon Sibeko 13:56 Elite Women 1 Glenrose Xaba 15:27, 2 Karabo More 15:34, 3 Tayla Kavanagh 15:35, 4 Carina Viljoen 16:00, 5 Kyla Jacobs 16:13, 6 Cacisile Sosibo 16:23, 7 Danielle Verster 16:40, 8 Bathobile Mhkize 16:49
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.
“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
