Tag: Michael Meyer

‹ Back

Free State’s wait ends as RUN YOUR CITY expands to six races

Adnaan MohamedFeatures, News, PreviewLeave a Comment on Free State’s wait ends as RUN YOUR CITY expands to six races
By Adnaan Mohamed

For years, the Free State has produced world-class runners, yet many of its brightest stars have had to leave home to chase the country’s biggest road races. Now the road is coming to them. In a major boost for athletics in the province, the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series will expand from five to six events with the inaugural Absa RUN YOUR CITY MANGAUNG 10K on October 25, handing Mangaung a seat at South Africa’s top table of road running.

The announcement has been welcomed as a game-changing victory by some of the province’s biggest athletics names, who believe the race could unlock opportunities for thousands of aspiring runners.

Former Olympian and South African 1500m record holder Johan Cronje believes the city has waited long enough.

“Mangaung has always needed a world-class road race. There are no more excuses now. Local runners can compete against some of the best athletes in the world on their own doorstep.”

Cronje expects around 5,000 runners at the inaugural event and believes it has the potential to grow into a race attracting between 10,000 and 15,000 participants.

Three-time Olympian LJ van Zyl described the arrival of the race as a watershed moment for athletics in the province.

“Young athletes no longer have to leave home to experience a race of this calibre. It’s a real game-changer.”

For Athletics Free State president Odessa Swarts, whose son Wayde van Niekerk became an Olympic champion after growing up in Bloemfontein, the race is about far more than medals and prize money.

“I’ve been excited because Free State has been overlooked for quite a while,” she said.

Swarts revealed that around 700 youngsters compete every Friday in the province’s cross-country league, with nearly 1,800 expected at next month’s provincial championships.

“This motivates our youngsters. Development starts with cross country, and now they’ll see the country’s biggest names competing alongside them. Does that not give hope? This is a story of hope.”

She believes the event will inspire children from townships and rural communities to dream bigger.

“Anyone can enter. Whether you’re from a township or a rural area, you can dream. Every day I work to help young people achieve the dreams they set for themselves. This race gives them that opportunity.”

Even Swarts has been bitten by the running bug again.

“I’ve started training because I had to be part of this. I’m competitive, so I’m hoping to break one hour. Since training for distance running, I’ve gained enormous respect for middle and long-distance athletes.”

The race is the result of a partnership between Stillwater Sports, the Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality and the Free State Department of Economic Development and Tourism.

Since Absa became title sponsor in 2021, more than 200,000 runners have taken part in the series, which now stretches across Gqeberha, Cape Town, Durban, Tshwane, Johannesburg and Mangaung.

Stillwater Sports Managing Director Michael Meyer said the expansion was another important step in growing the series while creating tourism and economic opportunities for host cities.

Absa Group Chief Marketing and Corporate Affairs Officer Sydney Mbhele said runners had been calling for Mangaung to be included for years.

“We are proud to have listened because at Absa, we believe every story matters.”

Mbhele added that the bank’s R1 Campaign has already raised almost R10 million through Team Absa’s Strava activities to support school vegetable gardens across South Africa, with Free State communities set to benefit.

Mangaung Executive Mayor Gregory Nthatisi said the race would showcase the city’s heritage and hospitality while creating opportunities for local businesses.

Free State MEC for Economic Development and Tourism Ketso Makume believes the event will strengthen the province’s growing reputation as a sport tourism destination.

For a province that has spent years watching South Africa’s biggest road races from the sidelines, the starter’s gun in Mangaung will signal far more than the beginning of another 10km. It will announce that the Free State has finally arrived.

Neheng Khatala targets Durban gold at Totalsports Women’s Race

Adnaan MohamedNews, PreviewLeave a Comment on Neheng Khatala targets Durban gold at Totalsports Women’s Race
By Adnaan Mohamed

Neheng Khatala has done the hard kilometres. Now she wants the reward.

Fresh from an impressive fifth-place finish at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K, the Lesotho 10km record holder believes she is perfectly placed to challenge for top honours at Totalsports Women’s Race on Sunday, 2 August 2026.

The confidence is measured rather than loud, shaped by months of disciplined preparation and sharpened on one of Africa’s deepest elite fields only weeks ago.

“If I execute my race plan well, I believe a great result will follow,” Khatala said.

“Every race is an opportunity to improve, and I want to make the most of it.”

Durban’s fast and flat route has become a magnet for personal bests, with its sweeping beachfront roads often rewarding athletes brave enough to commit from the opening kilometres. The Hollywood Athletics Club athlete hopes it will provide another platform to showcase her growing pedigree.

Her ambitions stretch beyond the finish line.

For the 10km Lesotho national record holder, the Totalsports Women’s Race represents a celebration of women united by a shared passion for running.

“It shows the power of women supporting and inspiring one another,” she said.

“Running brings us together regardless of where we come from or our backgrounds. It is an honour to be part of an event that celebrates strength, resilience and unity.”

Khatala says her greatest rival is the athlete she was yesterday.

Neheng Khatala photo by Anthony Grote

“My biggest motivation is becoming the best version of myself. Every race teaches me something new. Growth comes through consistency and hard work.”

She also hopes her journey encourages newcomers to chase their own goals.

“Believe in yourself, be patient with your progress and never compare your journey to anyone else’s. Every champion started with a single step.”

The atmosphere in Durban could also play a decisive role.

“Crowd support always gives me an extra boost. Hearing people cheer helps me find another gear when the race gets tough.”

Victory would carry special significance.

“It would make my family, supporters and my country, Lesotho, proud while motivating me to chase even bigger goals.”

Stillwater Sports Managing Director Michael Meyer believes Khatala is primed for another strong display.

“We look forward to seeing her showcase her talent on this world-class course alongside thousands of women celebrating the joy of running.”

Totalsports Head of Marketing Nikki Crous believes Khatala’s presence adds another layer of quality to an already exciting elite field.

“As one of Africa’s leading distance runners, Neheng’s participation will inspire women of all ages and abilities.”

When the starter’s gun echoes along Durban’s beachfront on Sunday morning, Khatala will not be chasing the clock alone. She will be chasing another step towards becoming one of Africa’s leading road-running names.

Joshua Cheptegei’s return sets up blockbuster Durban 10K reunion

Adnaan MohamedNews, PreviewLeave a Comment on Joshua Cheptegei’s return sets up blockbuster Durban 10K reunion
By Adnaan Mohamed

Joshua Cheptegei’s return to the Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K has reignited memories of one of the fastest races ever staged on South African soil, while presenting Stephen Mokoka and Kabelo Mulaudzi with another opportunity to test themselves against one of distance running’s greatest champions.

The two-time Olympic gold medallist returns to Durban on Sunday, eight years after producing a breathtaking 27:16 South African All-Comers record in the 2018 race. That performance made Cheptegei the first athlete to break the 28-minute barrier in South Africa, while Julien Wanders also rewrote the European record with 27:32.

For Mokoka, who finished sixth in that memorable contest, Cheptegei’s presence remains a benchmark for how international stars can elevate local competition.

“It was a great event because of his presence. It was the first time a sub-28-minute 10km was run in South Africa. We witnessed that thanks to Stillwater Sports, which continues to bring the world’s biggest names to our shores. We also saw the European record being broken. Having an athlete of his calibre in our country made it a special occasion, and I’m looking forward to racing against him again,” said Mokoka.

The former South African 10km record holder believes Sunday’s race offers emerging athletes a rare chance to measure themselves against an athlete who has conquered the Olympic Games, World Championships and world records.

“It’s a great opportunity for emerging athletes to compete against one of the best athletes and a world record holder. It also shows how far the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series has come.

“If you can attract someone like Joshua after winning Olympic and world titles, while also giving athletes like Kabelo Mulaudzi the chance to compete against him, you’re creating healthy competition. The younger athletes won’t be afraid to push the pace, while Joshua will want to remind everyone of his class.”

Stephen Mokoka in action during the 2025 Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K. PHOTO CREDITS: Action Photo

Mulaudzi knows the value of that opportunity.

Having finished 13th behind Cheptegei in 2018, he has since developed into one of South Africa’s leading road runners, winning six RUN YOUR CITY races and lowering his personal best to 27:41 in Durban last year.

“I am extremely grateful to the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series because it created opportunities for me to compete internationally. My invitation to the Great Manchester Run came through those performances, and I believe the organisation of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series is every bit as world-class,” he said.

The 27-year-old hopes Sunday’s showdown can inspire another breakthrough.

“I have always enjoyed racing against athletes who are better than me. It’s a privilege to line up with Joshua again, and I hope competing against him will bring out the best in me and everyone else in the field.”

Stillwater Sports managing director Michael Meyer said Cheptegei’s return reflects the growing international reputation of the series.

“Joshua Cheptegei’s return to Durban is a significant moment for the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series and for South African road running,” Meyer said.

“It speaks to the growth of the series that we are able to attract athletes of Joshua’s calibre. Athletes like Mokoka and Mulaudzi thrive on this level of competition and it raises the standard for everyone involved.

“When the best in the world line up in our races, it elevates the event, inspires the next generation and reinforces the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series as a truly world-class platform.”

With Durban’s race sold out and one of the sport’s biggest names back on the start line, Sunday’s contest promises another high-quality examination of South Africa’s leading road runners against the global gold standard.

Can Durban 10K deliver sub 27 and sub 30 double?

Adnaan MohamedFeatures, News, PreviewLeave a Comment on Can Durban 10K deliver sub 27 and sub 30 double?
By Adnaan Mohamed

For years, African road running has waited for two stubborn barriers to fall. On 12 July, the sold-out Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K could become the stage where both finally surrender.

The prospect of the first men’s sub-27-minute 10km and the first women’s sub-30-minute performance on African soil has transformed the Durban race from another elite road event into a genuine date with history.

At the centre of the men’s assault stands Ugandan superstar Joshua Cheptegei. The Olympic champion and world record holder over 5 000m and 10 000m owns a personal best of 26:38, making him the obvious favourite to shatter the long-standing continental milestone.

Yet the stopwatch will not be chasing Cheptegei alone.

Kenya’s Felix Masai, who claimed victory at this year’s Totalsports Two Oceans Half Marathon, brings a 27:24 lifetime best, while Gilbert Kiprotich believes he has already crossed the psychological finish line.

After producing a blistering 27:01 split during the Lisbon Half Marathon, Kiprotich is convinced Durban’s flat course and fast pace can carry him into the exclusive sub-27 club.

Gilbert Kiprotich Photo Supplied

“I believe I am capable of running comfortably under 27:00 in Durban,” said Kiprotich.

“We are hoping for favourable weather conditions and strong pacing on race day.”

Cheptegei is refusing to become consumed by the numbers, even though they continue to follow him like a determined shadow.

“It would be an honour for the record to be broken on African soil,” he said.

“I think that would be great for African athletics.”

The women’s race carries an equally compelling storyline.

Brenda Jepchirchir returns to South Africa with unfinished business after strong winds denied her a realistic opportunity of breaking 30 minutes in Gqeberha earlier this year. Since then, the Kenyan has reinforced her credentials by clocking 29:25, making her the second fastest woman in the world in 2026 and the joint fourth fastest in history.

“If the conditions are favourable and the race unfolds well, I would love to run under 30 minutes,” Jepchirchir said.

“It would be a significant milestone in my career, and I believe it is possible.”

Beatrice Chepkoech by GSC Media House

Standing alongside her is world steeplechase record holder Beatrice Chepkoech, whose presence deepens an already formidable field. Although the Kenyan is continuing her return after giving birth, the 2019 world champion believes Durban offers the perfect setting to be part of something memorable.

“This is what every athlete dreams of, building a legacy that will endure in the world of athletics,” said Chepkoech.

Stillwater Sports founder Michael Meyer believes the stars have aligned.

“The prospect of witnessing the first sub-27-minute men’s 10km and the first sub-30-minute women’s 10km on African soil at a single event is incredibly exciting,” Meyer said.

Elite athletes, favourable winter conditions and one of the continent’s quickest road courses have combined to create a rare opportunity.

Records rarely wave a white flag willingly. The DURBAN 10K now has the chance to force their surrender, twice, in the space of one unforgettable morning.

Sub-27 Dream alive as Cheptegei leads World-Class Durban 10K field

Adnaan MohamedNewsLeave a Comment on Sub-27 Dream alive as Cheptegei leads World-Class Durban 10K field
By Adnaan Mohamed

Joshua Cheptegei’s appearance at the 2026 Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K has attracted what organisers believe is the strongest men’s field ever assembled for a 10km road race on African soil.

The Ugandan superstar, an Olympic champion, multiple world champion and world record holder over 5 000m and 10 000m, will line up in Durban on 12 July against a field packed with international winners, national record holders and emerging stars eager to test themselves against one of the sport’s modern greats.

Leading the list of challengers is Kenya’s Felix Masai, whose 27:24 personal best makes him one of the fastest men in the race. The Totalsports Two Oceans Half Marathon champion expects Cheptegei’s presence to elevate the standard of competition.

Felix Masai (Kenya) has a 10km PB of 27:24. PHOTO CREDIT: Action Photo

“He is one of the greatest distance runners of all time, and competing alongside him raises the level of the entire field,” said Masai.

“My race target is to give my best. I like competing in South Africa.”

Another athlete to watch is Kenyan Gilbert Kiprotich, who arrives in Durban with confidence after a strong performance at the Lisbon Half Marathon.

“I’m feeling well after the Lisbon Half Marathon. I took some time to recover before shifting my focus to preparing for racing in South Africa,” said Kiprotich.

“Looking back to the Half Marathon, where I recorded a 10km split of 27:01 and considering how the second half of the race unfolded, I believe I am capable of running comfortably under 27:00 in Durban.”

Kiprotich believes favourable conditions and strong pacing could produce something special.

Gilbert Kiprotich (Kenya) has a 10km PB of 27:43. PHOTO SUPPLIED

“We are hoping for favourable weather conditions and strong pacing on race day. I feel inspired by the opportunity to race against Joshua Cheptegei. He is a world-class athlete, and competing alongside him will provide valuable experience and contribute significantly to my development as a professional athlete.”

Lesotho national record holder Kamohelo Mofolo returns to the race where he set his country’s 10km mark in 2025 and believes the course remains one of the fastest on the continent.

“The Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K is a flat, fast course with few turns, and if the conditions are right it allows for very quick times,” said Mofolo.

“Every race here feels like it has the potential to be something special, and I’m honoured to be part of such an impressive lineup.”

Mofolo added that racing against athletes of Cheptegei’s calibre presents a valuable opportunity.

“Racing against athletes like Joshua Cheptegei is a great opportunity because he is an amazing runner, and I’m excited to learn from the best while sharing the start line with him.”

South African hopes will rest largely on Kabelo Mulaudzi, whose development has been closely linked to the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series.

“I am grateful to the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series because it created a platform for me to obtain an invitation to a big international race,” said Mulaudzi.

“I am extremely excited to be part of this event and it is always great to run in South Africa against the world’s best athletes.”

The South African believes competing alongside Cheptegei can bring out the best in the field.

“I have always enjoyed the challenge of racing against better athletes than myself and it is great to be lining up with Joshua. I hope that he will help bring out the best in me and all the other athletes competing in the race.”

Adding further depth is Cheptegei’s Ugandan training partner Emanuel Kibet, who boasts a personal best of 27:37 and is expected to play a significant role at the front of the race.

Stillwater Sports Managing Director and Series Founder Michael Meyer believes Cheptegei’s participation has transformed the event.

“Joshua Cheptegei’s participation has drawn a truly extraordinary depth of field to the Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K, bringing together world champions, record holders, and some of the fastest road runners on the planet,” Meyer said.

“This level of quality not only elevates the competitive standard of road running in South Africa, but firmly cements the 2026 Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K as the Greatest 10K on African Soil.”

Meyer added that the strength of the field could produce a historic result.

“In conditions like these, with such depth and intent at the front of the race, the possibility of a historic performance, even a breakthrough sub-27-minute 10km, becomes a real possibility.”

Visit Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K for more info.

Durban 10K ups the stakes with massive prize incentives for 2026

Adnaan MohamedNewsLeave a Comment on Durban 10K ups the stakes with massive prize incentives for 2026
By Adnaan Mohamed

The 2026 Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K is 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 founder said 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.

More information is available at RUN YOUR CITY Series

Chery boosts Durban 10K race incentives

Adnaan MohamedNewsLeave a Comment on Chery boosts Durban 10K race incentives

The Absa 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-new Chery 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.”

Tony Liu, CEO of Chery South Africa, said the brand remains committed to the series.

“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.

Websites:  www.runyourcityseries.com

Come celebrate Women’s Month by running the iconic Totalsports Women’s Race

Adnaan MohamedNewsLeave a Comment on Come celebrate Women’s Month by running the iconic Totalsports Women’s Race

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.

EVENT INFORMATION: 2026 Totalsports Women’s Race 

DATE: CITY:
Sunday, 02 August 2026 Totalsports Women’s Race Durban Start Venue: Suncoast Casino, Snell ParadeFinish Venue: Suncoast Casino, Snell Parade
Sunday, 9 August 2026 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

Follow us on Instagram:  Women’s Race / PinkDrive

Hashtag: #Totalsports #TotalsportsWomensRace #LoveTheRun #PinkDrive 

For more information on PinkDrive visit www.pinkdrive.org For further information on the Totalsports Women’s Race visit www.totalsportswomensrace.co.za 

Kavanagh keeps cool head despite red-hot form ahead of Cape Town 10K

Adnaan MohamedNewsLeave a Comment on Kavanagh keeps cool head despite red-hot form ahead of Cape Town 10K
By Adnaan Mohamed

Tayla Kavanagh heads into the Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K in 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.

EVENT DATES: 2026 Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series

  1. Sunday 01 March 2026 Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K

Elite Men’s Winner: Adriaan Wildschutt (RSA) 27:47
Elite Women’s Winner: Brenda Jepchirchir (KEN) 30:15

  1. Sunday 10 May 2026 Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K

Start Time: 09:00
Start Venue: Marine Drive, Milnerton
Finish Venue: Cape Town CBD

  1. Sunday 12 July 2026 Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K
  2. Sunday 23 August 2026 Absa RUN YOUR CITY TSHWANE 10K
  3. Thursday 24 September 2026 Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K

Absa RUN YOUR CITY R1.68m Incentive Revolution

Adnaan MohamedNewsLeave a Comment on Absa RUN YOUR CITY R1.68m Incentive Revolution
By Adnaan Mohamed

The road to greatness in South African distance running just got smoother, and significantly richer. The Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series has 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.

2026 Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series Dates

  • 01 March: Gqeberha 10K
  • 10 May: Cape Town 10K
  • 12 July: Durban 10K
  • 23 August: Tshwane 10K
  • 24 September: Joburg 10K

www.runyourcityseries.com
WhatsApp: 072 042 7613
#RunYourCity #AbsaRunYourCity