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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

Entries Open for 2026 Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon Trail Run

Adnaan MohamedNews, Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon, TrailLeave a Comment on Entries Open for 2026 Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon Trail Run
By Adnaan Mohamed

Entries for the 2026 Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon Trail Run will open at 12:00 on Tuesday, 20 January 2026, offering runners the chance to tackle ±16km or ±24km of iconic Table Mountain trails.

Celebrating its 13th edition, the Trail Run has become a highlight of the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon weekend, with participation limited to 500 runners per distance to preserve an intimate trail-running experience.

Trail Runners enjoying the 2025 Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon Trail Run route. PHOTO CREDIT: Tobias Ginsberg

“We’re excited to kick off 2026 with the opening of entries for the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon Trail Run,” said Chris Goldschmidt, Chairperson of the Two Oceans Marathon NPC.

“The ±16km and ±24km trail runs offer participants a rare opportunity to explore the stunning and challenging trails of Table Mountain during the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon weekend. With each distance limited to just 500 runners, this is an intimate and exclusive experience in one of the world’s most breathtaking natural settings.”

Starting from the historic steps of the University of Cape Town, runners climb through the Newlands Forest before navigating the rugged lower slopes of Devil’s Peak, with sweeping views of Table Bay, Robben Island and the Cape Peninsula.

According to Wade Bromfield, General Manager of the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon, the Trail Run enhances the broader event programme.

“The Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon Trail Run adds another exciting dimension to an already action-packed Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon weekend, allowing even more runners to immerse themselves in the unique atmosphere and vibrant energy of this iconic celebration of running,” said Bromfield.

“The Trail Run routes showcase some of the most breathtaking scenery and authentic trail-running terrain on Table Mountain, offering a challenge that is as achievable as it is exhilarating.”

Trail Runners enjoying the 2025 Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon Trail Run route. PHOTO CREDIT: Tobias Ginsberg

Bromfield confirmed that demand is expected to be high.

“Entries open at 12:00 on Tuesday, 20 January 2026. With limited spots available, we encourage runners to enter early for the opportunity to be part of this unforgettable trail-running experience.”

The entry fee includes an exclusive event-specific T-shirt, a limited-edition pair of TTOM-branded Versus Quarter Running Socks, and SANParks access, which supports conservation efforts and trail maintenance.

Event Details:

  • Date: Friday, 10 April 2026
  • Venue: University of Cape Town
  • Distances & Fees: ±16km (R750) | ±24km (R950)
  • Entries Open: Tuesday, 20 January 2026 at 12:00
  • Entries: First-come, first-served

For full details, route information and compulsory kit requirements, visit www.twooceansmarathon.org.za.

Gerda Steyn Reflects on Totalsports Two Oceans Blue Number Club Honour

Adnaan MohamedNews, Totalsports Two Oceans MarathonLeave a Comment on Gerda Steyn Reflects on Totalsports Two Oceans Blue Number Club Honour

By Adnaan Mohamed

Gerda Steyn has added another milestone to her storied running career, earning membership of the prestigious Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon Blue Number Club (BNC).

Steyn’s remarkable running journey has unfolded like a perfectly paced ultra, patient beginnings, relentless consistency, and a finishing strength that leaves spectators breathless.

With six Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon victories and three course records, she has mastered the art of winning. Yet the honour that resonates deepest is not measured in minutes or medals, but in colour: blue.

Despite multiple victories and course records, Steyn describes receiving her Blue Number, her first permanent race number, as one of the most meaningful honours of her career.

Gerda Steyn TTOM Blue Number 6067 by Adnaan Mohamed

“Receiving my Blue Number at the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon was my first ever permanent race number, so it was a huge honour,” says Steyn. “It means that I am invested in the race in the same way as those who have completed it ten times or more.”

Chris Goldschmidt, Chairperson of the Two Oceans Marathon NPC, praised Steyn’s impact on the sport.

“Gerda is affectionately known by many nicknames: from ‘The Smiling Assassin’ to ‘The Darling of South African Road Running,’ ‘The Queen of SA Running,’ ‘The People’s Champion,’ and ‘Sunshine Lady.’ Each name tells a story of her talent, her dedication, and the joy she brings to the sport,” says Goldschmidt.

“Beyond her many nicknames and titles, what truly stands out is the way Gerda has captured the hearts of runners and fans across the country. Her achievements are matched only by the inspiration she provides to the running community.”

Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon General Manager Wade Bromfield added:

“Gerda embodies the spirit of this race. Her consistency, humility and record-breaking performances continue to raise the bar and inspire every runner who lines up on race day.”

Steyn, who claimed her first Ultra victory in 2018, says the Blue Number symbolises long-term commitment rather than speed alone.

“Being part of the BNC reminds me that running is deeply rooted in me and that I’m in it for the long term. No matter life’s circumstances, I’ve always been drawn back to this one start line.”

She also paid tribute to fellow BNC members, including runners with decades of finishes.

“They are the true heroes of the Two Oceans Marathon. Their achievements are beyond imagination and inspire everyone around them.”

The Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon will take place from 10–12 April 2026 in Cape Town.

For more info visit:  www.twooceansmarathon.org.za

Chery South Africa Renews Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series Partnership for Three Years

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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.

“Chery’s commitment, innovation and enthusiasm have helped elevate the series year after year,” says Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports.

“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.

For more information, visit www.runyourcityseries.com.

The 2026 Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon Journey begins on the Training Run Circuit

Adnaan MohamedNews, Totalsports Two Oceans MarathonLeave a Comment on The 2026 Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon Journey begins on the Training Run Circuit
By Adnaan Mohamed

For runners eyeing the 2026 Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon (TTOM), the first chapters are already written with six official TTOM Training Runs preparing athletes for one of the most iconic weekends on the global running calendar.

From January to March 2026, these guided training runs will crisscross South Africa with steady climbs, rewarding flats, and plenty of shared momentum along the way.

Six Stops on the Road to the World’s Most Beautiful Marathon

Hosted in collaboration with running clubs nationwide, the TTOM Training Runs kick off in Cape Town on 25 January, before moving through Johannesburg, Durban, Pretoria, and Stellenbosch, with a second Cape Town run keeping the coastal heartbeat strong.

Each run offers a 21km or 12km option, giving runners the chance to test fitness, build confidence, and rehearse race-day rhythm in a supportive, high-energy environment.

“This series is about more than fitness,” explains Chris Goldschmidt, Chairperson of the Two Oceans Marathon NPC.

“It’s about bringing runners together and celebrating the passion that defines the Two Oceans community.”

Built for Momentum, Powered by Community

Two Oceans Marathon Trail Run by Devin Paisley

These official training runs are exclusive to 2026 Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon entrants and are free of charge, though capacity is limited and advance registration is required.

According to Wade Bromfield, General Manager of the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon, early date announcements allow runners to plan with purpose. Start venues will be revealed closer to each run via social media, ensuring routes that reflect local flavour, safety, and crowd energy.

2026 TTOM Training Run Schedule

Free | Limited capacity | Pre-registration required

  • Sunday, 25 January 2026 – Cape Town
  • Sunday, 1 February 2026 – Johannesburg
  • Sunday, 8 February 2026 – Durban
  • Sunday, 22 February 2026 – Cape Town
  • Sunday, 8 March 2026 – Pretoria
  • Sunday, 22 March 2026 – Stellenbosch

Further details and sign-up links will be shared on official TTOM social platforms closer to each date.

The Finish Line Awaits: 2026 Race Weekend

All roads lead to April, when runners toe the line across three unforgettable days:

  • Friday, 10 April 2026 – Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon Trail Run
  • Saturday, 11 April 2026 – Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon
  • Sunday, 12 April 2026 – Totalsports Two Oceans Half Marathon

What’s New for 2026: Extra Miles of Value

The runner experience in 2026 gets a boost with the following:

  • Exclusive event-specific T-shirt included for all Ultra, Half, and Trail Run entrants
  • Limited-edition TTOM Versus Quarter Running Socks for every participant
  • Upgraded Blue Number Club benefits, delivering premium rewards throughout race weekend

Stay in the Loop

Cian Oldknow set for comeback as Team SA gears up for World Cross Country Champs

Adnaan MohamedCross Country, NewsLeave a Comment on Cian Oldknow set for comeback as Team SA gears up for World Cross Country Champs
By Adnaan Mohamed

Cian Oldknow is back on the start line as Team South Africa prepares to tackle the World Cross Country Championships in Tallahassee, Florida on Saturday.

After an injury- and illness-disrupted 2025 season, the Olympian’s is primed for a return to action on the world stage.

Oldknow is part of a strong senior women’s squad contesting the demanding 10km, headlined by Glenrose Xaba, Cacisile Sosibo, Kyla Jacobs, Karabo Mailula and Zanele Maisa.

For Oldknow, Tallahassee represents the first competitive stride back after a year spent battling setbacks rather than chasing finish tapes. The Johannesburg-based athlete burst onto the marathon scene in 2024, winning three races over 42.2km, qualifying for the Paris Olympic Games and finishing as South Africa’s top marathoner ahead of Irvette van Zyl and Gerda Steyn. Momentum stalled in 2025, but not belief.

“This will be my first race back after quite a difficult year in 2025, so I’m hoping to start on a positive note,” said Oldknow.

“I really enjoy wearing the South African colours and take a lot of pride in representing my country. I know I’ll have to dig deep, even though I’m not in the best place yet, but I think we can take pride in what we do as a team.”

While the women’s squad gathers pace, the men’s team has been forced to adjust its rhythm. South Africa’s plan to field its strongest senior men’s outfit was disrupted when reigning SA 10km cross country champion Kabelo Mulaudzi was ruled out with injury. Mulaudzi, one of the form distance runners of recent seasons with three sub-28-minute 10km performances last year, will focus on rehabilitation ahead of 2026.

The men’s 10km team features Adriaan Wildschutt, Bennett Seloyi, Chris Mhlanga, Sanele Masondo and Musawenkosi Mnisi, with Jayde Roslee stepping in after the withdrawal of Mulaudzi.

Adriaan Wildschutt Photo: Team SA

“We can confirm that Mulaudzi is injured,” said ASA Cross Country Chairperson and Team Manager Jakes Jacobs.

“He is replaced by Jayde Roslee who finished in the top twenty in the junior race in Australia in 2023. He was the official reserve after his performance at the trials. The good thing is that Jayde is based in the US. So, he will represent the country on behalf of Kabelo.”

On the women’s side, national 10km champion Glenrose Xaba returns to the World Cross Country Championships for the first time since stepping up to the marathon. Fresh off a sixth-place finish at the Valencia Marathon, Xaba is aiming to better her 32nd-place showing in Serbia two years ago, and she believes the legs are ready.

“I did not train that much because I was already fit,” said Xaba.

“So, I rested and spent the rest of December polishing up because you can’t just come from a marathon and jump into another training programme. I will do my best to go with the East Africans because it’s something that I’m used to doing. I just want to improve and finish very strong. I’m feeling very good. No injury. I just want to do my best.”

With a 28-member squad spread across senior, junior and relay events, Team South Africa arrives in Florida with depth, resilience and runners eager to test themselves against the world’s best.

TEAM SA – WORLD CROSS COUNTRY CHAMPIONSHIPS

Tallahassee, Florida | 10 January 2026

Senior men (10km)

  • Adriaan Wildschutt
  • Bennett Seloyi
  • Sanele Masondo
  • Chris Mhlanga
  • Musawenkosi Mnisi
  • Jayde Roslee (replacement)

Senior women (10km)

  • Glenrose Xaba
  • Karabo Mailula
  • Cacisile Sosibo
  • Kyla Jacobs
  • Cian Oldknow
  • Zanele Maisa

Senior mixed relay (4x2km)

  • Karabo More
  • Carina Viljoen
  • Luan Munnik
  • Christopher Swart

Junior men (8km)

  • Anele Matsoso
  • Tshepang Tshivhula
  • Beautin van der Westhuizen
  • Olerato Mosiloane
  • Benkosi Maqwara
  • Junior Noah

Junior women (6km)

  • Ithuteng Khiba
  • Lara Stander
  • Lara van der Merwe
  • Andrea Steynberg
  • Omaatla Dikao
  • Leandri Pretorius

Featured images: Michael Scott, TEAM SA

SA Sport 2025: A Year-in-Review

Adnaan MohamedComrades Marathon, Cricket, Features, Hockey, News, Rugby, Springboks, Swimming, Totalsports Two Oceans MarathonLeave a Comment on SA Sport 2025: A Year-in-Review
By Adnaan Mohamed

In South Africa, sport has always been more than results. It is identity, catharsis and connection. In 2025, that truth surged again, from the collective power of the Springboks to the solitary courage of ultra-marathoners chasing dawn. This special edition captures a year when excellence became habit and belief became currency.

RUGBY: THE SPRINGBOKS – A STANDARD THE WORLD STILL CHASES

If global rugby were measured in tectonic plates, the Springboks spent 2025 shifting them.

South Africa’s national side operated with the assurance of champions who know their system is both unforgiving and evolving. They defended trophies, dominated tours and suffocated opponents with a brand of rugby that blended brute force with surgical intelligence.

The crowning individual honour came when Malcolm Marx was named World Rugby Men’s 15s Player of the Year. It was well deserved recognition for a player who plays the game like a controlled demolition. Around him, the emergence of creative talents such as Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu ensured the Bok blueprint remained future-proof.

“The Springboks didn’t just win in 2025, they imposed a rhythm the rest of the world struggled to breathe in.”

CRICKET: PROTEAS REWRITE THEIR HISTORY

At Lord’s, cricket’s most sacred address, South Africa finally confronted its past and walked beyond it.

The Proteas’ World Test Championship triumph was more than silverware. It was a release. Decades of near-misses dissolved as a team led by coach Shukri Conrad and led by Temba Bavuma played with clarity, courage and conviction.

Where previous Proteas sides carried scars, this one carried belief. The victory announced South Africa’s return to cricket’s highest table, not as guests, but as equals.

Proteas Women mirrored that excellence, reaching global finals and reinforcing the depth and durability of South African cricket across genders.

ATHLETICS: SPEED, SCIENCE AND STAYING POWER
Akani Simbine : The Constant

In an era of fleeting sprint dominance, Akani Simbine remained the constant, anchoring relay success and delivering world-class performances with metronomic consistency. His longevity at elite speed became its own form of greatness.

ROAD RUNNING: A YEAR THE CLOCK COULDN’T CONTAIN

South Africa’s roads became theatres of defiance in 2025, places where age, expectation and perceived limits were dismantled.

Elroy Gelant : The Marathon Reset

At 38, Elroy Gelant shattered Gert Thys 26-year-old South African marathon record, slicing through time with the precision of a veteran who understood patience as power. His run didn’t just reset a record, it reset belief.

Glenrose Xaba : Queen of the Circuit

Glenrose Xaba ruled the SPAR Grand Prix like royalty, sweeping the series with relentless cadence and tactical control. Her dominance elevated women’s road running into mainstream conversation.

Maxime Chaumeton : Breaking the Mental Barrier

By dipping under 27 minutes for 10km, Maxime Chaumeton didn’t just break a record, he broke a psychological ceiling. The ripple effect will be felt for years.

The Wildschutt Brothers : From Ceres to the World

Adriaan and Nadeel Wildschutt continued to anchor South Africa’s distance legacy. Their performances reinforced a simple truth: endurance excellence is forged through environment, discipline and humility.

ULTRA-DISTANCE RUNNING: WHERE LEGENDS WALK TOWARDS PAIN
Gerda Steyn – The Golden Girl of Endless Roads

In the brutal, beautiful realm of ultra-marathons, Gerda Steyn remained peerless. Victories at both the Totalsports Two Oceans 56km and the Comrades Marathon confirmed her status as South Africa’s undisputed queen of endurance.

Steyn doesn’t race opponents, she negotiates with terrain, climbs mountains with calm authority and descends with fearless precision.

Tete Dijana : Defender of the Down Run

The Comrades Marathon came alive as Tete Dijana successfully defended his Down Run title. His aggressive, fearless approach reminded everyone that Comrades champions are not merely runners, they are architects of suffering and triumph.
“In 2025, South Africa didn’t just win Comrades, it owned the road.”

FOOTBALL: FOUNDATIONS OVER FIREWORKS

For Bafana Bafana, 2025 was about structure and progression rather than spectacle. Key wins, disciplined performances and youth-level success hinted at a system slowly learning consistency, laying bricks rather than chasing shortcuts.

BEYOND THE BIG CODES: DEPTH ACROSS THE BOARD

From hockey triumphs to netball growth, swimming, rowing and youth multisport success, Team South Africa’s broader sporting ecosystem thrived. Medal tables and qualification campaigns confirmed a vital truth: the base of South African sport is wider than ever.

THE BIG PICTURE: WHAT 2025 REALLY MEANT

What unified South Africa’s sporting year was not just success, but sustainability.

  • Rugby showed depth and evolution
  • Cricket conquered its mental frontier
  • Athletics blended speed with staying power
  • Road and ultra-running delivered global relevance
FINAL WHISTLE

If sport is a language, then South Africa spoke it fluently in 2025, sometimes loudly, sometimes quietly, but always with intent. From scrums that bent spines to runners who bent time, this was a year where the nation didn’t wait for greatness. It ran towards it and crossed the line together.

VIP treatment for Blue Number Club runners at Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon 2026

Adnaan MohamedNews, Totalsports Two Oceans MarathonLeave a Comment on VIP treatment for Blue Number Club runners at Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon 2026
By Adnaan Mohamed

The road to the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon 2026 is built on loyalty, resilience and years of unwavering commitment.

From 10–12 April 2026, the world’s most beautiful marathon will honour its true trailblazers, the Blue Number Club (BNC), with an elevated race experience worthy of their legacy.

“Achieving the coveted BNC status at TTOM is a truly remarkable accomplishment,” said Two Oceans Marathon NPC Chairperson Chris Goldschmidt, describing the Blue Number as a badge earned through endurance, excellence and consistency.

With no joining or annual fee, the honour recognises runners who have shaped the event through repeated finishes, podium performances and gold-medal grit.

“The BNC represents the heart and history of TTOM,” Goldschmidt added.

“These runners remind us why this race is so special. Honouring them is not just important, it’s essential.”

For 2026, Blue Number Club members will enjoy a premium journey from start to finish, including priority entries, preferential seeding, express race-pack collection and dedicated hospitality. Their race numbers will proudly reflect their status, marking milestones earned through years of pounding the iconic Two Oceans route.

“These athletes are the storytellers and tradition keepers of our race,” said Wade Bromfield, General Manager of the Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon.

“Their commitment over decades has shaped the spirit and identity of this event, and from 2026 onwards we’re ensuring they receive the extra-special treatment they’ve earned.”

Beyond the Blue Number Club, all runners will benefit from a refreshed 2026 experience, with exclusive event T-shirts and limited-edition TTOM-branded Versus running socks included in every entry.

As the starting gun draws closer, Two Oceans 2026 promises a celebration of the runners who have turned every step into a legacy.

BNC runners can look forward to an exclusive, premium experience that includes:

  • Early Entries
  • Free Entries for runners with 25 medals or more
  • Blue Number Club Dinner – Wednesday, 08 April 2026
  • Express Race Pack Collection
  • BNC Hospitality at Expo and Finish
  • Special Seeding Batch
  • Enhanced Finish Experience
  • Recognition of Milestone Runs
  • Race Number Recognition
    • Ultra BNCs: dark blue band
    • Half Marathon BNCs: light blue number
    • Runners on nine medals chasing their 10th: distinctive yellow band
  • Exclusive BNC apparel by JOMA and SWAGG (available for purchase)
  • TOM NPC Membership

The Road Gets Better for Everyone

In a move that benefits the entire field, TTOM 2026 will also introduce new race-day upgrades:

  • All Ultra, Half and Trail entrants receive an exclusive event T-shirt, included in the entry fee
  • Every runner gets limited-edition TTOM-branded Versus Quarter Running Socks

Race Weekend at a Glance

  • Friday, 10 April 2026: Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon Trail Run
  • Saturday, 11 April 2026: Totalsports Two Oceans Ultra Marathon
  • Sunday, 12 April 2026: Totalsports Two Oceans Half Marathon

Blue Number Club members can explore the full offering in the official BNC DIGIMAG Edition 1 / December 2025.

BNC Queries: [email protected]
Event & Entry Queries: [email protected]
Website: www.twooceansmarathon.org.za
Facebook: Two Oceans Marathon
Instagram: Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon

Chase your 2026 goals as Absa RUN YOUR CITY Gqeberha and Cape Town 10K go live

Adnaan MohamedNewsLeave a Comment on Chase your 2026 goals as Absa RUN YOUR CITY Gqeberha and Cape Town 10K go live

The road ahead is clear, flat and fast. South Africa’s premier urban road-running spectacle, the Absa 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.

2026 Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series – Key Race Info

Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K

Date: Sunday, 01 March 2026
Start Time: 07:00
Start & Finish: Beach Road, Humewood, Gqeberha
Entry Fee:

  • Licensed Runner: R255
  • Temporary License: R30
    Entries Open: Thursday, 11 December 2025
    Entries Close: Monday, 23 February 2026 or once capacity is reached

Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K

Date: Sunday, 10 May 2026
Start Time: 09:00
Start Venue: Marine Drive, Milnerton
Finish Venue: Cape Town CBD
Entry Fee:

  • Licensed Runner: R255
  • Temporary License: R60
    Entries Open: Thursday, 11 December 2025
    Entries Close: Monday, 04 May 2026 or once capacity is reached

Later in the 2026 Series

  • Durban 10K: Sunday, 12 July
  • Tshwane 10K: Sunday, 23 August
  • Joburg 10K: Thursday, 24 September

More info:www.runyourcityseries.com
WhatsApp Line: 072 042 7613
Hashtags: #RunYourCity #AbsaRunYourCity

What to Expect as the Totalsports Two Oceans Trail Run Returns in 2026

Adnaan MohamedNews, Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon, TrailLeave a Comment on What to Expect as the Totalsports Two Oceans Trail Run Returns in 2026

The Totalsports Two Oceans Marathon Trail Run returns on 10 April 2026, offering ±16km and ±24km routes starting from the University of Cape Town calling runners back to the mountain where every climb feels like a conversation with the Cape’s ancient, wind-worn ridges.

“We’re proud to celebrate the 13th running… selling out within minutes and reigniting the enthusiasm of runners across the country,” says Chairperson Chris Goldschmidt, reflecting on a race restored after its pandemic pause.

From the historic UCT steps, runners slip into the cool hush of Newlands Forest where pine needles soften the footfall and the air smells like beginnings. Then comes the stern, stone-backed ascent of Devil’s Peak, a reminder that beauty on the trail is earned, never given.

“Every runner will face a challenge that’s as achievable as it is exhilarating,” says General Manager Wade Bromfield, promising an adventure framed by panoramic views of Table Bay, Robben Island and the Peninsula’s blue sweep.

Limited to 500 runners per distance, the event remains an intimate pilgrimage more than a mass movement.

Trail Running enthusiasts enjoying the beauty of the Two Oceans Marathon Trail Run route in 2025 by Devin Paisley

Exclusive T-shirts and TTOM-branded Versus socks adding touches of ceremony to the climb.

When entries open, the rush will be as fierce as a downhill sprint. For those who secure a spot, the mountain waits steady ready to write another chapter under Cape Town’s autumn light.

Entries Open: Tuesday, 20 January 2026 at 12:00 (first-come, first-served)

Date: Friday 10 April 2026

Venue: University of Cape Town

Distance & Entry Fee: +- 16km / R750.00 +- 24km / R950.00

Trail Running enthusiasts enjoying the beauty of the Two Oceans Marathon Trail Run route in 2025 by Tobias Ginsberg