By Adnaan Mohamed
The heartbeat of Jozi is about to quicken. When the Boxer Super Run Joburg makes its debut at Marks Park Sports Club on Sunday, 9 November, South Africa’s two premier speed merchants, Luan Munnik and Ryan Mphahlele, will line up for what promises to be a blistering 5K duel under the highveld sun.
It’s the kind of matchup that makes road running fans lean forward. Munnik, the 2024 Tshwane champion, meets Mphahlele, the 2025 Durban victor, in a head-to-head that could light up the streets of the City of Gold.
“The 5K is where speed and endurance collide,” says Munnik, whose 13:50 win in Tshwane confirmed his versatility as a middle-distance star who can handle the heat of the road.
“It’s where a 1500m track specialist like me can mix it up with the longer-distance road runners. It’s fast, tactical, and tests complete fitness.”
For Munnik, the Joburg race, with its challenging altitude and brand-new course, brings both excitement and opportunity.
“Joburg has such a strong running culture, and racing at altitude adds an extra layer of challenge. It’s great to see the series expanding, it keeps things fresh and exciting.”
The R147,000 combined prize purse, he says, is a “massive boost for South African running.”
“It encourages professionalism and shows that the event values the effort it takes to compete at the top level.”
And what about facing Mphahlele, one of SA’s most in-form athletes?
“Ryan ran a great race in Durban, his range from track to road has been impressive. We had a close finish at a street mile recently, so I’m looking forward to giving him a run for his money over 5K. Joburg’s altitude makes pacing tricky, but a smart race should bring a strong time.”
For Mphahlele, though, there’s no overthinking the challenge, just one clear mission: win.
“The 5K distance requires serious speed endurance to sustain the high tempo,” says the Durban champion, who clocked a sizzling 13:37 in October.
“I really enjoy the Boxer Super Run, and the prize purse is exciting. My goal is simple, I’m going for the win. The hills of Joburg will make it interesting!”
He’s also looking forward to soaking up the event’s trademark spirit.
“I love the energy around these runs, from the elites to the social runners, everyone brings great vibes. I can’t wait to run in Jozi and enjoy the atmosphere before and after the race.”
Also chasing glory is Chris Mhlanga, the ever-consistent Boxer Athletics Club standout who’s been a fixture in the top five of every Super Run he’s contested.
“The Boxer Super Run is the best and biggest 5K event in the country right now,” he says. “I run it for the love — the vibe, the people, the energy. In Joburg, I’ll be aiming for that podium again. A low 14-minute time would be great.”
For event organisers, this elite showdown marks another high point in the Boxer Super Run’s growing legacy.
“It’s going to be extra special to see two champions like Luan and Ryan go head-to-head,” says Lee-Ann Pillay, Head of Marketing at Boxer Superstores.
“With Chris Mhlanga also in the mix, and plenty of other contenders, we’re expecting world-class racing in Joburg. It’s going to be a day to remember.”
From the fast pack chasing gold to the social runners out for fun and finish-line selfies, the Boxer Super Run Joburg captures what South African road running is all about: community, competition, and pure, unfiltered passion for the sport.
Because in Jozi, even the air feels faster.
Event Details: Boxer Super Run Joburg 2025
Date: Sunday, 9 November 2025
Venue: Marks Park Sports Club, Johannesburg
Distance: 5KM (plus 1KM Kids Race)
Start Times:
- 07:00 – OPEN WAVE: All runners welcome
- 08:00–09:30 – SUPER SOCIAL WAVE: Fun runs, dress-ups, charity teams
- 09:45 – ELITE WOMEN
- 10:00 – ELITE MEN
- 10:30 – 1KM KIDS RACE
Entry Includes:
- Boxer Super Run Performance Tee
- Goodie Bag & Race Number with Timing Chip
- Finisher’s Medal
- On-route entertainment & refreshment stations
Prize Purse: R147,200 Total
- Elite Race: Top 8 men and women share the prize pot
- Winners: R20,000 each
- Open Wave: Category prizes for Junior, Open, 40–49, 50–59, 60–69 & 70+
Follow & Enter
Facebook: Boxer Superstores / Boxer Super Run 5K
Instagram: @boxer_superstores / @boxer_superrun5k
Queries: [email protected]
