Absa is excited to announce the renewal of its partnership as the Title Sponsor of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES, a collaboration that began during the challenging days of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2021. At a time when many sponsors were stepping back, Absa boldly stepped forward, helping to grow South Africa’s premier 10km road running series from three cities to five. This partnership has drawn elite athletes, casual runners, and entire communities together in a celebration of fitness and unity across the country.
“Absa’s decision to come on board as Title Sponsor in 2021 marked the beginning of a dynamic era for the Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES,” says Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports and Series Founder. “Their energy and commitment immediately stood out, but the results have exceeded even our highest expectations. Absa’s focus on innovation, inspiration, and inclusivity aligns perfectly with our vision to make this series the most exciting and accessible road running event in Africa.”
Since the partnership began, the series has expanded its reach, growing from three events to five, and the numbers tell a powerful story. In 2024 alone, 45,589 runners took part, with four out of five events selling out before race day. Participants were treated to thrilling innovations, including the chance to win one of five Chery Tiggo 4 Pro LiT vehicles, valued at over R1.3 million in total. Beyond the races, the series has made a meaningful social impact, raising R182,340 for the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) this year.
2024 was also a standout year for athletic achievements. At the Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K, Kenya’s Christine Nalimo Njoki made history, running the fastest 10km by a woman on African soil with an astonishing time of 30:37. South Africa’s Glenrose Xaba followed closely, setting a new national record of 31:12, breaking Elana Meyer’s 2001 record. Lesotho’s Neheng Khatala also shone, setting a national record with her time of 32:01. Meanwhile, at the TSHWANE 10K, Xaba continued her streak, clocking 31:51 to set a new course record and the fastest 10km run at altitude in South Africa.
“Our vision has always been to give South African elites the chance to compete against the best in the world, right here at home,” says Meyer. “The incredible performances we’ve seen year after year speak volumes. We’re thrilled to continue this journey with Absa, building on the momentum to make this the most inspiring mass-participation road running event on the continent.”
Absa’s involvement goes beyond running. As part of the R1 Campaign, the series has raised nearly R5 million over two years to build vegetable gardens in schools, supporting sustainable food security and empowering communities. “The Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES is more than a race—it’s a movement,” says Sydney Mbhele, Absa’s Group Chief Marketing and Corporate Affairs Officer. “It revitalizes South Africa’s cities, celebrates the stories of every participant, and makes a tangible impact on communities. As we look to the next four years, we’re excited to elevate the race experience, foster unity, and champion endurance and purpose for all South Africans.”
Event Dates:
1. Sunday 13 April 2025 – Absa RUN YOUR CITY Gqeberha 10k
2. Sunday 11 May 2025 – Absa RUN YOUR CITY Cape Town 10k
3. Sunday 13 July 2025 – Absa RUN YOUR CITY Durban 10k
4. Sunday 24 August 2025 – Absa RUN YOUR CITY Tshwane 10k
5. Wednesday 24 September – Absa RUN YOUR CITY Joburg 10k
CHARITY SUPPORT: The Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES proudly supports the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) as the official charity of the entire series of events. A non-profit leader in the fight against cancer since 1931, CANSA enables research, educates the public and advocates for and supports all people affected by cancer, while leading SA towards a cancer-free society. When entering an Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES event online, runners can show their support by donating towards CANSA.
Facebook: @Gqeberha10k / @CapeTown10k / @Durban10k / @Tshwane10k / @Joburg10k
Instagram: @Gqeberha10k / @CapeTown10k / @Durban10k / @Tshwane10k / @Joburg10k
Hashtag: #RunYourCity #AbsaRunYourCity
WhatsApp Line: 072 042 7613
Websites: www.runyourcityseries.com