By: Lonwabo Mtyeku | Photo Credit: Anthony Grote, David Sullivan, Tobias Ginsberg
Seen Here: Totalsports Women’s Race Cape Town Photo Credit: David Sullivan
Women’s road running will once again take centre stage this August as the 2026 Totalsports Women’s Race returns bigger, bolder and more rewarding than ever, with organisers announcing an increased combined prize purse of R450 000 across the three-city series.
Hosted by Stillwater Sports in celebration of Women’s Month, the iconic race series will take place over three consecutive Sundays, beginning in Durban on 2 August, followed by Cape Town on 9 August, before concluding in Johannesburg on 16 August 2026.
The announcement signals a major investment in women’s sport and further strengthens the Totalsports Women’s Race as one of South Africa’s leading road running events dedicated exclusively to women.
Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports, says the increased prize purse reflects the event’s ongoing commitment to empowering women through athletics.
“The Totalsports Women’s Race has always been about celebrating, empowering, and uplifting women through sport, and the announcement of an increased combined Prize Purse of R450 000 reinforces that commitment,” says Meyer.
Seen Here: Totalsports Women’s Race Durban Photo Credit: Anthony Grote
“By rewarding excellence across all three events, we are not only recognising the dedication and hard work of elite athletes but also creating a platform that inspires women of all ages and abilities to be part of something truly special during Women’s Month.”
The total prize purse will be split equally among the three races, with each city event offering R150 000 in prize money. The top 10 finishers in the Open Category will receive payouts, with winners earning R33 000, second place receiving R22 000, and third place taking home R16 500.
Additional incentives will also reward athletes competing in Junior, 40–49, 50–59, 60–69 and 70+ age categories, highlighting the race’s commitment to inclusivity and participation across generations.
Over the years, the Totalsports Women’s Race has evolved into more than just a sporting event. It has become a powerful celebration of resilience, unity, wellness and female empowerment, attracting thousands of runners and walkers from across the country.
Adding to the excitement, Totalsports Head of Marketing Nikki Crous says the race continues to represent the spirit and strength of women from all walks of life.
“The Totalsports Women’s Race is a celebration of every woman who shows up, challenges herself, and embraces the journey,” says Crous.
Seen Here: Totalsports Women’s Race Johannesburg Photo Credit: Tobias Ginsberg
“While the prize purse rewards exceptional performances, it also shines a spotlight on the hard work, dedication, and passion that fuel every participant’s experience. We are incredibly proud to be part of an event that continues to inspire women and unite communities through the power of running.”
The Durban race will kick off the series at Suncoast Casino along the scenic Snell Parade, while Cape Town participants will race through the historic city centre before finishing at the Grand Parade. Johannesburg’s edition will conclude the series at Marks Park, where runners are expected to once again flood the streets in celebration of Women’s Month.
Demand for the event continues to soar, with entries for both the Cape Town and Johannesburg races already sold out months ahead of race day, further underlining the popularity and cultural significance of the series.
Beyond competition, the event also carries a strong social impact component through its continued partnership with PinkDrive, the non-profit organisation dedicated to breast cancer awareness, education and free health services for medically uninsured South Africans.
As anticipation builds for the 2026 series, organisers believe this year’s edition will not only deliver elite racing performances, but also create meaningful moments that celebrate the power, determination and unity of women through sport.
