By: Lonwabo Mtyeku | Photo Credit: Action Photo
Cape Town, South Africa — Kenyan distance runner Faith Cherono is set to return to South African roads with clear intent and rising momentum, as she lines up for the Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K on Sunday, 10 May 2026.
Following an impressive South African debut at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K in March, Cherono arrives in Cape Town not just chasing victory—but aiming squarely at a personal best and a potential South African All-Comers record.
Building Momentum on South African Soil
Cherono made an immediate impact in Gqeberha, finishing second in a time of 30:44, just behind compatriot and training partner Brenda Jepchirchir, who claimed victory in 30:15. The performance marked the second-fastest 10km time of Cherono’s career, underlining her current form.
Reflecting on that experience, Cherono highlighted both the competitive environment and the reception she received:
“It was a good experience and a nice event. I was happy to join South African athletes and also athletes from all around the world. I felt at home—welcomed, supported.”
However, with Jepchirchir absent from the Cape Town race, Cherono anticipates a different tactical dynamic.
“I will miss Brenda, who is very strong. So I hope to have other strong competitors to help and share the load.”
Eyes on a Sub-30 Breakthrough
At 27, Cherono is entering a critical phase of her career, combining experience with peak physical condition. Her current lifetime best stands at 30:06, but she believes Cape Town’s course and competitive field could unlock something faster—potentially historic.
A sub-30-minute finish would not only mark a personal milestone but could also:
- Set a new SA All-Comers record
- Become the first sub-30 women’s 10km run on African soil
“I am aiming to run a PB and will do my best to push to the limit. I am more interested in running a fast time than trying to win the race or make the podium,” she said. “My plan is to focus on the time and I’m willing to take the risk.”
A World-Class Field in the Mother City
The Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series continues to attract elite international and local athletes, and the Cape Town leg is expected to deliver a high-calibre women’s field capable of sustaining a fast pace.
Series Founder and Stillwater Sports Managing Director Michael Meyer emphasised the importance of athletes like Cherono in elevating the event:
“Her entry adds real depth and international quality to the women’s field and further strengthens what is shaping up to be a world-class race in the Mother City.”
The race will start at Marine Drive in Milnerton and finish in the Cape Town CBD, offering a scenic yet fast route ideal for record-chasing performances.
A Series Driving Global and Local Excellence
The Cape Town race is the second stop in the 2026 Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series, which continues to grow in stature as a premier road running circuit in South Africa.
2026 Series Calendar:
- 1 March – Gqeberha 10K
- 10 May – Cape Town 10K
- 12 July – Durban 10K
- 23 August – Tshwane 10K
- 24 September – Joburg 10K
With athletes like Cherono pushing boundaries, the series is not only showcasing elite performance but also positioning South Africa as a global destination for road running excellence.
All Eyes on Cape Town
As race day approaches, anticipation builds around whether Cherono can convert ambition into achievement. With optimal conditions, strong competition, and a willingness to take calculated risks, the stage is set for a performance that could redefine women’s road running on the continent.
For Cherono, it’s not just about crossing the finish line—it’s about rewriting it.
