By: Lonwabo Mtyeku | Photo Credit: Geoff Redman, Anthony Grote
Seen Here: Runners enjoying the on-route action at the 2025 Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K. Photo Credit: Anthony Grote
Entries for the highly anticipated Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K are set to open on Thursday, 19 March 2026, as the iconic race prepares to celebrate its ninth anniversary on Sunday, 12 July 2026. The popular event invites runners from across South Africa to experience the vibrant streets and coastal energy of Durban in one of the country’s premier road races.
Part of the nationwide Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series, the Durban leg is a key highlight on the running calendar, drawing both elite athletes and recreational runners who are eager to test themselves along scenic urban routes while soaking up the festive atmosphere.
The 2026 series began earlier this month in Gqeberha, before continuing to Cape Town, Durban, Tshwane and ultimately concluding in Johannesburg. Each race transforms city streets into a celebration of fitness, community and competition.
According to Michael Meyer, founder of the series and Managing Director of Stillwater Sports, the Durban race has become one of the most exciting stops on the national circuit.
Seen Here: Runners enjoying the on-route action at the 2025 Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K. Photo Credit: Anthony Grote
“Over the years, Durban has become one of the standout events on the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series calendar, attracting runners from across the country who are eager to take on its scenic routes and vibrant city streets,” Meyer said. “This year we’re excited to welcome both seasoned athletes and first-time participants to experience the energy, fun and sense of community that define the Series. This is more than a race — it’s a celebration of running, the city and the incredible spirit of South African runners.”
Jabulile Nsibanyoni from Absa Group echoed the excitement, emphasising the inclusive nature of the event.
“Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just starting out, this race is for everyone. You can run, walk or jog your way through, soaking in the ocean views and contributing to charity along the way,” she said. “We invite the community of Durban to join us and share their unique stories as we lace up our shoes and take our running stories to the streets.”
Seen Here: An aerial view of the 2025 Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K. Photo Credit: Geoff Redman
Race Details
The Durban race will begin at 08:00 on Masabalala Yengwa Avenue, with runners finishing at the scenic Sunkist Lawns along the Durban Promenade.
Entry Fees
- Licensed Runner: R255
- Temporary Licence: R60
Entries open Thursday, 19 March 2026, and close Monday, 29 June 2026, or once the race capacity has been reached.
2026 Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series Calendar
- 01 March 2026 – Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K
- Elite Men’s Winner: Adriaan Wildschutt (RSA) – 27:47
- Elite Women’s Winner: Brenda Jepchirchir (KEN) – 30:15
- 10 May 2026 – Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K
- 12 July 2026 – Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K
- 23 August 2026 – Absa RUN YOUR CITY TSHWANE 10K
- 24 September 2026 – Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K
With Durban’s oceanfront backdrop, energetic crowds and fast course, the race continues to attract thousands of runners each year. As entries open this week, organisers expect another strong turnout from athletes eager to be part of one of South Africa’s most exciting city road races.
For more information and entries, visit the official website: www.runyourcityseries.com.
