National Champion Eyes Strong Comeback
By: Lonwabo Mtyeku | Photo Credit: Action Photo
Seen Here: Kabelo Mulaudzi in action during the Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K in 2025. Photo Credit: Action Photo
Cape Town — South Africa’s road running spotlight turns to the Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K this May, where Kabelo Mulaudzi will make a highly anticipated return following injury, determined to reassert himself among the country’s elite.
Mulaudzi arrives in confident form after clinching his maiden national 10,000m title at the ASA Senior Track & Field Championships in Stellenbosch. His winning time of 28:52.56 not only secured gold but also marked a personal breakthrough on the track.
Having missed the season-opening race due to injury, the Central Gauteng Athletics standout views Cape Town as both a comeback platform and an opportunity to rebuild momentum.
“I want to be competitive again and test myself against a strong field,” Mulaudzi said. “A podium finish is always the goal, but a personal best would mean even more.”
With a lifetime best of 27:41 over 10km, achieved during a dominant 2025 campaign, Mulaudzi remains a serious contender — provided he can translate his track success back onto the road.
Masai Brings World-Class Firepower
Adding intrigue to the race is the presence of Felix Kibet Masai, who enters the event in formidable form and with clear intent to challenge the record books.
The Kenyan recently clocked a personal best of 27:24 in France before securing victory at the Totalsports Two Oceans Half Marathon — a performance that confirmed his readiness to compete at the highest level.
Now making his South African 10km debut, Masai has set his sights firmly on the South African All-Comers record of 27:16, held by Joshua Cheptegei.
“I’ve heard the course is fast and perfect for a quick time,” Masai said. “My goal is to run 27 minutes flat and see what’s possible.”
His presence introduces a high-performance dynamic that raises both the pace and the stakes of the race.
Seen Here: Felix Kibet Masai in action during the Totalsports Two Oceans Half Marathon in 2026. Photo Credit: Action Photo
A Course Built for Speed
The route, stretching from Marine Drive in Milnerton to the Cape Town CBD, is widely regarded as one of the fastest in the country. Its flat profile and favourable conditions make it ideal for athletes chasing personal bests and record performances.
These characteristics set the stage for a potential breakthrough race — particularly with a field that combines local resilience with international speed.
Race organisers believe the conditions are perfectly aligned for a standout edition.
“The return of Kabelo strengthens the local field, especially after his national success,” said Michael Meyer. “At the same time, Felix brings incredible form and ambition. It’s exactly the kind of combination that produces fast times and memorable racing.”
More Than Just a Race
The Cape Town leg forms a key part of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series, a growing platform that blends elite competition with mass participation across major South African cities.
Beyond individual ambitions, the event continues to elevate road running in the country — providing local athletes with the opportunity to compete against world-class opposition on home soil.
All Eyes on Race Day
As the countdown to 10 May continues, the narrative is building: a national champion on the comeback trail, an international challenger targeting history, and a course designed for speed.
Whether it culminates in a personal best, a tactical victory, or a record-breaking run, the 2026 edition of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K promises to deliver a compelling chapter in South Africa’s road running story — where ambition meets opportunity on one of the country’s fastest stages.
