Article: Lonwabo Mtyeku | GP News Media – Community Newsroom Pictures: Supplied
Pretoria, South Africa — The countdown to one of Pretoria’s most beloved road-running events has officially begun. With exactly 90 days to go, runners, families, and fitness enthusiasts across Gauteng are gearing up for the Sappi TuksRace, taking place on 14 February 2026 — a Valentine’s Day challenge that promises heart, endurance, and the perfect kick-start to a healthy new year.
Backed by Sappi as the partner and title sponsor, the 2026 edition will combine the race’s rich tradition with a renewed focus on wellbeing, sustainability, and community upliftment. For thousands of runners, the Sappi TuksRace is not only a test of athletic grit but an opportunity to recommit to long-term health and fitness goals.
A Race Through Pretoria’s Most Scenic Sporting Hub
Hosted at the University of Pretoria’s Hillcrest Sports Campus, the event offers one of the capital city’s most picturesque and historic routes. Runners will move through the serene campus environment and the heart of Tshwane — a journey marked by fresh air, rolling hills, and world-class sporting facilities.
“It’s one of Pretoria’s most loved races,” says Steven Ball, Director of TuksSport and CEO of the High Performance Centre (HPC). “At the University of Pretoria, we believe a healthy body creates a healthy mind. The Sappi TuksRace is a celebration of wellness, resilience, and community. When society is well, prosperity follows.”
A Race for All: From Pros to Families
With a race format designed for all fitness levels, participants can choose between:
- 21.1 km Half-Marathon
- 10 km Race
- 5 km Fun Run
- 1 km Family Event
While seasoned runners often tackle the challenging half-marathon, newcomers can ease into the excitement with the fun run options that welcome all ages.
Comrades Legend Charne Bosman Leads the Charge
Comrades Marathon champion Charne Bosman has confirmed her entry for the 21 km race — continuing her long-standing tradition with Tuks.
“I love this race,” says Bosman. “Running through the University of Pretoria campus is special. It’s not every day you get the chance to do that. The route tests you with a few climbs, but if you’ve trained well, you’ll enjoy a fast finish.”
Bosman, who recently turned 50, shows no sign of slowing down. Known as a familiar face on the UP campus, she calls Tuks her second home — a place that continues to foster her world-class training.
“There are things money can’t buy — like seeing the sunrise on an early morning run,” she reflects. “Everything feels clean and fresh at that time of day.”
Her message to the community?
Lace up. Show up. Rise with the sun — and rise to the challenge.
2026: A Milestone Year for Sappi
The 2026 event holds special meaning for Sappi, which celebrates 90 years of unlocking the power of renewable resources — a milestone that aligns perfectly with the race’s theme of unlocking personal potential.
“Our tagline for 2026, ‘90 years of unlocking potential — from forests to finish lines with TuksSport’ reflects our shared commitment to sustainability and growth,” says Graeme Wild, CEO of Sappi Southern Africa.
“At Sappi, partnerships like this enable us to support young talent, champion resilience, and create shared value. The race also aligns with our internal ‘MoveMore’ initiative that promotes staff wellbeing.”
A Partnership Built for the Future
The long-term collaboration between Sappi and TuksSport signals an exciting new chapter for the event. Together, both organisations are committed to growth, community impact, and the advancement of sport as a vehicle for transformation.
With more than 30 sporting codes and internationally recognised high-performance facilities, TuksSport continues to stand as a leading catalyst for athletic excellence — locally and globally.
ABOUT THE HOSTS
TuksSport
A leader in sports participation, coaching, and high-performance development, TuksSport provides a home for over 30 sporting codes and supports athletes ranging from recreational participants to elite professionals. With world-class scientific, medical, and performance programmes, TuksSport remains a national hub for sustainable sports development.
Sappi
Founded in 1936, Sappi is a global pioneer in woodfibre-based renewable materials, operating across South Africa, Europe, North America, and Asia. With more than 11,500 employees worldwide, Sappi continues to drive innovation, support community development, and invest in sustainable economic growth.
Race Day: 14 February 2026
Venue: University of Pretoria Hillcrest Sports Campus
Distances: 21.1 km | 10 km | 5 km | 1 km
Theme: Unlocking Potential – Together
Whether you’re chasing a personal best or running for fun, the Sappi TuksRace is your chance to start 2026 with heart, health, and purpose. The countdown begins — 90 days to the start line. See you there.
