Seen Here: Runners enjoying the on-route action at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY TSHWANE 10K in 2025. Photo Credit: Tobias Ginsberg
TSHWANE, SOUTH AFRICA – South Africa’s capital city is preparing to welcome thousands of runners and spectators as the highly anticipated Absa RUN YOUR CITY TSHWANE 10K returns on Sunday, 23 August 2026, promising another unforgettable celebration of elite road running, community spirit, and the rich cultural heritage of Tshwane.
With entries officially sold out, anticipation is building for one of the country’s premier road-running events, where world-class competition meets vibrant local entertainment in a race that has quickly become a highlight on South Africa’s sporting calendar.
Seen Here: Runners enjoying the on-route action at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY TSHWANE 10K in 2025. Photo Credit: Tobias Ginsberg
A Race That Celebrates More Than Running
Far more than a competitive 10-kilometre race, the Absa RUN YOUR CITY TSHWANE 10K has established itself as a showcase of the city’s identity. Participants will navigate wide, scenic streets through the heart of Pretoria while experiencing an atmosphere fuelled by passionate spectators, energetic entertainment zones, and community pride.
Starting and finishing on Stanza Bopape Street in Arcadia, the event offers runners a unique opportunity to experience South Africa’s administrative capital from a fresh perspective, blending athletic excellence with the city’s history, culture, and hospitality.
“We’re looking forward to welcoming thousands of runners back to Tshwane for another exceptional edition of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY TSHWANE 10K,” said Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports and founder of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series.
“This event is about far more than chasing fast times. It’s about bringing people together to celebrate running while showcasing the unique character, history and energy of South Africa’s capital city. Whether you’re lining up for a personal best or taking in the experience with family and friends, Tshwane promises a memorable day out.”
Seen Here: Runners enjoying the on-route action at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY TSHWANE 10K in 2025. Photo Credit: Tobias Ginsberg
Entertainment at Every Turn
Participants and supporters can expect an electric race-day atmosphere, with live performances, vibrant cultural displays, cheer zones, and interactive activations from the Series’ partners, including Absa, PUMA, Powerade, AVIS, and Heineken.
The carefully curated entertainment programme celebrates Tshwane’s diverse cultural heritage while ensuring that every kilometre offers an engaging experience for runners and spectators alike.
According to Jabulile Nsibanyoni, Head of Sponsorships at Absa, the event reflects the bank’s commitment to creating meaningful community experiences.
“We’re thrilled to bring an engaging and entertaining atmosphere to the Tshwane race. The entertainment along the route has been thoughtfully curated to celebrate the city’s rich heritage and cultural traditions, turning the race into a vibrant tribute to the spirit of the capital city.”
She added that both participants and supporters can expect dynamic performances reflecting the warmth, diversity, and energy for which Tshwane is renowned.
Seen Here: Runners enjoying the on-route action at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY TSHWANE 10K in 2025. Photo Credit: Tobias Ginsberg
PUMA Brings the Speed
Returning as one of the Series’ headline partners, PUMA will once again energise the course with its popular PUMA Speed Zone, giving runners an additional motivation boost while celebrating speed, performance, and personal achievement.
“PUMA Speed Zone is designed to celebrate movement, performance and the thrill of running,” explained Rae Trew-Browne, PUMA Run Train Marketing Manager.
“Every Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series event has its own personality, and Tshwane is no exception. It’s an opportunity for every participant to discover what ‘TOO FAST’ means to them while soaking up the incredible atmosphere that makes this event so special.”
Seen Here: Runners enjoying the on-route action at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY TSHWANE 10K in 2025. Photo Credit: Tobias Ginsberg
A Standout Event on South Africa’s Running Calendar
The Tshwane race forms the fourth stop of the six-event Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series, which has continued to grow in stature since its launch in 2015. The Series combines elite international competition with mass participation, creating an inclusive platform that welcomes professional athletes, social runners, families, and first-time participants.
The 2026 Series has already delivered memorable performances.
South African distance star Adriaan Wildschutt claimed victory at the Gqeberha 10K in a time of 27:47, while Kenya’s Brenda Jepchirchir won the women’s race in 30:15.
Ugandan Olympic champion Joshua Cheptegei dominated the Durban 10K, crossing the finish line in 27:19, with Kenya’s Doreen Cherop taking the women’s honours in 30:43.
The Cape Town 10K, originally scheduled for May, was cancelled due to severe weather conditions.
With both the Tshwane and Joburg races already sold out, the continued popularity of the Series underscores South Africa’s growing passion for road running and healthy lifestyles.
Seen Here: Runners enjoying the on-route action at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY TSHWANE 10K in 2025. Photo Credit: Tobias Ginsberg
Race Information
Event: Absa RUN YOUR CITY TSHWANE 10K
Date: Sunday, 23 August 2026
Start Time: 08:00
Start & Finish Venue: Stanza Bopape Street, Arcadia, Pretoria
Status: Sold Out
Looking Ahead
Following Tshwane, the Series moves to Johannesburg on 24 September before concluding in Mangaung on 25 October 2026.
As thousands prepare to lace up their running shoes, the Absa RUN YOUR CITY TSHWANE 10K once again promises to deliver much more than an elite sporting contest. It will celebrate resilience, healthy living, cultural diversity, and community connection while showcasing the vibrant spirit of South Africa’s capital city.
For runners, supporters, and visitors alike, Tshwane is ready to welcome the nation for another memorable chapter in one of Africa’s premier road-running celebrations.
