The Free State is set to join South Africa’s premier road running calendar as Absa and Stillwater Sports officially announce the launch of the inaugural Absa RUN YOUR CITY MANGAUNG 10K. Taking place on Sunday, 25 October 2026, the expansion marks a significant milestone for the award-winning series as it extends its reach to a sixth host city.
More than 200 000 runners have laced up and taken to the streets as part of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series since Absa became the Title Sponsor in 2021. Spanning Gqeberha, Cape Town, Durban, Tshwane and Johannesburg, the series has become a defining fixture on South Africa’s sporting calendar, uniting communities, showcasing the unique character of each host city, and encouraging thousands to embrace a healthier, more active lifestyle.
Made possible through a valued partnership with the Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality and the Department of Economic Development and Tourism (DEDT), the addition of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY MANGAUNG 10K will see the series grow from five to six events, further strengthening its national presence while delivering significant sporting, tourism and economic benefits to the Free State province.
Commenting on the announcement, Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports and Founder of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series, said the introduction of the sixth event reflects both the success of the series and its commitment to bringing world-class road running experiences to more South African cities.
“We are incredibly proud to announce the addition of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY MANGAUNG 10K to the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series,” says Meyer. “This is a significant milestone for the series as it expands our footprint to six major South African cities, further strengthening our vision of showcasing the country’s diverse urban landscapes through world-class road running events.”
As the heart of the Free State, the city boasts a rich sporting heritage, a passionate running community, and a strategic central location that makes it an ideal host destination.
“Through our strong partnership with the Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality and DEDT, we have the opportunity to create an event that not only delivers an exceptional race experience but also contributes meaningfully to tourism, economic activity, and community development in the region,” continues Meyer. “We are excited to welcome runners from across South Africa and beyond to Mangaung on Sunday, 25 October 2026.”
Sydney Mbhele, Group Chief Marketing and Corporate Affairs Officer, Absa Group says, “The expansion of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series to Mangaung is a landmark moment, not only for the event but for the Free State community. For many years, runners have called for the series to include Mangaung, and we are proud to have listened because at Absa, we believe every story matters. Bringing this iconic race to the city creates a platform to showcase Mangaung on the national stage, while unlocking meaningful opportunities for tourism, local businesses and economic growth. We look forward to welcoming runners from across South Africa to experience the warmth, culture and energy of the Free State as we continue to inspire active lifestyles and create lasting impact in the communities we serve.”
Exclusive to Absa Members: As part of the sponsorship agreement, Absa members will enjoy an exclusive preferential entry window from 12:00 on Wednesday 29 July to 12:00 on Friday 31 July 2026 on a first-come, first-served basis. Public entries will open on Saturday 01 August.
The Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality has welcomed the addition of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY MANGAUNG 10K to the nationally acclaimed series, describing the event as a significant opportunity to showcase the city’s unique character while boosting tourism and economic activity.
“We are honoured to welcome the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series to Mangaung,” said Mangaung Metro Executive Mayor Gregory Nthatisi. “The introduction of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY MANGAUNG 10K is a significant milestone for our city and presents an exciting opportunity to showcase our rich heritage, vibrant communities, and renowned hospitality to visitors from across South Africa.
We look forward to partnering with all stakeholders to deliver an exceptional event experience that will benefit our residents, local businesses, and the broader economy.”
DEDT praises the partnership behind the event, noting that the Absa RUN YOUR CITY MANGAUNG 10K aligns with the department’s ongoing commitment to promoting the Free State as a leading sport and tourism destination.
“The Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series aligns with our ongoing efforts to position the Free State as a leading sport tourism destination,” advises Hon Ketso Makume – MEC DEDT. “Beyond the race itself, the event will stimulate economic activity, support local businesses, and create opportunities for the province to showcase its unique attractions to a national audience.”
In closing, Mbhele added: “This is not only about running, through our R1 Campaign, every kilometre logged by Team Absa on Strava continues to drive real change. Together, we’ve already raised almost R10 Million to date to support school vegetable gardens across South Africa, helping to nourish communities and invest in the future. This is one initiative that is also set to beneft the Free-state province”.
EVENT DATES: 2026 Absa RUN YOUR CITY MANGAUNG 10K
Date: Sunday, 25 October 2026
Start Time: 07:00
Start Line: Sir George Grey Street exit of Grey College
Finish Line: Kings Way (Bloemfontein)
Entry Fee: Entry Fee: R 255 (Licensed Runner)
Temp License Fee: R70
Entry Fee Includes:
• Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series Event Performance T-shirt
• Absa Drawstring Bag
• Absa Peak Cap
• Absa Socks
• Race Number & Timing Chip
• Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series Finisher’s Medal
• Major Sponsor Activations
• Route Entertainment Points
• 3 x Refreshment stations on route
• Tog Bag Drop and Collect Service
• Post Event Entertainment
Entries Open: Exclusive to Absa Members: from 12:00 on Wednesday 29 July to 12:00 on Friday 31 July 2026 on a first-come, first-served basis
Public Entries: Saturday 01 August
Entries Close: Thursday 08 October 2026 or once capacity has been reached
Facebook: @Gqeberha10k / @CapeTown10k / @Durban10k / @Tshwane10k / @Joburg10k / @Mangaung 10K
Instagram: @Gqeberha10k / @CapeTown10k / @Durban10k / @Tshwane10k / @Joburg10k / @Mangaung10k
Hashtag: #RunYourCity #AbsaRunYourCity
WhatsApp Line: 072 042 7613
Websites: www.runyourcityseries.com
CLICK HERE to submit your press release to MyPR.co.za.
Author: Jacky McClean from NEWSPORT MEDIA on behalf of Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series.
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