Midrand, Gauteng: One of Gauteng’s longest-standing road running events is entering an exciting new chapter.
Dating back to the early 1980s, the race began as a 15km event and has evolved over the decades into the Midrand Striders Chamberlain Country Classic. While long-serving members differ on the exact inaugural year, all agree that the race has been a cornerstone of the Midrand running community for more than 40 years.
The race has continually adapted to meet the needs of South Africa’s growing running community while remaining true to the values of camaraderie, perseverance and community that have defined Midrand Striders since its inception.
The evolution of the race would not have been possible without the support of Kyalami Corner Shopping Centre, home of the Midrand Striders Chamberlain Country Classic. Over the past three years, Kyalami Corner has partnered with Midrand Striders and continues to support the event as it enters this exciting new era. While Chamberlain now joins as the title partner, giving the race its new identity as the Midrand Striders Chamberlain Country Classic, Kyalami Corner remains a proud and valued partner, reaffirming its commitment to community wellbeing, active lifestyles and the continued success of one of Midrand’s flagship sporting events.
The partnership extends far beyond race day. Together, Midrand Striders and Kyalami Corner have shared a commitment to developing the sport and creating opportunities for runners from disadvantaged communities. Proceeds from the previous two editions of the race have been used to purchase running shoes for development runners from Diepsloot, helping talented athletes overcome financial barriers and continue pursuing their running ambitions. The club’s broader development programme also supports underprivileged runners with race entries, club membership and essential running equipment, with beneficiaries giving back through volunteering and supporting club activities.
The 2026 edition of the Midrand Striders Chamberlain Country Classic will take place on Sunday, 30 August 2026, featuring 21.1km, 10km and 5km race distances through the scenic roads of Kyalami. The event promises a premium race-day experience while celebrating more than four decades of running heritage and community spirit.
Like many successful running clubs, Midrand Striders began with little more than a handful of members and a passion for running. In 1980, running partners Chris Meares and Steve Mann recognised the need for a club serving the growing Midrand community and established Midrand Country Striders. Over the past 46 years, the club has grown into one of Gauteng’s most respected running clubs, guided by its motto of Fun, Family, Fitness and a strong commitment to inclusion, volunteerism and community development.
“This race is about more than kilometres,” said Gabriel Mphahlele, Race Director of the Midrand Striders Chamberlain Country Classic.
“It celebrates our club’s heritage, honours the volunteers and partners who have supported us over the years, and creates opportunities for the next generation of runners. We are incredibly grateful to Chamberlain for joining us as our title partner and to Kyalami Corner Shopping Centre for their continued support and belief in our vision. Together, we are building a race that celebrates excellence, community and opportunity.”
Participants can look forward to:
- 21.1km, 10km and 5km race distances
- A scenic country-inspired route through Kyalami
- Professional race organisation and official timing
- Race Village entertainment and sponsor activations
- Free official race T-shirts for the first 500 entrants in the 21.1km and 10km races
- Exclusive finisher medals
- A R200 Chamberlain voucher for every participant who completes the 21.1km or 10km wearing a traditional Scottish kilt
With a target of 3,000 participants, the Midrand Striders Chamberlain Country Classic is poised to become one of Gauteng’s premier community road races while continuing its legacy of supporting grassroots running and giving back to the communities it serves.
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Author: Kyalami Corner
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