Monday 23 May 2022
Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series celebrates Global Running Day in Style!
The Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series is inviting runners nationwide to celebrate Global Running Day in style on Wednesday 01 June 2022 by taking on the fun filled Global Running Day 5K challenge on Strava!

“We’re excited to celebrate Global Running Day ‘virtually’ with the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series community,” says Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports and founder of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series. “To be part of the challenge and eligible to win an awesome pair of PUMA NITRO Running Shoes, runners must join the RUN YOUR CITY Series Running Club on Strava and click on the orange “I’m in” button displayed next to the Global Running Day 5K event listing.”

“What makes the Strava Challenges fantastic is that runners nationwide can sign up and be part of the action as it’s virtual,” continues Meyer. “Entrants need to complete the 5K run anywhere and anytime between 05:00 – 23:00 on Wednesday 01 June. Don’t forget to record your run using a smartphone (Android or iPhone device) or smart watch (Garmin, TomTom, SUUNTO, Fitbit, Polar etc).  To be in the running to win a pair of PUMA NITRO running shoes, entrants must share their activities, routes and photos to the RUN YOUR CITY Series Running Club on Strava by no later than 23:00 on Wednesday.  Include the following three hashtags #RunYourCity, #RUNPUMA and #GlobalRunningDay.  We can’t wait to celebrate another Global Running Day with the RUN YOUR CITY Series Community.”

EVENT DATES:  Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series Running Club / Global Running Day 5K
Date:  Wednesday 01 June 2022
Time:  between 05:00 – 23:00
Activity:  5K Time Trial
Route:  Runners can choose their own location and route
HOW TO JOIN THE EVENT:

1. Runners must “join” the RUN YOUR CITY Series Running Club via the following link https://www.strava.com/clubs/rycs
2. If you have not yet done so, you will need to create a Strava Account before you can join the RUN YOUR CITY Series Running Club.
3. Runners can join the Global Running Day 5K on the RUN YOUR CITY Series Running Club homepage on Strava by clicking on the orange “I’m in” button displayed next to the Event listing.
4. Runners must record their run using a smartphone (Android or iPhone device) or smart watch (Garmin, TomTom, Suunto, Fitbit, Polar etc.)
5. Runners must share their activity, pictures and routes to the RUN YOUR CITY Series Strava Club page.
6. The activity must be uploaded to Strava no later than 23:00 on Wednesday 01 June 2022.

WIN WIN WIN:  All runners that complete the challenge and share their activities and photos to the RUN YOUR CITY Series Club page on Strava will stand a chance to win an AWESOME pair of PUMA NITRO Running Shoes. The winner will be selected by random draw and announced on the RUN YOUR CITY Series Running Club page on Thursday 02 June 2022.
PLEASE NOTE:  All runners must protect their health and safety and that of others by social distancing while running. Runners are encouraged to stay up to date on the latest news and guidelines from their local and national authorities.
EVENT INFORMATION:  2022 Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series

Facebook: @CapeTown10k / @Durban10k / @Joburg10k
Instagram: @CapeTown10k / @Durban10k / @Joburg10k
Hashtag:  #RunYourCity #AbsaRunYourCity
Websites:  www.runyourcityseries.com

Tuesday 10 May 2022
Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series welcomes Chery as the official vehicle partner in 2022!
The organisers of SA’s most iconic 10km road running series, the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series have announced that Chery will be the Official Vehicle Partner of the series with the signing of a two-year agreement between the parties.

“We are extremely excited to welcome Chery as the Vehicle Partner of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series in 2022,” says Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports and Founder of the Series. “The Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series has been revolutionising the sport of road running in South Africa since 2015, and we are extremely proud to have sponsor partners who focus on similar innovative elements, just as we do. In this regard Chery is a perfect match for the series, being a premium new brand, with a customer driven approach.  We look forward to enhancing the event with the fantastic vehicles that Chery will provide.”

“The success of the series can be attributed to a number of important factors such as fantastic partnerships as well as the constant drive for innovation. Our team is continuously pushing the boundaries to offer a truly unique road running experience.”

“To keep ahead of the competition Chery also relies on innovation, placing a huge emphasis on research and development,” continues Meyer. “It’s always great to team up with a partner that shares the same beliefs. We are extremely proud to show off the impressive Chery fleet at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K this coming weekend. The vehicles will form an integral part of our event team. Look out for the stylish Chery display at registration as well as on event day at the start and finish.”

Commenting on the new association, Mr Tony Liu, Chery South Africa Executive Deputy GM said, “It is a pleasure to announce this association. We believe that mass participation events such as the Absa RUN YOUR CITY series, is enjoyed by all in South Africa. Chery wants to make a difference in South Africa and help to create memorable experiences for all South Africans.”

EVENT INFORMATION:  2022 Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series
The Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series has established itself as a ‘proudly South African’ mass participation road running series that celebrates everything that is iconic to its host city - the vibe, the city and the people! The 10km point to point routes are fast and flat, highlight iconic landmarks and boast magnificent views while featuring lively performances from local performing arts groups.   
 

Facebook: @CherySouthAfrica / @CapeTown10k / @Durban10k / @Joburg10k
Instagram: @cherysouthernafrica / @CapeTown10k / @Durban10k / @Joburg10k
Hashtag:  #RunYourCity #AbsaRunYourCity
Websites:  www.runyourcityseries.com

Friday 06 May 2022
DHL Express renews partnership with Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series!
The organisers of the iconic Absa RUN YOUR CITY (RYC) Series are excited to re-sign DHL Express as the official logistics partner of the award-winning series for another three-year period.

“We are proud to renew our partnership with DHL Express for another three action packed years,” says Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports and Founder of the Absa RYC Series. “To say that DHL Express has been instrumental in the success of the series would be an understatement. Hosting three premium mass participation road races in three major cities is no small feat and requires impeccable logistical knowhow.  A leader in its field, DHL Express is renowned for its expertise and professional approach to business. We are proud to have them in our corner. Together with their support we look forward to delivering a world-class Absa RYC Series experience in Cape Town, Durban and Johannesburg.”

“The Absa RYC Series provides a great opportunity for DHL to connect with consumers in the three major metros, while at the same time, it provides an excellent opportunity for staff engagement.  As with our many logistics partnerships across the globe, we look forward to providing our logistics expertise and deliver ‘off the field’, so that the organising team can focus on all the elements that make a fantastic event. Coupled with some engaging activations along the routes in true DHL style, we’re excited to be a part of these live events once more. We have been fortunate to see the series grow since first coming on board in 2018, and we’re looking forward to working with the team to take the series to even greater heights in the years to come,” adds Jed Michaletos, Country Manager of DHL Express South Africa.

EVENT INFORMATION:  2022 Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series

Facebook: @CapeTown10k / @Durban10k / @Joburg10k
Instagram: @CapeTown10k / @Durban10k / @Joburg10k
Hashtag:  #RunYourCity #AbsaRunYourCity
Websites:  www.runyourcityseries.com
l jacky@newsportmedia.tv

Wednesday 04 May 2022
SA Record Holders confirmed for Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K
Multiple SA Record Holders and Olympians, Stephen Mokoka and Elroy Gelant have joined the impressive list of local and international athletes - including two sub 28min 10k athletes, the third fastest 10k athlete in the world in 2022 and a multiple South African champion – that will be looking to make their mark at the 7^th annual Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K on Sunday 15 May 2022.

“It gives us great pleasure to welcome both Elroy (Gelant) and Stephen (Mokoka) to the 2022 Absa RYC CAPE TOWN 10K,” said Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports and Founder of SA’s leading 10km road running series. “Both Elroy and Stephen have been immensely loyal and have run some of their best times in the series. They have been role models for the next generation by showing up year in and year out, and we are beginning to see the fruition of them setting the bar with a new generation now coming through the ranks. Always ready to race, Stephen and Elroy are guaranteed to bring the action come race day. We are extremely proud to give SA’s elite runners the opportunity to face the World’s best runners here on home soil and can’t wait to see the action unfold.”

The third fastest athlete over 10km in 2022 is of course Daniel Simiu Ebenyo with his 26:59 run in Valencia. Ebenyo is also the defending champion in Cape Town. Ethiopia’s Mogos Tuemay has gone 27:50 (Herzogenaurach, 2021) and the SA Champion is Precious Mashele who won the 10km title for the third consecutive year at the Absa RYC DURBAN 10K in 2021. These three will now also be challenged by two of South Africa’s most dominant athletes of the last decade, Stephen Mokoka and Elroy Gelant.

It is Mokoka who owns the SA 10km and Half Marathon records of 27:38 (Manchester, 2015) and 59:36 (Gdynia, 2020), while Gelant holds the 5000m SA record of 13:04.88 (Hengelo, 2016). Both have represented South Africa on numerous occasions, and both have represented South Africa at the Olympic Games (Mokoka 2012 – Marathon; 2016 – 10 000m; 2021 – Tokyo Marathon/Gelant 2016 -5000m; 2021 – Marathon).

Mokoka was the last winner of the Absa RYC Series races, the ABSA RYC DURBAN 10K in 2019, before Covid put a hold on all things racing. He was beaten to the line by Precious Mashele on 31 October 2021 at the Absa RYC DURBAN 10K at the return of the Series but gained some measure of revenge as he finished third in the 2021 Absa RYC CAPE TOWN 12K (now the Absa RYC CAPE TOWN 10K), defeating Mashele who, after a long season, had to settle for 9^th.

Mokoka is deep in marathon preparation for the World Championships in Oregon in July and will use the Absa RYC CAPE TOWN 10K as a tester to see where he is in his preparations. And while the 37-year-old has his sights firmly set on Eugene Oregon, it is guaranteed that he will once again deliver a show stopping performance on May 15 as Mokoka loves to race in the series. Since the inception of the series in 2015, Mokoka has run in 11 of the 13 races, finished on top of the podium twice (Absa RYC CAPE TOWN 12K – 2016/Absa RYC DURBAN 10K – 2019), never been outside of the top ten and been on the podium on six occasions (either second or third to go with the two wins).

“I love competing in the Absa RYC Series. We always have good international competition to keep us sharp and the series has always looked after us South African athletes. Not having to travel internationally to race against the best in the world has helped us a lot and you know that if you line up for any of the Absa RYC races, you need to be in shape if you want to perform,” said Mokoka. “I am looking forward to running in Cape Town on 15 May. It will be the 5^th time I run in the race. While I am preparing for the World Marathon Championships, it will be good to show the youngsters I am still around and that it won’t be easy for them.”

Gelant was the only South African to finish the marathon at the 2021 Olympic Games. Since then he has raced sparingly and has decided to focus a bit more on the shorter distances in 2022. “I won’t be running a marathon this year,” said Gelant. “My focus is more on the shorter races.”

Gelant finished second at the 2022 Two Oceans Half Marathon, beaten by a mere 2seconds, but he has been showing good form on the track again claiming the silver medal in the 10 000m (28:25.32) and finishing 9^th in the 5000m (14:11.76). Gelant likes to drive the race and set the pace from the front, and while he is up against a sub 27min athlete, you can expect Gelant to show up in the front back.

“I am looking forward to running the Absa RYC CAPE TOWN 10K. It is a race that is very close to my heart. The 10km is really a good distance as there are not many top 10km races in the country that allow us to run fast and put down good times,” said Gelant. “I would really like a podium and my preparations are going well. As I am looking to run either the 5000m or 10 000m at the World Championships in July, the Absa RYC CAPE TOWN 10K race will be perfect for my preparations and I expect to give a good showing on race day.”
EVENT INFORMATION:  2022 Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series

CHARITY SUPPORT: When entering the Absa RYC CAPE TOWN 10K online entrants can choose to support five local charities:  

1. Reach for a Dream (RFAD), 2. help2read, 3. Cotlands, 4. Cape of Good Hope SPCA and 5. Die Burger Kinderfonds.

LIVE BROADCAST: The action of the 2022 Absa RYC CAPE TOWN 10K will be broadcasted LIVE on Super Sport 209 between 08:30 – 11:00 on Sunday 15 May 2022.

SA ELITE ATHLETE PROGRAMME: The Absa RYC Series has launched the 2022 SA Elite Athlete Programme aimed at providing South African runners with the opportunity to run world class times on South African soil. The programme is aimed at ensuring that the best South African athletes compete in the Absa RYC Series, against some of the best athletes in the world, and are rewarded for world class performances.

Read more here: https://runyourcityseries.com/latest-news/absa-run-your-city-series-launches-the-south-african-elite-athlete-programme/

PRIZE PURSE: The 2022 Absa RYC Series boasts a whopping combined prize purse to the value of R870 000. Athletes that form part of the SA Elite Athlete Programme and Contender Programme will also be eligible to win their share in the event prize purse at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K, Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K and Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K. To view the 2022 Absa RYC CAPE TOWN 10K Prize Purse breakdown please visit https://bit.ly/C10KPrizePurseBreakdown

PLEASE NOTE:  The event organisers will at all times adhere to Government Regulations regarding COVID-19.

Facebook: @CapeTown10k / @Durban10k / @Joburg10k
Instagram: @CapeTown10k / @Durban10k / @Joburg10k
Hashtag:  #RunYourCity #AbsaRunYourCity #RunPuma
Websites:  www.runyourcityseries.com

Friday 22 April 2022
Absa RYC Series teams up with the Sports Science Institute of South Africa in 2022!
Going one step further to help optimise runner performance at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY (RYC) Series in 2022, event organisers are excited to welcome the Sports Science Institute of South Africa (SSISA) as the official health and fitness content sponsor of SA’s leading 10km road running series which includes the: Absa RYC CAPE TOWN 10K (Sunday 15 May 2022), Absa RYC DURBAN 10K (Sunday 10 July 2022) and Absa RYC JOBURG 10K (Saturday 24 September 2022).

“We are thrilled to welcome SSISA as the health and fitness content sponsor of all three Absa RYC Series events,” says Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports and Founder of the Absa RYC Series. “SSISA possesses a wealth of knowledge that is guaranteed to benefit each and every runner, whether an elite or newcomer to the sport. From training programmes to nutritional advice and access to experts, with SSISA’s guidance runners in Cape Town, Durban and Joburg are guaranteed to be ready both physically and mentally come race day.”

SSISA’s goal is to optimise the sporting performance and health of all South Africans through the execution, application, and dissemination of science. Since 1994 SSISA, in collaboration with UCT’s Health through Physical Activity and Lifestyle (HPALS) research centre, has been a game-changer in sports performance, sports injury prevention, and promoting healthy living. 

According to Dr Mandla Moyo, SSISA CEO, the institution aims to positively impact lives, while making SSISA’s services, interventions and expertise accessible to all South Africans. “We strive to educate and guide South Africans to safe and scientifically based exercise principles. Our vision is that our reach will have no boundaries and our impact will be globally meaningful,” says Dr Moyo. “The Absa RYC Series is a great national series that not only promotes health, but also the fun side of exercise and community. What greater opportunity to reach people than through a national event that encourages people to be active? We look forward to building a strong empowered running community that will speak to SSISA as the most trusted partner in Sport Science.”

SSISA’s online services and expertise will be showcased by the Absa RYC Series through the sharing of training programmes to get people from couch to 10k injury free, as well as weekly training, running and injury prevention tips and advice. For more information on SSISA please visit www.ssisa.com

TRAINING PROGRAMMES: With the Cape Town event first on the cards in 2022, a comprehensive “Couch to 10K” and a “Sub 60min” training programme will be available for download from the Absa RYC CAPE TOWN 10K website compliments of SSISA.
EVENT INFORMATION:  2022 Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series

SA ELITE ATHLETE PROGRAMME: The Absa RYC Series has launched the 2022 SA Elite Athlete Programme aimed at providing South African runners with the opportunity to run world class times on South African soil. The programme is aimed at ensuring that the best South African athletes compete in the Absa RYC Series, against some of the best athletes in the world, and are rewarded for world class performances.

Read more here: https://runyourcityseries.com/latest-news/absa-run-your-city-series-launches-the-south-african-elite-athlete-programme/

PRIZE PURSE: The 2022 Absa RYC Series boasts a whopping combined prize purse to the value of R870 000. Athletes that form part of the SA Elite Athlete Programme and Contender Programme will also be eligible to win their share in the event prize purse at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K, Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K and Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K.

To view the 2022 Absa RYC CAPE TOWN 10K Prize Purse breakdown please visit https://bit.ly/C10KPrizePurseBreakdown

CHARITY SUPPORT: When entering the Absa RYC CAPE TOWN 10K online entrants can choose to support five local charities:  

1. Reach for a Dream (RFAD), 2. help2read, 3. Cotlands, 4. Cape of Good Hope SPCA and 5. Die Burger Kinderfonds.

PLEASE NOTE:  The event organisers will at all times adhere to Government Regulations regarding COVID-19.

Facebook: @sportssiencesa / @CapeTown10k / @Durban10k / @Joburg10k
Instagram: sportscience_sa  / CapeTown10k / Durban10k / Joburg10k
Hashtag:  #RunYourCity #AbsaRunYourCity #RunPuma
Websites:  www.ssisa.com / www.runyourcityseries.com

Wednesday 20 April 2022
Elite Field deepens as more impressive names are announced for the 2022 Absa RYC CAPE TOWN 10K!
The organisers of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY (RYC) Series are excited to announce that Isaac Kipkemboi (Kenya),

Mogos Tuemay (Ethiopia) and South Africa’s Precious Mashele will join the arsenal of elite athletes that will line up on Sunday 15 May 2022 to take on the Absa RYC CAPE TOWN 10K.

“We are excited to add three more exceptional athletes to our 2022 Absa RYC CAPE TOWN 10K line-up,” says Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports and Founder of SA’s leading 10km road running series. “Our goal is to have the World’s best runners compete against SA’s best on home soil. We are looking forward to an exceptionally fast race both in the men’s and women’s category. Having said this, we still have a few big names to announce before race day. Without letting the cat out of the bag, we also have an exciting announcement regarding the route which we will share soon.”

Runner up at the 2021 Absa RYC CAPE TOWN 12K, Kipkemboi is the latest edition to the already stellar field announced for race day after the confirmation that defending champion and the 2022 world’s third fastest 10km runner, Daniel Simiu Ebenyo (Kenya) and Uganda’s female superstars, Stella Chesang and Mercyline Chelangat will be returning to the Mother City.

Although Kipkemboi had to settle for second behind Ebenyo in the 2021 race which was the last to feature a 12km distance, before the race became a 10km distance in 2022, it did earn him an entry into this year’s N Kolay Istanbul Half Marathon, one of the most prestigious races on the global calendar. Kipkemboi finished 7^th in 61:40 in atrocious conditions in only his second half marathon. In October 2021, Kipkemboi debuted over the 21.1km with a 6^th place in Nairobi.

Although a relative newcomer to the global racing scene, Kipkemboi caught the eye of the road running fraternity after his runner up spot in the Absa RYC CAPE TOWN 12K in 2021. Prior to that and his 6^th place in Nairobi, Kipkemboi had quietly been moving through the ranks. He debuted in the athletics world as an 18-year-old in 2018 with a 9^th place at the Kenyan U20 trials in the 10 000m, clocking 29:13.8 in Nairobi. In 2019 he finished 5^th in those very same trials. With the Covid Pandemic shutting down international racing and as a relative unknown, Kipkemboi had no racing to look forward to until the Absa RYC CAPE TOWN 12K.

Now the budding star is back and is all business for the 2022 Absa RYC CAPE TOWN 10K on May 15. “I am looking at running a 27 low and want to win,” said Kipkemboi from Kenya. “I have been training hard here in Kericho (West Kenya – 2002m altitude) and my coaches, Peter Kirui and Sammy Bii (coach of the Kenyan marathon team last Olympics) are very happy with where I am, so I am confident for Cape Town.”

Also in the mix is Ethiopia’s Mogos Tuemay. The 24-year-old clocked a 27:50 in the Herzogenaurach 10km (Germany) in 2021, but of greater significance is his 60:11 half marathon time in Napoli in February this year. Tuemay clocked 27:23.49 over 10 000m and 13:10.04 (5000m) in 2019 and clearly has a good turn of speed. The fast and flat course of the race will suit his racing style to the T and Kipkemboi and defending champion, Ebenyo will ignore him at their peril.

Machine Mashele looking to upset the apple cart

While the foreign force will be looking to stamp their authority on the race, South Africa’s 10km champion and Olympian, Precious Machine Mashele (running in the colours of Boxer Athletics Club) will be looking to upset their plans.

“I am looking for a top three,” said Mashele. “I know these guys are fast. I know I will be in good shape and I know how they race after seeing them (Ebenyo and Kipkemboi) in action in Cape Town last year. My legs were a bit heavy then after a long season and a hard Absa RYC DURBAN 10K (incorporating the SA Championships that saw him defend his title in an epic showdown with friend and rival, Stephen Mokoka), but I will be fresher this year. I am running the ASA 5000m championships (Saturday 23 April) and then the Absa RYC CAPE TOWN 10K, so I will be on fresh legs.”

Mashele had an incredible 2021. First missing out on running a marathon due to the Pandemic, he intended to try and qualify for the Olympics, then turning his focus to trying to qualify for the 5000m. On his 6^th attempt, at literally the ‘hour before midnight’ Mashele hit the qualifying mark. What made that run so remarkable was that it was held in a stadium that had suffered a power failure. The coaches and athletes at the meeting parked their cars in such a way so that their headlights would show Mashele the way.

On 17 October, Mashele missed out on joining the sub 60 club (Half Marathon) by literally a second when he finished 4^th in the Poznan Half Marathon in Poland, clocking exactly 60minutes. There was no stopping him though in the Absa RYC DURBAN 10K when he powered away from Mokoka in the final kilometre to successfully defend his national 10km title and with that become the new king of the road over the shorter distances (Mokoka still reigns supreme in the Marathon).

But the long season took its toll, and he was only able to finish 9^th in the Absa RYC CAPE TOWN 12K. 2022 though is a different story. Mashele is fresh and hungry. “I’m looking for top three and in Durban I want 27(min),” said Mashele.

With more names still to be announced, the Absa RYC CAPE TOWN 10K is shaping up to be the hottest race on the South African circuit and will have athletes and races the world over keep an eye on the happenings in the Mother City come Sunday 15 May.
EVENT INFORMATION:  2022 Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series

SA ELITE ATHLETE PROGRAMME: The Absa RYC Series has launched the 2022 SA Elite Athlete Programme aimed at providing South African runners with the opportunity to run world class times on South African soil. The programme is aimed at ensuring that the best South African athletes compete in the Absa RYC Series, against some of the best athletes in the world, and are rewarded for world class performances.
Read more here: https://runyourcityseries.com/latest-news/absa-run-your-city-series-launches-the-south-african-elite-athlete-programme/

PRIZE PURSE: The 2022 Absa RYC Series boasts a whopping combined prize purse to the value of R690 000. Athletes that form part of the SA Elite Athlete Programme and Contender Programme will also be eligible to win their share in the event prize purse at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K, Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K and Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K.

CHARITY SUPPORT: When entering the Absa RYC CAPE TOWN 10K online entrants can choose to support five local charities:  

1. Reach for a Dream (RFAD), 2. help2read, 3. Cotlands, 4. Cape of Good Hope SPCA and 5. Die Burger Kinderfonds.

PLEASE NOTE:  The event organisers will at all times adhere to Government Regulations regarding COVID-19.

Facebook: @CapeTown10k / @Durban10k / @Joburg10k
Instagram: @CapeTown10k / @Durban10k / @Joburg10k
Hashtag:  #RunYourCity #AbsaRunYourCity #RunPuma
Websites:  www.runyourcityseries.com

Tuesday 19 April 2022
Dis-Chem set to offer FREE Rapid Antigen tests to all unvaccinated runners at all Absa RUN YOUR CITY events in 2022!
The organizers of South Africa’s award-winning road running series, the Absa RUN YOUR CITY (RYC) Series, are excited to announce that in continuing its partnership with Dis-Chem Pharmacies in 2022, the events will once again offer free Rapid Antigen tests to all non-vaccinated runners.

As published in the Government Gazette on 22 March 2022, the latest Covid-19 Protocols with regard to events clearly state that entrants either need to be fully vaccinated or present a negative Covid-19 Certificate obtained no more than 72 hours before the date of the event. This test must be recognized by the World Health Organization.

“We are excited to once again partner with Dis-Chem Pharmacies as the official healthcare partner of the Absa RYC Series in 2022,” says Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports and Founder of the Absa RYC Series. “We are happy to confirm that, with Dis-Chem Pharmacies as our partner, the event will cover the full cost of the rapid antigen test.  To make the process as convenient as possible for the non-vaccinated runners, the test will be conducted by Dis-Chem professionals at Race Pack Collection for all events. We are excited to return to actual events and can’t wait to welcome runners to the start line in Cape Town, Durban and Johannesburg ready to #RunYourCity.”

“Rapid antigen testing is useful in specific contexts, such as these, always with the aim of reducing the transmission of COVID-19. Timely and accurate diagnostic testing will allow us to rapidly identify the presence of COVID-19 which will contribute to a safe racing environment for all participants,” says Lizeth Kruger, clinic executive at Dis-Chem Pharmacies.

EVENT INFORMATION:  2022 Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series

Revolutionizing the sport of road running since 2015 with the introduction of the Absa RYC CAPE TOWN 10K, the Absa RYC Series comprises three unique mass participation road running events that also includes the Absa RYC JOBURG 10K (launched in 2016) and Absa RYC DURBAN 10K (launched in 2017).

Facebook: @CapeTown10k / @Durban10k / @Joburg10k
Instagram: @CapeTown10k / @Durban10k / @Joburg10k
Hashtag:  #RunYourCity #AbsaRunYourCity
Websites:  www.runyourcityseries.com
For further information please visit https://runyourcityseries.com/

Tuesday 05 April 2022
Global running star sets sights on Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K
One of the current global stars of the sport of running, Daniel Simiu Ebenyo from Kenya, returns to the Mother City on Sunday 15 May 2022 to take on the 7^th annual Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K.

As the 3^rd fastest 10K runner in the world at present, Ebenyo is one of the stars of world athletics, and is already being mentioned as the main threat to Joshua Cheptegei, the world’s leading 10km runner. Fellow runners and spectators will hope to see Ebenyo come close to the fastest 10km ever run on African soil, when he takes on the Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K.

“It’s a tremendous coup to have Daniel return to the Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K,” says Michael Meyer, founder of Africa’s leading 10K road running series. “Our aim is to have our thousands of participants stand on the start line with the world’s best runners, and Daniel certainly fits that bill. To have the third fastest 10K runner on the planet run in Cape Town is a huge thrill and privilege and will further cement the event as Cape Town’s most prestigious road running event.”

Ebenyo has made some emphatic statements already in 2022. He opened his season on 9 January at the Valencia 10km, winning in his usual front running style and in an almost solo effort, run in windy conditions. Ebenyo proceeded to decimate a quality field, winning in a time of 26:58, then the fastest in the world.

Since then only two runners have run faster. Only Joshua Cheptegei, no stranger to the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series, and Kenneth Renju have gone faster – with Cheptegei flying to a 26:49 in Cannes (6 March) and Renju winning the Lille 10km in 26:57 on 20 March.

That Ebenyo has a serious turn of speed is beyond question. In his first indoor season, the Kenyan competed in the Mondeville Indoor Meeting over 3000m one month to the day after this incredible 10km race. Seven Minutes, 42.93 seconds later and Ebenyo crossed the finish line in first. Three days later he was second at the Meeting Metz Moselle in Metz, France over the 3000m, clocking 7:37.86. On 20 March he was 4^th at the World Indoor Championships over the 3000m – just missing out on his Personal Best by 4/100^th of a second.

Few will forget how devastating Ebenyo was at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series in Cape Town in November last year. At that stage a 12km race, the Kenyan set a brutal pace from the gun to storm to victory in 34:01, beating the best of what South Africa had to offer on that day.”

And now, Ebenyo is back, returning to the Mother City to take on the reset Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K. In 2018 Joshua Cheptegei set the All Comers 10km Record of 27:16 in the Durban leg of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series. Expect that time to go.

With his aggressive front running style, he is a big favourite to not only win the Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K on 15 May, but also to drag an expected deep field to times faster than ever before witnessed in South Africa.

What makes Ebenyo’s pedigree so remarkable is that he has only been on the circuit for four years and already he has shown his versatility, grit and undeniable talent. Qualifying for the Olympic Games in the 5000m and being considered a serious medal contender speaks volumes to his pedigree.

Ebenyo has shown an affinity for racing on the track outdoors as well as indoors, two vastly different surfaces, and two very different types of racing even though both are on the track. To be able to translate that incredible racing ability from the track onto the roads is further evidence of the incredible talent that Ebenyo has at his disposal.

“I am looking to running fast in Cape Town on 15 May,” said Ebenyo as he was announced as the first headline name for the 2022 edition of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K. “I won the 12k last year and it was windy. I want to win the 10km and set a very fast time as I know I am in great shape.”

Meyer concludes, “Daniel is a true world class running star, and he will probably be the highest ranked runner to visit Cape Town this year, over any distance.  We look forward to welcoming him with open arms.”

EVENT INFORMATION:  2022 Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series

SA ELITE ATHLETE PROGRAMME: The Absa RYC Series has launched the 2022 SA Elite Athlete Programme aimed at providing South African runners with the opportunity to run world class times on South African soil. The programme is aimed at ensuring that the best South African athletes compete in the Absa RYC Series, against some of the best athletes in the world, and are rewarded for world class performances.

Read more here: https://runyourcityseries.com/latest-news/absa-run-your-city-series-launches-the-south-african-elite-athlete-programme/

PRIZE PURSE: The 2022 Absa RYC Series boasts a whopping combined prize purse to the value of R690 000. Athletes that form part of the SA Elite Athlete Programme and Contender Programme will also be eligible to win their share in the event prize purse at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K, Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K and Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K.

PLEASE NOTE:  The event organisers will at all times adhere to Government Regulations regarding COVID-19.

Facebook: @CapeTown10k / @Durban10k / @Joburg10k
Instagram: @CapeTown10k / @Durban10k / @Joburg10k
Hashtag:  #RunYourCity #AbsaRunYourCity #RunPuma
Websites:  www.runyourcityseries.co

Monday 04 April 2022
Entries open for 2022 Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K – Jozi’s largest Heritage Day Celebration!
Entries for Jozi’s largest Heritage Day Celebration, the 2022 Absa RUN YOUR CITY (RYC) JOBURG 10K, will open on Tuesday 05 April 2022!
Founded in 2016, the Absa RYC JOBURG 10K forms part of the award winning Absa RYC Series which currently consists of three iconic mass participation 10km road races: the Absa RYC CAPE TOWN 10K, Absa RYC DURBAN 10K and Absa RYC JOBURG 10K.

“It’s been two years since we’ve been able to host this exciting event in Joburg,” says Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports and Founder of the Absa RYC Series. “To say that we are excited to be back in 2022 would be an understatement. The Absa RYC JOBURG 10K celebrates the splendour of the City of Gold. We can’t wait to treat runners to a 10km journey that highlights iconic landmarks and features lively performances by a host of Joburg’s leading performing arts groups.”

“Although a mass participation road race, the event will also feature an exciting Contender Programme aimed at the racing snakes,” continues Meyer. “To qualify for prize money, entrants will need to apply to be part of the Contendar Category. The 2022 Absa RYC Series boasts a whopping combined prize purse to the value of R690 000. As if that isn’t enough excitement, we’ve also recently launched the long overdue SA Elite Athlete Programme aimed at providing South African runners with the opportunity to run world class times on South African soil. The programme is intended to ensure that the best South African athletes compete in the Absa RYC Series, against some of the best athletes in the world, and are rewarded for world class performances.”

“The Absa RYC JOBURG 10K is a true highlight on the SA running calendar,” adds Meyer. “Entrants can look forward to rubbing shoulders with elite runners both local and from abroad. What better way to celebrate National Heritage Day on Saturday 24 September 2022 than by being part of the action! Jozi runners are you ready to #RunYourCity!”

“The Absa RYC Series gives participants an opportunity to connect and engage with like-minded individuals who love to take part in walking and running, whether a beginner or elite runner. The event is closely linked to Absa’s strategic intent of bringing possibilities to life for our customers and the communities we operate in. We are, therefore, proud to be part of this prestigious event which truly defines what we stand for,” says Absa Managing Executive, Geoff Lee.

EVENT INFORMATION:  2022 Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series

SA ELITE ATHLETE PROGRAMME: The Absa RYC Series has launched the 2022 SA Elite Athlete Programme aimed at providing South African runners with the opportunity to run world class times on South African soil. Read more here: https://runyourcityseries.com/latest-news/absa-run-your-city-series-launches-the-south-african-elite-athlete-programme/

PRIZE PURSE: The 2022 Absa RYC Series boasts a whopping combined prize purse to the value of R690 000. Athletes that form part of the SA Elite Athlete Programme and Contender Programme will also be eligible to win their share in the event prize purse at the Absa RYC CAPE TOWN 10K, Absa RYC DURBAN 10K and Absa RYC JOBURG 10K.
Facebook: @CapeTown10k / @Durban10k / @Joburg10k
Instagram: @CapeTown10k / @Durban10k / @Joburg10k
Hashtag:  #RunYourCity #AbsaRunYourCity
Websites:  www.runyourcityseries.com

Tuesday 15 March 2022
Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K launches 2022 Ambassador Search Campaign!
The Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K is excited to grow its running community by welcoming its #Number1 fan (male and female) to the #RYCStrideTribe in 2022!

“The 2021 Absa RYC Series Ambassador Search Campaign was the source of a lot of excitement on social media with so many supporters sharing their passion for the sport and the brand with us,” says Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports, and founder of the Absa RYC Series. “We can’t wait to continue the excitement as we search for the Absa RYC CAPE TOWN 10K’s #Number1 fan in 2022. We are looking for inspirational runners, people who enjoy the outdoors, live life to the fullest and love the sport of road running.”

“The campaign will once again run over a 6-week period,” confirms Meyer. “Runners will need to sign up via social media and potential candidates will be assessed against pre-determined qualifying criteria which is available on the Absa RYC CAPE TOWN 10K website.  A shortlist of finalists will be compiled and released. These finalists will have one week in which to prove to the Absa RYC Series Community that they are indeed a ‘diehard’ fan. The most creative contender (x1 male and x1 female) will be welcomed as an official ambassador for 2022.  Both runners will receive a fantastic PUMA hamper to the value of R15 000 as well as Absa RYC CAPE TOWN 10K entries for themselves and three friends. We invite all runners to join in on the fun and help us grow the #RYCStrideTribe in 2022 as we #RunYourCity and #RUNPUMA.”

INFORMATION:  2022 Absa RYC Series ‘Ambassador Search’ Campaign

Entries Open:  Tuesday 15 March 2022
Entries Close:  Wednesday 06 April 2022
Shortlist to be announced:  Wednesday 13 April 2022
Shortlist finalists to let their creative side shine:  Wednesday 13 April – Wednesday 20 April 2022
Winners to be announced:  Wednesday 27 April 2022
HOW TO ENTER:  Complete and submit the Absa RYC Series Ambassador Application form via the following link: https://bit.ly/RYCStrideTribe2022

Entrant participation and requirements: 

1. Like, share and tag the announcement post.
2. By sharing a post of yourself prepping your Absa RYC Series gear on your next run, you will receive a bonus entry to increase your chances of winning.

Shortlisted candidates will be required to:

1. Show their gees by completing an Absa RYC Series Challenge on Strava.  Show your skill by sharing a TikTok ‘like video’ of yourself completing the challenge.
2. Prove that you are loyal by taking your running buddies for a run.
3. Share your Absa RYC Series Story and what running means to you, we’re looking for inspiration, motivation, humour, all of the above.

EVENT INFORMATION:  2022 Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series

Facebook: @PUMASouthAfrica / @CapeTown10k / @Durban10k / @Joburg10k

Instagram: @pumasouthafrica / @CapeTown10k / @Durban10k / @Joburg10k
Hashtag:  #RunYourCity #AbsaRunYourCity #RYCStrideTribe #RUNPUMA
Websites:  www.runyourcityseries.co

Wednesday 09 March 2022
Entries are open for the 2022 Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K!
Entries are open for the 2022 Absa RUN YOUR CITY (RYC) DURBAN 10K that will take place on Sunday 10 July 2022! Runners that enter this iconic event within the first month of entries being open (08 March – 05 April) will stand a chance to win a magnificent PUMA Hamper to the value of R25 000.

“Delivering nail-biting performances since the event’s inception in 2017, the Absa RYC DURBAN 10K is firmly cemented as one of Durban’s and South Africa’s MUST DO events!,” says Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports and Founder of the Absa RYC Series. “Although there is no lack of excitement in the elite race, the Absa RYC DURBAN 10K is a mass participation road run that grants all entrants the unique opportunity to explore their city on foot. Entrants can look forward to an action-packed 10km journey that highlights important landmarks and features exciting live entertainment compliments of Durban’s leading performing arts groups.”

“Charity support continues to be an important focus of the Absa RYC Series,” continues Meyer. “When entering the Durban event online, runners and walkers can support five local charities: Durban & Coast SPCA, iThemba Lethu, Reach For A Dream Foundation (RFAD), TREE and LIV Village. This is the perfect opportunity for a runner to turn his/her miles into smiles by supporting one or more of these worthy causes.”

“We have exciting news for runners that like to enter early,” adds Meyer. “If you enter between 08 March – 05 April, you will stand a chance to win a magnificent PUMA Hamper to the value of R25 000, guaranteeing that you will be fully kitted out come race day. Runners that would like to take part in all three events (Absa RYC CAPE TOWN 10K, Absa RYC DURBAN 10K and Absa RYC JOBURG 10K) will be happy to hear that they can do so at a discounted entry fee. In addition to this you will also receive a spectacular sponsor hamper, as well as all the special offerings and add-ons of all three races. What are you waiting for, sign up early to #RunYourCity on Sunday 10 July 2022!”

“The Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series gives participants an opportunity to connect and engage with like-minded individuals who love to take part in walking and running, whether a beginner or elite runner. The event is closely linked to Absa’s strategic intent of bringing possibilities to life for our customers and the communities we operate in. We are, therefore, proud to be part of this prestigious event which truly defines what we stand for,” says Absa Managing Executive, Geoff Lee.
EVENT INFORMATION:  Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series

SA ELITE ATHLETE PROGRAMME: The Absa RYC Series has launched the 2022 SA Elite Athlete Programme aimed at providing South African runners with the opportunity to run world class times on South African soil. The programme is aimed at ensuring that the best South African athletes compete in the Absa RYC Series, against some of the best athletes in the world, and are rewarded for world class performances.

Read more here: https://runyourcityseries.com/latest-news/absa-run-your-city-series-launches-the-south-african-elite-athlete-programme/

PRIZE PURSE: The 2022 Absa RYC Series boasts a whopping combined prize purse to the value of R690 000. Athletes that form part of the SA Elite Athlete Programme and Contender Programme will also be eligible to win their share in the event prize purse at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K, Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K and Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K.

Facebook: @CapeTown10k / @Durban10k / @Joburg10k
Instagram: @CapeTown10k / @Durban10k / @Joburg10k
Hashtag:  #RunYourCity #AbsaRunYourCity
Websites:  www.runyourcityseries.com

Wednesday 02 March 2022
Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series launches the South African Elite Athlete Programme!
Stillwater Sports, the organisers of Africa’s leading road running series, the Absa RUN YOUR CITY (RYC) Series, is proud to launch the 2022 SA Elite Athlete Programme aimed at providing South African runners with the opportunity to run world class times on South African soil. The programme is aimed at ensuring that the best South African athletes compete in the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series, against some of the best athletes in the world, and are rewarded for world class performances.

“We’ve been working on this exciting element of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series for quite some time and are extremely excited to make it a reality in 2022,” says Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports and Founder of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series. “The goal behind the SA Elite Athlete Programme is simply to give South Africa’s elite runners the opportunity to improve their PB’s and run world class times on home soil. We want athletes to know that they will be rewarded for hard work, focus and subsequent performance.”

Meyer believes that the SA Elite Athlete Programme is an innovative and leading programme aimed at incentivizing runners to perform throughout the year over the 10km distance.

“We will kickstart the initiative by inviting the top 30 male and top 30 female athletes on the SA Road Running Performance List to participate in the Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K on Sunday 15 May,” continues Meyer. “The athletes will be divided into three groups, based on performance, with the event covering all participation costs of the top group of qualifiers, such as entry fee, flights, transport, accommodation and meals. From there the top 30 male and top 30 female finishers will be invited to participate in the Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K on Sunday 10 July.”

And it is in the Durban leg where the real excitement lies, with Meyer announcing a time-based incentive scheme that will see runners rewarded on a sliding scale. “Our goal is to encourage depth of performance as well as quality of performance. Male runners will be rewarded for times ranging from a sub 30 minutes to world record time, with a fantastic incentive on offer for the first SA runner to dip under 28 minutes. On the female side, similarly, the focus will be on both depth and quality of performance, but we really want to see SA women running under 31 minutes, and then starting to attack the sub 30 minutes barrier”.

Athletes that form part of the SA Elite Athlete Programme will also be eligible to win their share in the event prize purse at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K, Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K and Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K, the combined total of which is R690 000,00.”

Adding to the excitement and status of the events, an international field of world class athletes will join the field, to ensure fast times, and exciting racing!

Meyer concludes, “As organizers of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series, we believe the series now has the most comprehensive Elite Athlete programme of any running event in Africa. We believe athletes are in control of their destiny, and that the programme will make it easier for athletes to determine their own reward, through their performance.

In addition, it’s the duty of events such as the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series, to create opportunities for SA athletes to equip themselves, to be competitive on the world stage.”

EVENT INFORMATION:  2022 Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series

Facebook: @CapeTown10k / @Durban10k / @Joburg10k
Instagram: @CapeTown10k / @Durban10k / @Joburg10k
Hashtag:  #RunYourCity #AbsaRunYourCity
Websites:  www.runyourcityseries.com

Monday 28 February 2022
RUN FOR A CAUSE with the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series Running Club on Strava!
Calling all runners! Now’s your chance to turn your miles into smiles by taking on the Absa RUN YOUR CITY (RYC) Series’ latest Strava Challenge, the RUN FOR A CAUSE Challenge on Saturday, 05 March 2022!

“We are excited to give the RYC Community the opportunity to put their love for running to good use by taking on the Absa RYC’s RUN FOR A CAUSE Challenge,” says Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports and founder of the Absa RYC Series. “SA’s charities have been hard hit by the pandemic. These charities will welcome any form of support, be it monetory, product donations or time offered. When taking on the RUN FOR A CAUSE Challenge on Strava, runners nationwide can either support one of the RYC Charities or a charity of their choice. Taking place on Saturday 05 March 2022 between 05:00 – 23:00, runners can choose their own distance, location and route. Remember to capture and share your activities, routes, photos and dedicated cause to the RYC Series Club Page on Strava.  Don’t forget to include #RunYourCity #RunForACause #RunPuma. A pair of magnificent PUMA NITRO running shoes is up for grabs.”  

EVENT INFORMATION:  Absa RYC Series Running Club / RUN FOR A CAUSE Challenge

Date:  Saturday 05 March 2022

Time:  between 05:00 – 23:00

Activity:  any distance

Route:  Runners can choose their own location and route

How to join Challenge #2:

1. Runners are to “join” the RYC Series Running Club on Strava: https://www.strava.com/clubs/rycs 
2. If runners have not done so yet, they will need to create a Strava Account before they can join the club.
3. Runners are to join RUN FOR A CAUSE event on the RYC Series Running Club by clicking on the orange “I’m in” button displayed next to the Event listing.
4. Runners must record their run using a smartphone (Android or iPhone device) or smart watch (Garmin, TomTom, Suunto, Fitbit, Polar etc.)
5. All activities logged during the event period must be uploaded to Strava no later than 23:00 on Saturday, 05 March 2022.

WIN WIN WIN:  All runners and walkers who complete the ‘RUN FOR A CAUSE’ Challenge and share their activity to the RYC Series Running Club on Strava within the stipulated time frame stand the chance of winning a pair of PUMA NITRO running shoes. The winner will be selected by random draw and announced on the RYC Series Running Club page on Monday 07 March 2022.

More about the PUMA NITRO Range:

Years of research and testing have gone into five key styles—Deviate, Deviate Elite, Velocity, Liberate, and Eternity—all featuring PUMA’s cutting-edge supercritical foam technology, NITRO.  NITRO foam makes the shoes extremely lightweight and responsive, to help runners use less energy and run comfortably so that they can reach their goals.  For more information on the PUMA Nitro Range visit https://go.puma.com/7if

PLEASE NOTE: All runners should protect their health and safety and that of others by social distancing while running. Runners are encouraged to stay up to date on the latest news and guidelines from their local and national authorities.

EVENT INFORMATION:  2022 Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series

CHARITY SUPPORT: In 2022 the Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES will support 11 iconic charities.

Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES CAPE TOWN 10K

1. Reach for a Dream (RFAD)

2. help2read

3. Cotlands

4. Cape of Good Hope SPCA

5. Die Burger Kinderfonds

Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES DURBAN 10K

1. Durban & Coast SPCA
2. iThemba Lethu
3. Reach For A Dream Foundation (RFAD)
4. TREE
5. LIV Village

Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES JOBURG 10K

1. Reach For A Dream Foundation (RFAD)
2. Cotlands
3. Johannesburg SPCA
4. Johannesburg Heritage Foundation

Facebook: @CapeTown10k / @Durban10k / @Joburg10k
Instagram: @CapeTown10k / @Durban10k / @Joburg10k
Hashtag:  #RunYourCity #AbsaRunYourCity
Websites:  www.runyourcityseries.co

Monday 14 February 2022
Make your run count at the 2022 Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K!
Runners can make their run count by supporting one of five local charities (Reach for a Dream, help2read, Cotlands, Cape of Good Hope SPCA and Die Burger Kinderfonds) when entering the iconic Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K that will take place in the Mother City on Sunday 15 May 2022.

“We are proud to continue supporting five of Cape Town’s remarkable charities,” says Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports and Founder of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series. “The past two years have been exceptionally tough, but these charities have persevered and continue to make a difference in the lives of so many individuals and animals. We would like to urge the running community to support one or all five charities by making a donation when entering the Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K online. No donation is too small and will go a long way in enabling the charities to continue with their selfless work.”

Established in 1988, Reach For A Dream seeks to inspire hope and help children to believe in the power of dreams.

“Our goal and focus is to ensure that no child that has been diagnosed with a life threatening illnesses, goes without knowing the power of a dream,” says Kerry Donkin, Reach For A Dream Foundation Regional Manager. “In 2022 we hope to fulfil over 1800 dreams and aim to take our dreamers on a journey of hope through the power of a dream. It has been wonderful being a part of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K. Not only does this event encourage runners and walkers to stay active and healthy, it also encourages participants to give back to those in need. It speaks to the kind and generous spirits of South Africans. No donation is too small as every bit counts and will help us keep dreams alive.” For further information on Reach For a Dream please visit:  www.reachforadream.org.za

A non-profit organisation, help2read’s mission is to erase illiteracy in South Africa’s disadvantaged communities, one literacy lesson at a time.  Since the organisation’s first one-on-one reading session in 2006, help2read has worked in over 400 schools and reached 23 000 children through their literacy programmes.

“We love that the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series celebrates South Africa's diverse cities! What a fantastic way to draw attention to our wonderful cities,” says Nikki Knowler, Help2read Business Development Manager. “We are proud to be an official charity of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K. The event creates so much  awareness for the help2read cause. We are looking forward to the unity and excitement that the day brings. For any runners looking to crowdfund for an NGO please keep help2read in mind. Any funds raised go directly to our reading support programmes which provide vital reading assistance to children who are behind in their reading.” For more information on help2read please visit:  www.help2read.org

Cotlands is a registered non-profit organisation that focuses on early childhood development (ECD) with a rich 85-year history of serving young, vulnerable children. Cotlands’ vision is to see children thrive in their formative years by increasing their access to quality play-based early learning opportunities.

“Cotlands is proud to be associated with such a great fitness event where anyone and everyone can do good by running for a worthy cause,” says Natalie Frank, Cotlands Marketing Manager. “We have ECD programmes running in three of the provinces (Cape Town, KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng) so it is wonderful to be aligned to a sporting event that also has a national presence. The pandemic has resulted in even more young, vulnerable children with no access to early learning programmes. For us to build a brighter future for our children, we need to unite and collectively invest in access to early childhood development so that children can have the best start to life. The collective support from runners to give back to the NGO sector is so inspiring for us, as it demonstrates the public’s appreciation of the vital role that we play in servicing and developing our communities for the better.” For further information on Cotlands please visit: www.cotlands.org

Established in 1872, the Cape of Good Hope SPCA (Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) is the founding society of the SPCA movement in South Africa and is the oldest animal welfare organisation in the country. A registered non-profit organisation and Public Benefit Organisation, the society relies on the support of concerned individuals and corporates to continue operating. 

“The Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K is an incredible event,” says Belinda Abraham, The Cape of Good Hope SPCA Spokesperson. “The Cape of Good Hope SPCA will celebrate it’s 150^th anniversary on 20 May. We’re hoping that animal lovers from across the Western Cape (and surrounds) will join in on our celebration by donating R150, that is R1 for each year that we’ve been at the forefront of animal rescue. This will enable us to continue ensuring that ‘life’s a party’ for every animal that we are able to place in a loving home.  That’s an average of 1000 animals every year. Of course, you can’t invite people to a party without there being something in it for them, so a very special surprise awaits everyone who donates R150 or more. We will be setting up a specific birthday page for the Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K were donations can easily be made. We can’t wait to see everybody out on the roads and witness the amazing spirit of Cape Town in action for animals.” For more information please visit:  www.capespca.co.za

Started in 1957, Die Burger Kinderfonds is a non-profit organisation that assists children in the community that are in need of trauma counselling. 

According to Suzaan Potgieter, Die Burger Kinderfonds Co-ordinator, the Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K is one of the most entertaining and fun running events in SA. “After two years of isolation and staying at home, it will be great to see so many people being active and enjoying themselves in the outdoors,” says Potgieter. “I am also thinking of participating this year (a first for me and my friends), so we are preparing really hard and looking forward to it. We love to see the creative ways in which people raise funds for our cause so we’d like to invite runners to share their fundraising ideas with us via Facebook, our handle is @burgerkinderfonds. We will publish a photo of them along with a description of their fundraising initiative to help generate support. We are truly thankful to each and every runner that supports us. We can’t wait to run with you at the 2022 Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K.” For more information please visit: https://www.facebook.com/burgerkinderfonds

EVENT INFORMATION:  Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES
The Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series is a diverse 10km road running series that brings together avid runners, walkers and individuals looking to live healthier lifestyles. Although emphasis is placed on hosting a mass participation road race that highlights city landmarks, includes magnificent views and  features lively performances from some of the host city’s leading performing arts groups, all three events will also boast an exciting Contender Programme (aimed at the racing snakes) while boasting an impressive Prize Purse.

EARLY ENTRY INCENTIVE: Enter the Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K between 01 February – 01 March, Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K between 08 March – 05 April and/or Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K between 05 April  – 03 May and stand a chance to win a magnificent PUMA Hamper to the value of R25 000. There are three PUMA Hampers available (one per event).

Facebook: @CapeTown10k / @Durban10k / @Joburg10k
Instagram: @CapeTown10k / @Durban10k / @Joburg10k
Hashtag:  #RunYourCity #AbsaRunYourCity
Websites:  www.runyourcityseries.co

Tuesday 08 February 2022”
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series’ ‘The LOVE for Running 5K’ Strava Challenge!
The organisers of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY (RYC) Series are challenging Strava Club members to show their love for running this Valentine’s Day (Monday 14 February 2022) by taking on ‘The LOVE for Running 5K’ Strava Challenge.

“What better way to show your love for running than by taking on ‘The LOVE for Running 5K’ on Valentine’s Day,” says Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports and Founder of the Absa RYC Series. “It’s a fun way to kickstart the year. We are proud to provide a platform for runners, both loyal and new, to connect with one another as we build a stronger, healthier and more active RYC Series running community! So grab your significant other, family members and/or friends and join us for ‘The LOVE of Running 5K’ on Monday 14 February 2022.”

“The Challenge will last from 05:00 – 23:00,” continues Meyer. “Runners need to complete their 5km run/walk within this time period. Remember to share your experience, pictures and routes to the RYC Series Strava Club page to go into a lucky draw. A pair of magnificent PUMA NITRO running shoes is up for grabs.”  

Absa RYC Series Strava Challenge #1:  The LOVE for Running 5K
Date:  Monday 14 February 2022
Time:  between 05:00 – 23:00
Distancs: 5km
Location: Runners can choose their own location and route
How to join Challenge #1:

1. Runners are to “join” the RYC Series Running Club on Strava: https://www.strava.com/clubs/rycs 
2. If runners have not done so yet, they will need to create a Strava Account before they can join the club.
3. Runners are to join The LOVE of Running 5K event on the RYC Series Running Club by clicking on the orange “I’m in” button displayed next to the Event listing.
4. Runners must record their run using a smartphone (Android or iPhone device) or smart watch (Garmin, TomTom, Suunto, Fitbit, Polar etc.)
5. All activities logged during the event period must be uploaded to Strava no later than 23:00 on Monday, 14 February 2022.

WIN WIN WIN:  All runners and walkers who complete ‘The LOVE of Running 5K’ and share their activity to the RYC Series Running Club on Strava within the stipulated time frame stand the chance of winning a pair of PUMA NITRO running shoes. The winner will be selected by random draw and announced on the RYC Series Running Club page on Tuesday 15 February 2022.

More about the PUMA NITRO Range:

Years of research and testing have gone into five key styles—Deviate, Deviate Elite, Velocity, Liberate, and Eternity—all featuring PUMA’s cutting-edge supercritical foam technology, NITRO.  NITRO foam makes the shoes extremely lightweight and responsive, to help runners use less energy and run comfortably so that they can reachtheir goals.  For more information on the PUMA Nitro Range visit https://go.puma.com/7if

PLEASE NOTE: All runners should protect their health and safety and that of others by social distancing while running. Runners are encouraged to stay up to date on the latest news and guidelines from their local

EVENT INFORMATION:  2022 Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series

Facebook: @CapeTown10k / @Durban10k / @Joburg10k
Instagram: @CapeTown10k / @Durban10k / @Joburg10k
Hashtag:  #RunYourCity #AbsaRunYourCity
For further information on the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series please visit https://runyourcityseries.com/
About Absa

Absa Group is listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange and is one of Africa’s largest diversified financial services groups. 

Absa Group offers an integrated set of products and services across personal and business banking, corporate and investment banking, wealth and investment management and insurance.  

Absa operates in fourteen countries. The Group owns majority stakes in banks in Botswana, Ghana, Kenya, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles, South Africa, Tanzania (Absa Bank Tanzania and National Bank of Commerce), Uganda and Zambia and has insurance operations in Botswana, Kenya, Mozambique, South Africa, and Zambia. Absa also has representative offices in Namibia and Nigeria, and securities entities in the United Kingdom and the United States.

For further information about Absa Group Limited, please visit www.absa.africa

About the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series 

A proudly South African mass participation road running series, the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series has been revolutionizing the sport since 2015.  A road running celebration like no other, the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series comprises three unique events namely the Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K (launched in 2015), the Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K (launched in 2017) and the Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K (launched in 2016).

A diverse road running series, the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series integrates businesses, families, investment in community, world class achievement and fun for all participants.

Tuesday 01 February 2022
#RunYourCity at the 2022 Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series in Cape Town, Durban and Joburg!
The organisers of the iconic Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series are excited to announce that South Africa’s award winning road running series is now a 10km series only and will boast three exhilarating races in three cities in 2022: the Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K (Sunday 15 May), Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K (Sunday 10 July) and Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K (Saturday 24 September).

“We are thrilled to announce that the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series has evolved into a 10km series that will be hosted in three cities in 2022,” says Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports and Founder of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series. “We had a very successful 2021 with Absa signing as the Title Sponsor of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series.

Together with their support and other key sponsors such as PUMA and DHL, to mention just a few, we hosted two fantastic events in Durban and Cape Town amidst very strict Covid-19 regulations. This paved the way for what we have planned in 2022.”

“Celebrated nationally, the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series is a diverse road running series that brings together avid runners, walkers and individuals looking to live healthier lifestyles, all lining up with some of Africa’s greatest distance runners, while promising world class achievement and fun for all participants,” continues Meyer. “This year we are excited to once again take the action to the streets of the three major cities. The events will now be known as the Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K, Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K and Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K. Although emphasis will be placed on hosting a mass participation road race that highlights city landmarks, includes magnificent views and  features lively performances from some of the host city’s leading performing arts groups, all three events will also boast an exciting Contender Programme aimed at the racing snakes. To qualify for prize money, entrants will need to apply to be part of the Contendar Category. We can’t wait to welcome thousands of runners from across South Africa as well as elite athletes from around the world hoping to break 10km records on African soil, to the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series.”

Entries for the Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K will open on Tuesday 01 February, while entries for the Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K will open on Tuesday 08 March and Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K entries will open on Tuesday 05 April.

“We have good news for our loyal runners who would like to take part in all three events (Absa RYC Series), we are offering you a special discounted entry fee,” confirms Meyer. “In addition to this you will also receive a spectacular sponsor hamper, as well as all the special offerings and add-ons of all three races. In 2022 we are determined to continue pushing the boundaries and implementing a number of innovative changes and event enhancements, that will see our valued Sponsors and Partners be part of 10km events that challenge the status quo. We can’t wait to welcome runners to the start line in Cape Town, Durban and Johannesburg ready to #RunYourCity.”

“As Absa, we pride ourselves in being a bank that makes possibilities come to life for customers, colleagues and communities we operate in. The Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series provides an opportunity for those that would like to stay healthy or have set fitness goals to get active and reach their desired fitness levels. We encourage all walkers, aspirant health fanatics and running enthusiasts to register and be part of the exciting line-up of race related activities that we will be rolling out this year,” said Absa Managing Executive, Geoff Lee.

EVENT INFORMATION:  Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES

EARLY ENTRY INCENTIVE: Enter the Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K between 01 February – 01 March, Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K between 08 March – 05 April and/or Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K between 05 April  – 03 May and stand a chance to win a magnificent PUMA Hamper to the value of R25 000. There are three PUMA Hampers available (one per event).

Facebook: @CapeTown10k / @Durban10k / @Joburg10k
Instagram: @CapeTown10k / @Durban10k / @Joburg10k
Hashtag:  #RunYourCity #AbsaRunYourCity
Websites:  www.runyourcityseries.com
About Absa

Absa Group is listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange and is one of Africa’s largest diversified financial services groups. 

Absa Group offers an integrated set of products and services across personal and business banking, corporate and investment banking, wealth and investment management and insurance.  

Absa operates in fourteen countries. The Group owns majority stakes in banks in Botswana, Ghana, Kenya, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles, South Africa, Tanzania (Absa Bank Tanzania and National Bank of Commerce), Uganda and Zambia and has insurance operations in Botswana, Kenya, Mozambique, South Africa, and Zambia. Absa also has representative offices in Namibia and Nigeria, and securities entities in the United Kingdom and the United States.

For further information about Absa Group Limited, please visit www.absa.africa