It’s time to get those trainers out! There are a ton of marathons and ultra marathons, as well as fun and social runs, happening in and around Jozi, and it’s hard not to catch the running bug.
Whether trying your very first marathon or training to improve your personal best, there’s a running challenge for everyone, regardless of fitness level. From the Spar Women’s Challenge right through to the Joburg Ultra Triathlon, how many of these can you tick off your list?
The Zoo Trot monthly run at Johannesburg Zoo
Monthly
The monthly Zoo Trot at Johannesburg Zoo is a monthly social running event that blends the beauty of wildlife with wellness. This 5km or 10km fun run or walk winds through peaceful zoo paths and is open to all ages.
It’s an early start on a weekend morning, perfect for getting active before the day begins. At just R80 per person, it’s affordable enough for the kids, friends, and family to join.
Cost: From R80pp, book via Webtickets
When: Every Second Sunday of the month, from 7am
Where: Johannesburg Zoo, and Shop U 30 Keyes, Jellicoe Ave, Rosebank, Johannesburg
The TINMAN Tri-Series
The TinMan Tri-Series is South Africa’s premier family-friendly triathlon, back at Prime View Adventure & Leisure in Olifantsfontein. With five thrilling events scheduled throughout 2026, this series offers an unparalleled opportunity for families, friends, and corporate teams to engage in health, camaraderie, and community spirit.The series features a variety of events tailored to different skill levels, which include:
- Mini Triathlon: 200m Swim / 6km Cycle / 2.5km Run (suitable for ages 8+)
- Super Sprint Triathlon: 400m Swim / 10km Cycle / 2.5km Run (suitable for ages 12+)
- Sprint Triathlon: 750m Swim / 20km Cycle / 5km Run (suitable for ages 15+)
- Sprint Duathlon: 5km Run / 20km Cycle / 2.5km Run (suitable for ages 16+)
- Challenge Triathlon: 1.2km Swim / 40km Cycle / 10km Run (suitable for ages 16+)
Upcoming Event Dates in Joburg:
- 1 February 2026
- 12 April 2026
- 30 August 2026
- 11 October 2026
- 29 November 2026
Cost: From R395pp solo entries | From R475pp for the Challenge Relay Teams of two. From R317pp for the Challenge Relay Teams of three | From R400pp for Sprint Relay Teams of two. From R267pp for Sprint Relay Teams of three | Enter online
When: Running from 1 February to 29 November 2026. Registration will be open from 5.45am to 7am on race day
Where: Prime View Adventure & Leisure, Southward Dr, Olifantsfontein 410-JR, Olifantsfontein
“Run For Me” Charity Fun Run
Annually in June
CRC Cares present the return of their “Run For Me” Charity Fun Run taking place on Youth Day.
Hosted by CRC Cares, supported by MANZI Water, and presented in partnership with One Gospel, the initiative continues its mission of raising awareness and direct support for vulnerable children.
All proceeds from the event go towards Talitha Cumi Place of Safety, assisting children who have been abandoned, abused, or placed in need of care and protection.
The event also features family-friendly activations, food vendors and Youth Day celebrations.
Cost: R100pp (5km); R150pp (11km); R200 (Limited Edition T-shirt). Register online
When: Tuesday, 16 June 2026. Starts at 9am (11km); Starts at 9.30am (5km)
Where: Prime View Adventure & Leisure, Southward Dr, Olifantsfontein 410-JR, Olifantsfontein
Discovery Vitality Race Against Cancer
Annually in June
Get ready to lace up your running shoes for a powerful cause with the Discovery Vitality Race Against Cancer.
A huge fixture in the Vitality series, this annual run aims to bring communities together against cancer. The race includes a 21.1km half-marathon, a 10km race, and a 5km fun run.
Cost: R250pp (21.1km); R190pp (10km); R150pp (5km). Enter online
When: Sunday, 21 June 2026
Where: Orlando Communal Hall, 129 Adams Street, Orlando East, Soweto
Garsfontein Ice Breaker
Annually in July
The Garsfontein Ice Breaker returns this July for the 2026 winter running season. This popular race includes a 21.1km half marathon, a 10km race, a 5km fun run, and a 1km kids dash.
The event is perfect for the family, and a great opportunity to shake off those winter blues.
Cost: From R250pp (21.1km); from R170pp (10km); from R80pp (5km); R50pp (1km dash). Enter online
When: Saturday, 4 July 2026. Starts 7am (21.1km and 10km); starts 7.15am (5km); starts 7.20am (1km)
Where: Laerskool Garsfontein, Rina Van Zyl Street, Pretoria
The Annual Clearwater Mall Race
Annually in August
Building on years of community enthusiasm and athletic achievement, the Clearwater Mall Race now offers participants three distances to choose from: the new 21km, the ever-popular 10km race, and the family-friendly 5km fun run.
The Clearwater Mall race event welcomes participants aged 16 and up for the 21km run, 14+ for the 10km run, and children aged 5 and older for the 5km fun run.
Cost: R240pp (21.1km); R180pp (10km); R100pp (5km fun run); R220pp (t-shirt purchase). Enter online
When: Saturday, 22 August 2026. Start times are 7am for the 10km and 21km, and 7.30am for the 5km
Where: Starts near Entrance 1 at Clearwater Mall, Hendrik Potgieter Rd, Christiaan de Wet Rd, Strubens Valley, Roodepoort. Ends in the Lifestyle Parking area opposite the mall
The TOTALSPORTS Women’s Race Johannesburg
Annually in August
Women’s empowerment and athleticism come together when the community of runners paints the streets of Joburg pink in celebration of Women’s Month.
The Totalsports Women’s Race is all about unforgettable experiences for women of all ages and backgrounds. The running race launched in the Western Cape in 2001 and expanded to Johannesburg in 2007, before heading to Durban in 2011. Today, it’s regarded as South Africa’s largest nationwide Women’s Day celebration.
Men are welcome to join and show some support. Age restrictions for the 5km race are 9+ years and 14+ years for the 10km leg. See more info here.
Cost: R155pp (10km); R120pp (5km); R60pp for a temp license. Enter online
When: Sunday, 16 August 2026. Starts at 8am (10km); Starts at 8.30 (5km)
Where: Mark’s Park, Judith Rd, Emmarentia, Randburg
The Castle Walk Annual Fun Run – TBC
Annually in August/September
Gear up for the return of the Castle Walk Annual Run this August, offering both 5km and 10km runs.
This running event in Pretoria is set to be family-friendly and open to runners of all ages and fitness levels. The route takes you around the lovely suburbs of Erasmuskloof and is the perfect way to get some exercise in with your loved ones.
Cost: TBC
When: TBC
Where: Meet at Castle Walk Shopping Centre, Cnr Lois & Nossob Streets, Erasmuskloof, Pretoria
Absa Run Your City 10k
Annually in September
ABSA’s Run Your City Joburg 10k celebrates one of South Africa’s most anticipated holidays, National Heritage Day. The vibrant sporting event was founded in 2016 and was created to showcase all the beauty that the City of Gold has to offer.
The 10km route has been specifically designed to spotlight some of Jozi’s most unique landmarks with upbeat performances to keep runners feeling energised with every stride. The event offers a lively environment for people of all cultures to express themselves through sport and even attracts runners from abroad.
Cost: R255 (10km) | R695 (10km double entry). Book online.
When: Thursday, 24 September 2026, from 8am
Where: Mary Fitzgerald Square, Newtown, Johannesburg
Hollywoodbets Joburg 10km – TBC
Annually in September/October
Hollywoodbets gears up for its annual 10km mini marathon in the City of Gold.
This exciting sporting event is open to runners of all stages. Choose between the 5km or 10km races which both start on Corlett Drive outside Wanderers. Post-race entertainment is planned at the same venue where runners can cool down and relax after their race.
All participants also get to go home with a Hollywoodbets goodie bag. Entries Close on 1 September 2025.
Cost: TBC
When: Sunday, 18 October 2026
Where: DP World Wanderers Stadium, Corlett Drive, Illovo, Sandton
Waterfall City Half Marathon – TBC
Annually in September
Waterfall City Park will play host to an exciting day of running, with distances to suit every pace. Take on the Half Marathon, challenge yourself in the 10km, or enjoy a relaxed 5km run, perfect for families and first-timers alike.
After crossing the finish line, stick around to refuel and recharge with a variety of food and drink vendors offering tasty post-race treats.
Cost: TBC
When: Saturday, 12 September 2026
Where: Mall of Africa, Waterfall City Park, Midrand
Spar Women’s Challenge Jozi – TBC
Annually in October
The Spar Women’s Challenge is a running series that started back in 1992 and was created to provide women of all shapes and sizes as well as fitness levels with the opportunity participate in either the 5km or 10km races. Each year, contestants gather in numbers to experience this much anticipated running event.
Family and friends enjoy an active day out in the sun taking in that unifying feeling of community that bonds us all. Regardless of it being a women’s challenge, men also come through in their groups to support and cheer on the ladies as they power through the races. In fact, the Spar Women’s Challenge has grown so much that it had to be moved from its regular venue at Wanderers Stadium to Marks Park Sports Club in Emmarentia in order to accommodate the growing entries and crowds.
Cost: TBC
When: TBC
Where: Marks Park Sports Club, Judith Rd, Emmarentia, Johannesburg
Hollard Daredevil Run – TBC
Annually in October/November
And finally the fellas come through in the Hollard Daredevil Run which sees men completing a 5km race while sporting iconic purple speedos. This is not just a laugh, it’s a way to raise awareness of testicular and prostate cancers.
The event is put together in proud partnership with CANSA (Cancer Association of South Africa) and PCF (Prostate Cancer Foundation) to encourage men to go in for regular screenings and check-ups.
Cost: TBC
When: TBC
Where: Zoo Lake Sports Club, CNRS Westwold Way / Lower Park Drive, Prince of Wales Dr, Parkwood, Randburg
African Bank Soweto Marathon – TBC
Annually in November
Also known as the “The People’s Race”, the African Bank Soweto Marathon is a big crowd favourite. People from all walks of life unite to experience the unique marathon that takes people through some of Soweto’s most notable landmarks such as Walter Sisulu Square, Regina Mundi Catholic Church, Vilakazi Street, Hector Pieterson Memorial, Credo Mutwa Cultural Village and many more. In many ways, the marathon is a way for people to honour the history of Soweto and celebrate the growth of South Africa.
The races includes 10km, 21km and 42km routes with walkers more than welcome to tackle the marathon at their own pace. And for the more experienced athletes, the marathon presents the perfect opportunity to get some long distance training in. Like the marathon’s nickname suggests, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Cost: TBC
When: TBC
Where: Johannesburg Expo Centre, NASREC, Johannesburg
African Bank Soweto Marathon – TBC
Annually in November
Also known as the “The People’s Race”, the African Bank Soweto Marathon is a big crowd favourite. People from all walks of life unite to experience the unique marathon that takes people through some of Soweto’s most notable landmarks such as Walter Sisulu Square, Regina Mundi Catholic Church, Vilakazi Street, Hector Pieterson Memorial, Credo Mutwa Cultural Village and many more. In many ways, the marathon is a way for people to honour the history of Soweto and celebrate the growth of South Africa.
The races includes 10km, 21km and 42km routes with walkers more than welcome to tackle the marathon at their own pace. And for the more experienced athletes, the marathon presents the perfect opportunity to get some long distance training in. Like the marathon’s nickname suggests, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Cost: TBC
When: TBC
Where: Johannesburg Expo Centre, NASREC, Johannesburg
The Joburg Ultra Triathlon – TBC
Annually in November/December
Whether you’re a dedicated athlete seeking a challenge or a newcomer eager to fully embrace your fitness journey, The Joburg Ultra Triathlon is back for another exciting ultimate race challenge where you can swim, spin and sprint your way at one of Gauteng’s most popular wildlife destinations. Prepare to be enthralled by breathtaking vistas and enchanting wildlife scenes along your path.
This world-class triathlon in Johannesburg caters to both novices and seasoned pros, allowing them to compete alongside some of South Africa’s most skilled triathletes. Participants can opt for the Sprint (600m swim, 20km cycle, 5km run) or the Ultra (1.9km swim, 90km cycle, 21km run) events.
The action kicks off at 7am with the Ultra race, featuring the country’s elite athletes battling it out in this grand finale of the 2023 series. The Ultra Run route comprises three 7km laps within Cradle Moon, each passing through the Transition and Finish area. Here, racers will experience an electrifying Spectator HOT ZONE ambience and a tranquil, traffic-free running stretch adorned with captivating wildlife.
For those eyeing the shorter Sprint race, the starting gun goes off at 8:30am, covering a 5km loop around the splendid reserve.
Cost: TBC
When: TBC
Where: Cradle Moon Lakeside Lodge, Plot 59 Beyers Naude Drive, Muldersdrift, Gauteng
Coming in 2027
Biogen 21k
Annually in January
The Biogen Half Marathon kicks the year off with winding routes through the hills of Bedfordview, Morninghill and Primrose.
This is the perfect kickstart to the running calendar. There are 6000 entries available for the 21km race and all entrants will receive a race T-shirt, medal and goodie bag. The SmectaGO 5km Fun Run is also back and there are 1000 entries available and all entrants will receive a goody bag and medal.
Funds will also be raised for the two race charities: Lambano Sanctuary and the Namaqua Dog and Donkey Foundation. All donations by runners, over and above their entry fee, will be matched by the Dis-Chem Foundation.
Cost: TBC
When: TBC
Where: Virgin Active Sports Fields, Bedfordview, Johannesburg
Johnson Crane Marathon
Annually in January
The highly anticipated Johnson Crane Marathon is one of the first big running events of the year. Now in its 43rd edition it has seen major growth to over 12 000 runners. The 42km route is included in the Gauteng Provincial Marathon Championships. There is also a 21.1km half marathon route, as well as 10km and 5km options for those looking to do more of a social fun run.
All races are timed using chips that are packed along with race numbers. The first 8000 online entries to the Marathon and Half Marathon receive an event T-Shirt. The top finishers of the marathon, half-marathon and 10km events receive cash prizes, with the highest prize being R5000.
Cost: TBC
When: TBC
Where: Willowmoore Park Stadium, 101 Harpur Ave, Benoni 77-Ir, Benoni
Pirates 21K
Annually in February
Also known as “Joburg’s Toughest Half”, the Pirates 21k is – as the name suggests – has become a must-do event on Gauteng’s annual race calendar. Powered by Medshield, it draws thousands of participants to take on the challenge of a popular route that peaks over the Northcliff Hill.
Over 4000 athletes go Over The Mountain on the famous route over Northcliff Hill for bragging rights, a medal for all finishers, and t-shirts (and goody bag) for first 2000 entrants. Many try but few succeed which makes crossing the finish line as a ‘King or Queen of the Mountain’ all the more rewarding.
Cost: TBC
When: TBC
Where: Pirates Club, 25 Braeside Road, Greenside, Johannesburg, Gauteng
The Cape Gate Vaal Marathon
Annually in March
The Cape Gate Vaal Marathon is one of South Africa’s oldest and most respected road races, taking place on the first Sunday of March each year in Vereeniging.
The 2026 edition will be held on Sunday, 1 March 2026, marking the 51st running of this well-established event and celebrating an impressive 30 years of continuous sponsorship from Cape Gate (Pty) Ltd. Now hosted by VAC, the race continues to grow in popularity and reputation.
This four-race event includes a 42.2km marathon, a 21.1km half marathon, a 10km road race and a 5km fun run, making it a perfect family day out with distances to suit all abilities. Known for its fast, flat routes, the marathon is ideal for personal bests and serves as a Comrades and Two Oceans Marathon qualifier. The scenic course winds through Vereeniging’s suburbs and along the Vaal River, offering a rewarding challenge for elite, active and recreational runners alike.
Cost: TBC
When: TBC
Where: Dick Fourie Stadium, Klip River Drive, Three Rivers, Vereeniging
StaminoGro Edenvale Marathon
Annually in March
The StaminoGro Edenvale Marathon, as it is now affectionately known, is recognised as an official qualifier for both the Comrades Marathon and the Two Oceans Marathon.
The Marathon has firmly established itself on the Road Running Calendar and is a well-known and well-respected event, having stood the test of time for the past 37 years.
In 2026, in addition to the 42km marathon and a 5km fun run, the marathon event introduces an all new 10-Mile (16km) challenge, a very popular and regular race distance on the European and American circuits that is set to add a refreshing new dimension to the day.
Plus, each of the three events also feature brand new routes, bringing about new challenges and opportunities within the same familiar surroundings of Edenvale. Book early as the first 500 entries into the Marathon and the first 500 entries into the 10-Miler each receive a free long sleeve race shirt.
Cost: TBC
When: TBC
Where: Edenvale High School, Linksfield Rd, Edenvale, Johannesburg
Qhubeka AC Human Rights Day Race
Annually in March
The Qhubeka AC Human Rights Day Race had its inaugural event in March 2023. Following the success after its first race and the demand from the running community to have longer Distances, the organizers have introduced the 21.1km double lap distance in addition to their 5km and 10km races.
Expect family-friendly entertainment, as well as running events that cater to all ages and levels of fitness and competitiveness. The first 400 entrants for the 21.1km and 10km races get to claim free shirts on race day which correlate to the sizes as requested by the entrants. All entrants are rewarded medals upon completion of the race, and a prize giving is held to congratulate the top finishers.
Cost: TBC
When: TBC
Where: School of Achievement, Heidelberg Rd, East Rand Pty Mines, Germiston
Cotlands Run to Play
The Cotlands organisation invites corporates, individuals and running communities alike to take part in a fun race on Saturday, 14 March 2026 at the Johannesburg Zoo. The run is staged in support of early childhood development for thousands of young, vulnerable children who don’t have access to any early learning programme and need a strong start to their learning journeys.
Participants can choose between a 2 km, 5 km and 8 km race. Enjoy a pop-up toy library, children’s entertainment, music, and delicious food stalls at the finish line. The event is open to all ages, so bring your running shoes and your whole crew for a fun-filled day out in the park.
Cost: TBC
When: TBC
Where: Johannesburg Zoo and Shop U 30 Keyes, Jellicoe Ave, Rosebank, Johannesburg
Run Alex: Adreach 10k
Annually in March
Run Alex returns with an official organised race encouraging runners to take either a 5km or 10km run through the Alexandra township and witness the landmarks that have come to define the area, taking in its history and culture.
Prizes are awarded to the top finishers at the prize giving commencing after the races have ended, with the 5km run even featuring a prize category for child participants.
All other participants who finish before the cutoff time are awarded participation medals. Entrants are required to register online, and number collection can be done either at the race venue prior to race day, or early morning on race day.
Cost: TBC
When: TBC
Where: Starts and ends at Alexandra Plaza, cnr 3rd Street & 1st Ave, Alexandra, Johannesburg
Johannesburg City Marathon
Annually in February or March
Johannesburg Harriers Athletics Club present the annual Johannesburg City Marathon, which has also come to be known as the ‘Race of Gold’. Participants can take on the 42.2km marathon, the 21.1km half marathon, or the 5km or 10km fun races.
This race event is an essential Comrades qualifier, or for those who have already qualified, serves as an excellent training preparation. Walkers are welcome on the half-marathon and the 10km race but are strictly prohibited from the full marathon.
All finishers within the 12pm cut-off receive a medal, whilst the top finishers are awarded cash prizes at the event prize giving. The first 500 entrants receive a free t-shirt. Please note that manual entries, if available, will attract an additional fee of R25.
Cost: TBC
When: TBC
Where: Klipriviersberg Recreation Centre, Cnr Peggy Vera Str & Sunningdale Road, Kibler Park, Johannesburg
Irene Festival of Running
Annually in March or April
Irene’s annual Running Festival returns with four competitive categories, entertainment and prizes. The festival features a 48km ultra marathon, a 21.1km half marathon, a 10km road run and a 5km fun run.
Participants can purchase event t-shirts online, and all athletes earn a medal upon completion of their races. Three prize givings are held over both days, awarding the top finishers for the 10km, 21.1km, and 48km races with cash prizes.
Cost: TBC
When: TBC
Where: Irene Athletics Club Race Venue, Doringkloof, Centurion
Tshwane North Ultra
Annually in April
Tshwane North Ultra (TNU) is an official 50km road running event incorporating a half-marathon, 10km and 5km fun run on the streets of North of Pretoria on the vicinity of the Magalies Mountains.
It passes through the beautiful landmarks of Pretoria North and West as it creates a circular map of the northern and southern Magaliesberg mountain range via Hornsnek road starting at Akasia Community Hall and going down to the bottom of Wonderboom and coming back to the finish via Berg Avenue.
The ultra marathon is an official Comrades Qualifier. Note that no temporary license can be purchased for the 50km ultra marathon.
Cost: TBC
When: TBC
Where: Akasia Town Hall, 120 Disotus Avenue, Akasia, Pretoria
Vaal Triangle Marathon
Anually in April
The Vaal Triangle Marathon is a popular road-running event held annually in Vereeniging and is a recognised Comrades Marathon qualifier, attracting runners from across Gauteng and beyond.
Known for its fast, flat route, the marathon offers an ideal opportunity for athletes aiming to secure a qualifying time for the iconic Comrades Marathon. The course winds through the heart of the Vaal Triangle, passing residential streets and scenic stretches that provide a welcoming and energetic race-day atmosphere.
Well organised and community driven, the event typically includes a full marathon, half marathon and shorter distance options, making it accessible to both seasoned runners and newcomers. Water points, medical support and clear route markings ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for participants.
Cost: TBC
When: TBC
Where: Kliprivier & Houtkop Roads, Three Rivers, Vereeniging
MiWay Wally Hayward Marathon
Annually in May
Hosted by Alpha Centurion Athletics Club and sponsored by MiWay Insurance, the MiWay Wally Hayward Marathon is a racing event that caters to tens of thousands of runners of all skill levels.
The event features a 5km fun run, a 10km race, a 21.1km half-marathon, a 42.2km marathon, and a kids zone. Children are well taken care of by professional teachers from Laerskool Wierdapark who make sure they won’t go hungry and stay hydrated. Fun toys and games are also provided to keep them entertained.
For an added thrill, kids will be guided through a safe and manageable obstacle course, where they’ll even earn a medal for their participation.
The top finishers of the 10km race, the half-marathon and the marathon race receive cash prizes of up to tens of thousands of rands. Non-registered participants of the marathon, half-marathon and 10km races are required to purchase a temporary licence.
Cost: TBC
When: TBC
Where: Centurion Rugby Club, 270 West Ave, Die Hoewes, Centurion
Colgate Road Race
Annually in May
Boksburg Athletic Club presents the Colgate Road Race. It’s the event to add to your race calendar in preparation for the Comrades Marathon. The event features a 5km race, a 15km race and a 32km race.
All entrants receive designed moisture management race t-shirts as well as a Colgate goodie bag. The race route is described as flat and fast, and the top finishers of the 15km and 32km races receive cash prizes at the scheduled prize giving ceremonies following both races.
Cost: TBC
When: TBC
Where: Boksburg Stadium, Jubilee Road, Leeuwpoort 113-Ir, Boksburg
Cradle of Humankind Road Race
Discover the thrill of the Cradle of Humankind Road Race, an exhilarating event set against the breathtaking backdrop of one of humanity’s oldest landscapes. Participants immerse themselves in the scenic routes that wind through the historic Cradle of Humankind, offering a blend of challenging terrain and natural beauty.
Runners can choose to take on either a 5km, 10km, 21km or 32km race. Finishing either of the races results in the receipt of a medal of participation, whilst the top finishers of each age category, along with the open category in the 10km, 21km and 32km races receive cash prizes.
Cost: TBC
When: TBC
Where: LOTZ Kontrei, Sterkfontein Caves Road, Cradle of Humankind, Krugersdorp
Modderfontein Half-Marathon
Annually in May
The Modderfontein Half-Marathon – presented by Inkamana Athletics Club – is the ultimate Comrades Marathon pre-party. Runners strap on their running shoes to experience a run in Modderfontein as the Comrades Marathon draws nearer. The races include a 21.1km half-marathon as the main event, along with a 10km and 5km race and a 4.9km fun run/walk.
The event is an opportunity for qualifiers to challenge themselves once more before taking on the Comrades, celebrating the hard work that they have done in their preparation. Those who have not qualified also get to join the Inkama running family during this celebration of the sport and challenge themselves with a competitive, scenic run.
The top finishers for the 10km race and the half-marathon receive big cash prizes at the end of the races. Unregistered runners for both events are required to purchase a temporary license to qualify for the race and for potential placement.
Cost: TBC
When: TBC
Where: Flamingo Shopping Centre, Cnr Valley Rd &, Queens St, Modderfontein, Johannesburg
Wings for Life World Run
The Wings for Life World Run is a truly unique and global race for both runners and wheelchair participants. Instead of a finish line, competitors race side by side to keep ahead of the Virtual Catcher Car.
Meet up with your friends, download the Wings for Life World Run App and join all the other people running until the Virtual Catcher Car catches you of course.
Runners take on a 5km circular lap course through the leafy streets surrounding the sports grounds, with special lane closures along Soutpansberg Road to ensure a smooth and safe run. From 3pm the lap course is reduced to 3km.
The Virtual Catcher Car takes off 30 minutes after the start at 14 km/h and steadily increases its speed until the last athletes have been caught. 100% of all donations and the entry fees go directly into spinal cord research projects.
Cost: TBC
When: TBC
Where: Rietondale Park and Sports Grounds, Nuffield Rd, Pretoria
The Wedge Road Race
Annually in May
The Wedge Road Race is a 5km or 10km running event that happens annually in May, in Morningside. The event is part of the shopping centre’s ongoing series of road running/walking that happens yearly in May.
The road routes lead you through the scenic and suburban parts of Morningside. As the start hooter sounds off, you’ll join fellow runners on course. A range of exciting activities at the race, including food and drink to keep everyone entertained, so bring the family and friends along.
Cost: TBC
When: TBC
Where: Meet at The Wedge Shopping Centre, 255 Rivonia Rd, Morningside, Sandton
Cosmo Run
Annually in May
2026 marked the 13th annual Cosmo Run, and The Cosmo Group is proud to partner with Groot FM once again to raise money for the #HOOPstoot project.
The Cosmo Run was initiated in 2014 and became an annual event where Cosmo gives back to the community. Participants have the option to run or walk two different distances: a 5km run inside the Pretoria National Botanical Garden and a 10km run outside the Pretoria National Botanical Garden, but the start and finish are inside the Botanical Garden.
At the garden, there is entertainment for young and old, with Cosmo Group suppliers exhibiting products available at Cosmo, giving out corporate gifts, brochures of special offers, and latest releases or specials.
The first 1800 finishers receive a medal and a goodie bag, and a limited-edition shirt can be purchased at an added cost of R170.
Cost: TBC
When: TBC
Where: Pretoria National Botanical Gardens, 2 Cussonia Ave, Brummeria, Pretoria
Hoka Half Runfest: Pretoria
The HOKA HALF RUNFEST is a full-scale celebration of running and revelry. With live DJs, in-race entertainment, and a vibrant race village, this running event brings festival energy to the city’s streets.
Choose between a 21km Half Marathon, 10km Run, or 5km Fun Run. Whether you’re chasing a personal best or simply out for fun with friends, there’s a distance for everyone. Adding to the excitement are themed dress-up categories and the unmissable Party Lane – a DJ-driven detour on the 10km and 21km routes that turns the race into a moving dance floor.
And when you cross the finish line, the celebration continues with a full music festival, food, drinks, and endless good vibes.
Cost: TBC
When: TBC
Where: Harlequin Rugby Club, 58 Totius St, Groenkloof, Pretoria
Dlala Nje Ponte Stairs Challenge
Annually in June
Dlala Nje proudly presents the “Ponte Challenge”, an exhilarating experience that takes you on a journey from the heart of the iconic Ponte Tower and up 948 stairs to the top of the Joburg skyline.
Get your heart racing as you prepare to ascend the iconic Ponte Tower on an exhilarating adventure. Start in the core of this remarkable building and experience the thrill of a lifetime as you climb 900+ stairs to the top before enjoying a delicious Afro-cosmopolitan breakfast.
The “Ponte Challenge” doesn’t stop at the daring descent. It offers an in-depth exploration of Ponte Tower’s history, from its conception to its transformation into a unique residential community. Experienced guides are with participants every step of the way, ensuring each person’s safety and well-being.
Cost: TBC
When: TBC
Where: Ponte Tower Entrance at 1 Lily Avenue, Berea, Johannesburg
