Every year, running enthusiasts all over South Africa and beyond prepare tirelessly, getting their bodies ready to compete in a wide selection of competitive running races that have become widely popular in the country. The ultimate test of endurance, it is an achievement for many to be able to say that they have completed some of the toughest running routes the country has to offer.

Whilst Cape Town and Durban are renowned for bringing runners from all over the world to compete for a place in their popular Two Oceans and Comrades marathons respectively, areas in and around Joburg boast their own share of running races encouraging enthusiasts to challenge their abilities and giving those athletes looking to enter the country’s most competitive races some necessary preparation.

Family Fun Run Walk

The Family Run Walk is back at The Wedge Shopping Centre. Gather your family and friends together for some fuss-free outdoor fitness this May. This is one of the shopping centre’s biggest community events. And once again, this year’s run walk is hosted in partnership with the active folks at Run/Walk Life.

Choose between a 5km or 8km loop route that kicks off at 7am at the shopping centre. The routes lead you through the scenic and suburban parts of Johannesburg, Morningside. As the start hooter sounds off, you’ll join fellow walkers and runners on course where you can complete the full route at your own pace. There will be exciting activities at The Wedge to keep everyone entertained, and a competition where you stand a chance to win great prizes courtesy of The Wedge tenants.

Cost: Free entry, online registration is required to join the race and walk

When: Saturday, 18 May. Starts at 7am (8km) and 7:15am (5km)
Where: Meet at The Wedge Shopping Centre, 255 Rivonia Rd, Morningside, Sandton

The TOTALSPORTS Women’s Race Johannesburg

Women’s empowerment and athleticism come together when the community of runners paint 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: From R110pp to R195pp, book via Webtickets

When: Saturday, 17 August from 8am
Where: Mark’s Park, Judith Rd, Emmarentia, Randburg

The Joburg Ultra Triathlon

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: From R795pp to R3000 per team, see the full breakdown here

When: Entries open on Friday, 1 November 2024. Entries close on Friday, 8 November 2024. Race day is Saturday, 8 December 2024
Where: Cradle Moon Lakeside Lodge, Plot 59 Beyers Naude Drive, Muldersdrift, Gauteng

Wingate Road Runners Interclub Run

Join the 6am club and get the adrenaline going for this fun run hosted by Wingate Road Runners. Keen amateurs can do an 8km, 15km or 23km route (or all three for the brave) and connect with this vibrant running community in Pretoria.

Walkers are also welcome and recover with a lazy breakfast for your own account at the Clubhouse afterwards.

Cost: R50pp per runner, pay at entrance

When: Saturday, 18 May from 6:30am
Where: Wingate Country Club, Norval Street, Wingate Park, Pretoria