Johannesburg’s streets will once again come alive with energy, passion, and celebration as entries officially open for the 9th annual Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K. Set to take place on National Heritage Day, Thursday, 24 September 2026, the event promises an unforgettable experience that blends elite competition with a vibrant celebration of Johannesburg’s unique spirit.
Recognised as one of South Africa’s premier road running events, the Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K has become a highlight on the country’s athletics calendar. The race offers participants the opportunity to run through the heart of Johannesburg, taking in the city’s iconic landmarks while celebrating the diversity, resilience, and rich heritage that define the City of Gold.
Entries for the highly anticipated race open on Thursday, 28 May 2026, and organisers are encouraging runners to secure their spots early.
“We’re excited to open entries for the Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K,” says Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports and Series Founder. “This iconic event continues to sell out fast year after year, and with its unique blend of elite racing, mass participation, and the celebration of Jozi’s vibrant cityscape, we strongly encourage runners to enter early to avoid disappointment and secure their place on the start line for this unforgettable experience.”
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Adding to the excitement is the return of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Heritage Double Entry fast-tracked by Gautrain. Introduced in 2025, the initiative provides runners with the opportunity to participate in both the Absa RUN YOUR CITY TSHWANE 10K and the Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K through a single, value-packed entry option.
“The Heritage Double Entry fast-tracked by Gautrain allows runners to enter both the Absa RUN YOUR CITY TSHWANE 10K and the Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K at a special entry fee that includes bespoke benefits,” explains Meyer. “This initiative showcases not only the incredible energy and camaraderie of our events, but also the power of strong partnerships, like the one with Gautrain, to create innovative, world-class race experiences that celebrate South Africa’s vibrant running culture. Runners can look forward to a premium experience in two iconic cities.”
As the official transport partner, Gautrain will once again play an important role in enhancing the runner experience by providing safe, reliable, and efficient transport to and from both events. The partnership ensures participants can focus on enjoying the races while benefiting from seamless travel arrangements.
Jabulile Nsibanyoni, Head of Sponsorships, Brand and Marketing at Absa, believes the race represents something far greater than crossing a finish line.
“Jozi, the wait is over, entries for the 2026 Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K officially open this week! This is your moment to lace up early, secure your spot, and own your streets with purpose,” she says. “The Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series is more than just a race; it’s a movement inspiring real, positive change. We can’t wait to welcome you at the start line and celebrate your journey all the way to the finish.”
The Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K will start at 08:00 on Thursday, 24 September 2026. Participants will set off from Lilian Ngoyi Street before making their way through Johannesburg’s bustling streets to the finish line on Rahima Moosa Street.
The entry fee for licensed runners is R255, while temporary licences will cost R60. Entries close on Monday, 14 September 2026, or once the event reaches capacity.
For runners eager to maximise their Heritage Day racing experience, the Heritage Double Entry fast-tracked by Gautrain is available at R695. The package includes entry into both the Tshwane and Joburg races, temporary licences for both events, race numbers and timing chips, an exclusive runner goodie bag featuring an official performance T-shirt, Absa Versus socks, a visor cap, a drawstring bag, exclusive Gautrain and RUN YOUR CITY Series gifts, and a limited-edition Heritage performance tee.
Participants will also enjoy fast-tracked registration at race pack collections, complimentary boerie and beer vouchers at both events, finisher’s medals for each race, and complimentary Gautrain transportation to and from both race days.
Runners are reminded that Heritage Double Entries are limited and are expected to sell out quickly.
The 2026 Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series calendar includes races in Gqeberha, Durban, Tshwane, and Johannesburg. The opening event in Gqeberha saw Adriaan Wildschutt claim victory in the men’s race in a time of 27:47, while Brenda Jepchirchir won the women’s title in 30:15. The Cape Town leg, scheduled for May, was unfortunately cancelled due to severe weather forecasts.
As Johannesburg prepares to celebrate Heritage Day in true Jozi style, the Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K offers runners of all abilities the chance to be part of a race that champions community, inclusivity, and the shared joy of movement.
Whether chasing a personal best, supporting a worthy cause, or simply soaking up the electric atmosphere of one of South Africa’s most iconic road races, participants are encouraged to enter early and secure their place at the start line of this much-loved Heritage Day tradition.