"This is a significant milestone" - New Absa MANGAUNG 10K to take place on 25 October

The Free State is set to join South Africa's premier road running calendar as Absa and Stillwater Sports officially announce the launch of the inaugural Absa RUN YOUR CITY MANGAUNG 10K. Taking place on Sunday, 25 October 2026, the expansion marks a significant milestone for the award-winning series as it extends its reach to a sixth host city.

Made possible through a partnership with the Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality and the Department of Economic Development and Tourism (DEDT), the addition of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY MANGAUNG 10K will see the series grow from five to six events, further strengthening its national presence while delivering significant sporting, tourism and economic benefits to the Free State province.

Kabelo Mulaudzi (SA 10 000m Champion & 4x Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series Winner), Enoch Skosana (Athletics South Africa chairperson of road running), Cllr. Gregory Nthatisi Executive Mayor of the Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality, Hon Ketso Makume - MEC DEDT (Department of Economic Development and Tourism) and Stephen Mokoka (4x Olympian). PHOTO CREDIT: Pule Mogorosi.

Commenting on the announcement, Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports and Founder of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series, said the introduction of the sixth event reflects both the success of the series and its commitment to bringing world-class road running experiences to more South African cities.

“We are incredibly proud to announce the addition of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY MANGAUNG 10K to the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series,” says Meyer. “This is a significant milestone for the series as it expands our footprint to six major South African cities, further strengthening our vision of showcasing the country's diverse urban landscapes through world-class road running events.”

As the heart of the Free State, the city boasts a rich sporting heritage, a passionate running community, and a strategic central location that makes it an ideal host destination.

Wade Bromfield (Stillwater Sports General Manager), Sydney Mbhele (Group Chief Marketing & Corporate Affairs Officer at Absa Group), Alex Hulley (PUMA Head of Marketing) and John Mathane (ASA Deputy President). PHOTO CREDIT: Pule Mogorosi.

“Through our strong partnership with the Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality and DEDT, we have the opportunity to create an event that not only delivers an exceptional race experience but also contributes meaningfully to tourism, economic activity, and community development in the region,” continues Meyer. “We are excited to welcome runners from across South Africa and beyond to Mangaung on Sunday, 25 October 2026.”

Sydney Mbhele, Group Chief Marketing and Corporate Affairs Officer, Absa Group says, "The expansion of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series to Mangaung is a landmark moment, not only for the event but for the Free State community. For many years, runners have called for the series to include Mangaung, and we are proud to have listened because at Absa, we believe every story matters. Bringing this iconic race to the city creates a platform to showcase Mangaung on the national stage, while unlocking meaningful opportunities for tourism, local businesses and economic growth. We look forward to

welcoming runners from across South Africa to experience the warmth, culture and energy of the Free State as we continue to inspire active lifestyles and create lasting impact in the communities we serve."