This Mother’s Day, Sunday, 10 May 2026, Cape Town’s streets will pulse with energy as elite athletes and everyday runners take on the Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K. Set in the heart of the Mother City, the race is more than just a sporting event — it’s a celebration of movement, ambition and community.
A prize purse that raises the bar
The 2026 Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series brings with it a combined prize purse of R1 686 000, reinforcing its status as one of the country’s premier road running events. Each of the five races carries a prize allocation of R337 200, with R267 200 dedicated to the Open Category.
Top finishers in both the men’s and women’s races will earn R33 000, while second and third place secure R24 000 and R21 000 respectively. The Top 10 athletes are rewarded, ensuring competitive depth across the field.
“We are proud to continue growing our prize purse each year,” says Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports. “It rewards commitment while encouraging athletes to push their limits.”
Performance incentives add extra heat
Beyond the base prize money, 2026 introduces powerful incentives for South African athletes. In the elite men’s race, a sub-27-minute finish could unlock a R300 000 bonus, with an additional R50 000 awarded for a new national record. For elite women, the same bonus applies for times faster than 30:20, alongside the record-breaking incentive.
Consistency is also rewarded. Athletes who repeatedly break key time barriers during the series can earn bonuses of up to R30 000, adding another layer of competition across the five races.
A national series with local impact
Since its debut in 2015, the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series has reshaped South Africa’s road running landscape. Spanning five cities — Gqeberha, Cape Town, Durban, Tshwane and Johannesburg — the series blends elite competition with mass participation, drawing thousands of runners to each event.
Cape Town’s leg, in particular, stands out for its scenic route and vibrant atmosphere, making it a favourite on the calendar.
More than a finish line
While the elites chase prize money and fast times, the event remains rooted in community spirit. From seasoned runners to first-time participants, the race offers a shared experience that brings the city together.
This Mother’s Day, whether you’re running for a personal best or simply soaking up the atmosphere, the Cape Town 10K promises a memorable day on the road.
