Thousands of runners and walkers filled Johannesburg's inner-city streets for the 10km Absa Run Your City Joburg 10K, held at Mary Fitzgerald Square in Newtown on Heritage Day, Tuesday, 24 September 2024. Each year, participants from across the region gather for this vibrant event, transforming the heart of the city into a stunning sea of red.
Runners and walkers of all ages, including mothers with strollers, braved the chilly morning, turning the inner city into a dynamic celebration of movement and energy. This prestigious event continues to leave a lasting impact on downtown Johannesburg.
Acting Executive Mayor, Cllr Jack Sekwaila, alongside the Member of the Mayoral Committee for Community Development, Cllr Kabelo Gwamanda, set off the starting gun for the annual race, which celebrates the city's iconic landmarks and scenic routes.
Cllr Gwamanda praised the organisers for a well-executed event, saying: “The city is showcasing its strength and proving that it can collaborate effectively with partners and stakeholders. This Heritage Day, we celebrate the diverse participants from the City, neighbouring provinces, and even other African countries, highlighting the event's significance.
“The City supports the race and its partnership with Absa, as it promotes social cohesion, brings communities back to the inner city, and encourages active, healthy lifestyles," added Cllr Gwamanda.
The race, an annual celebration of Johannesburg's landmarks, guided participants through the city's most vibrant areas. Starting from Mary Fitzgerald Square, runners passed landmarks such as the Market Theatre, Braamfontein, crossed Mandela Bridge, and travelled along the M1 south, before looping back to Newtown via Marshalltown.
The streets were filled with energy as residents cheered from the sidelines, with many promising to join future events. Motorists showed their support, honking and waving at participants. With around 11,500 people taking part, the race reflected the city's capacity to host large-scale events.
Along the route, participants enjoyed entertainment from traditional dancers, live music, and aerobics performances at seven activation points, enhancing the festive atmosphere.
South Africa's Glenrose Xaba set a new women's course record, finishing in 31 minutes and 55 seconds. Kenyan Gideon Kipngetich took the men's title with a time of 28 minutes and 51 seconds, also setting a course record.
Simphiwe Dubazana, a 35-year-old participant, commented: “Today, I'm walking through Joburg's streets with my young daughter, and it's wonderful to see the work being done to clean up the city. It's my first time in the race, and I'm glad I took part. We love our inner city and hope to see it shine again."
The 10km Absa Run Your City race aligns with the municipality's ongoing efforts to rejuvenate the inner city, offering a platform to showcase the progress being made to restore it to its former glory.
Written by Dudu Lushaba
25/09/2024
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