Mashele to challenge Kenyans as Chepkorir targets record pace at Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K

With a world class lineup of elite athletes including Kenya’s Diana Chepkorir, who is one of only seventeen women to have broken 30 minutes in a 10km race, it’s all systems go for the much-anticipated Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K on Sunday, 12 May 2024. Chepkorir headlines the women’s race after winning last month’s Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBRHA 10K in 31:15. Boasting a personal best of 29:56, the Kenyan says she loves racing in South Africa.

"I decided to come back to race here in South Africa because it is a nice place to visit. The country is so welcoming, and the races are well organised. I hope for good weather on Sunday to perform at my best," said the diminutive East African who produced a personal best 15:01 for 5km when she claimed fourth position at the Adizero Road to Record in Germany a fortnight ago.

Mashele and Langat go toe-to-toe at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K. Mashele says he enjoys running against the East Africans and will challenge for a podium finish again on Sunday 12 May. Photo Credit: Tobias Ginsberg.

Chepkorir’s compatriot Vincent Langat is the favourite to win the men’s race. After victory in 'The Friendly City' on 7 April and a lifetime best 27:11 at the same event in Germany, Langat will be gunning for a second consecutive Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series victory. But the fastest South African in the field Precious Mashele who challenged him in Nelson

Mandela Bay has other ideas.

"You remember that last year in Gqeberha I ran the national record (27:35) and that was because of the East Africans. They push us. They don’t run slow. They run hard from start to finish. So if you want to run fast just chase them. I like running with them because they make us run personal bests. My body is responding well. on Sunday my goal is to finish on the podium. Anything is possible though, I think. I can be the first man to cross the line," said the national 10km record holder, Precious Mashele.

Sosibo, Khathala and Chepkorir are ready for the Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K. Photo Credit: Stillwater Sports.

Mashele leads the South African charge that includes the in-form Elroy Gelant, Stephen Mokoka and Kabelo Mulaudzi, all of whom have finished on the podium in previous editions of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series. In the women’s race Lesotho’s Neheng Khatala who was third last year is back again, while Cacisile Sosibo will carry South African hopes in “The Mother City” on Mother’s Day.

"We're proud to announce an impressive lineup of athletes set to compete in this year's Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K. The field includes a blend of top local and international talent both in the Elite Men’s and Elite Women’s categories, promising a highly competitive and exciting race through the stunning streets of ‘The Mother City.' We extend our best wishes to all athletes and look forward to a truly memorable race day," said Stillwater Sports Managing Director and Founder of the Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series, Michael Meyer.

Jabulile Nsibanyoni, Absa's Head of Sponsorships, says, "We are excited to see you at the starting line of the annual Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K. Whether you're a seasoned runner, a casual jogger, or a spirited spectator, your presence and stories are crucial to the vibrant tapestry of our community. Join us in running or walking to uplift

communities across South Africa through our R1 campaign, designed to make a tangible difference. For every kilometre logged by a Team Absa member on Strava, we pledge to donate R1, reinforcing our commitment to positive change where it's needed most. Be sure to sign up and follow Team Absa Walk/Run on Strava to start tracking your kilometres and be

part of this impactful journey."