This year has been a special year for Midrand Striders Running Club. Established in 1980, the club celebrated 45 years of running, community, and shared journeys.

What began as a small neighbourhood running group has grown into one of Midrand’s most recognisable and welcoming running communities, and this year reflected exactly that spirit.
The club membership grew from 150 to around 170 runners, a steady, healthy increase that reflects how the club continues to resonate with people across Midrand.

Chairperson Tsenoli Tiheli said as they celebrated 45 years, the club remained grounded in its founding principles of fitness, friendship, and fun, values that still guide how they show up on the road and in the community.

Read more: Midrand Striders celebrate double podium success at Rand Athletic Club Tough One

Two of the club’s flagship events continued to anchor the striders’ calendar in 2025, each contributing to the club’s growing footprint in the running community.

The Club 60 Comrades Long Run once again proved its value as a trusted preparation run for many Comrades athletes. The Kyalami Corner Midrand Striders Half Marathon also reached an exciting milestone, attracting more than 2 200 runners, the highest participation in the race’s history and a proud moment for the club.

“We are pleased to confirm that the 2026 Kyalami Corner Midrand Striders Half Marathon will take place on August 30, 2026, once again at the same venue, and we look forward to building on the strong foundation set this year,” said Tiheli.

One of the most meaningful highlights of the club’s 45th year was achieving a 97% finish rate at the 2025 Comrades Marathon, the highest finish rate of all participating clubs. “The success at Comrades is a testament to the club’s commitment to consistency, teamwork, and the belief that every runner deserves the tools and encouragement to reach the finish line.”

As part of the club’s commitment to community upliftment, they donated 10 pairs of brand-new running shoes to Diepsloot Athletic Club. ”It is a partnership we are proud of and one we intend to continue in the years ahead.”

Also read: Striders’ half-marathon set to mark 40 years with record entries and champions

Looking ahead to 2026, the club’s focus remains on building steadily. This includes increasing socials at Tuesday time trials and Sunday runs, attracting junior runners to develop young talent, and sustaining affordable membership while continuing gradual growth.

The club also looks forward to maintaining the high standard of the club race and supporting runners across all distances, from beginners to Comrades qualifiers.

The club thanks its members, committee, partners, and supporters for making this year a successful one for the club. “We thank you for walking this journey with us and contributing to another successful year,” added Tehile.

“As we mark our 45th anniversary, we extend our heartfelt appreciation for your ongoing support. May your festive season be peaceful, joyful and safe. Here is to a healthy, strong and inspiring 2026. From all of us at Midrand Striders, Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.”

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