THIS year marks the 35th year of the iconic SPAR Women’s 10/5km Challenge, which will take place in Durban on June 22. The 10km run gets underway at 08:00 while the 5km starts at 08:45.
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Over the years, the race has seen over 350 000 participants sharing a morning run around Durban’s scenic spots. In 1990, 2200 participants revelled in the competition, and South African Colleen de Reuck won in a time of 34:16. Last year’s winner, Tadu Nare, from Ethiopia, took top honours with an impressive time of 31:14.
Marketing director of SPAR KZN Menelisi Luthuli said, “For 35 years, we have proudly sponsored women’s running races, championing health, empowerment, and community spirit, and it all began here in KZN. This long-standing commitment has provided women with a space to set achievable goals, celebrate their fitness, and personal achievements, and do so with camaraderie. Beyond the race, SPAR’s support has inspired generations of women to lead active, confident lives.”
The race follows the fast and flat route with an out-and-back course starting along Masabala Yengwa Avenue, near the Hollywoodbets Kings Park Stadium, and concluding on the outer fields of the rugby grounds. Special entertainment will be laid on at the finish, with many lucky draw prizes to be won, including a Hyundai Exter 1.2 Premium MT to the value of R269 900.
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For competitive runners, the Durban race forms part of the SPAR Grand Prix series which offers R185 000 in race category prizes. The top three athletes will net a total of R78 000. First prize is R33 000, while the second placed lady will earn R25 000 and the third R20 000.
Online entries are open until midnight on June 16, or until the limit of 12 000 is reached. Online entry fees are R180 for both the 5km and 10km events. Social runners entering the 10km event and not in possession of a 2025 ASA licence number will be required to purchase a temporary licence for R55. Bulk entries of 10 or more participants are available for corporate teams, social teams, and schools via the online entry link and close on June 6. Late entry at the Race Pack collection will cost R200.
KZN entrants are encouraged to enter early to avoid disappointment.
Race pack collections will be at the Kings Park Stadium Outer Fields on June 20 from 10:00 until 18:00 and on June 21 from 10:00 to 16:00.
R5 from each entry will be donated to the Sinethemba Women’s Foundation based in Matabetule near Inanda Dam. The official race charity advocates for an end to gender-based violence. The organisation strives to create sustainable programmes that improve the lives of women, girls and youth from indigent communities.
For more information, visit www.spar.run or follow the race’s social media.
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