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Discovery Vitality is bringing back the third edition of the BayRun as part of its popular Vitality Run Series, taking place on Saturday, 4 October, starting and finishing at Cape Recife High School.

Hosted by the 32Gi Athletics Club, the BayRun has quickly become a highlight on Nelson Mandela Bay’s running calendar since its launch in 2023. With distances of 21km, 10km, and 5km, the event caters to everyone, from beginner walkers to seasoned athletes chasing personal bests.

Building a tradition in the Bay

Introduced in 2017, the Vitality Run Series has built a reputation in Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Western Cape. Its arrival in Gqeberha last year saw over 1,500 runners cross the finish line, and organisers are predicting an even bigger turnout this year.

Race director Jonathan Mundell from 32Gi says the community support has been overwhelming:

“We had amazing support and vibe last year from the beginner walkers to those looking to improve their personal bests, and we’re predicting another strong turnout this year as this event really caters to everyone.”

Local talent shines

In 2024, Lithebe Menzeleleli (Ikhamva Athletics Club) claimed the men’s 21km title in 1:05:38, while Refeloe Solomons (Nedbank Running Club) was the first woman home in 1:27:28. The 10km winners were Melikhaya Frans in 29:32 and Ntombesintu Mfunzi (Nedbank) in 39:16.

What to expect on race day

The BayRun, which holds EP Athletics league status, will again feature scenic, flat routes across three distances. All finishers receive a Discovery Vitality BayRun medal, and participants stand a chance to win exciting lucky draw prizes including a R2,500 cash prize drawn from online entries.

Race times:

• 21km: 06:00
• 5km: 06:05
• 10km: 06:15

Prize-giving:

• 10km: 08:20
• 21km: 09:30
• Main lucky draw: 09:45

Food trucks, coffee stalls, and club gazebos will add to the race-day vibe at the finish line.

How to enter

• Online: Webtickets until Tuesday, 30 September (midnight)
• In-store: Brian Bands, Sportsmans Warehouse, and UD Sports (Uitenhage) until Wednesday, 1 October

Number collection and late entries:

• Friday, 3 Oct: Wembley Tennis Club (12:00–19:00)
• Race day: Cape Recife High School (05:00–05:45)

For more info, contact Jonathan Mandell (083 414 2624) or Theresa Buchner (081 723 8230).

Main Picture: Refeloe Solomons, of Nedbank Running Club, was the first woman home in the 21km last year (1:27:28).