Entries continue to pour in as workplaces, universities and communities across the city rally behind this year’s SPAR Women’s Challenge.
Gqeberha, South Africa (07 August 2026) – Gqeberha is slowly turning magenta as excitement builds for the 33rd SPAR Women’s Challenge, with thousands of women already signing up to lace up their running shoes for one of the city’s biggest celebrations of women.
With the event set to take place at Pollok Beach on 26 September, organisers say entries have been pouring in, with only half of the 6,000 online entry spots still available.
This year’s race, themed #CelebrateHer, has been attracting women from all walks of life through activations at workplaces, universities, shopping centres and community organisations across the city.
SPAR Eastern Cape sponsorship controller Honey Koba said the response has been overwhelming.
“We are painting the city magenta.”
The excitement isn’t slowing down either, with more community activations still planned in the lead-up to race day.
This year’s challenge will once again feature a host of familiar faces, including fitness coach Noxolo Marks, long-distance runner Karen Barnard, Umhlobo Wenene FM presenter Mafa Bavuma and content creator Gabi Baatjes, all encouraging women to celebrate, support and uplift one another.
Marks said she loved this year’s theme because it reminds women of the power of standing together.
Barnard believes the event has helped create a strong community of women in Nelson Mandela Bay, while Bavuma says men also have an important role to play by supporting and celebrating the women in their lives.
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How Do We Keep Matric Dances Special Without Making Them So Expensive?Women hoping to be part of this year’s SPAR Women’s Challenge are encouraged to register soon, as the first 6,000 entrants will receive an official race T-shirt, scrunchie and goodie bag. Registration details are available on the SPAR Women’s Challenge website.
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