TymeBank Langa 10 kilometre Run embraces Mandela Month spirit in historic township race

Media Release

TymeBank Langa 10 kilometre Run embraces Mandela Month spirit in historic township race

What began as a postponement has evolved into perfect timing, with the TymeBank Langa Run4Freedom now being held during Mandela Month. The long-awaited race will take place on Sunday, 20 July 2025, creating a meaningful synergy between the event's community-focused values and Mandela Month's celebration of unity. The race will honour Madiba’s legacy by bringing people together and fostering a spirit of community – a defining feature of the event over the years. Celebrating its fourth year, this vibrant race welcomes runners to discover the pulse of one of South Africa's oldest townships, Langa, offering an authentic cultural immersion while empowering local businesses and community initiatives.

This year's event is expecting up to 1,800 runners, offering a 10-kilometre challenge designed for running clubs and competitive athletes, plus a 6-kilometre alternative, best suited to casual runners seeking to stretch their capabilities while connecting with the township's infectious enthusiasm.

TymeBank CEO, Karl Westvig said: “Supporting this race means supporting Langa’s vibrant running culture, and as lead sponsor we couldn't be more excited to be part of something so meaningful to this unique township. It holds extraordinary meaning that the race is now being held during Mandela Month.  It's going to be a day of unity and shared spirit, where runners from all walks of life come together as one.”

Drawing on the legacy of local hero William Kaptein, the event aims to inspire young people to discover their potential through sport. Open to all, the run welcomes first-time participants and casual runners looking for a unique community experience, as well as elite athletes eager to beat their personal bests on the streets of Langa.

Molebatsi Matube, Chairperson of the TymeBank Langa Athletics Club and Race Organiser, added, "There's something magical about this race that sets it apart from every other event on the running calendar. Long after crossing the finish line, participants carry these memories with them. It’s the community atmosphere, the way strangers become friends, and the sense of belonging to something bigger."

The race will commence at 07:30 at the Langa Sports Stadium on Bitterhout Avenue, where runners will proceed down Washington Street – the township’s oldest thoroughfare – and through several other notable streets. Along the way, runners will get a glimpse into Langa’s rich cultural and historical heritage.

Ends

Notes to the editor

About the TymeBank Langa Run4Freedom

Brief History

The Langa Athletics Club was formed in 2015 to support and encourage participation in youth development programmes. The first Langa Run for Freedom took place on Wednesday 27 April 2022, with then Retail Capital (now a division of TymeBank) as title sponsor. The idea behind this flagship running event is to bring together runners from across the city in the spirit of peace and togetherness, to celebrate Freedom Day and all that it represents. Runners are encouraged to bring along friends and families to support them and to soak up the township vibe on the day. The Run4Freedom is the first of its kind for Langa, and when Retail Capital was acquired by TymeBank later that year, the bank took over the full sponsorship and in 2023 the race became known as the TymeBank Langa Run4Freedom. 2025 marks the fourth year of the race. The route, which winds down Washington street, is designed to take runners past well-known landmarks.

About the sponsor

 Launched in 2019 in South Africa, TymeBank is one of the world’s fastest growing digital banks. TymeBank values its role in empowering the Langa community, and in particular the Langa Athletics Club that has enabled many talented club runners to reach their full potential within running circles.

TymeBank is extremely proud to be part of this initiative, which shines a spotlight on the township and the community, while also bringing together runners from across Cape Town to share in a multi-cultural sporting event, united by a common goal.  The proceeds from TymeBank Run4Freedom are invested directly back into the athletics club where specific programmes are developed to uplift the young people in the area.

About the Langa Athletics Club

Regarded as one of the city’s elite running clubs, it attracts members from different communities, while focusing on athletics and promoting and encouraging a healthy lifestyle in Langa and surrounding areas. The club has enabled many talented runners to reach their full potential within running circles.

Issued by Aprio on behalf of TymeBank

For queries please contact: 

Rio Matlhaku-082 907 7943 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Pontsho Ramontsha - 0724717357 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.