With Christmas, New Year, and Valentine’s Day behind us, many are now turning their focus to the road—not for driving, but for road running.
The highly anticipated 2025 SPAR Grand Prix series officially kicks off on Sunday, March 30, as thousands of women take to the streets of Cape Town for the SPAR Women’s 10km Challenge and 5km Fun Run.
This race marks the beginning of the prestigious five-race series, which attracts Africa’s top elite and seasoned runners vying for valuable Grand Prix points. The overall winner of the SPAR Grand Prix will receive an impressive R200,000, with the runner-up earning R100,000, and the third-place finisher taking home R75,000. In addition to the substantial prize money allocated for individual races, the top-performing South African athlete will be awarded an extra R100,000, with R70,000 and R50,000 going to the second and third-placed South Africans, respectively. Junior runners will also have a chance to compete for an overall prize, with the results from three races determining the winner, who will receive R10,000.
In an exciting development, the SPAR Group proudly welcomes Hyundai Automotive South Africa as the official national vehicle sponsor of the series.
“Women empowerment is a fundamental part of Hyundai Automotive South Africa’s business philosophy and has played a significant role in our growth and success,” said Gideon Jansen van Rensburg, CEO of Hyundai Automotive South Africa. “From our dealerships nationwide to leadership roles within our organization, women have been instrumental in driving our progress. Through the Hyundai brand experience, we continue to contribute to broader social advancement.”
Hyundai’s strategic partnerships align with its core values, which emphasize gender equality and empowerment. “We firmly believe that running and driving a Hyundai vehicle go hand in hand,” added Jansen van Rensburg. “The SPAR Grand Prix series is a perfect fit for us, as it provides an opportunity to engage with potential customers through sport. This event is a key fixture in the South African sporting calendar, and we look forward to a long-term and mutually beneficial collaboration.”
In addition to the prize money, Hyundai will be giving away five Hyundai Exter SUVs, each valued at R269,900, at the five SPAR Women’s Challenge races. To be eligible to win, participants must be over 18 years old and hold a valid driver’s license.
Last year, Glenrose Xaba made history by becoming the first South African to win the SPAR Grand Prix since the competition was opened to international runners in 2019. Having previously won the title in 2018 when it was exclusive to local athletes, Xaba now aims to join the elite group of runners—including René Kalmer, Irvette van Zyl, and Ethiopian Tadu Nare—who have secured three SPAR Grand Prix titles.
“Winning the SPAR Grand Prix has been a long-standing goal for me,” said Xaba. “To have achieved it twice is a significant milestone in my career. Being recognized as the defending champion is an incredible feeling. For South African women, this series presents an opportunity to prove that we are more than capable of competing at the highest level. I am grateful to SPAR for investing in women athletes, not only financially but also by providing a women’s-only race, which is a fantastic opportunity for us.”
Xaba emphasized the importance of maintaining her health and avoiding injuries in the upcoming season. “I am determined to stay injury-free and have a strong season. I look forward to competing in the SPAR Grand Prix series again and fighting for the top spot.”
Athletes’ top four performances will count towards their overall Grand Prix standings, allowing them to remain in contention even if they miss a race due to injury or international commitments.
SPAR’s National PR, Communications, and Sponsorship Manager, Mpudi Maubane, expressed excitement about the 2025 series, highlighting its significance beyond just being a race. “The SPAR Women’s Challenges represent more than road running—they symbolize female empowerment, health promotion, and the fight against inequality. By participating, women are not only investing in their own well-being but also contributing to a brighter future for all women in South Africa.”
Maubane also emphasized SPAR’s commitment to social responsibility through the event. “Each race is linked to SPAR’s ongoing initiatives to combat Gender-Based Violence and the campaign to End Period Poverty by 2030. By raising awareness and supporting organizations addressing these issues, the SPAR Women’s Challenges contribute to a safer and more equitable society for South African women.”
Encouraging widespread participation, Maubane urged women to “lace up their shoes, join the movement, and be part of this inspiring series.”
For those unable to attend in person, SPAR will livestream all five races on the SPAR Grand Prix Facebook page and the Modern Athlete Facebook page, ensuring that fans can cheer on the participants and experience the excitement from anywhere in the world.
Maubane extended her gratitude to Athletics South Africa and Modern Athlete for their continued support. “We are equally thrilled to welcome Hyundai as the official vehicle sponsor of this incredible event. With Coke and Powerade returning as sponsors for the second consecutive year, we are excited about the continued growth of the series.”
A special incentive is also available for Discovery Health members. By entering and completing a race, participants can earn Vitality points.
Race Dates and Locations:
Cape Town – March 30
Durban – June 22
Tshwane – August 2
Gqeberha – September 27
Johannesburg – October 5
