Diepkloof Athletics Club will bring the A Re Shomeng Diepkloof Half Marathon back to the University of Johannesburg Soweto Campus on 15 November 2026, with organisers expecting about 3,000 runners for a day combining competitive athletics, community spirit and family entertainment.
The event will feature 5km, 10km and 21.1km races, with a R70,000 prize purse available across the open categories. The 21.1km winners will receive R10,000, R5,000 and R2,500 for first, second and third place respectively, while the 10km and 5km categories will also offer prize money.
The route will take runners through Diepkloof, including past the Soweto Towers and the Zodwa Khoza Foundation in Diepkloof Phase 2, reconnecting the race with the community where the athletics club has deep roots.
Adding excitement to race day will be designated pace buses, allowing runners to target specific finishing times alongside experienced pace leaders. The 10km event will also feature an Orlando Pirates Legends Bus, with former stars including Dikgang Mabalane, Lehlohonolo Majoro, Thabang Qalinge and Lebogang “Cheeseboy” Mokoena expected to participate. A Kaizer Chiefs Legends Bus is also planned.
Organisers have also placed emphasis on families, with music, a children’s play area, giveaways and a race-day village. Participants will receive a specially designed collector’s medal.
The event will further provide opportunities for young creative talent through the involvement of the David Tlale Academy, whose aspiring designers worked on the official race T-shirt.
Diepkloof Athletics Club’s longstanding contribution to township athletics remains central to the event, with the club continuing its Saturday walk-and-run activities, talent identification and community development initiatives.
The race is also expected to create temporary employment opportunities for local residents and UJ students, while providing SMMEs with opportunities to showcase and sell their products and services.
Organisers expressed their appreciation to all sponsors, partners, supporters, volunteers and community members whose contributions are helping bring the 2026 event together.
With its return to Diepkloof, the marathon aims to offer more than a race, creating a platform where sport, community, young talent and healthy living can come together.
Entry fees range from R90 to R270, depending on the distance and age category. Registration is currently open.