As the new year settles in, South Africa’s attention shifts to the roads, but not just for driving – it’s time for road running!
The SPAR Grand Prix 2025 series is set to kick off on Sunday, March 30, with the first race in Cape Town.
Thousands of women will lace up their shoes for the SPAR Women’s 10km Challenge and the 5km Fun Run, starting what promises to be an electrifying season of athleticism, empowerment, and community.
This series consists of five races, where Africa’s top female runners will compete not only for victory in each event but also for valuable points toward the coveted SPAR Grand Prix title.
The grand prize for the overall winner is a massive R200,000, with second place receiving R100,000 and third place taking home R75,000.
South African runners will also have the chance to earn additional bonuses based on their points across the races, with the highest South African athlete taking home an extra R100,000, followed by R70,000 for second and R50,000 for third.
One exciting new development in 2025 is the partnership with Hyundai Automotive South Africa, who joins as the official vehicle sponsor of the series.
As part of this collaboration, Hyundai will give away five Hyundai Exter SUVs – each valued at R269,900 – during the five SPAR Women’s Challenges this year. To be eligible, winners must be over 18 and hold a valid driver’s license.
Hyundai Exter SUV
Gideon Jansen van Rensburg, CEO of Hyundai Automotive South Africa, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership: “Women empowerment is at the heart of Hyundai’s philosophy. Our female employees drive progress in every area of our organization, and we are proud to support a series like the SPAR Grand Prix, which celebrates and uplifts women.”
For Glenrose Xaba, the 2024 SPAR Grand Prix winner, the series is a career highlight. Xaba, who became the first South African to win the series after it opened up to international runners, is hoping to achieve a historic third title. “Winning the SPAR Grand Prix has been a dream for me, and to be referred to as a defending champion feels surreal,” she shared.
“This series provides a platform for South African women to showcase their strength and talent. I am excited to compete again this year and defend my title.”
Each race in the SPAR Grand Prix series is more than just a competition – it is a statement of female empowerment, health, and unity.
Mpudi Maubane, SPAR’s National PR, Communications, and Sponsorship Manager, highlighted the importance of the event: “The SPAR Women’s Challenges are not just about running; they represent a commitment to women’s health, equality, and social progress. Our series is also deeply connected to causes like ending gender-based violence and fighting period poverty, ensuring that we contribute to a safer and more equitable society.”
The five races in the SPAR Grand Prix 2025 include the Cape Town event on March 30, followed by races in Durban on June 22, Tshwane on August 2, Gqeberha on September 27, and Johannesburg on October 5.
For those unable to attend in person, all five races will be livestreamed on the SPAR Grand Prix Facebook page and Modern Athlete Facebook page, allowing fans to follow the action from anywhere in the world.
Maubane also expressed gratitude for the ongoing support of Athletics South Africa and Modern Athlete, as well as the return of partners like Coke and Powerade. With Hyundai now on board, the series is poised for another year of growth and success.
Good news for Discovery Health members: by completing either the fun run or the race, participants will earn Vitality points!
The 2025 SPAR Grand Prix is not just a race; it’s a movement – a celebration of the strength, resilience, and unity of women across South Africa. Lace up your shoes, join the movement, and be part of this incredible journey.
For more details and to enter the races, visit www.spar.run.
