Adriaan Wildschutt’s record-breaking victory at the 2025 Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K was not only a showcase of elite athleticism but a powerful testament to the role incentives play in developing South African running talent.
Clocking 27:28, Wildschutt shattered the previous South African 10km record by seven seconds, earning a massive R200 000 payout, thanks to the Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES SA Elite Athlete Incentive Programme.
The programme, introduced by Stillwater Sports at the start of the 2025 series, aims to drive the standard of 10km running in South Africa through meaningful financial support. Wildschutt received R30 000 for his win, R120 000 for dipping under 27:30, and an additional R50 000 for setting a new national record.
“Earning the incentives from Absa is very important, not just for me but for all athletes,” said Wildschutt.
“It allows you to train full time and perform at a high level.”
The Ceres-born athlete, now based in the US, added that knowing his travel and family expenses were covered made it an easy decision to race.
“Coming all the way from the US and knowing all the finances are covered is a great comfort.”
Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports and series founder, stressed the importance of investing in local talent: “We’re committed to building the premier Elite Athlete Programme in South Africa. While we want all runners to have a world-class experience, we also recognise the value of nurturing our own stars.”
Kabelo Mulaudzi placed 3rd in the Elite Men’s Race at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K. PHOTO: Anthony Grote
In 2025, over R4.5 million is allocated to the elite athlete programme — far exceeding the R1.6 million prize purse. This includes appearance fees, travel support, and significant performance bonuses.
Runners achieving elite times, such as sub-28:00 for men and sub-32:08 for women, are rewarded handsomely, with up to R200 000 on offer for breaking benchmark times or setting SA records.
Wildschutt wasn’t the only beneficiary. Kabelo Mulaudzi earned R60 000 for his sub-28-minute, third-place finish, while Glenrose Xaba took home R60 000 for placing third and running under 32:08 in the women’s race.
Glenrose Xaba was the first South African woman to cross the finish line on the day, with an overall 3rd place finish. PHOTO: Kevin Sawyer
“When a record is broken at one of our races, it attracts global attention,” said Meyer.
“We want to showcase African excellence and continue investing in the future of South African distance running.”
The Absa RUN YOUR CITY SERIES proves that with the right backing, South African athletes can reach world-class levels — and inspire the next generation to do the same.
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Websites: www.runyourcityseries.com
