World superstar Brenda Jepchirchir set for Run Your City debut in Gqeberha

Fresh from a sensational victory at the Valencia 10km in January, the 20-year-old will take to the streets of Nelson Mandela Bay in what will be her debut appearance in the Run Your City Series.

Race organisers Stillwater Sports believe her presence will further elevate the event and inspire local stars such as Glenrose Xaba, Taylor Kavanagh and Karabo Mailula, among others.

Jepchirchir grabbed global headlines on 11 January when she produced a commanding performance against a world-class field in Valencia, stopping the clock at 29:25 to surge to the top of the 10km world rankings for 2026.

That breakthrough run has made her one of the most sought-after athletes over the distance, and Gqeberha will be her first race since that memorable outing in Spain.

The rising East African star told SABC Sport that the reputation of the Absa Run Your City Series played a major role in her decision to compete in South Africa.

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“I’ve heard great things about the Absa Run Your City Series and the Gqeberha 10K. The course is known for being fast, the organisation is excellent, and the competition is strong. I’m excited to experience racing in South Africa and to be part of such a high-energy event,” said Jepchirchir.

She insisted that her Valencia performance was no fluke, but rather the result of months of consistent preparation.

“It was an amazing feeling and a very special moment for me. Valencia is such a competitive race, so winning there and breaking 30 minutes for the first time meant a lot,” she explained. “The biggest factor has been consistency. Over the last six months I’ve been able to train well, stay healthy, and really build momentum.”

Looking ahead to Gqeberha, Jepchirchir says her focus will be on executing a smart race. “On 1 March, the goal is to put together a strong race, compete well, and see what time is possible on the day. If conditions are right, I’d love to run fast again, but the focus must also be on execution and racing smart.”

Stillwater Sports founder and managing director Michael Meyer described Jepchirchir’s participation as a major boost for the opening leg of the series in the Friendly City.

“To have the current world No.1, fresh off a sensational win in Valencia, choose to make her South African debut at our event speaks volumes about the stature of the Absa Run Your City Series,” said Meyer. “Brenda’s presence raises the bar once again and guarantees an exciting, world-class race for both elite and recreational runners on the streets of Nelson Mandela Bay.”