Johannesburg, South Africa: Joining together in an empowering celebration of women through sport, thousands of runners and walkers will converge on the Marks Park Sports Club for the annual SPAR Women’s Challenge road running festival in Johannesburg on Sunday, 1 October 2023.
Consistently growing in popularity, the SPAR Women’s Challenge Jozi has witnessed a remarkable surge in participants in recent years and will again provide an opportunity for women of all ages, fitness levels and backgrounds to come together by participating over 10km or 5km distances.
The event will also form part of the SPAR Grand Prix series, hosting what is expected to be a thrilling sixth and final leg of the annual campaign which gives elite runners a chance to accumulate points to make them eligible for prestigious titles and more than R1.8 million in prize money.
“This event allows runners across the country to challenge themselves and compete against some of the best athletes in the world, making it an unforgettable experience,” said Kesa Molotsane, a former SPAR Grand Prix series champion and SPAR Women’s Challenge Jozi race ambassador.
“On behalf of the athletes, I want to thank SPAR for their continuous support by providing a platform for female athletes to showcase their talent and inspire others to pursue their dreams, and I look forward to joining thousands of women once again at the SPAR Women’s Challenge Jozi.”
Electrifying atmosphere
The SPAR Women’s Challenge Jozi embodies and reflects the spirit of unity, inclusivity, and empowerment.
Beyond the competition, the race day atmosphere at Marks Park Sports Club is electrifying. The vibrant entertainment and the camaraderie among fellow runners create an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.
“SPAR is thrilled to be driving the SPAR Women’s Challenge Jozi, an event dedicated to bringing smiles to women in and around Johannesburg,” said Charleen Goschen, Divisional Marketing Director for SPAR South Rand.
“We are also proud to announce the transition from SPAR Women’s Challenge Joburg to SPAR Women’s Challenge Jozi, which reflects our dedication to being inclusive and aligning with the spirit of Johannesburg, fondly known as Jozi.
“The SPAR Women’s Challenge Jozi symbolises the strength and resilience of the women in this vibrant city, and we are committed to empowering women and fostering community and friendship through this event.”
Worthy causes
In addition to encouraging women’s participation in sport and promoting a healthy lifestyle, the SPAR Women’s Challenge Jozi is dedicated to giving back to the community.
As part of the #4Smiles campaign, this year’s event aims to raise funds for two incredible charities: the Smile Foundation and Reach for Recovery.
The Smile Foundation focuses on providing life-changing surgeries for children born with cleft lips or palates. Through the generosity of the event’s participants and supporters, the Smile Foundation ensures that these children can smile with confidence for the rest of their lives.
Reach for Recovery provides vital support to breast cancer survivors. Their compassionate volunteers, many of whom are breast cancer survivors themselves, offer emotional and practical assistance to women who have undergone mastectomies or lumpectomies, helping them regain confidence and improve their quality of life.
Join the celebration
The SPAR Women’s Challenge Jozi 2023 is not just a race; it’s a celebration of women’s strength, resilience and unity.
Whether you are an avid runner, a beginner taking on your first race, or a supporter cheering from the sidelines, this event promises an experience like no other.
By participating in the race and supporting the Smile Foundation and Reach for Recovery, you can also make a meaningful difference in the lives of children in need and breast cancer survivors.
Join us at Marks Park Sports Club in Emmarentia and be part of this empowering celebration of women.
List of Ambassadors
Christine Kalmer
Elana Afrika-Bredenkamp
Faith Motau
Kesa Molotsane
Louzanne Coetzee
Marlee van der Merwe
Mary Mutlanyane
Mimi Mahlasela
Rene Kalmer
Yolanda Bukani
Image 1:
Louzanne Coetzee (Paralympic Medalist) and Elana-Afrika Bredenkamp
Image 2:
SPAR Grand Prix Top Runners
BACK (FLTR): Charné Bosman, Lebogang Phalula, Lebo Phalula, Kesa Molotsane
FRONT (FLTR): René Kalmer, Cian Oldknow, Glenrose Xaba, Christine Kalmer
Image 3:
René Kalmer and Warrior Ric
Image 4:
Marlene Gunter (SPAR Women’s Challenge Race Organiser), Karabo Mabilo(Deputy President, Central Gauteng Athletics)
About the Race
Event details: 1 October 2023 at 08:00 at Marks Park, Emmarentia
Cost: R150 per entry (this includes a T-Shirt, My Jozi Challenge magazine, foam peak cap and race number).
Enter online here
Keep an eye on their social media, and website to ensure you are up to date with which stores have entries available.
For more information visit their Facebook, Instagram, or Website
Visit the official websites to find out more about the SPAR Women’s Challenge Jozi, the Smile Foundation and Reach for Recovery.
Race Enquiries Media Enquiries
Cornel Steyn Natasja Martens
cornel.steyn@spar.co.za natasja@oxigencomms.com
011 821 4238 082 901 4014
Race Office Number
087 097 0011