Local performing arts group, Ikusasa Arts Development, will make its Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series debut on Sunday 7 April 2024 when the group performs for thousands of runners and supporters at the iconic Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K.
Established in 2011 on the vibrant streets of KwaZakhele township in Gqeberha, Ikusasa Arts Development is a community organization dedicated to preserving South Africa’s rich culture and heritage through music and dance. The group comprises 12 core dancers, supplemented by freelance performers, ranging in age from 21 to 36. Hailing from Zwide, New Brighton, and KwaZakhele, the dancers represent the diverse surrounding communities of Gqeberha.
“It’s an absolute honor for Ikusasa to have been chosen to perform at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K in 2024,” says Thandeka Ntlonti, Marketing and Media Coordinator at Ikusasa Arts Development. “Representing our beloved city of Gqeberha fills us with pride, and we can’t wait to experience the excitement and joy of race day. Runners can look forward to spirited cheers, accompanied by vibrant song and dance, as they approach the finish line. The uplifting sounds of djembe drums and songs will motivate them as they complete their 10km journey. At Ikusasa, we are known for bringing our A-game to every event. Our dancers will be dressed in a variety of colorful costumes, promising a visually stunning experience that complements our energetic performance.”
“We can’t wait to see Ikusasa Arts Development in action at the Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K,” says Michael Meyer, Managing Director of Stillwater Sports and Series Founder. “In addition to Ikusasa’s lively performance, runners can also look forward to the return of iconic Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series sponsor activations, such as the vibrant Absa High Five at 5, the fast-paced PUMA FOREVER FASTER 100 sprint, the spirited Chery Cheer Zone, refreshing Coca Cola Beverages South Africa’s hydration stations and fun Castle Lite Zone. This year we will also be introducing a few new activations such as the ‘Unicorn Razzle Dazzle’ and ‘Love for Local’ to mention just a few. Each activation embodies our vision of creating unforgettable moments that celebrate the spirit of Gqeberha and its people.”
“Absa is delighted to kickstart our running series at Gqeberha for the highly anticipated 2024 season of the iconic Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series,” says Jabulile Nsibanyoni, Head of Sponsorships, Brand, and Marketing at Absa. “Continuing our mission to drive positive change and uplift communities, we proudly reintroduce our R1 for 1km campaign. For each kilometer run or walked by a Team Absa member on Strava and Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series participants, the bank will donate R1, reaffirming our commitment to making a tangible impact in our communities,” Nsibanyoni ends.
According to Rae Trew-Browne, PUMA Run Train Marketing Manager, the PUMA FOREVER FASTER 100 sprint is designed to inspire runners to push their limits and increase their speed. “As added motivation and reward, PUMA will be giving away in-store discount vouchers. If you complete the 100m sprint in under 15 seconds, you’ll receive a 30% discount code. Under 20 seconds, you’ll get a 20% discount code, and under 25 seconds guarantees you a 15% discount. We look forward to creating an unforgettable experience for all participants and can’t wait to encourage them to give their all.”
“The Chery Cheer Zone is guaranteed to uplift and energize runners,” says Mr. Tony Liu, Executive Deputy GM of Chery South Africa. “Look forward to enjoying a memorable experience that aligns with Chery’s commitment to supporting active and vibrant communities. We can’t wait to cheer on all the participants as they tackle this iconic race in Gqeberha.”
“We are thrilled to be part of the 2024 Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K, providing hydration and energizing refreshments to all participants,” says Hlengiwe Khanyile Regional Sales Execution Manager Coastal, Coca Cola Beverages South Africa. “Our hydration stations will be a welcomed oasis along the route, ensuring that every runner stays hydrated and energized.”
EVENT INFORMATION: 2024 Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series
1. Sunday 07 April 2024 / Absa RUN YOUR CITY GQEBERHA 10K
Start & Finish Venue: Beach Road, Kings Beach, Humewood, Gqeberha
Start Time: 07:00
Entry Fee:
• Licenced Runners R245.00
• Temp Licence: R30.00
Entry Includes:
• Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series Event Performance T-shirt
• Absa Drawstring Bag
• Absa Peak Cap
• Absa Socks
• Race Number with Timing Chip
• Amazing Sponsor Route Entertainment Points
• Lively Route Entertainment Points
• 2 x Refreshment Stations on Route
• Tog Bag Drop and Collect Service
• Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series Finisher’s Medal
2. Sunday 12 May 2024 / Absa RUN YOUR CITY CAPE TOWN 10K
3. Sunday 07 July 2024 / Absa RUN YOUR CITY DURBAN 10K
4. Sunday 25 August 2024 / Absa RUN YOUR CITY TSHWANE 10K
5. Tuesday 24 September 2024 / Absa RUN YOUR CITY JOBURG 10K
EXCITING NEWS: In 2024, each of the five Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series events will showcase unique, city-specific medals, adding a personalized touch to the participant experience reflective of the host city’s essence and character.
CHARITY SUPPORT: The Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series has welcomed the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) as the official charity for the entire series of events taking place in Gqeberha, Cape Town, Durban, Tshwane and Joburg in 2024. A non-profit leader in the fight against cancer since 1931, CANSA enables research, educates the public and advocates for and supports all people affected by cancer, while leading SA towards a cancer-free society. When entering an Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series event online, runners can show their support by donating towards CANSA.
Facebook: @Gqeberha10k / @CapeTown10k / @Durban10k / @Tshwane10k / @Joburg10k
Instagram: @Gqeberha10k / @CapeTown10k / @Durban10k / @Tshwane10k / @Joburg10k
Hashtag: #RunYourCity #AbsaRunYourCity
Websites: www.runyourcityseries.com
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Author: Jacky McClean from NEWSPORT MEDIA on behalf of Absa RUN YOUR CITY Series.
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