On 27 April, while South Africa commemorates 30 years of democracy, the streets of Langa – the country’s oldest township – will pulse with a different kind of energy.
Over 1,800 runners are expected to lace up for the fourth annual TymeBank Langa Run4Freedom – a 10km race celebrating resilience, community, and freedom.
But this isn’t just another road race.
Held on Freedom Day, the Run4Freedom is deeply symbolic. It’s not only about pounding the pavement; it’s about honouring history, celebrating community progress, and running with purpose through a township that has shaped the nation’s cultural and sporting identity.
Aubrey Isaacs, Chairperson of WPA Road Running, Edward Jack, Tymebank Langa and Karl Westvig CEO of Tymebank. Photo: Shuyb Hendricks
Langa: A Township of Titans
Langa, meaning “sun” in isiXhosa, has long been a beacon of talent and tenacity.
It’s the birthplace of sporting legends such as Proteas captain Temba Bavuma, former cricketer Thami Tsolekile, and Bafana Bafana and Orlando Pirates star Thabo Mngomeni. And while the world knows the musical powerhouse Brenda Fassie as a South African icon, to Langa she was one of their own.
From dusty streets to national stadiums, the township has continually proven that greatness can rise from humble beginnings.
That legacy lives on today through athletes like William Kaptein of TymeBank Langa Athletics Club, who made headlines with his victory at the Totalsports Two Oceans Half Marathon earlier this month – becoming the first Cape Town runner to do so since 1998.
William Kaptein proudly poses with his Two Oceans Half Marathon medal. Photo: Adnaan Mohamed
And fittingly, Kaptein will lead the pack on race day, returning home as a hometown hero to inspire the next generation.
A Route Steeped in Story
Starting at Langa Sports Stadium on Bitterhout Avenue, the route winds through Washington Street — the oldest road in the township — and beyond. It’s more than just a course; it’s a living museum of Langa’s heritage.
Along the way, runners will be immersed in the energy of the community: cheers from sidewalk supporters, the rhythm of local music, and the unmistakable heartbeat of a township proud of its past and hopeful for its future.
For those not ready for the full 10km, a 6km fun run offers a more relaxed way to experience the day, encouraging participation from every corner of Cape Town’s diverse running community.
More Than a Race
Organised by the TymeBank Langa Athletics Club, the Run4Freedom has grown into a must-run event on the Cape Town race calendar.
But it’s also a vital economic and social catalyst. With proceeds directed toward community development projects and local businesses benefiting from race-day traffic, every stride makes a difference.
“This race is about more than medals and times,” says Molebatsi Matube, Chairperson of the TymeBank Langa Athletics Club.
“It’s about connection, celebration, and creating a legacy of unity and upliftment through sport. Last year, we had over 1,500 runners – and this year, we’re expecting even more to show up and run for a cause.”
Runners will take over the streets of Langa on Freedom Day. Photo: Adnaan Mohamed
Entry Details
Online entries close at midnight on 18 April 2025 at [https://bit.ly/tymelangarace](https://bit.ly/tymelangarace).
Late entries will be available at the Langa Sports Stadium on 25 and 26 April (14:00–17:00), and on race morning (05:00–07:00), as well as at Sportsman’s Warehouse in Rondebosch on 25 and 26 April.
6km Fun Run: R50 (juniors) / R70 (seniors)
– 10km Race: R120 (licensed) / R180 (unlicensed)
The event is open to all, from elite runners chasing PBs to families and first-timers looking to soak up the atmosphere.
Powered by Purpose
TymeBank CEO Karl Westvig captures the heart of the event best: “We hope to inspire young people to discover their potential through sport, following in the footsteps of local hero William Kaptein. This race welcomes everyone – from casual runners to pros – to experience something truly meaningful on a day that reminds us what we’ve overcome and what we can still achieve.”
Running Into the Future
As runners charge through Langa’s historic avenues on Freedom Day, they’ll be doing more than celebrating the past – they’ll be shaping the future.
In the township that has given South Africa some of its brightest stars, the TymeBank Langa Run4Freedom is a timely reminder: the road to freedom is still being run, one powerful stride at a time.
