BLOEMFONTEIN – It is all systems go for the 2026 Mimosa Mall Marathon, which will enliven the City of Roses with the sound of pounding feet on the road and cheering crowds on Saturday 28 February. With only three days to go, runners are encouraged to beat the registration deadline set for Friday 27 February.
Anticipation continues to build across the Free State capital of Bloemfontein.
Strong early entries and growing interest have already set the stage for a record turnout, with athletes travelling from across the province, and beyond, to be part of the action.
Neelofar Issa, general manager of Mimosa Mall, stressed the importance of the marathon in terms of boosting the profile of the City of Roses as a sporting attraction and strengthening business investment, with Mimosa Mall as the sponsor.
“This is more than just a race; the Mimosa Mall Marathon has become a highlight on the city’s sporting calendar. As an official qualifier for the prestigious Comrades Marathon, the event attracts serious long-distance runners chasing personal bests and qualifying times.”
Mimosa Mall marks its 26th birthday this year. The successful staging of the Mimosa Family Run inspired the idea of holding the Mimosa Mall Marathon as a Comrades qualifying race this early in the running calendar.
The event is presented in partnership with Bloemfontein Striders and the Louzanne Coetzee Foundation, with organisers working tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure a safe, seamless and memorable experience for all.
“At the same time, it remains proudly inclusive, welcoming social runners, walkers and families who simply want to enjoy an uplifting day out,” said Issa.
Race day will once again centre around a vibrant running village at Mimosa Mall, where participants and supporters can expect entertainment, exhibitions, recovery zones, and lively activations throughout the day.
Spectators are encouraged to line the route and gather at the finish along Melville Drive to cheer runners home and soak up the festive spirit.
Race packs and goodie bags for all distances, as well as on-site registrations, can be collected on Thursday and Friday between 09:00 and 18:00 at the Toys “R” Us and Value Co area inside Mimosa Mall.
For entries, updates, as well as route details, runners can follow Mimosa Mall on social media or visit mimosamall.co.za.
