20 Apr Come celebrate Freedom Day with Tymebank Langa’s Run4Freedom
By Adnaan Mohamed
On 27 April – South Africa’s Freedom Day – the streets of Langa, the country’s oldest township, will come alive with the rhythm of runners’ footsteps and the spirit of unity, as the TymeBank Langa Run4Freedom 10km race returns for its fourth year.
Set against the backdrop of a township rich in culture, history, and sporting excellence, the 10km race is more than just a run. It’s a living tribute to 30 years of democracy, resilience, and community pride.
Langa – meaning “sun” in isiXhosa – has long been a cradle of South African talent. From Proteas captain Temba Bavuma and cricketer Thami Tsolekile to Bafana Bafana legend Thabo Mngomeni and music icon Brenda Fassie, its influence stretches far beyond its borders.
Today, the township continues to produce champions, with the spotlight now on local hero William Kaptein, who made history earlier this month by winning the Totalsports Two Oceans Half Marathon – the first Capetonian to do so in over 25 years. The legendary Makhosonke Fika also from Langa, last won the prestigious 21.1km event in 1998.
William Kaptein, from Tymebank Langa after winning the Totalsports Two Oceans Half Marathon Photo: Adnaan Mohamed
Kaptein will lead the field in this year’s Run4Freedom, setting the pace for an expected 1,800 participants.
Starting outside the Langa Sports Stadium, the 10km and 6km routes wind through Washington Street and surrounding areas, offering runners a rare chance to experience the township’s vibrant character and historic heartbeat on foot.
The course is as much a cultural journey as it is a physical one, lined with supporters, music, and moments of pride.
Organised by the TymeBank Langa Athletics Club, the race has become a fixture on Cape Town’s running calendar, drawing elite athletes and community runners alike.
More than just a sporting event, it’s a powerful community upliftment initiative, with proceeds going towards local development projects.
TymeBank CEO Karl Westvig says the race is about more than performance: “We want to inspire young people to unlock their potential through sport, just as William Kaptein has.
Aubrey Isaacs (WPA Road Running Chairperson), Edward Jack Tymebank Langa Elite runner and Karl Westfig, CEO of Tymebank. Photo: Shuyb Hendricks
This is a race for everyone — from first-timers to pros — running together in celebration of freedom.”
Entries for the 10km race range from R120 to R180, while the 6km fun run costs R50–R70.
Runners can register online until 18 April, or in person at the Langa Sports Stadium or Sportsman’s Warehouse Rondebosch on 25–27 April.
In a township that’s long symbolised hope and talent, this Freedom Day run offers more than medals — it offers meaning.
As South Africa marks three decades of democracy, the streets of Langa will echo with a powerful message: the spirit of freedom still runs strong.
No Comments