27 May UWC Fast & Flat serves as ideal Comrades Marathon tune-up
Adnaan Mohamed
The 32nd edition of the UWC Fast & Flat 10km and 6.5km Fun Run is expected to draw thousands of runners to Bellville on Sunday, 31 May 2026 with many using the race as a final sharpening session ahead of the Comrades Marathon On Sunday, 14 June 2026.
Hosted by the University of the Western Cape, the race has long been one of Cape Town’s favourite speed tests, with its pancake-flat route offering runners the chance to stretch their legs one final time before the ultra-marathon season reaches boiling point.
For Comrades hopefuls fine-tuning their preparations, the event presents the perfect dress rehearsal. Some will treat it as a controlled time trial, others as a confidence booster, while ambitious club runners will chase personal bests like hunters stalking prey on an open savannah.
The race starts at 07:00 from the UWC Sports Stadium on Robert Sobukwe Road, where organisers expect a festive atmosphere fuelled by fast feet and nervous energy.
Organisers confirmed that 1,500 entries have already been secured, with the event capped at 3,000 runners.
“This is more than a race, it’s a celebration of wellness, community, and fun,” organisers said in a statement.
The 10km race carries R25,000 in prize money across categories, with the first male and female athletes each pocketing R2,500.
The first 3,000 entrants in the 10km will receive goodie bags sponsored by Bestmed Medical Scheme, while all 6.5km finishers will collect special-edition Caracal medals.
Lucky draw prizes sponsored by The Sweat Shop and Pro Events Security Services will also be up for grabs during the prize-giving ceremony.
In Cape Town’s crowded road-running landscape, the UWC Fast & Flat remains a trusted old workhorse. Reliable, rapid and rich in atmosphere, it continues to lure everyone from elite racers to weekend warriors searching for one final burst of rhythm before the long road to Durban calls.
“Act fast, as entries are limited and going quickly. Join thousands of runners at UWC Sport Stadium on 31 May and be part of the tradition that keeps Cape Town moving,” organisers added.
The UWC Fast & Flat 2026 takes place on 31 May 2026 at UWC Sports Stadium, Bellville, offering a 10km and 6.5km run.
Online Entries close today, 27 May and capped at 3,000 runners.
Entry link – https://share.google/HgSQexkmUeMmETEOf
Photo Credit: ABPhotos
