Running
A New Name, A Bigger Vision
Running
THE BALWIN
RUN SERIES
RETURNS
A New Name, A Bigger Vision
The change from“ Marathon Series” to“ Run Series” is more than just a rebrand, it’ s a reflection of Balwin’ s commitment to accessibility and inclusivity. While marathons are incredible feats of endurance, they can feel intimidating to many. The new name opens the door to runners, joggers, walkers, families, and first-timers, making it clear that this series is for everyone.
From 5km fun runs / walks to 10km challenges, half marathons, and even full marathons, the 2026 Balwin Run Series offers something for every pace and every goal. Whether you’ re pushing your limits or simply soaking in the scenery, you’ ll be part of a nationwide celebration of movement, health, and community.
From Km’ s to Keys: How the Balwin Marathon Series Changed Lives in 2025; And What’ s Coming in 2026
The 2025 Balwin Marathon Series stood out as a celebration of community, wellness, and opportunity. With over 25,000 runners lacing up across four major cities- Johannesburg, Pretoria, Durban, and Cape Town- the series wasn’ t just about crossing finish lines. It was about unlocking doors. Literally.
The concept was simple, yet powerful: participate in one of the Balwin Marathon Series races and visit a show apartment at any Balwin development across the country. That’ s it. Two steps. One unforgettable prize.
Whether you were a seasoned marathoner or a casual walker, it didn’ t matter. The series welcomed everyone, from elite athletes chasing personal bests to families enjoying a fun day out. The only requirement was to run or walk in one of the official races, be it Jeppe, Peninsula, Phobians, or Dolphin Coast, and then visit any Balwin show apartment. Each race and each
| 02 | visit counted as an entry into the competition. More races, more entries. More developments, more entries. It was a nationwide activation that blended fitness with lifestyle in a way South Africa had never seen before.
The Big Draw
In partnership with 5FM, one of South Africa’ s most beloved radio stations, the Drive Show hosted a live draw to select five lucky finalists.
The energy in the studio was electric as names were announced, each one representing a unique journey of effort, commitment, and hope.
These five finalists were then invited to the Reid Lifestyle Estate in Linbro Park, Johannesburg on 25 July 2025- the site of the grand prize: a fully furnished apartment valued at R1 million. Each finalist was handed five keys at random. Only one of those keys would unlock the door to the apartment. The tension was real. Nervous smiles, sweaty palms, and pounding hearts filled the air as each contestant approached the door, hoping their key would be the one.
And then, Minette Plaatjies stepped forward. The door opened. Cheers erupted. Tears flowed. Minette had just become the proud owner of a R1 million fully furnished apartment, all because she chose to participate in the Balwin Marathon Series and visited a show apartment.
Her story is now part of Balwin history, a testament to the power of showing up, taking part, and believing in possibility.
Looking Ahead: The 2026 Balwin Marathon Series
If 2025 was big, 2026 is going to be monumental.
Balwin is taking the series to new heights, stretching from the Atlantic Ocean in Cape Town, across the country to the Indian Ocean in Durban, up to the Union Buildings in Pretoria, and ending off in the vibrant heart of Johannesburg.