Phalaborwa, Limpopo – 01 July 2025: - The streets of Phalaborwa will come alive as the F21 Half Marathon takes place on Saturday, 26 July 2025 inviting runners, families and the entire community to share in a day that honours three decades of endurance and unites Ba-Phalaborwa in motion. With a total sum prize purse of R462,000 up for the taking, this year's edition promises an unforgettable showcase.
Run under the official rules of Athletics South Africa (ASA) and Limpopo Athletics (LIMA), F21 has earned its place as a cornerstone of the Limpopo local running calendar, drawing elite runners, passionate social runners, school teams and supportive crowds bringing everyone together on a route echoing with cheer, memories and local pride.
"F21 is more than just a race, it's our promise to uplift, inspire and connect," says Julian Palliam, CEO of Foskor. "Being licensed by Athletics South Africa is fundamental to maintaining the integrity and quality of the race. It connects us to a national framework that supports sports development and provides a clear pathway for our local runners to progress. This structure is key to growing sports within Ba-Phalaborwa and nurturing future champions from our community."
F21 offers race options designed to welcome runners of all ages and abilities and this year up to 1500 runners will share the start line to participate in:
- F5 Developmental Race - 5km Fun Run: A lively and fun event created for local schools and young children, sparking a love for fitness from an early age.
- F10 - 10km Road race: Open to runners aged 14 -70 years. This race is ideal for social runners, fitness enthusiasts and those stepping up for a challenge.
- F21 – 21.1km Half Marathon: The headline race of the day promising thrilling competition and a big race atmosphere, is open to professional runners, social runners, fitness enthusiasts and elite runners.
"The F21 is a catalyst for community growth and opportunity in Ba-Phalaborwa. We are proud to present an event that not only challenges athletes but drives local business and community development." said Palliam.
Beyond race day, the F21 plays a valuable role in boosting the local economy and promoting Ba-Phalaborwa as a destination. Each year, the event attracts hundreds of visitors, filling local hotels, guesthouses, creating temporary jobs and supporting informal traders and small businesses.
Last year's Male's champion, Lucky Mohale, who took the winning cup at 01:04:29, noted "the tough heat that created a challenge for him, but that also made winning way sweeter."
Karabo Mailula, the 2024 Female's Champion at 01:12:19 further reiterated the unkindness of the heat but that conquering that and winning makes the win more worth it.
Be Part Of Race Day
F21 is committed to creating economic opportunities for local businesses. Community members are encouraged to set up food, craft and merchandise stalls on race day. For those who wish to set up their food stalls inside the community centre, you are encouraged to apply early. Entry forms will be available from Sello Magaoga at the Foskor Community Centre (Phosphate) from 07 – 11 July 2025.
Closing off, Foskor Race Director, Vhontsia Ramashia emphasised the heart behind the event saying "F21 participants push for every kilometre and the people of Ba-Phalaborwa who cheer them on from the sidelines remind them why it's worth it. The people of Ba-Phalaborwa are the ones who make the F21 what it is."
Enter Today at:https://www.entryninja.com/events/82197-f21-half-marathon-2025
