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Bestmed Medical Scheme is proud to partner once again with the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) as the headline sponsor of the 33rd CSIR Road Race taking place on Saturday, 17 October 2026 at the CSIR Pretoria Campus. 

Entries open on 1 August and close on 13 October 2026. Participants can enter online at www.entryninja.com or at Run-A-Way Sport. Athletes aged 70 years and older will receive free entry on race day.

This is a continuation of our commitment to promoting healthier communities and supporting initiatives that inspire positive lifestyle changes.

This year’s theme is: Conquer the Trail, Own the Hills. Runners, walkers, families and fitness enthusiasts of all ages will come together for a day that champions health, wellness and community impact.  

"As a medical scheme committed to helping South Africans live healthier lives, we are excited to extend our longstanding partnership with the CSIR Road Race," says Karen Pienaar, Sponsorship and CSI Specialist at Bestmed Medical Scheme. 

This year will once again feature three race categories, ensuring there are distances suitable to every level of fitness, including:

• 21.1km half-marathon
• 10km race
• 5km fun run 

By encouraging participation across all fitness levels and age groups, the CSIR Road Race plays a role in fostering healthier lifestyles, social connection and long-term behavioural change. “Our CSIR partnership outcomes align with Bestmed’s purpose of making healthcare more personal and proactive” adds Pienaar.

In keeping with the tradition of recognising achievement, medals will be awarded across various categories and to the first 4 000 participants who cross the finish line within the prescribed cut-off times.

We can’t wait to see you run your best race yet!