Johannesburg’s bustling inner city is set to come alive this weekend as Discovery Vitality, in partnership with Nando’s, hosts the first-ever Vitality Chicken Run on Saturday, November 8 — a bold new addition to the city’s sporting and social calendar.
The run promises more than just fitness and fun — it’s a celebration of Johannesburg’s heartbeat, showcasing the city’s vibrant streets, heritage sites, and a renewed sense of pride in the CBD.
“See Jozi at its finest”
Event organiser Phumelele Kubeka from Discovery said the aim is to give residents a fresh view of the city’s energy after dark.
“We want people to see Jozi at its finest — in the evening. People are safe, the streets are buzzing, and it’s something new and exciting,” she said.
The route takes runners past some of Joburg’s most iconic landmarks, including Constitution Hill, the Nelson Mandela Bridge, Maharishi Sports Club, and Gandhi Square — all lit up for the occasion.
Giving back — one meal at a time
Adding a generous twist, for every participant who crosses the finish line, a meal will be donated to a child in the Lorentzville community, thanks to a partnership between Discovery Vitality and Nando’s.
Race details you need to know
-
🕔 10km starts: 5:00 PM
-
🕠 5km starts: 5:20 PM
-
📍 Starting point: Ellis Park Stadium Precinct
-
🚪 Gates open: 2:00 PM
-
🎟️ Entries: R250 (5km) | R350 (10km) — still open!
-
🚖 Transport:
-
Dedicated e-hailing pick-up and drop-off zones.
-
Free Prasa trains every 15 minutes between Park Station and Ellis Park (2 PM–9:30 PM).
-
Last Gautrain from Park Station departs at 10 PM.
-
Gautrain parking just R1 for participants.
-
A new kind of city run
Unlike most city races that take place early in the morning, the Chicken Run will unfold in the evening, creating a unique urban running experience against the backdrop of Jozi’s skyline.
From fitness enthusiasts to families looking for a lively night out, the event blends fun, community, and charity — true to both Discovery and Nando’s spirited brands.
So lace up, warm up, and get ready to run for a good cause — and maybe earn some peri-peri bragging rights while you’re at it.