Thousands from various backgrounds at the start of the Wings for Life World Run 2025
A record 310,719 runners across the world join in for the 2025 Wings for Life World Run
South African runners stood shoulder to shoulder with the world on Sunday, May 4, as they participated in the Wings for Life World Run 2025, a unique global race with one goal: to run for those who can’t. From Green Point in Cape Town to Irene in Centurion and Hobie Beach in Gqeberha, participants across the country ran not for a finish line but to help find a cure for spinal cord injuries.
This year’s event once again reinforced its place as the largest global charity run, with 310,719 runners across 170 countries. South Africans were proud to be part of this extraordinary movement, joining the rest of the world in real-time through the Wings for Life World Run App and official local App Runs.
Each South African venue offered a vibrant, inclusive atmosphere with routes designed for runners, walkers, and wheelchair users alike. The scenic 5 km loop around Green Point Park in Cape Town offered breathtaking ocean views, while Centurion’s farm roads and Gqeberha’s beachfront track provided unique local flavours.
This year’s Wings for Life World Run was particularly memorable, as Gqeberha proudly hosted its very first official App Run, drawing 350 enthusiastic participants — including local hero and Red Bull athlete Siya Kolisi. The city celebrated a historic milestone by crowning its first-ever male and female leaders: Keegan Cooke, who clocked an impressive 42.7 km, and Caley Taylor, who completed 36 km.
Keegan Cooke shared his excitement, saying, “It feels great to be Gqeberha’s first leading male. The energy and vibe on the day were amazing – and knowing it was all for a good cause made it even more meaningful.”
Wings For Life World Run Participants Image by Craig Kolesky/Red Bull Content Pool
Every cent of the entry fees, donations, and merchandise proceeds goes directly to the Wings for Life Foundation. The foundation supports groundbreaking scientific research projects worldwide, with the ultimate aim of curing spinal cord injuries.
The 2025 South African races’ winners were leading man Sipho Mqati from Pretoria, with 47.71 km, and leading lady Yolande Maclean, with 37.19 km. These results showcase once again the incredible human spirit and endurance that this event celebrates.
Sipho Mqabi Image by Tyrone Bradley/Red Bull Content Pool
Sipho Mqabi, the leading man, said, “Today’s experience was great. I enjoyed it. I am running to support those who are unable to participate. I couldn’t join the last run because I was sick, but today it felt great to be part of the event.
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