The streets of Johannesburg are about to be lit up with a flood of orange t-shirts as Cotlands launches its first-ever Run to Play fun run and walk, an unmissable event that blends fitness, fun and purpose to create a real change for South Africa’s children. The race takes place on Saturday, 22nd November 2025 at the beautiful James and Ethel Gray Park in Birdhaven. This vibrant event offers 2km, 5km and 8km distances, making it perfect for runners, walkers, families and little feet too!
But this is not just another fun run. The Run to Play is an advocacy movement. It is about raising awareness of the early learning crisis in our country. 58% of South African children are not enrolled in any early learning programme, and we need to advocate for the rights of our children to access quality play-based early learning. Every step you take helps to ignite a child’s potential through the power of play. All proceeds from the race will go towards Cotlands’ work in delivering access to play-based early learning programmes through early learning playgroups and toy libraries.
“Whether you run, jog or walk, you are helping Cotlands stand up for the rights of every child in South Africa to access quality early childhood development (ECD),” says Nozizwe Dladla-Qwabe, Cotlands Acting CEO. “By entering our race, you are helping to give more children the opportunity to thrive through Cotland’s toy libraries and early learning playgroups. We run these impactful programmes all across the country in marginalised communities where children need it the most.”
It is more than a run – it is a day of fun for the whole family!
Participants can look forward to a pop-up toy library, children’s entertainment, music and food stalls, and lots of orange energy! It is a day when we all come together to create a brighter future for more children. All ages are welcome, and costumes, colour and creativity are encouraged.
Calling all corporates!
Cotlands invites companies to enter corporate teams as part of an inspiring year-end team-building experience. It is the perfect way to close off the year with purpose, celebrate your team, and give back to those who need it most. By sponsoring or participating, your company will be helping to expand access to early learning opportunities in under-resourced communities.
Join the Play Movement. Run to Play. Run for a purpose.
Follow @Cotlands on Instagram and Facebook for race updates, registration details, and exciting surprises we have planned along the way! For sponsorship opportunities and team entries, email marketing@cotlands.org.
Let’s cover Johannesburg streets in orange and run for a brighter, more playful future for all children!
