Joint Media Release
15 October 2025 – Bestmed Medical Scheme is proud to continue its trusted partnership with the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) as the headline supporter of the 32nd CSIR Road Race. This year’s event carries added significance as it coincides with the CSIR’s 80th anniversary - a landmark celebration of eight decades of groundbreaking innovation, research excellence and national impact.
“We are honoured to once again support the CSIR Road Race,” says Karen Pienaar, Sponsorship and CSI Specialist at Bestmed Medical Scheme. “At Bestmed, we believe that health is not just about medical care, but about enabling South Africans to live balanced, active and fulfilled lives. This race is a wonderful expression of that philosophy. It brings people together, inspires movement and reinforces the value of community wellbeing.”
A highlight on South Africa’s running calendar, the CSIR Road Race offers something for everyone from professional athletes to recreational runners, the young, the seasoned and even those with unique challenges. Inclusivity remains a hallmark of the event, with free entry extended to blind athletes and citizens over 70 years old. Moreover, and true to its spirit of giving back, the 2025 race will also raise funds for two meaningful causes: the Endangered Wildlife Trust and the Pretoria Sungardens Hospice, ensuring that every step taken contributes to a broader legacy of care and sustainability.
“Partnerships like the one between Bestmed and the CSIR highlight the power of collaboration in building healthier, more resilient communities. By combining the CSIR’s legacy of innovation with Bestmed’s commitment to wellness, the CSIR Road Race goes beyond the finish line. It’s a platform that promotes active lifestyles, supports worthy causes, and demonstrates how corporate and research organisations can work together to make a lasting social impact,” adds Pienaar.
“The CSIR Road Race is more than a sporting event,” says Andile Mabindisa, Human Capital and Communication Group Executive at the CSIR. “It reflects our values of science in service of society. It is about community, wellness and giving back. As we celebrate our 80th anniversary, we are proud to host the 32nd edition of this race, and to welcome athletes and families alike to a safe, spirited and memorable event.”
With a celebratory atmosphere, a scenic route and a spirit of purpose, the 2025 CSIR Road Race is set to take place on Saturday, 18 October 2025 from 06:00 at the CSIR Pretoria Campus, North Gate, Meiring Naude Road, Brummeria in Pretoria, Gauteng.
Visit www.entryninja.com for more information and to enter to the race.
-ENDS-
Issued by CSIR and BestMed
For enquiries contact:
Media enquiries:
Phetolo Phatsibi
CSIR Media Practitioner
Email: @email
Mobile: 081 396 8871
About the CSIR:
The CSIR, an entity of the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation, is one of Africa’s leading organisations in scientific and technology research, development and implementation. Constituted by an Act of Parliament in 1945 as a science council, the CSIR undertakes directed and multidisciplinary research and technological innovation, as well as industrial and scientific development, to improve the quality of life of all South Africans.
This year, the CSIR celebrates 80 years of touching lives through innovation. For more information, visit www.csir.co.za
Follow us on social media:
X: @CSIR. Facebook: CSIRSouthAfrica. Instagram: CSIRSouthAfrica. LinkedIn: Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR). YouTube: CSIRNewMedia