Unisa virtual race

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Why participate in the Unisa Virtual Race?

Your participation will help to raise funds towards student learning devices. The race will help mobilise Unisa alumni, staff members, donors and friends of the Unisa community in the service of humanity.

Who are the beneficiaries of the laptop devices?

Unisa students are the beneficiaries of the laptops. This excludes students who are already beneficiaries of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme. The university has developed a set criteria that will guide which students qualify to receive laptops.


Who can participate in the race?

Unisa staff, alumni, donors locally, nationally and globally can participate in the race. You can enter alone or involve your family members, colleagues or friends in this initiative. Everyone, young and old, can take part.

What will happen to me as a student if I don't participate? 

The Unisa Virtual Race is a fundraising campaign organised by the Unisa Foundation to raise funds for student laptops. Participation is not compulsory or related to studies. Students should not feel pressured to participate in the race.

When will the virtual race take place?

The race will take place until December 2023. 

When do entries close?

Entries close on 31 December 2023.

Can I enter the race even if I am not a resident of South Africa?

Yes, the race is for Unisa staff, alumni, donors locally, nationally and globally.

Is the race open to people who are not Unisa students?

The race is open to all and as such the invitation can be extended to family and friends.

What are the prizes?

There are no winners in this race. The prize is a virtual certificate that will be sent to you upon completing the race.

Does the race provide running gear for participants?

We currently do not provide running gear for participants. Unisa branded apparell is available at the Unisa Shop myshop@unisa.ac.za 

How and where will I do the activities?

The venue is anywhere you like. It can be the street, park, forest, on a track or treadmill. You can choose to participate alone or with family, colleagues and friends.

Can swimming and hiking be accepted as activities?

Yes, they are acceptable.

How long can my race be?

You can choose distances of 5 km, 10 km and 15 km and/or 65 km for cyclists. Remember, not everyone has to do the same distance.

What is the frequency of the race?

You can enter the race as many times as you would like.

How much is the entry fee?

It is R70 per person, per entry and per activity.

Can I get a refund for not participating in the race?

There are no refunds. All proceeds of the race will go towards purchasing electronic devices for the students.

Where can I enter and pay to participate in the race?

You can enter the race by clicking here.

When do I receive my confirmation e-mail?

If you have paid to participate but not received your confirmation e-mail with a "Submit your results" link, please contact mahlabb@unisa.ac.za for further assistance.

How do I submit my results?

Results are submitted by using the link contained in the confirmation of participation message sent to participants upon entry of the race. 

How do I share my experience?

You are free to share your virtual race photos with us and by posting on the various social media platforms. Remember to use the hashtag #UnisaVirtualRace

What if I have general enquiries?

You can e-mail your enquiries to unisavirtualrace@unisa.ac.za

Last modified: Fri Feb 07 12:21:56 SAST 2025