EPA evolving the culture of running for Ndlambe
Eastern Province Athletics is piloting a Cross Country League programme for Ndlambe runners, and will use the model as a blueprint for similar initiatives in other local municipalities.
Ndlambe runners have been presented with the opportunity to become part of the Eastern Province Athletics Development Programme, with the exciting introduction of a cross country league starting in Ndlambe, Eastern Province Athletics’ (EPA) Cross Country programme chair Attie Williams said.
Not only will this development extend the reach of running clubs in the region, but it will also introduce running to local schools, he says.
“This will create opportunities for healthier lifestyles,” Williams said. “These athletes are the leaders of the future, and we need to develop them to be leaders to be proud of.”
Project co-ordinator Vuyo Nkayi and the organisers were currently in talks with various stakeholders such as
Ndlambe Municipality Sport.
The latter, which falls under the municipality’s special programmes directorate, has promised to support this initiative in the new financial year. If negotiations are successful with Sarah Baartman’s department of sport, recreation, arts and culture, they will be provided with the funding for the equipment needed to host these events,
as well as mentors’ training.
“Training of the mentors is key to the success of this programme, because eventually the athlete will become the mentor,” Williams said. “It’s an ongoing process to develop the youth who will become the leaders of the future.”
The Cross Country Development and Schools League is formulated in partnership with Eastern Province
Athletics development, running clubs and local schools. The initiative is created to uplift athletics sport at Ndlambe and local schools will be staging the league.
Port Alfred High School will be the first to stage the cross country on their school field this Saturday, July 23.
Ikamvalesizwe Combined School will follow on August 6, hosting at the
Kenton Primary School field.
On September 3, the Bathurst Show grounds will be the venue for Qhayiya Primary School to host their event and El Shaddai Christian Academy will conclude the schools league at their school field on September 24.
The hosting school benefits by receiving all the entry fees collected on the day. EPA has pledged its support to kick-start the programme and is already working behind the scenes planning the start of the league.
EPA would also provide logistical and technical support to the schools hosting these events, as well as timekeeping and hands-on guidance.
Race categories:
● Under 9 & 10 (boys 2km/girls 2km) ● Under 11&12 (boys 3km/girls 3km) ● Under 13 & 14 (boys 4km/girls 4km) ● Under 15 (boys 4km/girls 4km) ● Under 16/17 (boys 6km/girls 4km) ● Under 18&19 (boys 8km/ girls 6km) ● Open category (all ages)
The entry fee is R20 per person and the races start at 10am.