History, community draw runners to challenge
MORE than 8 000 runners from all walks of life participated in the Slave Route Challenge which celebrated its 10th anniversary yesterday.
Starting in front of the Cape Town City Hall in Darling Street near the balcony where Nelson Mandela made his first speech after his release from Victor Verster prison, the route takes participants past landmarks and sites marking the rich history of the city.
The participants made their way past District Six, Gardens and Bo Kaap.
Brimstone Itheko Sports Athletic Club president Alhmat Jacobs said: “When we started the race, we started with fewer than 2 000 runners. Next year we are targeting 10 000 entrants for this race.
“Runners of Cape Town love this race, they love where it’s going, to all the iconic parts of Cape Town. We have 36 of these iconic sites that we have identified; obviously the big draw card of the race is Koeksister Hill.”
Sarah Herien, 70, of Atlantis, said she had taken part in the race for the last four years.
“The race was a bit challenging for me but it was very nice. A person who is my age needs to exercise so that they can be mentally and physically fit at all times.
“I always get excited when it’s the Slave Route Challenge because the race is not only about running, but also educating people about our history, which is something we all need to hold on to,” said Herien. Aseza Nqethu, from Gugulethu, took part in the race for the second time.
“I joined this race because it’s part of my training plan this year. The race went well even though I struggled to meet the targeted time. The potential is there but I just need to be disciplined and keep track of mileage and speed.”
League of Friends of the Blind (Lofob) was this year’s race beneficiary. Lofob serves the needs of blind and visually-impaired children, youth and adults, and their families in the Western Cape and further afield.
Chief executive Dr Armand Bam said the organisation was proud to be associated with the Slave Route Challenge.
“The significance of this race is a reminder of our country’s history. We are proud to celebrate 10 years of meaningful impact together with this event,” said Bam.