Full moon run on the beach aids NSRI

For the last six years supporters of the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) partook in a full moon run on the beach from Swartvlei to Wilderness, to raise funds for this much-needed service.

The owner of Chain Gang Events, Juan Botes, is the organiser of the run. He named the event after his late wife Carné, as this was her favourite stretch of beach. Carné Botes was the local dentist in Wilderness. Carné's Full Moon Beach Run raised a total of R9 500 for the NSRI in Wilderness last December, when about 250 enthusiasts joined in the fun. The cheque was handed over recently following the selection of new NSRI volunteers who would assist with sea rescue operations this coming year.

Botes said the event has a very special meaning to him and all Carné's friends and family. "It is also the perfect teambuilding event for the NSRI crew and their supporters," he said. Families with children enjoy the shorter 6km route from Kleinkrantz to Wilderness, while avid runners love the 21km moonlit beach run starting from Swartvlei. The event usually takes place at the end or beginning of a year, when it is full moon and the tide is low.

Botes said a sponsor for the event would help to cover the costs and enable a bigger contribution towards the NSRI Wilderness Station.

The NSRI in Wilderness (Station 23) is run by 28 unpaid volunteers, men and women from all walks of life who all have regular day jobs, but are willing to give up their free time to be trained as volunteer rescue crew to help those in need. These men and women remain on standby 24/7 for anyone in difficulty on the water (sea, rivers, dams and lakes) without prejudice. They rescue people and animals: beached dolphins, swimmers, sailors and fishermen. The crew is not paid for their time or expenses - they do it as humanitarians. The organisation relies almost exclusively on donations from individuals and corporates to fund the cost of boats, fuel, protective wear and medical equipment that enable the crew to execute these rescues.

Robert van Helsdingen (front right), station commander of the NSRI in Wilderness, and his crew recently received a cheque of R9 500 from Chain Gang Events race director, Juan Botes (left).