GEORGE NEWS - The main sponsor of the Outeniqua Wheelchair Challenge (OCC), Acsa George Airport, committed its continued involvement with the race in 2014, and thereafter for at least a further two years.

Viona Puley, customer service manager of George Airport, announced this during the OCC committee's acknowledgement function at Down to Earth Restaurant where sponsors and volunteers were thanked for their contribution to the 2013 race.

The successful annual event, which showcases the grit and determination of athletes from across the country as well as some international participants, almost did not happen this year. Race Director and Founder Esther Watson had fallen critically ill and no suitable replacement for her position could be found immediately. However, the Rotary Club of George stepped in and joined forces with the race organisers to present a hugely successful race in February.

At the function last week, Watson said that the race had started in 2002 as a big dream with only 27 entrants racing down the Outeniqua Pass. This year it drew 950 participants. She lauded the George Municipality for having established the town among athletes with disabilities as officially the most accessible in the country and complimented the organising committee, under the leadership of Ansie Swart, with the success of this year's event. "I can really retire now that I know the race is on its way," said Watson, who was still looking very thin after a bone marrow transplant last year.

Swart thanked all sponsors and volunteers who were willing to give their time and effort. She concluded by praising Watson for being a mentor and friend who made it possible for her to continue leading the committee.


Thumbs up for Acsa George Airport's commitment as main sponsor for the next three years. From left are Viona Puley (customer services manager, George Airport), Shanold Marrelac (manager, George mayor's office), Esther Watson (former OCC race director) and Ansie Swart (chairlady, OCC organising committee).


The OCC organising committee, from left: (back) Valesca Erlank, Di Kershaw (Rotary's chairperson of Community Services), Donald Goldfain (Rotary president), Mercia Ross, Viona Puley (Acsa), Ansie Swart (chairperson), Nelmarie Crook and Esther Watson (former race director); front: Marieta Swanepoel and Aretha Botha. Photos: Alida de Beer