GEORGE NEWS - Cape Town athletes Sebastian Prentice and Jason Hofmeyr's exertion and sweat in the 100 Miler of the recent Mountain Ultra-Trail (MUT) event in George was totally worth it, not only on a personal level, but also for the sake of the upliftment of the local community.
During and after the race on 24 May, they raised close to R130 000 for the Thembalethu-based community development organisation Usapho Indlu. Their target is R350 000.
"When we entered the race, we wanted to make it about something more than just challenging ourselves. Giving back to the community where this wonderful event is taking place, seemed like the right thing to do.
"We are so grateful for the tremendous support and donations we have received so far to benefit of the community in Thembalethu that face challenges of a different kind in their daily lives."
The money will be used to buy a vehicle for Usapho Indlu and equipment for its educational centre in Thembalethu.
"We are continuing with our efforts to shine the light on Usapho Indlu so that we can get the remaining R250 000 together," said Prentice.
He completed the 100 Miler (163km) in 37 gruelling hours. He and Hofmeyr ran together, but the latter was plagued by knee troubles and unfortunately was forced to drop out at 100km. It was still a huge feat to accomplish.
Prentice said although they ran a large part of the race in the dark, what he experienced of the Outeniquas was thrilling.
"I still get goosebumps thinking about it. It is really a world-class pocket of nature. Next year I might enter for the 100km race which starts early and then I'll be able to experience more of the beauty."
Usapho Indlu CEO Sally Verslfeld is over the moon. "We are extremely grateful to Jason and Sebastian for their amazing efforts, as well as to everyone who has donated so far. They are also creating much-needed awareness of Usapho Indlu. Everybody's caring and generosity are really appreciated."
Show your support on BackaBuddy
The fundraising is done online through BackaBuddy and members of the public have so far donated just over R18 000.
People can support this valiant attempt by the two athletes by visiting the BackaBuddy website and donating under '100 miles for education'.
Call Sally Versfeld on 072 241 5442 for more information on Usapho Indlu or visit usaphoindlu.org.za.
Learning how to grow their own food is one of the skills children learn at Usapho Indlu. Photo: Alida de Beer
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