Run or walk 42,2km in 7 days for a good cause

GEORGE NEWS - All runners and walkers in George are being challenged to support the 2024 Run it Back fund-raising initiative where they have to complete a marathon (42,2km) in seven days in their own time.

The campaign was announced on Tuesday night, 10 September, at Caloroso Roaster and Eatery by the organiser, David May, director of the local non-profit organisation Empower.

May said each entrant will be set the target of raising R5 000 or more, with the overall objective being to raise at least R50 000 in total.

An attractive prize can come out for the one who raises the most money. The proceeds will go towards the upliftment of the preschool of Princess Nkqayi in Thembalethu as well as other Champion initiatives of Empower.

"We all have champions or heroes we admire, ordinary people who make an impact in their own environment through their everyday lives. It is these people we want to support."

May said participants will cover 5,1km per day for six days. "They can do it in their own capacity, or with a friend, as long as they are mobile and can track it on Strava."

On the seventh day, the highlight of the campaign will be an event at Redberry Farm where all participants will gather to complete the last stretch of 11,6km.

There will be prizes at stake and the title of either King or Queen of Run It Back 2024.

"We are super excited about the campaign. Participants can share their experience on their own social media and tag Empower to create more awareness. Our aim is to show people that they can use their passion in life, like running or hiking, to impact someone else positively and so create a better future for our community.

"There are many barriers in the community, whether they be educational, relational, economic or otherwise. We should work on removing them and this can happen when individuals start reaching out to touch others' lives."

The Run it Back challenge will start on Sunday 24 November and conclude on Saturday 30 November.
Businesses can use the Saturday run/walk as a team building event and can also become involved by sponsoring water holes on the day.

People interested in taking on this challenge, may contact David May on 074 889 7956.

Chatting about the marathon fundraiser at Caloroso Roaster and Eatery.