GEORGE NEWS - Entries have started coming in for the Run it Back fundraising campaign which will see runners and walkers complete a marathon (42,2km) over seven days.

The organiser, David May, director of the local non-profit organisation Empower, says so far 47 people have pledged to take part.

Entries are still open.

The marathon will start on Sunday 24 November and end on Saturday 30 November with festive celebrations at Redberry Farm where all participants will gather to complete the last 11,6km stretch. 

Anyone else is welcome to join on the Saturday, also people who have not entered for the marathon, who can do only half the distance. 

"Businesses can use this as a team-building event and can also become involved by sponsoring water holes on the day. We are hoping to attract about 200 participants on the day," says May. 

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

Participants in the marathon are being challenged to raise funds for a specific project by Empower, namely the upliftment of a preschool, Silindile Baby Care, run by Princess Nkqayi in Thembalethu. 

Participants can share their experience on their own social media and tag Empower to create more awareness. 

"We want to show people that they can use their passion in life, such as running or hiking, to impact someone else positively and so create a better future for our community."

Empower's goal is to put up a 50m fence and 81m² astro turf at the preschool. Princess and her family have moved out of their own home into the rented property where the preschool used to be and the preschool was moved to their home.

"It is therefore possible to add infrastructure to the school without fear that it will have to move in future," says May. People interested in taking on the marathon challenge, may contact him on 074 889 7956.

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