Update

GEORGE NEWS - Local ultra-distance athlete Thembinkosi Sojola will begin his mammoth George Peak challenge today, Thursday 6 August, instead of Friday as originally planned, after weather forecasts forced him to bring the attempt forward.

The date was changed due to concerns over the expected weather conditions later this weekend. Sojola is now set to tackle the gruelling challenge a day earlier.

The endurance athlete aims to climb and descend George Peak repeatedly until he has accumulated more than 26 400m of elevation gain, the equivalent of climbing three Mt Everests, in support of George Child and Family Welfare.

“I chose this organisation as the beneficiary of my challenge, because every child deserves a safe, loving foundation to build their life on. I want to raise not just funds, but awareness. Investing in child and family welfare breaks cycles of trauma, builds stronger communities, and gives the next generation a real chance to thrive. No child should have to ‘climb’ life’s biggest obstacles alone. This is my way of standing with them,” Sojola said.

Born in Gqeberha, Sojola is one of South Africa’s leading ultra-endurance athletes. In 2023, he set South African and African records at the Big Dog’s Backyard Ultra World Championships in Tennessee, USA, completing 55 laps, about 365km, to become the country’s Backyard Ultra record-holder.

He has also represented South Africa at the Backyard Ultra World Team and Individual Championships, and has consistently delivered strong performances in ultradistance trail races, including Ultra Trail Cape Town.

Supporters can follow his progress throughout the challenge on his Instagram page @sojolat and on Strava.

Those wishing to support his fundraising effort can donate via the BackaBuddy campaign, 26 Climbs, One Purpose - Thembinkosi, or contact Chané Botha on 072 234 6906.

All funds raised will go directly to George Child and Family Welfare.

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