Cape Town - The RCS Gugs Race lived up to the national spirit of Reconciliation Day as it drew people from all walks of life to the streets of one of the city’s oldest townships.
Hundreds of people participated in the annual Gugulethu-based 10km race celebrated under the banner “Run for Unity” on Friday.
The race, which is in its 22nd year, started at 6.30am with the route starting at Terminus road through NY 78 and ending at NY 49 Stadium.
The Cape Times was once again an event partner, along with title sponsor RCS.
Gugulethu Athletics Club chairperson and race organiser Aubrey Shoko had said as a club their aim was to show that sport has the power to unite.
The RCS Gugs Race was established as the “Amy Biehl Race’” in 2000, to honour the American human rights activist and Fulbright Scholar who was murdered in Gugulethu in 1993.
The objective was to promote positive relations among South Africans. It is currently facilitated by the Gugulethu Athletics Club and proceeds from the race serve to enhance the club’s activities and facilitate community upliftment.
“Our chosen sport, running, is no different. We would like to not only show our community that running is an avenue of hope in the township but also part of the solution to staying forever young. We also wish to grow our event in size and participation, we will hopefully one day break the 2 000 runners barrier,” Shoko had said.
Cape Times editor Siyavuya Mzantsi hailed the runners and Gugulethu residents for delivering a successful race.
“The return of the Gugs race lived up to its expectations. The excitement of seeing runners through the streets of Gugs was something many of us had missed when the race had to be paused due to the Covid lockdowns.
The spirit of reconciliation was much alive as runners from all walks of life, young and old, came out to be part of this occasion.
“We also want to congratulate all the winners and thank the people of Gugulethu for once again showing support to this race. It goes without saying that this event would not have been possible without the valued sponsors.”
Independent Media Marketing Coordinator Rehana Rutti said: “Aptly themed ‘Run for Unity’, a day like this allows everyone to reflect on the progress we have made. Too many have suffered for the love of freedom.
The race is about diversity and how important it is, because it promotes opportunities to engage with the world at large.”
Cape Times