Combined, Cassy Barnes and Stacy Henning have spent a decade running.

They have become a regular sight on the marathon circuit, proudly donning Benoni Northerns Athletic Club’s red and yellow kit.

Kilometre after kilometre, they have clocked personal bests and accumulated medals from nearly every race currently on the South African calendar.

With Comrades Marathon medals shimmering in framed boxes and many more losing their shine at the back of their cupboards, the dynamic duo have partnered with Bling for Bravery, founded by Dean Dicks from the Western Cape, to share their accolades with children facing life-threatening and life-limiting diseases or undergoing major surgery.

“Stacy and I met at the starting line of Comrades in 2022. We immediately formed a bond, which has not only motivated us to reach the finish line together, but has also grown into a kinship deeply rooted in positivity,” said Cassy, owner of Crunch Fitness Studio, Northmead.

“Our diaries are already full with upcoming race dates, which will not only challenge us physically but also put our mental endurance to the test.

“Having the ability to run competitively is a privilege, and we decided in turn that our participation must celebrate the accomplishments of others. Until January 26, we will be collecting forgotten medals from local sportspeople and donating these to Bling for Bravery.”

Being in complete sync with her best friend, Stacy added that the distribution of the medals to various children’s hospitals and specialist paediatric units across Africa will celebrate every child’s step to recovery while showing them that an entire community is cheering them on.

“Being fit, able and healthy is not guaranteed and a privilege for those who are,” Stacy said.

“We may never know their names or see their faces, but we hope through this collection they will realise how admirable their journey through challenges is.”

Setting the target at 100 medals, the ‘sisters in running shoes’ did a happy jig when their collection immensely surpassed their goal by January 7.

“I think we need bigger boxes,” quipped Stacy as Brentwood Park resident Ian Clulow arrived to make his contribution.

As a member of the cycling fraternity, Ian said his accumulated collection of medals is merely sitting in the garage.

“I saw the appeal, and the cause resonated with me. I have been a life-long supporter of various fundraising rides, and this is just another chance to give back,” he said.

“As participants, we appreciate the medals we have worked for, but it is the memory of the activity that lasts a lifetime. It is now time for the medals to become symbols of hope.”

Donations towards the drive may be delivered to 1 Vosloo Street. Northmead, Monday to Friday.

Donors are requested to contact Cassy on 072 261 2727 prior to delivery.

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