For many Lonehill residents, the annual Otter Estates Lonehill fun run is more than just a date on the community calendar.

It is a morning of familiar faces, children laughing as they cross the finish line, neighbours catching up over coffee, and families making memories together. This year, those memories will help shape the future of one of the suburb’s most treasured landmarks.

Organised by the Lonehill Residents Association, in partnership with Otter Estates, the 24th Otter Estates Lonehill 5km fun run/walk takes place on August 1.

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Every participant will be contributing to the revival of the Lonehill Dam project, an initiative aimed at restoring the ecological health and long-term sustainability of the much-loved Lonehill Dam.

“This race has been going since 2002, and it’s always been about community,” said Shelly Otter for Otter Estates. “We’ve been part of Lonehill for so long, and this is our way of giving something back. It’s about getting everyone together, having fun, and creating memories.”

Participants can expect a professionally managed 5km route, refreshment stations, well-stocked food stalls selling boerewors rolls, pancakes, tea, coffee, and cold drinks, as well as lucky draw prizes donated by local businesses.

The first 800 entrants will each receive a commemorative cotton tote bag and a gift from Otter Estates. “The turnout over the years has shown what this community is capable of. Everyone gets together and helps. It boosts the whole community.”

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Shelly Miller, of the Lonehill Residents Association, said this event is about far more than fitness. Every entry contributes directly to the Lonehill Dam revival project, helping to restore one of the community’s most treasured natural spaces.

“If you’re unable to participate yourself, consider sponsoring someone else to take part. It could be a member of your family, a friend, one of our dedicated security officers, a firefighter, or even a runner from a local community running club who may not otherwise have the opportunity to enter.

“The Lonehill Dam has always been at the heart of our suburb, and its restoration is something we can all be part of. Together, every step taken on race day brings us one step closer to bringing the dam back to life.”

On-site registration and race number collection will open at 14:00, with the fun run starting at 15:00 from Lonehill Park. Entry costs R100, while babies and toddlers in prams participate free of charge.

The event will be supported by JMPD, Fidelity Security Services, SLA Medical Services, and Fitness For Africa.

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