Join local parkrun to get fit
There is no entrance fee to take part in the weekly 5km event.
IF you live in the Highway area and are looking for the perfect way to get fit in a friendly and welcoming environment, lace up for the weekly Shongweni parkrun at the Durban Shongweni Club.
From its humble beginnings with little more than 100 runners, it has grown and now sports more than 300 runners each week.
The run consists of two 2.5km laps around the club and takes place each Saturday from 8am.
It is free to join but runners are urged to first register online at www.parkrun.co.za/register/form to ensure you benefit from the extras.
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It has great support from its sponsors, which include Mr Price Sport, Discovery Vitality Health, Dischem pharmacies and Blue Label Telecoms, but is entirely organised by volunteers.
“We are trying to create awareness for a healthier lifestyle and living for an individual.”
“It is also a great outing for the entire family, whether you are runner walker, fit or unfit. There is nothing better than enjoying the gorgeous surrounding that Shongweni has to offer including a breakfast and coffee at the Saddle Inn and watch the showjumping events afterwards,” said the race director, Jason Huntley.
Dogs are welcome but only one per participant and the dogs must be on a short leash.
For those who have registered online, there are milestone goals with prizes up for grabs.
Juniors will receive a certificate after 10 events, and there are further milestones at the 50th, 100th and 250th run. Vitality members can also earn points for every event that they complete.
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Jason Huntley, now 40 years old, said he started organising the event more than three years ago when the race founders emigrated to Australia.
His love and passion for running started when he was 13 and said he encourages residents to get involved and take part in the event.
“The social atmosphere and the vibe is great for the whole family. It is also exciting to see people’s progress from when they joined up until now. Without my team of volunteers we would not be able to host this event,” he said.
Runners can officially be registered from four years old, but there are a few members who walk the route with their babies or toddlers.
To find out more information about the event, visit its Facebook page, Shongweni parkrun or e-mail shongwenihelpers@parkrun.com.
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