Khosa, Lions host first Night Race for the disabled in three years
Khosa Running Club and Krugersdorp Lions Club recently hosted the first Night Race for the disabled in three years.
‘I am number one’ echoed in the streets of Monument and parts of Kenmare as disabled youngster Mpho Kgajane crossed the finish line in this year’s Khosa Night Race for the Disabled held on Wednesday, October 26.
“He was still shouting ‘I am number 1’ as they were being loaded into the bus to leave,” said Khosa Sports Club chairperson Melanie Atkinson.
With a distance of just 2km, the event is dedicated to people with various degrees of mental and physical disabilities.
“The focus is purely on them and letting them have fun. There was a great turnout with participation from the surrounding community. We haven’t had it for three years due to Covid, so it was a very special evening for the disabled runners who have really missed it.”
According to Melanie, there were about 60 participants that included the disabled, their caregivers and families as well has Khosa Club members and friends from the community. With Khosa Running Club and Krugersdorp Lions Club being the organisers, participating schools/ institutions were West Rand School, West Rand Association for the Physically Disabled and Ann Harding Cheshire Home.
Regarding safety, marshals were positioned along the entire route with additional marshals at all intersections. All disabled participants were also accompanied by a caregiver and a member of the running club or community.
“We had runners from the Khosa Running Club also acting as sweepers, remaining at the back of the race to ensuring that nobody is left behind. We also had a sweeper vehicle to drive behind to the race pack to offer assistance if needed. Safety cones were then placed all along the route as well as signs to warn motorists that there are runners on the road.
“Seeing the faces of the participants as they finished the race which is a big accomplishment for most of them, was a highlight! The little guy, Mpho Kgajane, who came in first felt like an absolute champion. It was also fabulous to see how the clubs and community came together to ensure a fun time for all our disabled friends.”
