Lowveld daredevils traded their running kit for purple Speedos on October 23 to spotlight men’s health and early cancer detection.

The Mbombela Hollard Daredevil Run started at i’langa Mall. Runners travelled down the R40 to the Nelson Mandela statue in the Riverside government complex.

Morning commuters, drivers and passengers showed their support by hooting, waving and cheering as they passed the participants. Camaraderie was apparent among the runners, as they chose to take on the route as a unit.

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Focus on early screening

After the event, general practitioner Dr Maleni Goodman explained the importance of regular check-ups, stressing that early detection saves lives.

The Hollard Daredevil Run is an annual initiative that highlights the need for regular prostate and testicular cancer screening and encourages men to take proactive steps towards their health and well-being.

“Every year, support from Daredevils across South Africa has been truly remarkable. While the run is undoubtedly fun, it’s the meaningful cause, the sense of brotherhood and the shared purpose of creating awareness of male cancers that keeps Daredevils coming back year after year,” said Adél Kriel, Hollard South Africa’s head of experiential marketing.

This year, the event carried the bold tagline ‘Lekker Balls. Lekker Life’, reinforcing the potentially life-saving importance of early detection.

“At Hollard, we want to help men and their families navigate uncertainty with greater confidence by challenging stereotypes and encouraging screening and early detection. Thank you to each participant and supporter for the difference they have made today,” Kriel said.

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High risk among young and old

Prostate and testicular cancers deserve attention, awareness and action. One in eight men is expected to be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime, making it one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in South Africa. Testicular cancer is more common among younger men, typically aged 15 to 35.

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