Farm workers in high spirits for first-ever relay

Enthusiastic farm workers arrived at Alzu Feeds on Saturday morning for the first-ever Lebombo CANSA Half-marathon Relay. This unique marathon was organised by Uplands College CANSA debutante and Kiepersol resident, Hendrien Badenhorst, to create cancer awareness among local farm workers.

Farmers from the area were impressed with the initiative and a total of 17 teams entered. Teams consisted of five members, each running a 4km stint in a relay-style 20km race.

The run started at Alzu Feeds in Kiepersol, with the turning point at Nola. Some of the race officials commented on the tough course, with the starting runners almost immediately heading into a steep incline.

The runners were in high spirit and sprinted off as they were set off, straining to get into the best positions. At the exchange points, runners were encouraged by supporters and fellow team members. After their stints, workers were shuttled back to the starting point, where they waited in anticipation to see whose team would cross the finish line first.

There were cheers and shouting as the first colourful team T-shirt was spotted in the distance. A few team members even ran to meet their runner and jogged with him for the last few metres. Farmers and officials mentioned that it was great to see how the race created a bond among workers from the area and improved the team work of colleagues.

Richard Mnisi of Ben Swart’s team gave his team the victory, winning by a wide margin. David Mkhabela of Univeg came second, with Madala Mokane of Schmidt hot on his heels.

During the prize-giving, each participant received a goodie bag, cool drink and hot dog, with the winning teams receiving special prizes. A lucky draw was also held and T-shirts, caps and other prizes were handed out.

Badenhorst thanked the participants and farmers for their efforts in raising money for a good cause. She managed to raise around R40 000 by means of sponsors and entry fees, which will be used to help a needy person in the area suffering from cancer.

Badenhorst would like to thank sponsors Lebombo Kwekers and Alzu Feeds, as well as CANSA and everyone who contributed to the success of the marathon. The organisers plan to make this an annual event and a highlight on the Hazyview events calendar and hope that even more teams will enter next year.

See a gallery of photos here.