MEC Zikalala to run in Chief Albert Luthuli’s footsteps this Saturday

The day after the 50th anniversary of Chief Albert Luthuli’s death (21 July 1967), Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs MEC, Sihle Zikalala will join runners and walkers in a  a legacy walk and half marathon in honour of Africa’s first Nobel Peace Laureate.

The Chief Albert Luthuli Legacy Walk and Half Marathon will take place on Saturday, July 22 with the start at 7.30 am at Inkosi Albert Luthuli’s Statue in KwaDukuza and ending at the Groutville sports field.

Luthuli, who is also the former African National Congress President, led a successful defiance campaign against the oppressive South African government in the 1950s.

Highlighting the importance of the marathon, Zikalala described Luthuli as a liberation struggle giant who was recognised internationally for his efforts to end racial segregation in South Africa.

“I have decided to take part in the marathon to honour Inkosi Luthuli for the immeasurable contribution he made in different sectors.

There will also be a charity golf day for corporate participants and other interested parties at Prince’s Grant Golf Estate today.

There are two routes, one being an 11.5km and the other 21km. While the routes differ, the highlight of both will be the opportunity for participants to set foot on the railway bridge where Luthuli was allegedly hit by a train and to visit his memorial site situated close by.

Pre-registration for the Chief Albert Luthuli Legacy Walk and Half Marathon and the charity golf event is essential.

For more information or to register, visit www.luthuliwalk.org.za. Late collections of accreditation will be available at 6am at the Luthuli Museum on Saturday, ahead of the walk and marathon.

The entry fee for the race and half marathon is R100 per person which includes a T-shirt and a badge. Registration for the charity golf day is R3000 per four-ball or R750 for singles, with overnight accommodation at Prince’s Grant Golf Estate available if required and for the guest’s own account.

All proceeds will go towards Groutville Intuthuko Yethu NPO formed by the Groutville community.