Racing challenge helps combat unemployment
As important as the fundraising aspect was, those racing still ensured there was real competition on show, finishing with some stellar times.
The return of the JumpStart Challenge saw more than 200 people take on the Holla Trails last weekend to combat youth unemployment.
This year held over two days, with cycling on Saturday and running on Sunday, the challenge saw entrants young and old exercising for a good cause.
An initiative of the Mr Price Foundation, JumpStart is an organisation that attempts to directly remedy unemployment by organising skills programmes targeted for jobs in the retail sector.
Every entry into both the in-person and virtual challenge, goes towards the cause.
But as important as the fundraising aspect was, those racing still ensured there was real competition on show, finishing with some stellar times.
On Saturday, cyclists had the option of 15km, 50km or 95km rides.
The 15km was the first group home, with Sugar Rats Racing’s Micha Talanda (43:16) beating out Cody Maidman (43:17) in a sprint finish. In the 50km race, it was not quite so close, as Jabulo Cele stormed home to a comfortable win in 2.23:04, more than 13 minutes ahead of second place.
Perhaps the most impressive performance of all came during the 95km event, where Nhlanhla Mthembu won by almost 25 minutes with a blistering time of 3.58:13.
Saturday also saw the introduction of the inaugural ‘grand prix’ for boys and girls, where youngsters on balance bikes could get in on the fun.
The top three were Keilan Masekela from Ashton International College, Josie MacDonaghue from Reddam House Ballito and Jack van Schalkwyk from Reddam House Umhlanga.
On Sunday, runners took to the trails at distances of 3.3km, 8.5km or 14km, with local celebrities, rugby player Charl Mcleod and double amputee para surfing champion David Williams, joining the field.
Simphiwe Sibisi and Isabella Ambrosio tied for first in the 3.3km, both finishing in 14:18. A dominant performance from Toni Seery saw her claim the 8.5km race in 42:09, more than 10 minutes clear of the field.
Finally, an exciting photo finish could not separate Nkosinathi Dumobala from Shakaskraal and Sizwe Radebe from Hammarsdale, who crossed the line in 1:14.31.
That was 26 minutes ahead of the trailing group!
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