Around 1 000 participants gathered at the University of Johannesburg (UJ) on September 26 for a day of running, walking, dressing up and socialising, combining an active lifestyle with supporting students in need.

The UJ fun run attracted a diverse crowd of students, staff, alumni, families, surrounding residents and members of the public. There were options for different fitness levels and commitment, with about 350 people registered for the 10km run, 120 for the 2.5km event and more than 500 taking part in the 5km run and walk.

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Some participants ran their full distance, while others chose to walk or combine walking and running. For UJ, however, the event was about more than getting people moving. Sports communications co-ordinator Collen Maepa said the run is held twice a year as part of the university’s fundraising efforts for students who cannot fully cover their tuition fees themselves and do not qualify for National Student Financial Aid Scheme funding.

At the same time, participants have their own reasons for showing up. From supporting the fundraising effort and spending time with family and friends, to working towards a healthier lifestyle.

The event also gave participants an opportunity to enjoy the social side of being active. People remained at the stadium after completing their distances, while children enjoyed the jumping castles. There was also a playful nod to Heritage Month, with several participants dressing according to a theme.

One student took the idea particularly literally, completing the 5km run in a suit and tie. According to Maepa, the student explained that his unusual running attire was intended to show that balance is critical in life.

The competitive side of the event was also well represented. Tumelo Lerumo won the 10km run, Sanele Msomi took the 5km title and Ntokozo Ncube won the 2.5km event. Prizes were sponsored by MTN, Oppo and other event sponsors, while the leading 10km runners and the male and female 5km winners also received cash prizes.

For UJ, the event forms part of a wider focus on encouraging healthier lifestyles among students and staff. The university’s healthy campus programme includes physical activity and sport, as well as mental and social well-being – areas that the fun run brings together in a single community event.

Also read: UJ students find sense of community in Future Forward Fun Run

The run also opens the university’s doors to surrounding communities, with local residents able to participate in UJ’s public events as part of its community engagement.

For first-time participants, the route offered its own challenge, with some steep hills along the way. Yet feedback afterwards was largely positive, with participants indicating that they enjoyed the experience and planned to return.

There will be another opportunity soon. UJ hosts two editions of the event each year, with another fun run planned for May 2027.

For the thousands of people who have taken part, the event offers something different to everyone – a workout, a social outing, a family day or a chance to help a student take another step towards completing their education. Sometimes, getting moving can also mean helping someone else move forward.

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