With more than R700 000 raised for the Cancer Association of South Africa (CanSA), the Estcourt Relay for Life is considered as one of the most successful community fundraising drives in town.

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Being the only 24-hour Relay in the country, also makes it unique and much-talked about. This year’s Cansa Relay for Life will be held on September 2 and 3 and is the ninth event hosted by the local support group. To get the ball rolling, a launch meeting was held last Wednesday at Forderville Primary School.

Team captains, survivors and support group members were present to formulate ideas and plan for the upcoming 24-hour Relay. Event Chairperson Anil Sookraj commended the support group, teams and survivors for making the Relay successful. The event not only raises awareness and funds for CanSA, it also brings the community together.

“The Relay is not a competition. It’s not about how much money is raised, as long as we are raising funds for a worthy cause,” said Mr Sookraj.

Testimonials from those present described the Relay as ‘absolutely fantastic’, ‘gives joy and satisfaction’ and ‘we’ve all formed a bond’. An additional idea for this year’s Relay was to host a blood donor clinic on the field.

This was applauded by the committee, who unanimously agreed to the idea. Cansa Pietermaritzburg Community Mobiliser Bruce Kenneth was present at the launch meeting and complimented the Estcourt community for hosting the only 24-hour Relay in South Africa.
“I love this Relay and I will back this year,” he said.

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