Blood Buddy Walk kicks off on August 9

The 20th annual Blood Buddy Memel to Newcastle Walk will take place on August 9.

Ladies participating in the event will receive a special treat sponsored by KFC to celebrate Women’s Day, which is also on August 9.

The Memel Walk has become one of the most popular events in Newcastle to date and attracts South Africans from all walks of life. With more than 10 000 participants in previous years, the day is expected to be a huge success.

Earlier this week, Paruk’s Hardware announced it will be the official title sponsor of the event for the next three years. The investment is greatly appreciated and will help the annual Bloody Buddy Memel to Newcastle Walk grow from strength to strength, with the main objective being camaraderie.

The event consists of different categories in which sportsmanship is the order of the day. The first event is the 50km run, the second a 58,5km mountain bike ride and the third the ever-popular 50km relay with of five members per team.

Organiser, Champ Marketing & Events, has challenged the ECR’s Darren Maule, Damon Beard and their respective teams to participate in the event. Whether they are up for the challenge or not is yet to be seen.

The event kicks off at Memel NG Church, ending at Huttenpark Primary School. Participants can expect a carnival-like atmosphere at the finish line, with spectators, young and old, cheering them on as they take that final step.

Local physiotherapist, Sbonelo Hlongwane, will be at the finish line to tend to participants if necessary.

Entries close on Friday, August 1. Entry forms are available online at www.memelwalk.co.za. For more information contact Christo at 083 375 5883 or Johan at 082 923 0078.