The 2025 Cross Country Running Season will see an early start this year with the first presentation of the AFS Fezile Dabi Cross Development Cross Country League. This two-part development league, presented by Schonkenvile Intermediate School and Parys Multisport, will be hosted in the Parys Wetlands tomorrow (March 5) and Wednesday 19 March 2025.

Athletes between the ages of 7 years and 19 years can enter for this league. Athletes will run multiple laps of the 1km route that starts and finishes in the Wetland on the corner of End Street and 4th Avenue, next to the new Father Bailink School. The route will be a test of endurance and basic technical skills, making this the perfect opportunity for athletes that are new to the sport to get some exposure, showcase their talent, and experience the joy of running in nature.

The development league itself does not count as a qualifier for district or provincial team selection, and it is not required to participate in this development league to gain access to the AFS Fezile Dabi District Championship League that starts in May at Koedoeslaagte. The development league does however offer our local community easy access to the sport and provides a platform for talented athletes to gain access to the provincial and national Cross Country Running scene.

The top three athletes in each race category of the development league will be awarded with medals. In addition, the overall top three athletes in each category across both leagues will be awarded with a free entry to the Fezile Dabi Cross Country District Championship League. At the championship league they will compete in six leagues to qualify for a position in the district team who will compete at the provincial championship in Bloemfontein during August.

The community surrounding the Parys Wetland along the border of End Street may experience high vehicle traffic and movement of people on the scheduled dates between 13h00 and 17h30. The organisers thank the community, local government and authorities, the sponsors, and athletes who make this uplifting event possible. We also wish to extend an invitation to our local business community to make use of the opportunity to get involved as a service provider or sponsor of this event. Please contact the event organiser for enquiries or more information by sending an email to info@parysmultisport.co.za