Cotlands, a registered non-profit organisation, has invited all runners, walkers, families and corporate teams to put purpose behind every step as entries officially open for the Cotlands Run to Play Race at Old Parks Sports Club on November 15.

This year’s event reflects the spirit of the occasion and the legacy that Cotlands has built over nine decades, with every entry helping to provide vulnerable children with access to quality early childhood care and education through the power of play. Run to Play is a movement that encourages South Africans to turn kindness into action.

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Cotlands CEO Dr Monica Stach said the event promises a memorable day for all, with corporate teams swapping boardroom meetings for the starting line to take part in a team-building experience that creates a lasting social impact. “This year’s Cotlands Run to Play Race, powered by Old Parks Sports Club, is much more than a race,” said Stach. “It is a celebration of 90 years of kindness and an opportunity for South Africans to run for a purpose.”

She added that participants can expect a vibrant festival atmosphere with family-friendly entertainment, food stalls, music and Cotlands’ interactive pop-up Toy Library. “To mark our 90th birthday, we are adding a colourful celebration at the finish line with a joyful burst of festival powders – a symbolic way of thanking every participant for choosing kindness and helping nine decades of changing children’s lives.”

Through the event, the organisation hopes to raise awareness for this critical challenge and inspire individuals, families and businesses to become part of the solution. “Every runner, walker and supporter is helping us build a kinder South Africa, one where every child has the opportunity to play, learn, grow and thrive,” said Stach. “The race is our invitation to all South Africans to celebrate this milestone with us. It is a chance to honour 90 years of impact, celebrate the kindness that our supporters have shown us over the years. We hope thousands of South Africans will join us on the day to celebrate kindness in action and help give every child the best possible start in life.”

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MDS Collivery, the official race pack delivery partner, is supporting this year’s event by delivering race packs to participants before race day, free of charge.

How to register to participate:

Participants can choose from three distances: 2km fun run/walk – R100, 5km run – R180, or 10km run – R200. Official race T-shirt will be available at a cost of R120.

Race day begins at 06:30, with the 5km and 10km races starting at 07:30 and the 2km fun run/walk at 08:00. Participants are encouraged to arrive before 07:00, and with limited parking available, ridesharing is recommended.

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