Metro supports Oppie Bol race in CBD
All racers were accommodated regardless of their disability. Participants could push each other’s wheelchairs, use their wheelchairs unassisted, run blindfolded with a guide, run with crutches, or even be pushed in a wheelbarrow.
The Oppie Bol road race took place recently at the Union Buildings in commemoration of its disabled members.
The metro’s Social Development Services Department was there to support the effort by local NPO, The Oppie Bol foundation.
MMC Peggy de Bruin had the following to say: “It is our view that bringing persons with disabilities together with the broader society in a fun race, is a winning combination that promotes social cohesion.”
The annual race covers 10km, 5km, and 2.5km in distance and, it forms part of the numerous initiatives organised by the foundation aimed at supporting people with disabilities.
The metro also states that one of the key objectives of the event is to create awareness around the issues affecting disabled persons.
“Another goal is to empower persons with disabilities through opening opportunities and access to facilities and equipment skills development, and participation in sports development,” De Bruin continued.
All athletes were accommodated regardless of their disability. Participants could push each other’s wheelchairs, use their wheelchairs unassisted, run blindfolded with a guide, run with crutches, or even be pushed in a wheelbarrow.
The Oppie Foundation was founded in 2000 by Cazle Hendricks, a man whose life was transformed after a car crash left him disabled.
Through its Facebook page, the foundation expressed gratitude for the day’s events, “Thank You For Joining Us in The Oppiebol Road Race Today. The Camaraderie was AMAzing, leave NO ONE Behind”.
The foundation has also partnered with companies in the past such as Jacaranda FM, TUT FM, Groot FM, SABC 2, Power FM and numerous others.
“I want to thank all our residents and families that showed up to support this race. Furthermore, the City of Tshwane would like to encourage residents to be tolerant when necessary and offer to assist persons with disabilities,” De Bruin concluded.
Visit the Oppie Bol Foundation – NPO on Facebook for more information.
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