The UniCorn conquers tough races
Her achievements show that anything is possible as long as you believe it and work hard towards achieving that goal.
A disabled singer and athlete who runs with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), Nita Avis, popularly known as The UniCorn Runner, has once again proven her determination and strength as she recently ran two challenging races in the Cradle of Humankind.
The CRPS affects her right side of the body; she therefore relies on her specialised crutches supplied by Wheelchairs on the Run, which she credits for enabling her to participate in sports.
On June 29, she participated in the Brooks Cradle Cracker, a hilly road race hosted by WannaDo Events at Jodev Farm Stall. This was her third consecutive year tackling the route.
“Cracking the Cradle is never easy, but that’s exactly what makes it so rewarding. The rolling hills, the sharp inclines, and the wide-open beauty of the Cradle make it both physically demanding and deeply inspiring,” Nita said, describing her experience at the race.
A week later, Nita returned to the Cradle for the 12km Eco Adventure Trail Series at Sibani Lodge.
“It was my first 12km trail race, and it was unlike anything I’ve done before. Compared to the road races I usually do, the terrain was wild and rugged. Running with crutches on rocky paths, steep inclines, and uneven ground pushed me to new limits. But it was also incredibly empowering.”
Despite the challenging terrain, she enjoyed the quiet moments in nature and the energy and support from the other runners.
Before each race, Nita shared that she meticulously prepares her gear, hydration, and affirmations.
“I prep my gear the night before, hydrate, carbo-load and go over my affirmations. I even carry glitter spray – because when it’s tough, I still believe in showing up with colour,” she said.
Nita’s schedule is packed with upcoming events, including the SPAR Challenge in Centurion and the Totalsports Women’s Race. She will also run daily in September to raise awareness for Alzheimer’s and dementia, and in October for breast cancer awareness.
Throughout her races, Nita hands out “unicorn hugs”, which are bracelet tokens of hope and support, and plants flowers in the right shoes she can no longer use, gifting them as symbols of growth and transformation.
For Nita, each finish line reminds her that disability is not a limitation; it’s adaptation.
“At the end of the day, I don’t run just to finish, I run to be seen, to raise voices that often go unheard, and to spark conversations about ability, inclusion, and community.
“If someone sees me on the course and believes they can do something they once thought was impossible, then that’s my finish line.”
