In just under three weeks, Richards Bay endurance runner Marsha ‘The Machine’ Muller will begin her latest challenge – the 9th annual Icons Journey Marathon.

Muller is one of 12 Icons 4 Change selected from across South Africa to participate in this iconic feat of endurance; a 400km challenge taking place from 12 to 19 July in the Eastern Cape.

ALSO READ: WATCH: Marsha Muller clocks 263km in 48 hour Running World Champs

Athletes will complete a standard marathon of 42.2km per day over seven consecutive days, followed by a gruelling 103km on day eight along a gravel route from Clarkebury to Mthatha.

At its core, the 400km iconic challenge is a living journey that traces the footsteps of South Africa’s liberation icons across the Eastern Cape, linking historically significant towns and communities in an impactful and symbolic way.

ALSO READ: WATCH: Marsha Muller smashes 200km in 24 hours

The route starts in Alice, then moves on to Fort Beaufort (KwaMaqoma), Whittlesea and Komani, Cofimvaba and Ngcobo, Clarkebury, and finishes in Mthatha.

From its inception, the initiative was designed to use endurance sport as a platform to connect communities, honour South Africa’s liberation heritage, and inspire social change.

Funds raised through the initiative are directed towards supporting children in underserved communities, through provision of school shoes, sanitary packs, and sports kits and equipment.

“What makes the athletes special is not only their athletic ability, but also their willingness to use their journey to uplift others,” said Sandisiwe September, chairperson of the 400km Iconic Challenge.

Anyone wanting to support this worthy cause is invited to donate via the organisers’ BackaBuddy link.

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