The chairperson of Sunward Park-based Qhubeka Athletic Club, Benzi Tenza, thanked the clubs and individuals for their overwhelming support at the club’s inaugural Human Rights Day race held at the School of Achievement in Germiston, on March 21.
According to Tenza, they were anticipating less than 400 runners as per the Central Gauteng Athletics (CGA) regulations for first-time hosts. But they were surprised by the turnout, which he said was around 600.
“I always say I can have the best vision but I need people to achieve it. That’s what people from Gauteng did on Tuesday. They came out and supported our race. We are thankful to them for making it a successful and memorable day,” he said.
Tenza said they owed their success to the Ekurhuleni running clubs like the Boksburg Athletic Club, Daveyton Hearts and Benoni Northerns Athletic Club among others for helping them pass their test.
“This was our first race and it was a test from the CGA. That’s why it was only restricted to 5km and 10km events. We passed and next year, we are hosting a 21.1km race.”
Although Bright Mikolongwe from the BNAC won the men’s 10km after clocking 32:59 for the gold medal, Qhubeka’s Ziyavuya Mwahla received the loudest cheers from the home crowd for his second-place finish. Ntakuseni Mudau completed the podium.
Ziningi Ndlovu from Xcel Athletics Club was the first lady at the finish. She was followed by the BAC duo Anacelia Goncalves in second place and Caronn Harris in third.
The 5km fun run was won by Neo Khanye from Gallopers while Suzette Jansen van Rensburg won the women’s race.
Tenza explained the club managed to achieve many of its objectives which included uniting running clubs from Ekurhuleni and promoting fitness and health.
“We chose March 21 to host this race to celebrate Human Rights Day and to also bring unity to clubs across the region.
“The BAC, BNAC, Katlehong, Vosloorus and Daveyton Hearts among others supported our race. It was a good vibe.”
The chairperson stated their key objective is to increase youth participation in their events to help in the fight against substance abuse.
Tenza thanked the community for supporting the event, adding that despite not offering big prizes for the winners, the club was proud of the unity shown by all those in attendance.
“Next year, we are going big. I want to thank my executive and the entire community for their spirit of Ubuntu.”
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