The Johannesburg Harriers Athletic Club continues to be one of the best clubs in Johannesburg since its foundation on January 27, 1904, in one of the lounges on the first floor of the Carlton Hotel.
The now Johannesburg south-based club was formed by nearly 20 people who gathered to discuss the formation of a sporting club to give some recreation to the citizens attracted to the town.
The discussion of forming the club went on until late and when those 20-odd people emerged to the street below, they had firmly laid the foundations of the Johannesburg Harriers Athletic Club.
Surviving two World Wars
According to Fezile Mqhayi, the club’s deputy chairperson, it was easier to form than to build and it is easier to build than to maintain.
“The 20 people never imagined that they had started something that was to last not merely for the days of their youth or even their lifetimes, but for the generations to come. It has survived two World Wars and an economic tidal wave.
“It has overcome its economic insolvency and occasional dwindling membership. Like a ship battered about on the high seas, the club has faced and beaten the lack of its own home, a roof over its head.”
Mqhayi said ‘Celer et Liber’ (swift and free) has been the club motto for all of its years of existence and the many members who have graced its colours have upheld its tradition.
Give a little
Mqhayi said the club has lost members over the years who mostly went to corporate clubs as they entice athletes with benefits.
“The club has no sponsor. It relies on club membership fees to sustain itself. The Jackie Gibson, in its 77th edition this year, relies on race entry fees and has been hosted successfully all these years. The current leadership is determined to revive the club.
“We plan to recruit more members than any other year and align the club with the current trends.
“We have around 100 members. We are multi-racial and diverse and welcome everyone,” said Mqhayi.
Join the Harriers to take your running to the next level. Annual fees are R500 for adults aged 20 to 59, R250 for seniors aged 60 and over and R120 for juniors aged 18 to 19.
For more information call 072 679 0874.
