Chatter and footsteps on Joburg’s streets
JOBURG - The atmosphere at the 2014 Discovery 702 Walk the Talk was vibrant as 50 000 Joburg residents participated.
Kicking off the day, the participants braved the chill to tackle the 20km Freedom Walk, which celebrated 20 years of South Africa’s democracy. Moments before the walkers started the event, they warmed up their vocal chords by singing along with PJ Powers to the national anthem.
On route, participants could be spotted wearing their long-sleeve yellow Walk the Talk T-shirts, and striding through the city passing by the Nelson Mandela Bridge and Constitutional Hill.
At 9am, it was time for 25 000 entrants to walk the 8km route. The start line was abuzz with participants donning grey Walk the Talk T-shirts and dancing to the beat of the music to keep warm. They too belted out the national anthem and participating in Mexican waves before setting off. Throughout the race, the walkers kept their spirits high and the sound of chatter and footsteps were dominant on the route.
Many of the walkers brought their dogs along for the exercise and the four-legged friends were treated to water stations along the way and goodie bags. The water stations were vibrant with supporters keeping the walkers hydrated, and encouraged with their songs, music and cheers.
While most of the walkers took up the challenge for fun, some walked to win it. Lebogang Shange won the men’s title and Sandra Steenkamp won the women’s title.
The 17 000 participants in the 5km walk set off at 11am and the atmosphere was just as jubilant.
The walking routes ended at Marks Park Sports Club where participants and their dogs received medals.
Participants agreed that the day was well organised. Metro police kept the crowds and motorists in order and along with Talk Radio 702, Discovery and city council, participants expressed gratitude to the residents who live along the route for sacrificing access to their properties during the event.
