Association gives back with exciting fun run in Lonehill
After a COVID-19-induced break, the event saw a strong resurgence, with increasing participation numbers. Long-time supporters, Otter Estates, and other stakeholders contributed to the events success.
![Barbara Lombaard pictured with her flowers prize.](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/23/2024/09/20240824171011_IMG__52960-e1725446170309-780x470.jpg)
Lonehill came alive on August 24 as the community gathered for a fun-filled afternoon at a highly-anticipated fun run.
With a 5km route that welcomed runners, joggers, and walkers alike, the event was all about embracing the spirit of community, celebrating the arrival of spring, and supporting a great cause.
The festive atmosphere was electric, with prizes to be won, a lucky draw, and plenty of excitement to go around.
Read more: Coloured powder splashes Reddam House Helderfontein in colour fun run
![John Walland.](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/23/2024/09/20240824172726_IMG__64156-e1725446349590-520x341.jpg)
The event was hosted by the Lonehill Residents Association (LRA), a non-profit organisation funded by community members who support its services, which include security, medical, and Envirofund.
The association, founded in 1996 by concerned residents in response to the escalating crime within the suburb, was supported by Otter Estates, which has done so for over two decades, along with other stakeholders.
John Walland, a multiple awarding-winning radio presenter who was also the mc and representing Otter Estates, said the fun run is important because Lonehill is a strong community.
![The De Villiers family.](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/23/2024/09/20240824171901_IMG__80569-e1725446336183-520x341.jpg)
“We have great parks that are maintained by the association and all that money comes from the community, supporting the greater community. This is our opportunity to give back, to say, ‘thanks for using Otter Estates and for being part of this amazing community’.”
Also read: Otter fun run hosted in Lonehill
After a tough period where Covid-19 gave them a significant blow, forcing the fun run to take a temporary break, the ‘come back kids’ are now stronger than ever.
![Adam Beringer.](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/23/2024/09/20240824170337_IMG__59381-e1725446321207-520x341.jpg)
According to Walland, the numbers are not only recovering but steadily surpassing previous records, and it is all thanks to their resilience and determination.
“The prizes are to add to the fun. It is always nice to give things away. So, people got hampers, vouchers, and so on.”
LRA’s Shelly Miller, who has also been involved with the fun run for over two decades, said she is beaming with a lot of gratitude over the continued support by the community.
![Travis Driver and Guy Salver.](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/23/2024/09/20240824171739_IMG__01902-e1725446305255-520x341.jpg)
“We raised funds during the event which will go back to the residents. We also thank our sponsors for their continued support.”
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