The metro’s Department of Sports and Recreation, in association with the Soul City Sports Club, hosted a World Aids Day half-marathon, as well as 10km and 5km road races, at the Katlehong Sports Complex, on Sunday.
The world was dancing to one gospel on this day as the masses united to create awareness of HIV/Aids.
The Katlehong community was joined by people from different parts of the country to participate in the half-marathon.
The three-hour half-marathon commenced at 7am and was followed by 10km, 5km and 21km road races.
“The turn-out was great; we had a huge number of children who participated in the 5km fun walk, as well,” said Arnold Ravhutulu, the chairman of the Soul City Sports Club.
The Department of Health was also present and rendered a number of services, like counselling and testing.
Participants willingly had their blood tested for a number of viruses and diseases like HIV/Aids and hypertension.
The race was aimed at uniting people in the fight against HIV/Aids and to show support towards people living with the virus.
Athletes ran a good race, with no intention of personal gain, and expected no other prize than that of commemorating the lives lost due to HIV-related sicknesses.
Prizes were received by the first five finishers, but the runners were just happy to have taken part in making a difference.
“There is progress with the fight against this virus, because the one thing that stood out among the thousands gathered here today is the fact that they wanted to make a difference and honour the lives lost,” Ravhutulu added.
With the highly spirited and motivated participants and supporters at the Katlehong Sports Complex, one could see that the global red flag was lifted on December 1, also known as World Aids Day.
