The Ehlanzeni TVET College Mashishing Campus hosted the annual 10km and 5km fun run and walk on Saturday September 3.
The event catered for everyone, from serious runners to joggers and walkers who simply wanted to socialise. Since its inception, the fun run has become a means for students to have fun at the college. It also helped them gain a positive perspective on the year spent at the college while providing engaging avenues for participation to encourage them to exercise and to live a healthy lifestyle.
The event was established in 2019. It was put on hold during the Covid-19 pandemic and was revived this year. The Mashishing campus manager, Bongani Kwayiyo, who headed the co-ordination of the event, outlined the purpose and importance thereof.
“Today is a memorable day outside the classroom, with the second annual Mashishing fun run and walk uniting the community and the college,” stated Kwayiyo. He added that days like this give the college exposure in the community of Mashishing and surrounds. A prize-giving ceremony was held after the successful run and walk. Special achievement certificates, medals, trophies and shopping vouchers were awarded. Akhona Mayosi, the deputy principal: corporate services touched on the event’s atmosphere.
“Everyone seemed to be more connected and friendlier with one another. It felt good to walk around campus and see the whole community talking about the race and bringing positive energy,” said Mayosi.
Remember Ndimande, a professional athlete, the winner of the 10km fun run, claimed a second win. Ndimande said he has won more than 50 medals and 15 trophies. He also said growing up around sport was what motivated him to be an athlete and that he was inspired by his family who supported him since he started running in 2008.
“I am very honoured to be part of this competition and I am grateful for the recognition by the college. I am now aware that that the community that I grew up in is capable to do more, even beyond a fun run,” said Ndimande.
This year’s race reflected the commitment put forth by the college to the community. Academic activities are the number-one priority in every institution, but events like these are what make the institution unique. It gives the college a bragging right and gives the community and students something to look forward to throughout the year.
