Durban North residents raise funds for charity on Comrades journey
Denise Towell and Tammy Gray ran this year’s marathon for non-profit organisation (NPO) Rainbows and Smiles.
THERE were a few milestones worth celebrating at this year’s 96th Comrades Marathon for both Denise Towell and Tammy Gray.
Denise completed her 20th Comrades Marathon, while Tammy completed her first. The duo also crossed the finish line together in a time of 10:52:53, earning them both bronze medals.
They also ran the Ultimate Human Race in aid of non-profit organisation (NPO) Rainbows and Smiles.
The charitable foundation provides emotional and financial support to children diagnosed with cancer or a life-threatening illness, and their families and caregivers.
Also read: Comrades brings the vibe at Kingsmead
Collectively, they raised more than R16 000 for the NPO.
“It was just very special being able to cross the finish line together. We also had the founder of the NPO and our close friend Bonita Suckling with us as we crossed the line. Going into Comrades, we had collectively said, ‘If you’re feeling strong, then just go on ahead’. I was half expecting not to come in under 11 hours and to run through the finish on my own, but the cherry on the top was crossing together,” explained Towell.
The Get Fit Athletic Club member was one of 91 athletes going for their Double Green Number.
“My medal tally now stands at 15 bronze, one Bill Rowan and four Vic Clapham medals. I was presented my Double Green Number by two legends of the Comrades, Tilda Tearle and Grace de Oliviera. It was such an awesome moment. I did have a few people ask if I would be back now that I’ve completed 20, and the answer is quite simply, ‘yes’. As long as my body allows me to, and as long as I enjoy it, I will keep going,” she said.
For Savages Athletic Club member, Tammy, the support from her fellow runners made all the difference on the day.
“Both Denise and Bonita deserve the praise. I don’t think I could have finished under 11 hours without them. Those last six kilometres, in particular, were the hardest on the whole run. I was really struggling with cramps. It was pure ecstasy, though, crossing the finish line, and straight after the run, I was prepared to say I don’t need the back-to-back medal. However, a few days later, I feel I might just be there. I would also like to give a shout-out to all those who cheered me on from the side of the road – your words of encouragement meant the world to me and lifted me when I was down,” she said.
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