It was the perfect day for a walk, and 55 000 participants donned their takkies and took to the streets of Johannesburg.
It was the annual 702 Talk Radio Walk the Talk fun walk through the city’s northern suburbs. The mood was jolly as thousands of walkers were joined by Deputy President Kgalema Mothlanthe who participated in the 8km race.
Before the start, Mothlanthe delivered a message to all participants. “This is a wellness walk and I’m doing this walk for all South Africans who are living with HIV/Aids,” he said. Among those who walked the talk were Joburg Mayor Parks Tau, City, Armad Kathrada, Natalie Du Toit, Bruce Fordyce, Laureus Sport for Good Foundation chairman, Morne Du Plessis, Tshepo Maseko and Lucas Radebe.
Du Plessis said his foundation was among the charities which were set to benefit from the fun walk. He said, “We have been here for 10 years, I feel like a part of the family, it great to see everybody together, nobody cannot take part in this event, it’s for everyone.”
Primedia’s head of news and current affairs, Yusuf Abramjee said the walk was fast becoming one of the biggest mass events in the world. Abramjee said they were planning to add 20km to the race. “We want to add that next for it to coincide with the country’s 20 years of freedom celebrations next year. Ideally this event is not only about keeping fit, but it’s about uniting the city and the country and lot of charities will benefit from this.”
Tau added that the city was a partner of the event and was going to continue its support. “This is not just a walk but it is building social cohesion, bringing people together.
After the event Mothlanthe said he had fun. “God willing I will be here next year.”
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