Two siblings took on their first Comrades Marathon to raise money for a cause close to their hearts.
Sandton residents Lauren Rayne and Stuart Fraser ran the 93rd annual race to raise money for Just the One Foundation, which is dedicated to helping young, underprivileged children get a good education. Rayne and Fraser ran the race alongside Ben Jackson and Neil Massey in their goal to raise R150 000. So far, their efforts have helped raise R50 000 for the organisation.
Fraser completed the marathon in 11:41:08 and Rayne came in just after him at a time of 11:49:38.
The foundation started when a group of young men who got together to catch up once a week, decided to become proactive and give back to society. Initially, they each put away R100 a month, now the foundation helps send multiple children to school each year.
Rayne first got involved with the foundation four years ago as she realised how important it is to contribute to a good cause. While working with the foundation Rayne has cycled the 947 challenged twice. Fraser got involved with the foundation more recently and has completed the 947 and the Dusi Canoe Marathon.
The race, which is just less than 90km long, sees thousands of runners depart from Pietermaritzburg and finish in Durban. Rayne and Fraser diligently prepared for the gruelling race but were happy that it would be contributing to a cause that is so special to them.
Both, however, were incredibly nervous about tackling their first Comrades.
Rayne spent many hours preparing for the race and estimates that she has run over 1 000km. “I don’t think I appreciated how much time and personal sacrifice it would require, it has been incredibly challenging.”
Fraser added that he hadn’t trained as much as he would have liked. His preparations only began seriously once he had completed the Dusi Canoe Marathon in February. “I’m really excited for the 12-hour journey to Durban, there’s a lot of gees [spirit] and I think the vibe will be incredible.”
Fraser and Rayne added that the sacrifice involved would far be outweighed by the positive effect the funds will have on the lives of children.
Rayne added, “It will be one really difficult and challenging day for me but some of these kids have a challenging day every day so it will be worth it.”
Details: Events@justtheone.org.za
