Comrades Marathon runners chipped in with over R6 million for local charities

This year’s Comrades Marathon not only saw thousands of runners pounding the pavement from Pietermaritzburg to Durban, but it also became a powerful catalyst for change, raising over R6 million through the Comrades Marathon Association’s Amabeadibeadi Charity Drive.

The funds generated during Sunday’s event will benefit six deserving charities, each represented by passionate participants aimed at making a difference in their communities.

Since its inception in 1996, the Amabeadibeadi initiative has been integral in supporting vital organisations, including the Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa (CHOC), SANParks Honorary Rangers, Community Chest, Rise Against Hunger, Hillcrest AIDS Centre Trust (HACT), and Childline KwaZulu-Natal.

CHOC has emerged as a leading beneficiary this year with R2.5 million raised, thanks in large part to the enthusiasm of the runners known as the "CHOC Cows."

Manager Jayde McCarthy expressed pride in the fundraising effort.

“We did super well with our cows being absolutely amoozing!” she said. McCarthy highlighted the remarkable contribution of fundraiser Ida van de Wetering, who single-handedly secured R165,000.

“It’s incredibly motivating to consider that we are running on behalf of children battling cancer,” she added.

The festive mood at the CHOC water station in Hillcrest was palpable, where participants and supporters danced, mooed, and shared joy with high fives and hugs.

“Our sponsor, Balwin, made that spot possible, and we are so grateful!” McCarthy exclaimed, as vibrant cow prints adorned the space.

This year marked the second occasion that SANParks Honorary Rangers participated in the marathon, with representative Peter Zietsman sharing insights about their commitments: “Due to financial limitations, we have certain capital expenditure requirements that cannot be met. Events like these allow us to fill those gaps for SANParks to achieve its objectives in terms of community responsibilities.”

Their watering hole, featuring two grand blow-up elephants, served as a reminder of their mission to protect South Africa’s natural heritage.

Community Chest’s executive director, Gordon McDonald, also spoke passionately about their purpose for the funds raised.

“The money will be spent on early childhood development because there’s a critical problem with children not receiving enough early education,” he explained.

With a focus on offering nutritious food and stimulating educational programmes, Community Chest supports approximately 7,800 children daily in vulnerable areas around Pietermaritzburg and Durban.

Their refreshment station, strategically placed 1.5 km from the finish line, became a point of encouragement for runners along the challenging route.

As the dust settles on another successful Comrades Marathon, the overwhelming spirit of community and compassion remains vibrant, carrying with it the promise of a better tomorrow for thousands of children and families.

With continued support from events like this, lives will change, and hope will flourish across South Africa.

DAILY NEWS