RUNNERS AND WALKERS at the JumpStart Challenge embraced cooler conditions for a fun-filled family day on Sunday 5 March at Holla Trails, in Sugar Rush Park.   

Responding to the call to get moving for a good cause, every entry directly supported unemployed youth through JumpStart. A skills development programme of Mr Price Foundation, JumpStart empowers unemployed youth with work readiness skills and connects them with employment opportunities in the retail industry, helping them break the cycle of poverty and inequality.  

Set in the heart of sugarcane fields near Ballito, the JumpStart Challenge offered three trail running/walking routes: 3.3km, 8.5km and 14km. The event attracted runners from the Maxed Elite Running Club, former Sharks rugby star Charl Mcleod and South African para surfing champion David Williams, as well as families with children, prams and furry friends.     

Sharkie, KwaZulu-Natal’s much-loved mascot of the Cell C Sharks, was also in attendance, enthusiastically cheering participants across the finish line.  

In a photo-finish, Nkosinathi Dumobala from Shakaskraal and Sizwe Radebe from Hammarsdale tied for the 14km event in a time of 01:14:31.  

 “I am so happy that I could do something for a good cause and that Mr Price Foundation is helping young people through JumpStart,” said Nkosinathi. 

Delighted with his performance, Sizwe said, “It feels great to run with purpose, to do something for other people, and not just yourself.”

See all the results here. 

Sunday’s activities lowered the curtain on the week-long JumpStart Challenge, with the virtual event running from 27 February to 5 March, and physical mountain bike events at Holla Trails on 4 March.  

Karen Wells, head of Mr Price Foundation, thanked all the communities, partners and organisations who pledged their support to youth. “The foundation and its beneficiaries are highly appreciative for the fantastic support we received. We look forward to growing this event to new levels in the future.” 

The JumpStart Challenge was made possible with funding and support from Mr Price Foundation’s partners: Mr Price Sport, SPAR, Absa, as well as City Logistics, Fineline Technologies and CMH Nissa Ballito. It was supported by community groups, including Drivetrain Academy and Manifest Yoga Studio, while enthusiastic teams from Miladys, Mr Price Sport and Mr Price Money also held virtual events. A special thank you also goes to East Coast Radio for going the extra mile to promote the JumpStart Challenge.  

Thank you one and all for making every step or cycle count!   

 #JumpStartChallengeZA #BeAHeroZA #MrPriceFoundation