Founder’s Day Dash. On Friday morning, St Charles College, from our Pre-Primary School through to Matric, gathered in the Samukele Khumalo Arena for an assembly before the annual running of The Dash.

The guest speaker was Old Boy and current staff member, Mr Gareth Rall. He regaled the audience with fond recollections of his years at the Blue & Gold. Mr Rall noted the incredible growth he has witnessed at his beloved school. He also reminded the boys that making a positive change in the world always starts with oneself. “Thank you, Mr Rall, for your wise words and Happy Birthday St Charles College!“

History:

St Charles College was founded on 26 July 1875. To celebrate this, the College instituted a Founder’s Day Dash on 26 July 2012. The whole College, from Grade 000 to A Levels lined the jacaranda avenue. Contenders vied for immortality by achieving the best time in a run from the gates, around the first circle and back. Every year there are 3 races: the Prep School, the Middle School and the Upper School. Competitors race in their house colours. The bell in the memorial garden, next to the Coach House, is used to start the races. Ringing the bell is an honour given to incredible members of staff who have served the College with distinction. They are also nearing retirement. This year the college acknowledge Mike Phakathi, Ralph Boucher and Glenda Frangs. They started the Prep, Middle and Upper School races respectively.

The distance is tough at 540m, but the reward is great. The winner each year has his name and the time etched onto a brass plaque on a water fountain. The plaque was donated by the Matrics of 2012.

Mason O’Connor, the first winner of The Dash, holds the current record with a time of 1:16.97. – Mr Rowan Irons (Director of Sport).