Last week, the community of Graaff-Reinet was invited to take part in a 5K Challenge set by Union High School.
As Covid-19 has significantly changed the landscape for mass participation events, the school decided to launch its very first ‘at home’ challenge where those wanting to participate were encouraged to sign up on a virtual race register online and to then simply choose the starting line of their choice, whether it was a treadmill or a neighbourhood street.
This meant that participants had the option of running, jogging, cycling or walking the equivalent distance of the fun run, safely, while observing all the Level 4 #lockdown regulations.
The event was organised to raise vital funds for the school’s Covid-19 Care Fund – a fund which has been created to support the school financially during this difficult and uncertain time.
The challenge was eagerly anticipated and saw mass participation when it was finally held early Saturday morning, 9 May, during the 3-hour Covid-19 exercise window.
The idea behind this ‘challenge’ was for everyone to join together in spirit even though they were participating in the event separately. The school hoped it would be a community-building event. An opportunity for families and friends, business, school and other community groups to band together for our collective physical and mental well-being.
The enthusiasm shown by the community was overwhelming and the school is tremendously thankful for each and everyone who committed to this event.
Apart from the hundreds of locals who signed up, we also had Old Unionites from all over the world participating.
Judging by all the photos we received after the event, a lot of fun was had all round.
While most stuck to completing the race with their own two feet, there were some entries that surprised, with one participant completing the distance on a Segway and others who enjoyed a leisurely horse-ride.
We especially enjoyed the photos of the pets dressed-up in Union sports kits as well as the spectacular early morning views and were amazed by the dedication shown by all the pre and prep school learners who successfully completed the 5 kilometres.
We hope you enjoy the photos as much as we did! (If you’d still like to send your photos, you can do so by sending it via WhatsApp to 061 310 8343.)
Again, thank you to the hundreds of runners that rose to the challenge and contributed to the success of the event. We received a hugely positive response and we simply can’t put into words how much your support at this challenging time has meant to us.