Athletes brave the hot sun to commemorate Madiba | Western Cape Government

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Athletes brave the hot sun to commemorate Madiba

11 February 2019

Runners of all fitness levels took part in the 27 For Freedom running race in honour of the late Nelson Mandela. The race took place on 9 February 2019 at the Drakenstein Correctional Centre in Paarl. The event consisted of a 27km race, 10km race and a 5km fun run. It was hosted by the Western Cape Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport in partnership with the National Correctional Services and various other sponsors.

The Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport, Anroux Marais, offered words of encouragement to the runners participating in the 27km race who braved an early start on a hot morning. She then started the race by firing the starting pistol.

The 27km race commemorates the 27 years that Madiba spent in prison and marks the 29th anniversary of his release from prison. The 27km race follows the route that he took as he left prison.

Participants in all the races were also treated to a full day of entertainment, including a Freedom Concert after the three races. Famous performing artists such as The Rockets and Mario Arnolds kept young and old dancing the afternoon away after a busy morning of running.

The Chief Director of Sport and Recreation, Dr Lyndon Bouah, said DCAS was proud to be associated with the 27 For Freedom event. "All our units were involved. We had the Cape Winelands office assisting in organising the event and they received support from the Major Events Unit. MOD centre staff provided water along the way and the Arts and Culture component provided entertainment, with some aspiring MOD artists performing. This was truly an event where partnerships were the order of the day" said Dr Bouah.

DCAS supports sporting festivals across the province. We encourage everyone to get involved and attend these events to grow sport in the Western Cape. BETTER TOGETHER.

Media Enquiries: 

Dr Tania Colyn
Head of Communication Service
Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport
Tel: 021 483 9877 / 076 093 4913
E-mail: Tania.Colyn@westerncape.gov.za